13 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Clean With An Old Toothbrush

This article originally appeared and was published on AOL.com

No, your toothbrush isn’t just for cleaning your teeth.

What do you do when you’re handed a new toothbrush every couple of months at the dentist office? Do you throw the old one out? Do you forget to replace it (eww…)? Little did you know that your old toothbrush is full of untapped potential.

Actually, an old toothbrush is a useful tool to keep around the house. The brush’s small bristles make the toothbrush quite a handy tool — it’s able to work its way into the nooks and crannies around your house and leave it sparkling. Plus, it can do wonders for your hair, too!

From cleaning grime, to polishing your shoes and perfecting a dye job, toothbrushes are a cheap tool you need to make better use of. Next time you swap it out for a newer one, label the brush as “old” and store it in the cleaning drawer!

13. Clean the soles of shoes

We know shoes are meant to get dirty, but sometimes enough is enough. Use a toothbrush to reach the crevices on the bottom of your shoes and get rid of all the dirt!

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12. Unclump mascara

The shelf life of mascara is questionable, but don’t let mascara clumps stop you from your makeup routine. Simply brush a toothbrush over a wand to get rid of those clumps.

11. Clean grime spots around sinks, tubs

Dip into a tile cleaner and get scrubbing!

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10. Clean bike chains

Just dip into some soap and water.

9. Scrub fish tanks

Clean a glass tank with a toothbrush, without getting dirty!

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8. Clean crayon marks off walls

Simply spray with some shaving cream, scrub and it’s gone!



7. Clean your fingernails

With just some soap and water, your nails will be as good as new.

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6. Dye your roots

If you’re attempting an at-home dye job, apply some dye to the toothbrush and brush your roots. The bristles will distribute the color evenly without missing a spot!

5. Clean a garlic or cheese grater

Dip toothbrush in dish soap mixed with water and scrub!

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4. Clean old coins

If you’re a coin collector, give the coins a little scrub with soap and water. It’ll look as good as new!

3. Clean keyboards

Sometimes, things don’t work in your favor if you’re a multitasker. For those who eat at their computers, get rid of those crumbs with a toothbrush.

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2. Clean out hairbrushes

Toothbrushes are small enough to detangle hair-filled hairbrushes.

1. Apply dry shampoo

As always, dry shampoo saves the day. Spray some on the bristles and brush on your roots! You’ll look like you never skipped a wash.

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