Can toothpaste clean yellowed headlights?
2 Answers
Toothpaste can clean yellowed headlights. The specific method is: 1. Use a spray bottle to wet the headlight cover and wipe off any dirt with a cloth; 2. Wet the headlight cover again with the spray bottle, then apply a generous amount of toothpaste to the headlight; 3. Use a toothbrush to scrub in a circular motion. When the headlight cover feels clean, spray more water on it and wipe off the toothpaste and foam with a cloth; 4. After drying, apply wax to the headlight cover. Another method is to use soapy water for cleaning. First, prepare a basin of highly concentrated soapy water, pour it evenly over the headlight surface, wait about 10 minutes, then scrub repeatedly with a sponge to completely remove dirt. This method also provides some polishing effect.
I tried using toothpaste to scrub the yellowed headlights because the toothpaste at home contains abrasives like baking soda, which can slightly polish the surface. I directly squeezed the toothpaste onto a soft cloth and rubbed it back and forth evenly for a few minutes. The yellow stains did lighten, and the headlights became a bit brighter. However, that was only a temporary fix—it reverted after two weeks. Moreover, I noticed that long-term use of toothpaste can wear away the protective layer, causing fine scratches on the surface. Later, I asked a mechanic, and he said the yellowing is due to plastic oxidation. Professional tools like a polisher or restoration paste are safer and more effective. He also reminded me that regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent the issue. In short, toothpaste works in a pinch, but don’t expect long-term results—DIY attempts come with risks.
