Cleaning Solar Lights With Toothpaste: DIY Tips and Tricks

If you have solar lights outside your house in your garden, then in this article, I have told you about cleaning solar lights with toothpaste.

It is a very cheap and easy technique to keep outdoor lighting fixtures bright.

Dirt, dust, and weather can dim solar lights over time. Toothpaste cleans solar lights well.

Most Americans have toothpaste, a versatile cleaner. Its mild abrasives remove dirt, grime, and stains, making it ideal for cleaning solar lights.

This blog post will explain cleaning your solar lights with toothpaste DIY process and discuss its benefits.

We’ll also explain ways to keep your lights clean and bright. Grab your toothpaste, and let’s get started.


Required Materials For Solar Lights Cleaning with Toothpaste

Solar lights brighten your outside space without increasing your monthly electricity bill. However, solar lights tend to collect dust, reducing their efficiency.

Many people are unaware that toothpaste can clean solar lights and restore their appearance. Few people realize this.

This detailed tutorial shows how to clean solar light panels with toothpaste. Read it before starting.

First, gather the tools to clean the solar panel with toothpaste. The list of tools and materials required is given below.

Materials Needed

Required Materials For Solar Lights Cleaning with Toothpaste
  • Toothpaste (preferably a non-gel variety)
  • Water
  • Soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Microfiber cloth

Materials Description

MaterialDescriptionSee on Amazon
ToothpasteThe suggested toothpaste is non-gel. acts as a mild abrasive to clean the solar light of dirt and grime.Best Offer
Soft-bristled Brushtoothpaste must be scrubbed into the solar light. It is advised to use a soft-bristled brush to prevent scratching the light’s surface.Best Offer
Microfiber ClothThe ideal method for cleaning the solar light afterward. Microfiber towels are gentle on the surface of the lamp while capturing dirt and debris.Best Offer
WaterAfter cleaning, it’s essential to rinse the toothpaste off the solar light. Rinsing can be done with a hose or a bucket of water.———-

After collecting these items, you can learn the process of cleaning solar panels with toothpaste.


Cleaning Solar Lights with Toothpaste Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning Solar Lights with Toothpaste Step-by-Step Guide
Image Credit: GrandadIsAnOldMan

So let us now get the step-by-step knowledge of using toothpaste to clean your outdoor solar lights, as follows.

This article analyzes a Handbook for you.

Step 1: Removing the Solar Light from Its Fixture

Disconnect the solar light from its fixture before cleaning. To clean solar lights, remove them from their mounting brackets or storage containers and relocate them elsewhere.

To avoid damaging the lighting fixture or wiring, remove the lights carefully. This makes light cleaning easy and protects wiring and connections.

This step is extremely important if the lights were previously attached to a wall or fence.

Remove the solar light from its fixture by following these steps:

  • Turn off the power to the fixture – this will prevent any accidents from occurring while you’re working.
  • Use a screwdriver to remove any screws or bolts holding the solar light in the fence or wall.
  • Carefully pull the solar light out of its fixture.
Best Screwdriver
SUNHZMCKP Magnetic Screwdriver Set 66-Piece

SUNHZMCKP Magnetic Screwdriver

Set 66-Piece

  • Professional Collectible Grade
  • DIY tools
  • Best Design

Step 2: Removing Loose Dirt and Debris from the Solar Light

Use a brush to remove loose dirt and debris from the solar light. This must be finished before proceeding.

Before beginning, clean the solar lamp’s outside of any dust or debris that isn’t related. This is needed to proceed.

Follow these steps to clean the solar light and remove loose dirt and debris:

  • Clean the solar light’s surface using a gentle brush or microfiber cloth. Carefully and methodically. Moving in a circle works best.
  • Avoid scratching the lamp’s components and surface.
  • Avoiding lamp component damage will accomplish this. Breaking the lamp is only one risk.

Colgate Cavity Protection Toothpaste

Colgate Cavity Protection Toothpaste

With Fluoride

  • Anticavity fluoride toothpaste
  • Best for Cleaning

Step 3: Wet Your Toothpaste

Once the lights are detached, wet

your toothpaste by adding a small amount of water.

This will produce a paste-like consistency that will adhere to the light’s surface and make it simpler to clean off any grime or debris.

