The Easy Home Remedy You Were Aware You Needed Put Toothpaste in Salt
Combining toothpaste and salt may sound unusual, but this simple duo is surprisingly effective for a variety of household cleaning and polishing tasks. Toothpaste, with its mild abrasives and gentle cleaning agents, helps remove stains and grime, while salt acts as a natural scrubbing agent and deodorizer.
Together, they create a safe, affordable, and versatile cleaning solution that can tackle everything from dull jewelry to dirty sneakers. For example, mixing a small amount of toothpaste with salt and rubbing it on silver or gold jewelry can restore shine and remove tarnish. On tiles, faucets, or sinks, this mixture helps lift stubborn water stains and soap scum without harsh chemicals.
Even old sneakers can get a fresh, clean feel by applying a paste of toothpaste and salt to scuffed areas. To use, simply mix a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with half a teaspoon of salt, apply with a soft cloth or toothbrush, gently scrub the surface, then rinse thoroughly.
While this trick is generally safe for most surfaces, always test on a small area first to avoid scratches, and avoid using on delicate or porous materials. With its simplicity, effectiveness, and low cost, this toothpaste-and-salt combination is a handy household hack worth keeping in your cleaning toolkit.
1. Polish Silver and Jewellery:
How to Use:
Mix a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with half a teaspoon of salt.
Apply the paste to tarnished jewelry using a soft toothbrush or cloth.
Gently scrub the surface to remove tarnish and grime.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft cloth.
Why It Works:
The mild abrasives in toothpaste remove surface stains, while salt enhances the scrubbing effect, restoring shine without harsh chemicals.
Safety Tips:
Test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Avoid using on delicate gemstones or porous materials.
2. Brighten Tiles, Sinks, and Faucets:
How to Use:
Mix toothpaste and salt into a paste.
Apply to stubborn stains, soap scum, or water marks on tiles, sinks, or faucets.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then scrub gently with a sponge or cloth.
Rinse thoroughly with water.
Why It Works:
Toothpaste cleans while salt acts as a gentle abrasive to lift residue, leaving surfaces shiny and fresh.
Safety Tips:
Avoid using on delicate or easily scratched surfaces like natural stone.
Use soft cloths or sponges to prevent scratching.
3. Freshen and Clean Sneakers:
How to Use:
Mix toothpaste with salt to form a paste.
Apply to scuffed areas, stains, or dirty soles.
Gently scrub with an old toothbrush or soft cloth.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth and allow to air dry.
Why It Works:
The combination helps remove dirt and odors while gently polishing surfaces, giving sneakers a fresher look.
Safety Tips:
Avoid soaking fabric sneakers; focus on stained areas.
Rinse completely to prevent residue.
4. Other Creative Uses:
Remove Crayon Marks from Walls: Apply a small amount of the paste and rub gently.
Shine Chrome or Metal Fixtures: Apply, scrub lightly, and rinse.
Deodorize Cutting Boards: Rub the paste on the surface, rinse, and wipe dry.
Safety Tips:
Always test on a small area first.
Avoid prolonged contact with skin or ingestion.
Use soft cloths or brushes to prevent scratches.
Concluding Remarks:
This toothpaste and salt trick is an easy, affordable, and surprisingly adaptable way to clean your home on a daily basis. It works without using harmful chemicals to polish jewelry, brighten tiles, or freshen sneakers. It’s a tip that should be in every cleaning toolbox with the right maintenance and consideration for surface safety!