Toothpaste is a staple in every bathroom, but it’s also one of the most versatile and underrated cleaning products around. Thanks to its mild abrasiveness and stain-fighting properties, it can be used for everything from polishing jewelry to clearing up skin blemishes. Next time you reach for that tube, remember—it’s good for way more than just brushing your teeth.
1. Polishing Silver
Toothpaste works surprisingly well at removing tarnish from silver. Whether it’s jewelry, cutlery, or serving trays, a bit of non-gel, non-whitening toothpaste rubbed gently with a soft cloth can make your items sparkle again, according to Apartment Therapy. It’s a gentle, quick fix when you don’t have specialty silver polish on hand.
Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry completely to avoid residue or water spots. This trick is especially useful before hosting events or bringing old jewelry back to life. Just avoid using it on delicate antique pieces, as it may be too abrasive for soft metals.
2. Cleaning Headlights
Cloudy headlights can reduce visibility and make your car look older than it is. Toothpaste helps break down the grime and oxidation that builds up on the plastic. Instructables says to apply a small amount with a soft cloth or sponge and rub in circular motions, then rinse and wipe clean.
The results are often immediate, leaving you with brighter, clearer headlights and a safer driving experience. While it’s not a permanent solution, it’s a great short-term fix and far cheaper than a restoration kit or replacement lenses.
3. Removing Crayon from Walls
If you’ve got little ones with artistic tendencies, you know the pain of crayon murals on your walls. Toothpaste can gently lift crayon marks from painted surfaces without damaging the paint, says TODAY.com. Use a soft rag or sponge to rub it in, then wipe clean with water.
It’s best to test a small area first, especially on colored or matte finishes. But for most semi-gloss or gloss walls, toothpaste is an easy and affordable alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
4. Defogging Mirrors
Bathroom mirrors tend to fog up after hot showers, but toothpaste can help prevent that. Apply a thin layer of non-gel toothpaste to the mirror, then buff it off with a clean, dry cloth. This leaves a protective layer that helps resist moisture buildup.
It won’t last forever, but it’s perfect before guests arrive or for busy mornings when you need the mirror to stay clear, notes the Spruce. Just reapply every few weeks to keep the anti-fog magic going.
5. Buffing Scuffed Shoes
Small scuffs on leather shoes or sneakers can make them look worn out. A dab of toothpaste and a cloth can gently polish them up. It works well for white rubber soles too, especially on sneakers that have seen better days.
After scrubbing, wipe off any residue with a damp cloth. This hack is perfect before a big meeting, interview, or night out when you want to freshen your look without investing in new footwear.
6. Cleaning Piano Keys
Over time, piano keys—especially white ones—can get yellow or dingy. Toothpaste can help brighten them up. Use a soft cloth and a gentle touch to avoid damaging the keys or letting moisture seep between them.
This is a great trick for vintage pianos or keyboards that need a refresh. Make sure to dry the keys completely when you’re finished and never use gel or whitening varieties, which may be too abrasive.
7. Treating Pimples
Toothpaste has long been used as a spot treatment for pimples thanks to ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Dab a small amount on a blemish and leave it on for a short time—no more than 30 minutes to an hour—to help dry it out.
While it’s not a substitute for proper skincare, it can be a helpful emergency fix. Avoid using it all over your face or on sensitive skin, as it can be drying or irritating.
8. Brightening Sneakers
White canvas shoes and rubber soles can lose their sparkle fast. Toothpaste acts as a mild abrasive that lifts dirt and restores brightness. Use an old toothbrush to scrub problem areas, then rinse with a damp cloth or sponge.
This works especially well on Converse-style sneakers and tennis shoes. For really tough stains, you can let the toothpaste sit for a few minutes before scrubbing, but avoid colored or gel varieties that might stain.
9. Removing Water Rings from Furniture
If someone forgot a coaster, don’t panic—white, non-gel toothpaste can help fade those annoying water rings on wood furniture. Gently rub a small amount onto the ring with a cloth, then wipe clean and polish as usual.
It works by lightly buffing away the top layer of finish where the moisture has settled. Always test an inconspicuous spot first, and avoid rubbing too hard to prevent further damage to the wood.
10. Cleaning Phone Screens
Your phone screen can pick up fingerprints, smudges, and minor scratches. A tiny bit of toothpaste on a microfiber cloth can help polish it gently. Rub lightly in small circles, then wipe off with a clean damp cloth.
It won’t work miracles on deep scratches, but it can improve the appearance of small ones and leave your screen looking clearer. Just be cautious not to get toothpaste into ports or buttons.
11. Refreshing Foggy Glassware
Toothpaste can restore clarity to cloudy glassware that looks dull after repeated dishwasher cycles. Rub a bit on the surface, then rinse thoroughly. The gentle abrasives scrub away buildup without damaging the glass.
It’s especially helpful for wine glasses or decorative pieces that have lost their luster. After rinsing, your glassware will look clearer and more polished, perfect for special occasions.
12. Deodorizing Baby Bottles
Sometimes baby bottles or reusable water bottles can retain odors, even after washing. Toothpaste is great for neutralizing lingering smells. Add a dab inside the bottle, scrub with a bottle brush, and rinse thoroughly.
This method works well on plastic, which tends to absorb odors more easily. It’s a quick and easy refresh when your bottles start to smell less than fresh and you want to avoid strong chemical cleaners.
13. Removing Ink or Lipstick Stains from Fabric
For light stains on clothing or fabric, toothpaste can act as a stain remover. Rub it in gently with your fingers or a soft brush, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse or toss the item in the wash.
This isn’t ideal for delicate fabrics or dark-colored items, so do a patch test first. But it can be a lifesaver for quick spot-cleaning when you’re out of stain remover and need a backup solution fast.
14. Shining Bathroom Fixtures
Toothpaste does wonders on chrome and stainless steel. Sinks, faucets, and shower handles can all benefit from a quick scrub with toothpaste and a sponge. It removes hard water marks and soap scum, leaving a shiny finish.
Just be sure to rinse everything thoroughly to avoid streaks or residue. It’s a cheap and effective way to get your bathroom looking freshly cleaned without breaking out a bunch of different cleaners.
15. Eliminating Shoe Odor
Toothpaste can also help eliminate odor in shoes. Dab a small amount on a cloth or cotton ball, place it inside the shoe overnight, then wipe or rinse in the morning. Its strong scent helps neutralize musty smells.
You can also scrub the inside with a little toothpaste and a damp cloth, then rinse and let dry. It’s not a long-term fix, but it’s a great quick deodorizer between deeper cleanings or long days on your feet.
