Toothpaste and medicinal oil (like menthol balm or “dầu gió”) are staples in many households—but when combined, this duo supposedly becomes a multipurpose cleaner, deodorizer, and stain remover. An article on Tạp Chí Đời Sống explains how to prepare a simple mixture and reveals multiple uses. (Tap Chí Đời Sống) tapchinuocmy.com

Below is a more detailed, nuanced version with reasoning, extra use ideas, and disclaimers.

---

How to Make the Toothpaste + Medicated Oil Mixture

• Start with a bit of plain white toothpaste (not gel or whitening kind).

• Add a few drops of medicated oil / menthol oil — the kind used for soothing aches or congestion.

• Place the mix into a spray bottle.

• Add an appropriate amount of warm water to help dilute and mix everything.

• Shake well until the ingredients are thoroughly blended.

The result is a light cleaning spray combining mild abrasiveness (from toothpaste) and strong aroma / antiseptic properties (from the medicated oil). tapchinuocmy.com

---

Claim Uses for This Mixture

The original article claims this blend can handle:

1. Cleaning toilets
   Spray the mixture on yellow stains or grime in the bowl. Let it sit, scrub, and flush. The combination reportedly weakens stains and masks odors. tapchinuocmy.com

2. Deodorizing trash bins
   Mist inside the garbage can to help counter foul odors and deter flies or insects, thanks to the strong scent of medicated oil mixing with the cleaning action of toothpaste. tapchinuocmy.com

3. Freshening sewers / drains
   Pouring the mixture down pipes is claimed to neutralize musty smells and discourage insects in drain traps. tapchinuocmy.com

4. Degreasing stovetops / oily kitchen surfaces
   Apply to areas with stuck grease, wait a few minutes, then wipe. The mix is promoted as breaking down grease in a gentler, aromatic way. tapchinuocmy.com

5. Erasing ink stains
   Spray on surfaces stained by pen ink or marker, wait briefly, then wipe in circular motions to lift the ink. tapchinuocmy.com

6. Cleaning mirrors / glass
   Use the mixture on glass or mirrors, then wipe with a clean cloth to restore clarity and reduce streaks. tapchinuocmy.com

---

Why It Might Work — Scientific & Practical Basis

• Mild abrasives in toothpaste can gently scrub or loosen surface dirt, stain residue, and mineral buildup.

• Surfactants and detergents in toothpaste help lift oils and grime.

• Menthol or medicated oil adds strong aromatic compounds, which mask odor and may deter insects in small spaces.

• The warmth of diluted water helps distribute the mixture evenly and can improve cleaning efficacy.

Many of these uses mirror common “DIY cleaning hacks” where toothpaste is paired with baking soda, vinegar, or oils for cleaning household surfaces.

---

Safety Notes, Limitations & Best Practices

• Test first: Always try the mixture on a hidden, small spot (especially on painted surfaces, plastics, or delicate finishes).

• Avoid delicate materials: Do not use on coated glass (e.g. anti-glare), soft plastics, silk, or polished metals without testing; the abrasives can damage finishes.

• Ventilate: Strong smell from medicated oil can be overpowering in small spaces. Use in well-ventilated rooms.

• Don’t mix with bleach or strong acids: Some oils or toothpaste formulas may react badly with other chemicals.

• Wipe thoroughly: After treating, wipe away any oily residue to prevent slip hazards or attract dust.

• Avoid ingestion and contact with eyes: This is for external, cleaning use only.

• Limit use near food surfaces: If used in kitchen, ensure you rinse surfaces well before cooking or placing food.