Toothpaste is something we all throw in our travel bags. But did you know it can be used for more than just cleaning your teeth?
Six Surprising Travel Uses for Toothpaste
#1: Bee Sting Ointment – If you’re traveling, it might be hard to find ice for a bee sting. Instead, dab a little toothpaste on it. Of all the bee sting home remedies, it’s rumored to be the very best. (It also works as a mosquito bite itch reliever.)
#2: Overnight Zit Cream – Toothpaste on pimples is controversial, but I find that when I dab just a spot of it on a rebellious pimple, it’s nearly gone by morning.
#3: Shoe Cleaner – Toothpaste and a cloth (or an old toothbrush) are great for cleaning the white rubber parts of tennis shoes. Be sure to use white toothpaste, rather than a colored gel.
#4: Bathroom Mirror Defogger – When I’m in the shower and my husband wants to shave (but the mirror is fogged up) he squeezes a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on the mirror and wipes it clean.
#5: Jewelry Polisher – Rub toothpaste on your silver jewelry and let it sit overnight. In the morning, buff it out with a soft cloth and watch it shine. You can also restore sparkle to diamonds and other jewels by using a little toothpaste, an old toothbrush, and some water. (Note: Avoid using toothpaste on pearls.)
#6: Snorkel Mask Defogger – If your scuba or snorkel mask, or swimming goggles, fog up when you’re in the water, rub a small amount of toothpaste on the inside, then rinse clean. (Tip: Avoid abrasive toothpastes for this one.)
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