You can make your own toothpaste at home (Image: Getty)
It’s a bathroom essential we all buy every week, but you could save a lot of money – and reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals – if you make your own at home instead.
It might sound crazy, but Christine Liu, the author of Sustainable Home, has written about the potential dangers of mass produced toothpastes, both to our health and the health of our because of hidden additives in shelf-stocked toothpastes.
With just a few easy to source natural ingredients, you could make your own minty concoction, saving money at the same time.
She writes: “Toothpaste is often filled with synthetic ingredients such as propylene glycol (an active smoothing agent found in anti-freeze) and triclosan (a toxic, chlorinated ingredient with many health concerns such as slowing blood circulation).
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“These ingredients travel not only into your own body, but also through waterways after going through the drain – not an ideal situation all round.
“Luckily, a toothpaste alternative can be made with coconut oil, and xylitol.”
DIY home made toothpaste recipe
Baking soda plays a role in helping to clean your teeth and balance acidity, but can feel a touch abrasive on its own, which is where xylitol and coconut oil comes in.
Xylitol is a natural ingredient derived from vegetables like corn and is already used in chewing gum and in manufactured toothpastes. It acts as a sweetener and reduces the risk of cavities, while coconut oil also fights bacteria.
The for toothpaste is: “Take a small jar and ensure it is dry. Add two tablespoons of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and 1 tablespoon of xylitol.
“If the coconut oil is a bit too firm, you can soften it by putting it in the microwave for a few seconds.
“Mix these ingredients together until well combined. You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil for a minty flavour – start with 4 drops, and then add more to taste.
“To use, take a small spoon and scoop out a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Brush as normal, but without the fear of chemical additives going into your mouth and down the drain!
“It’s best to make small amounts of this toothpaste at a time, to avoid any excess contamination and keep it as fresh as possible.”