Tooth paste usually comes in plastic tubes – unnecessary plastic packaging that is not reusable and neither recyclable*. For someone on a journey towards zero waste, this is rather frustrating and sustainable alternatives are far and few between unless you want to pay a lot of money. So why not make tooth paste (or powder) yourself?

It’s a lot easier than you’d think and soooo much cheaper than store bought tooth paste.

You only need these simple ingredients:

• 1 part bicarb soda
• 1 part water
• A few drops of peppermint essential oil

About 100ml of home made tooth paste will only cost you around $0.40 and if you get your ingredients from a local bulk food store it is truly plastic- and waste-free.

If you like it sweeter, you can add a tiny bit of stevia, a natural sweetener. Coconut oil is also nice as a swap for part of the water as it makes it creamier and it has antibacterial properties. You can also use half bicarb soda and half bentonite clay if you have the clay at hand.

Mix everything thoroughly to make sure there are no clumps, then fill into a jar. To use, either dip your tooth brush into the jar or use a small spoon to put the tooth paste onto your tooth brush.

I need to say a few words about the taste. This tooth paste will not taste like conventional tooth paste. Bicarb soda is very salty, so it might take a little while for you to get used to this new natural tooth paste. 🙂

Also, please be aware that bicarb soda though is abrasive and might not be good for you, especially if you have sensitive teeth. Better check with your dentist if you are unsure if this type of home made tooth paste is right for you.

Even if it doesn’t taste that great when you try it for the first time, DIY tooth paste is easy to make and will save you a lot of money, so why not give it a try?

Check out my YouTube video for the full step by step instructions. 🙂

Let me know how you go. I’d love to hear from you. 🙂

*Unless you bring it to one of the few Terracycle drop off points.