HOW TOOTHPASTE SAVED HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS

We all know that it’s a good idea to brush your teeth at least twice per day. Most dentists even recommend you do so. Toothpaste is a very common household item. Such everyday things like toothpaste can easily become commodities that we take for granted.

But I discovered another more surprising use for toothpaste in college, and I saved a lot of money as a result.

It turns out that the consistency and color of dry white toothpaste greatly resembles dried plaster. In college housing, the walls are made of a dry plaster finish that easily comes off when you remove hanging posters, mirrors and other decor.

When I was moving out of my room, I was told that any “holes” in the wall would mean I would sacrifice getting my security deposit back. I didn’t relish the thought of going to the hardware store, buying spackle and having to spend time fixing the wall. A fellow student suggested I just use my toothpaste rather than worry about it. I figured if I was going to end up paying for the wall anyway, I might as well give it a try first. It was definitely worth a shot.

I smeared some toothpaste into the holes. Miraculously, I came back a few hours later and couldn’t even find them. 

And the room smelled a bit minty. Yet another (pleasant) unexpected outcome!