Toothpaste is mainly made for cleaning teeth and supporting good oral hygiene. However, many people use small amounts of ordinary toothpaste for simple household tasks. Not every trick works for every surface, so it is wise to test a small hidden area first.
1. Cleaning white shoes
A little non-gel white toothpaste can help remove marks from the rubber parts of sneakers. Rub gently with an old toothbrush, then wipe away the residue.
2. Removing crayon marks
If children leave crayon marks on a washable painted wall, a small amount of toothpaste may help loosen them. Rub gently and avoid scrubbing too hard.
3. Polishing small metal items
Toothpaste can sometimes remove light tarnish from certain metal surfaces. Apply a small amount, rub gently, and rinse or wipe thoroughly afterward.
4. Cleaning phone screens
This popular trick should be approached carefully. Toothpaste can be abrasive and may damage protective coatings. A soft microfiber cloth and a screen-safe cleaner are usually safer.
5. Freshening smelly hands
After handling strong-smelling foods such as onions or garlic, some people rub a tiny amount of toothpaste on their hands before washing them. However, ordinary soap is generally the better choice.
6. Cleaning jewelry
Toothpaste may make some hard, non-delicate jewelry look brighter, but it can scratch soft metals and gemstones. Avoid using it on valuable or delicate pieces.
7. Removing light scuff marks
Small marks on some smooth surfaces may respond to gentle toothpaste cleaning. Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations first.
8. Cleaning combs and brushes
A little toothpaste can help scrub buildup from plastic combs and brushes. Rinse them thoroughly afterward.
9. Polishing small household surfaces
For certain hard surfaces, toothpaste may help with minor stains or dull spots when used gently.
10. Cleaning fingernails
Some people use toothpaste with a soft nail brush to remove surface dirt and leave nails feeling cleaner.
Toothpaste can be surprisingly useful, but it is not a universal cleaner. Avoid using it on delicate surfaces, skin irritation, or anything that could be damaged by abrasives. When in doubt, use a product specifically designed for the material.
