Toothpaste is known for brightening teeth, but it has some unexpected talents beyond the bathroom. This everyday essential works as a simple, chemical-free fix for garden problems and household cleaning, all without much effort.
If you’re someone who enjoys using natural alternatives, these tips are worth trying. Toothpaste can repel pests, polish metal, calm skin irritation, and clean glass surfaces. It’s easy to apply, safe to use, and already sitting on your shelf.
#1. Control Pest
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Ants and other pests can’t stand the scent of toothpaste. Draw a thin circle of it around the base of your plants or near entry points to send them scurrying.
No need for chemical sprays, this trick creates an invisible barrier with a fresh minty kick.
#2. Prevent Poison Ivy Itching
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If you’ve brushed up against poison ivy while gardening, reach for toothpaste. A dab applied to the itchy patch helps calm the inflammation and reduces the sting.
It’s a quick fix that offers cooling relief without leaving your yard.
#3. Polish Metal Pots
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Old copper or steel pots looking dull? Buff them back to life using toothpaste on a soft cloth.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse and dry. The results are often better than store-bought cleaners and much gentler.
#4. Heal Bug Bites From Itching
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Bug bites can ruin a peaceful gardening session. Dab a bit of toothpaste on the bump to help with swelling, soothe the skin, and reduce the itch.
The mint helps cool the area, giving you fast relief.
#5. Clean Bathroom Mirror
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To remove fog and smudges from mirrors, spread a small amount of toothpaste using a damp cloth. Buff in slow circles, let it dry, then wipe with a dry towel.
Your mirror will shine without streaks and stay fog-free longer!
#6. Clean Cell Phone Screen
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Tiny scratches on your phone screen? Use a soft cloth and a touch of toothpaste to gently polish the surface.
Wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth afterward, just be sure to keep it away from ports and buttons.
#7. Clean Shoes
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Scuffed leather or vinyl shoes can bounce back with a little help. Rub in a dab of toothpaste using a sponge or cloth, then wipe off the residue with a soft towel.
Just don’t try this on suede it won’t be a good match.
#8. Scrub The Toilet
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Toothpaste can tackle stubborn stains and leave your toilet bowl smelling fresh.
Apply directly to the inside of the bowl, scrub as usual, and enjoy the bonus of a clean scent without using harsh toilet gels.
#9. Clean Bathroom Sink
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Sinks often build up grime and dullness over time. Add a drop of toothpaste to a damp sponge and scrub gently, especially around the drain.
Rinse with warm water, and it’ll shine like it did the day it was installed.
#10. Cure Bee Sting
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Bee or hornet sting? Toothpaste may help soothe the pain.
Its alkalinity can neutralize venom on the skin’s surface, helping ease swelling and reduce discomfort. Dab it on and leave it for several minutes before rinsing.
#11. Clean Vases and Jars
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Calcium and grime can build up inside glass vases and jars, especially those used for flowers.
Rub a bit of toothpaste inside with a sponge or old cloth to lift stains and bring back their original shine. Rinse well and let air-dry.
