Scratched mirrors can be a real eyesore in the home, but before anyone goes out to replace them there is a simple and affordable way to fix the problem.
And it turns out it is all to do with a common household item – toothpaste. Victorian Plumbing has tested whether this cleaning hack works and the best way to use it.
Searches for ‘How does toothpaste fix scratches?’ have recently surged by a staggering 90 percent as people search for how to remove scratches from mirrors.
Alex Woods at Victorian Plumbing explained: “Using toothpaste to fix scratches is a popular DIY trick.
“While it can be effective for minor blemishes, it’s important to understand its limitations. For small imperfections, toothpaste acts as a light abrasive, helping to buff out scratches and improve the appearance of the mirror. However, for more extensive damage, toothpaste may not be sufficient.”
But does this trick really work?
How to remove mirror scratches with toothpaste:
Clean the mirror
Woods said: “Before applying any toothpaste, it’s important to clean the mirror thoroughly with glass cleaner to remove dust and grime, then dry it with a microfiber cloth.
“This step ensures the surface is clean and free from any debris that could potentially cause additional damage.”
Choose the right toothpaste
“It might sound surprising, but picking the right toothpaste is key to getting the desired results,” Woods added.
“Whitening toothpaste is considered the best choice for removing scratches from mirrors because it contains more abrasives than regular toothpaste.
“The gritty texture helps polish out scratches effectively. Just remember to use a soft cloth and rub in circular motions to prevent further damage to the surface.”
Apply the toothpaste
The expert suggested: “Dab a small, pea-sized, amount of toothpaste onto a soft, clean cloth. Gently rub the toothpaste into the scratch using circular motions. Be sure to apply light pressure to avoid making the scratch worse”
