11 Odd But Useful Things You Can Do With Toothpaste

Having already compiled a list of useful floss hacks, it only makes sense to explore the weird and wonderful world of toothpaste hacks! Because as it turns out, toothpaste isn’t only useful for keeping your teeth and gums clean.

Toothpaste can be surprisingly useful for a variety of household tasks, but the type of toothpaste you use makes a difference. Most of the toothpaste hacks in the list below work better using paste-style toothpastes rather than gels. Just something to keep in mind!

11 Clever & Useful Toothpaste Hacks

1. Clean Your Headlights

You know that hazy film that builds up on your car’s headlights over time? You can get rid of it using toothpaste! Just squeeze a bit of toothpaste onto a rag, then rub the paste all over your headlights. The toothpaste will cut through the grime and leave them looking much clearer! Follow up by buffing them clean with a dry cloth.

2. Remove Permanent Marker

Accidental permanent marker stains happen all the time, but toothpaste can save the day! Apply a bit of toothpaste to the mark, then use a damp cloth to rub the paste into the stain. Then rinse the cloth clean and wipe up the toothpaste, and the stain will be gone! This trick works on walls, wood floors, and even TVs.

3. Clean Rubber Soles

If you have a pair of shoes with white rubber near the soles, then you already know how dirty it can get! Use toothpaste to help whiten and brighten the rubber. Just apply a bit of toothpaste to the rubber and scrub it with an old toothbrush to loosen dirt and grime. Wipe the dirt and toothpaste away using a damp cloth.

keeping a bathroom mirror from getting foggy

4. Keep A Mirror Fog-Free

A little bit of toothpaste can help you fog-proof your bathroom mirror! Just squeeze a bit of toothpaste onto the mirror and rub it thoroughly over the glass. Then rinse the glass well to remove the excess toothpaste, and you’re done!

5. Clean Hair Tools

Is your curling iron or flat iron covered in scorched hair product gunk? Use toothpaste to clean it off! Apply a bit of toothpaste to a cool and unplugged hair tool, then rub it in with a damp cloth. As the gunk loosens, wipe it away with a clean damp cloth.

6. Lighten Discolored Fingernails

If nail polish has left your fingernails looking a bit discolored, grab your whitening toothpaste! Apply a small dab of whitening toothpaste to your nail, then use a nail brush or a toothbrush to give it a good scrub. Wash your hands to remove the toothpaste, and repeat daily until your fingernails return to their original color.

7. Erase Coffee Stains

You can use toothpaste to remove stubborn coffee and tea stains from the inside of a mug. Just rub toothpaste onto the stains with a damp sponge. After the stains disappear, just wash the mug with soapy water and it’ll be as good as new!

8. Hang A Frame

Use toothpaste to help mark where you want to hang a frame. Start by applying a dab of toothpaste to the hanger on the back of your frame. Then press the frame against the wall where you want to hang it, and the toothpaste will leave a mark on the wall where the nail should go!

9. Shine A Sink

Toothpaste is excellent for shining up stainless steel sinks and fixtures! Squeeze a bit of toothpaste onto a damp sponge and rub it over the surface. Rinse clean with water, and stand back to admire the shine!

10. Fill Nail Holes

Have small nail and pushpin holes in your walls that need filling? No problem, just grab your toothpaste! Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste into the hole, then wipe up any excess paste with a damp rag. It’s a quick and easy fix!

11. Fix Small Scratches

You can use toothpaste to remove small scratches from CDs, DVDs, and even your smartphone screen. Apply a tiny bit of toothpaste to the scratch with a soft cloth, then gently rub it in using circular motions. (Don’t rub too hard, or you could remove the protective coating.) Wipe the paste away with a soft, slightly damp cloth.

Bonus Hack! – Use Every Last Drop

Have a tube of toothpaste that’s nearly empty? You can get the very last of the toothpaste out by simply cutting the tube open! You’re sure to salvage enough toothpaste for one last brushing (or enough to use for any of the hacks above!) For more tips for making the most of your stuff, check out my post below!