BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM
Image alt text: White toothpaste on a microfiber cloth next to a glass surface being polished in a kitchen
Chances are, you’ve got a tube of toothpaste in your bathroom right now. If it’s only going on your teeth, you’re leaving a surprisingly useful cleaning tool sitting on your bathroom counter.
Joy Ramos, a professional cleaner and operations manager at Bear Bros Cleaning, has long used toothpaste for jobs well beyond the bathroom. Most white, non-gel toothpastes contain mild abrasive particles that work like ultra-fine sandpaper, polishing surfaces without scratching them. It turns out that property has a lot of household uses.
One thing before you start: plain white, non-gel toothpaste is what you want. Gel formulas don’t have the same abrasive particles, and heavily whitening varieties can be too harsh on delicate surfaces. Always rinse thoroughly after using it, and when in doubt, test on a discreet spot first.
For scratches and cloudy surfaces
A light scratch on glass (a phone screen, a coffee table, a mirror) can often be buffed out with a small amount of toothpaste on a microfiber cloth. Work in gentle circles, then wipe clean. The abrasives smooth the area around the scratch rather than filling it, so it becomes much less visible.
The same trick works on fogged car headlights. Rub toothpaste over the lens in small circular motions for a minute or two, then rinse and dry. Repeat if needed.
Wood is another one. Water rings and minor scratches on countertops or floors respond well to a small amount applied with a soft cloth. Follow the grain, wipe off, and dry thoroughly.
For metals and fixtures
Hard water takes the shine out of faucets and handles over time. Toothpaste can bring it back on stainless steel and chrome, though there’s a catch: softer metals like copper and brass can be damaged by the abrasives, so skip those.
Silver jewelry is a great candidate, too. Avoid polished metals and soft stones like opals, pearls, or turquoise. “Always use a gentle hand and test first,” Ramos says.
For walls, shoes, and more
Crayon on painted walls is a classic small-kid problem. Toothpaste can lift it, but the wall finish matters. “Due to the mild abrasives in the paste, flat or matte paint may sometimes fade or become damaged,” Ramos says. “And on darker or more delicate finishes, it could leave dull spots or streaks.” Glossy, light-colored paint holds up well.
Toothpaste also works on white rubber soles and leather or canvas sneakers. Just keep it away from suede, mesh, or anything delicate; those materials can stain or break down.
For a persistent stain on a toilet seat, apply a small amount with a cloth or toothbrush, scrub gently, let it sit a few minutes, and wipe clean.
Did this solution stand out? Share it with a friend or support our mission by becoming an Emissary.
