Stop throwing out old toothbrushes. Here are 10 brilliant hacks to use them around the house

2. Jewelry Cleaner: Restore Shine to Your Accessories

Jewelry can lose its shine over time, but an old toothbrush can help restore it. Use a gentle dish soap mixed with warm water to create a cleaning solution. Dip the toothbrush into the solution and gently scrub your jewelry, paying special attention to intricate details and settings. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth to bring back the sparkle.

3. Keyboard Detailer: Keep Your Electronics Spotless

Keyboards can accumulate dust and debris, especially in hard-to-reach areas between keys. An old toothbrush is ideal for this task. Turn off your keyboard, then use the toothbrush to gently brush away crumbs and dust. For a deeper clean, lightly dampen the bristles with isopropyl alcohol and scrub the keys and surrounding areas. This will help keep your electronics clean and hygienic.

4. Shoe Scrubber: Maintain Your Footwear

Shoes, especially those with textured soles, can trap dirt and mud. An old toothbrush can help keep your footwear looking new. Use the toothbrush to scrub away dirt from the soles and seams. For stubborn stains, apply a bit of dish soap or baking soda paste to the bristles before scrubbing. Rinse with water and let your shoes air dry.

5. Hairbrush Cleaner: Remove Hair and Debris

Hairbrushes can quickly become clogged with hair and product buildup. An old toothbrush is perfect for cleaning between the bristles. Start by removing any loose hair with your fingers, then use the toothbrush to scrub away residue. For a thorough clean, soak the hairbrush in warm soapy water and use the toothbrush to scrub it clean. Rinse and let it dry completely.

6. Faucet and Sink Polisher: Achieve a Sparkling Finish

Faucets and sinks can accumulate water spots and soap scum. An old toothbrush can help you achieve a sparkling finish. Apply a bit of baking soda or a non-abrasive cleaner to the bristles and scrub around the base of the faucet and in crevices. Rinse with water and wipe dry with a soft cloth for a gleaming result.

7. Art Supplies Refresher: Clean Brushes and Tools

Artists know the importance of clean tools for quality work. An old toothbrush can help clean paintbrushes and other art supplies. Use it to gently scrub dried paint from bristles and to clean palettes and mixing trays. This will help extend the life of your art supplies and ensure they perform at their best.

8. Vegetable Scrubber: Ensure Clean Produce