Easy Tips for Making Natural Toothpaste

Making your own natural toothpaste is easier than you might think and comes with many benefits. Commercial toothpastes often include chemicals and artificial ingredients that you might want to avoid. These substances can sometimes cause irritation or other unwanted side effects. By making your own toothpaste, you know exactly what’s going into it, which can help keep your teeth and gums healthier.

Creating natural toothpaste at home also allows you to customize the flavor and consistency to your liking. You can choose ingredients that offer specific benefits for your oral health, whether it’s extra whitening power or added protection against cavities. Plus, making your own toothpaste can be a fun and rewarding DIY project.

Another significant benefit is the reduction of plastic waste. Most commercial toothpastes come in plastic tubes that contribute to landfill waste. By using natural ingredients and storing your homemade toothpaste in reusable containers, you’re taking a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of making your own toothpaste, common ingredients you can use, and simple recipes to get you started. Let’s dive into the world of DIY natural toothpaste!

Benefits of Making Your Own Natural Toothpaste

Making your own natural toothpaste offers several benefits that go beyond just cleaning your teeth. One primary benefit is the ability to control the ingredients. Commercial toothpastes often contain chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and artificial sweeteners that can cause irritation or other health issues. When you make your own toothpaste, you can choose safe, natural ingredients that you are comfortable with.

Another key benefit is cost savings. While natural and organic store-bought toothpastes can be pricey, making your own is generally much cheaper. Basic ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils are often more affordable and can be found in most kitchens or local stores.

Creating your own toothpaste also reduces plastic waste. Commercial toothpaste tubes contribute significantly to landfill waste and are not easily recyclable. By making your toothpaste at home and storing it in reusable containers, you minimize your environmental footprint.

Lastly, making your own toothpaste allows for customization. Whether you need more whitening power, better breath freshening, or something gentle for sensitive teeth, you can adjust your recipe to suit your needs.

Common Ingredients in Natural Toothpaste and Their Benefits

Understanding the common ingredients used in natural toothpaste can help you choose the best ones for your recipe. Here’s a look at some popular ingredients and why they are beneficial:

• Baking Soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that helps remove surface stains on your teeth. It also neutralizes acids in your mouth, reducing the risk of cavities. 
• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has antibacterial properties that help reduce plaque and improve gum health. It's also great for oil pulling, a technique believed to detoxify the mouth. 
• Essential Oils: Oils like peppermint, spearmint, and tea tree add flavor and provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Peppermint oil also helps freshen breath. 
• Xylitol: Xylitol is a natural sweetener that not only tastes good but also helps fight cavities. It inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria and reduces plaque buildup. 
• Calcium Carbonate: This is a natural mineral used as a mild abrasive to help clean and polish teeth. It helps to strengthen tooth enamel as well. 
• Bentonite Clay: Bentonite clay is used in some natural toothpaste recipes for its detoxifying properties. It helps to absorb toxins and can contribute to a clean, healthy mouth.

These ingredients form the foundation for most natural toothpaste recipes. By combining them in various ways, you can create a toothpaste that meets your oral care needs without harmful chemicals.

Simple Recipes to Make Your Own Natural Toothpaste

Making natural toothpaste at home is easy and fun. Here are a few simple recipes to get you started:

Basic Baking Soda Toothpaste:

• 2 tablespoons of baking soda 
•  2 tablespoons of coconut oil 
• 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil

Mix the baking soda and coconut oil in a small bowl until well blended. Add the peppermint essential oil and stir. Store in a small, airtight container.

Whitening Toothpaste:

• 2 tablespoons of baking soda 
• 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide 
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil 
• 10 drops of lemon essential oil

Combine baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a bowl. Add coconut oil and lemon essential oil, then mix until you get a smooth paste. Transfer to an airtight jar.

Remineralizing Toothpaste:

• 2 tablespoons of calcium carbonate 
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda 
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil 
• 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay (optional) 
• 10-15 drops of peppermint or spearmint essential oil

Blend all dry ingredients first. Then add coconut oil and essential oil, stirring until the paste forms. Store in a glass container with a tight lid.

Tips for Storing and Using Your Homemade Toothpaste

Proper storage and usage of your homemade toothpaste will ensure it stays fresh and effective. Here are some tips to make the most of your natural toothpaste:

• Use a Clean Container: Store your toothpaste in a clean, airtight container to keep out moisture and bacteria. Glass jars with tight lids are often the best choice. 
• Keep It Cool: Store your toothpaste in a cool, dry place. Coconut oil can melt in warm temperatures, so keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. 
• Use a Clean Applicator: Instead of dipping your toothbrush directly into the jar, use a small spoon or spatula to scoop out the paste. This helps prevent contamination. 
• Make Small Batches: Homemade toothpaste doesn't contain preservatives, so it can spoil faster than store-bought options. Make small batches that you can use up in a week or two. 
• Label Your Jars: Write the date you made the toothpaste on the container. This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensure you use it before it goes bad. 
• Stay Consistent: Use your homemade toothpaste regularly for the best results. Brush at least twice a day to maintain good oral hygiene.

Conclusion

Making your own natural toothpaste is a rewarding and eco-friendly alternative to commercial products. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients, but it also helps reduce plastic waste and offers you the chance to customize your oral care routine. With the simple recipes and tips provided, you can create a toothpaste that suits your needs while promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Give DIY environmentally-friendly toothpaste a try and see the difference it makes for you and the planet. If you're looking for more ways to live sustainably and reduce plastic waste, check out the range of products at Naturally Sensible. Join us in making the world a cleaner, greener place.