10 BRILLIANT USES FOR TOOTHPASTE

Clever hacks with the teeth-cleaning staple

- SHAY TROTTER

1 ELIMINATE ODORS FROM REUSABLE BOTTLES

To banish lingering smells from a reusable plastic or metal water bottle, try this: Squirt a dime-size amount of non-gel toothpaste inside the bottle and clean with a scrubbing brush, then rinse and wash. The deodorizing properties in the toothpaste will eliminate the odor, so you can happily sip away.

2 Restore tarnished jewelry

The gentle abrasive properties of toothpaste can help your favorite jewelry shine like new. Simply add a small amount of toothpaste to an old toothbrush and gently scrub the item, then remove any excess paste with a dry cloth. The paste’s gritty texture buffs away dirt and grime without damaging your treasured pieces, so they can sparkle once again!

3 Soothe a bug bite

Next time a mosquito bites you, reach for a tube of toothpaste for some fast relief! Toothpaste acts as an astringent to help draw fluids from under the skin, plus mint-flavored varieties contain menthol, which relieves itching and swelling. Leave the paste on for 10 to 15 minutes before wiping with a warm washcloth. You'll feel better in no time.