ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Scratches with Toothpaste:
- Clean the Area
Begin by cleaning the scratched area of your car thoroughly. Use water and a mild soap to remove dirt, grime, and any debris that may scratch your car further during the process. Dry the area completely with a clean microfiber cloth. - Apply Toothpaste
Squeeze a small amount of whitening toothpaste directly onto a soft microfiber cloth or cotton ball. If you prefer, you can apply the toothpaste to the scratch directly. You only need a small amount, about the size of a pea. - Buff the Scratch
Gently rub the toothpaste in a circular motion over the scratch. Apply light pressure but avoid scrubbing too hard, as you don’t want to cause additional damage. Work the toothpaste into the scratch, moving the cloth in small, circular movements for about 30 seconds to a minute. - Wipe Away Excess Toothpaste
After buffing, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the excess toothpaste. Make sure you remove all residue from the area to prevent any buildup that could affect the car’s finish. - Inspect the Scratch
Once the area is clean, inspect the scratch. For light scratches, you should notice a significant improvement in the appearance. If the scratch is still visible, you can repeat the process a couple of times. However, deep scratches that penetrate the paint may require more professional treatments. - Finish with Wax or Polish (Optional)
To protect the treated area and restore the shine, apply a layer of car wax or polish to the surface. This will also help to blend the treated area with the rest of the car’s finish and provide a protective barrier against future scratches.
Why Toothpaste Works:
Toothpaste contains mild abrasives that are safe enough for your car’s paint yet strong enough to buff out light scratches. It works similarly to a polishing compound by smoothing over the area, which helps to blend the scratch with the rest of the surface. The microscopic particles in toothpaste gently sand down the edges of the scratch, making it less noticeable.
When This Trick Won’t Work:
While this toothpaste trick works wonders for light, superficial scratches, it is not a miracle fix for deep gouges or damage that goes beyond the clear coat. If the scratch is deep enough to expose the metal beneath or has caused significant damage to the paint, you may need to consult a professional for a more effective solution.
Other DIY Solutions for Scratches:
If the toothpaste method doesn’t work, here are some alternative DIY solutions you can try before resorting to professional help:
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix water and baking soda to create a thick paste. Apply it in a similar fashion to toothpaste to buff out the scratch.
- Car Scratch Remover Kits: These kits often contain specially formulated compounds designed to tackle minor scratches and come with application tools like microfiber pads for better results.
Final Thoughts:
The free toothpaste trick is a quick, easy, and effective way to fix minor scratches on your car’s surface without spending money on costly products or professional services. Whether you’ve just noticed a small scratch or you’re dealing with a larger area of damage, this trick can help restore your car’s smooth, glossy finish in minutes. Keep in mind that while this method works best on light scratches, it’s a great first step before seeking professional help for more serious damage.
So, next time you spot a scratch on your car, reach for the toothpaste—your car will look as good as new in no time!
ADVERTISEMENT
