Toothpaste Cleaning Hacks: Surprising Uses for Everyday Cleaning

Toothpaste is a household staple that most of us use for keeping our teeth clean and fresh, but did you know it has a variety of other cleaning uses too?

This versatile product is a hidden gem when it comes to tackling small cleaning tasks around the house. Whether you're polishing jewelry, removing stains, or even cleaning sneakers, toothpaste can be a cost-effective and handy solution.

Here are some toothpaste cleaning hacks that will help you tackle everyday messes with ease.

2. Clean Foggy Headlights

Over time, car headlights can become foggy or cloudy, reducing visibility. Toothpaste can cut through this grime and restore their shine.

• How to use it: Spread a generous amount of toothpaste on the headlight, using a microfiber cloth or sponge to scrub the surface. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with water and wipe dry. The abrasives in the toothpaste help remove built-up grime and restore clarity.

3. Remove Scuff Marks from Shoes

Scuff marks on leather or vinyl shoes can be stubborn, but toothpaste is a quick and effective solution.

• How to use it: Dab some non-gel toothpaste onto the scuffed area and use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub. Wipe away any residue with a damp cloth and let the shoes air dry. Your shoes will look refreshed and scuff-free in no time.

Pro Tip: Avoid using toothpaste on suede or fabric shoes, as it may leave a residue or damage the material.

4. Remove Water Rings from Wood Furniture

Accidentally set a glass down on your wooden table without a coaster? No worries—those unsightly water rings can be removed with toothpaste.

• How to use it: Apply a small amount of toothpaste (preferably a white, non-gel type) to a soft cloth and gently rub the water ring. Wipe away with a clean, damp cloth, and the ring should disappear. This hack works because toothpaste acts as a mild abrasive to gently buff out surface marks.

Pro Tip: For stubborn stains, mix a bit of baking soda with the toothpaste for extra scrubbing power.

5. Clean Your Iron's Soleplate

The bottom of your iron, known as the soleplate, can accumulate burnt fabric, dirt, and residue over time. Toothpaste is an excellent cleaner for this tough surface.

• How to use it: When the iron is cool and unplugged, apply a small amount of toothpaste to the soleplate and scrub with a cloth or sponge. Wipe away with a damp cloth, then heat the iron slightly to ensure all residue is gone before using it again. Your iron will glide more smoothly over fabrics after cleaning.

6. De-Fog Bathroom Mirrors

Bathroom mirrors can fog up quickly after a hot shower, but toothpaste can help prevent that.

• How to use it: Spread a thin layer of toothpaste across your mirror and buff it off with a soft, dry cloth. The film left behind from the toothpaste will prevent condensation from forming on the mirror, leaving it clear and fog-free after your next shower.

Pro Tip: Reapply the toothpaste every few weeks for ongoing fog prevention.

7. Remove Ink and Crayon Marks from Walls

Kids’ art projects can sometimes migrate to the walls, but toothpaste can help remove ink, crayon, and even marker stains.

• How to use it: Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the stained area and gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. Wipe off with a clean, damp cloth to reveal clean walls. Toothpaste is gentle enough to lift stains without damaging the paint.

Pro Tip: Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure the toothpaste won’t remove paint.

10. Clean Your Smartphone Screen

Smudged or scratched smartphone screens can benefit from a gentle cleaning with toothpaste.

• How to use it: Apply a tiny dab of toothpaste to a microfiber cloth and gently buff the screen in a circular motion. Wipe away the residue with a slightly damp cloth. Toothpaste can minimize light scratches and clean away oils or smudges.

Pro Tip: Avoid getting toothpaste in any of the phone’s ports or openings, and don’t use this hack on phone screens with specialized coatings.

Bonus Tips

• Remove stains from clothing: Toothpaste can help lift tough stains like ink or makeup. Rub a small amount into the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse and launder as usual.
• Deodorize containers: Use toothpaste to clean and deodorize food containers or baby bottles with lingering odors. Simply scrub with a bit of toothpaste and rinse thoroughly.
• Clean your washing machine: did you know you can use a lemon and toothpaste to clean a washing machine?