Toothpaste Trick: How a Simple Paste Helps Deter Mice, Cockroaches, and Ants Naturally

Many people look for simple, natural methods to keep pests away from their homes. Surprisingly, one of the most common household items—toothpaste—is often used as a temporary repellent against mice, cockroaches, and ants. While toothpaste does not eliminate infestations, it can help deter pests from specific areas because of its strong smell and texture.

Below, you’ll find how and why it works.
Why Toothpaste May Work as a Natural Repellent
Toothpaste contains strong-scented ingredients such as:
menthol
mint extracts
aromatic oils

These strong smells can disturb or confuse pests with a highly sensitive sense of smell, including:
mice
cockroaches
ants, which follow scent trails laid by their colony
Toothpaste does not kill pests, but it can make certain areas less attractive to them.

How to Use Toothpaste as a Natural Pest Deterrent
Apply a Thin Layer in Entry Points
Spread a thin line of toothpaste in areas like:
cracks
baseboard edges
small holes
ant trails
Minty smells can disrupt ant pathways and discourage rodents or roaches from passing through.

Mix Toothpaste with Baking Soda
Combine:
1 tablespoon toothpaste
1 tablespoon baking soda
a few drops of water
This mixture releases a stronger scent and can be applied:
under the sink
around garbage bins
near pipes
behind appliances

Use Cotton Balls or Small Sponges
Apply toothpaste on cotton balls and place them in hidden areas:
behind the refrigerator
under cabinets
inside pantries
small dark corners
Replace them every few days for a fresh scent.

Important Notes
Toothpaste is not a permanent solution.
For serious infestations, contact professional pest control.
Keep toothpaste away from pets and small children if applied in accessible areas.
This method works best as a temporary deterrent, not a replacement for thorough cleaning and sealing entry points.

Additional Natural Methods
If you want to strengthen the effect, pair toothpaste with:
vinegar – disrupts ant trails
peppermint essential oil – strong scent disliked by mice and roaches
baking soda mixtures – commonly used for DIY pest prevention
Again, these are deterrents, not professional treatments.

Toothpaste is a surprising but useful household item that can temporarily help repel mice, cockroaches, and ants. Its strong minty scent can discourage pests from entering certain areas until you can apply a more permanent solution.