Step 4: Applying Toothpaste to the Solar Light

Applying Toothpaste to the Solar Light
Image Credit: GrandadIsAnOldMan

Once the solar light is free of loose dirt and debris, it’s time to apply the toothpaste.

Toothpaste can be used as a mild abrasive to clean the grime and debris from the surface of the solar light by doing this task.

Apply some pressure to your brush with toothpaste and start scrubbing the surface of the solar light.

Use circular motions to work the toothpaste into the surface of the light.

A brush with gentle bristles that will not scratch the surface of the bulb must be utilized.

To apply toothpaste to the solar light, follow these steps:

  • Squeeze a little toothpaste onto a soft-bristled brush as usual.
  • Rub the solar light’s surface with toothpaste in a circular motion, focusing on stubborn grime and debris.
  • Avoid toothpaste on solar light electrical components.
Best Scrub Brush
Earth's Own Natural Bamboo Dish Scrub Brush 4 Piece Set

Earth’s Own Natural Bamboo Dish Scrub Brush

4 Piece Set

  • Handle Material: Wood, Bamboo, Plastic, Iron

Step 5: Rub The Light With Toothpaste For A Few Minutes

Rub The solar Light With Toothpaste For A Few Minutes
Image Credit: GrandadIsAnOldMan

After spreading toothpaste over the solar light, scrub it with toothpaste.

This is necessary to clean the solar lamp’s exterior and remove any dirt or grime.

If greater coverage is needed, apply more toothpaste. Continue until the light no longer shines.

Wipe the lamp with toothpaste, focusing on dirty areas.

Remember that the longer you scrub, the more thoroughly you will clean your solar lights.

Scrubbing longer cleans solar lights better. Always remember this. Follow the steps above to do this.

  • Scrape the toothpaste into the solar light’s surface after applying it with a soft brush in the previous step.
  • Apply toothpaste to the light in a circular motion to cover all areas. This ensures toothpaste efficacy.
  • Scrubbing the lamp too hard can scratch it.

Step 6: Rinsing the Solar Light with Water

Rinsing the Solar Light with Water
Image Credit: GrandadIsAnOldMan

After scrubbing with toothpaste, rinse the solar light with water to eliminate any residue.

The panels must be cleaned of toothpaste. Avoid skipping this step to avoid cloudy panels.

This will remove any toothpaste or other debris from previous lamp cleanings.

To properly clean and soak the solar light, the following steps must be done in order:

  • Use a hose or bucket to clean the solar lamp thoroughly. Either method will accomplish this.
  • Check the lamp surface for particles, including toothpaste and grease.
  • Protect the solar light’s electrical components from moisture.

Step 7: Wipe Off The Light With A Cloth Or Paper Towel

Wipe Off The Light With A Cloth Or Paper Towel
Image Credit: GrandadIsAnOldMan

After cleaning with the rinse water, wipe off any toothpaste residue with a clean towel or cloth.

Remove all toothpaste residue so as not to reduce the panel’s efficiency.

You may need multiple towels to clean the light fixture. If so, bring several towel options.

Best Scrub Brush
Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Non-abrasive, Reusable, and Washable

  • Ultra-soft,
  • Non-abrasive microfiber cleaning cloths will not scratch paints
  • Effectively cleans 

Step 8: Drying the Solar Light

The Second last step is to dry the solar light. This will prevent water spots and ensure that the light is ready to be reinstalled. To dry the solar light, follow these steps:

  • Make the surface of the solar light as clean as possible by wiping it with a cloth made of microfiber.
  • Secure that all water spots are removed.
  • Allow the solar light to air dry thoroughly before reinstalling it.

Step 9: Reassemble Everything and Admire Your Sparkling

After the light has had enough time to dry, you can reattach it to its fixture or box and bask in the sparkling, brilliant light it emits. 

The use of toothpaste for cleaning your solar lights regularly will assist in guaranteeing that they continue to perform as intended and look their best for many years to come.

Here is a video tutorial on cleaning the solar lights with a toothbrush.

cleaning the solar lights with a toothbrush

Types of Toothpaste to Use for Cleaning Solar Lights

Types of Toothpaste to Use for Cleaning Solar Lights

Unfortunately, not all kinds of toothpaste are suitable for cleaning solar lights despite their wide range.

Despite the diversity, this is true. Solar lights can last longer if you use any of the following toothpaste:

Non-Gel Toothpaste

Due to its abrasives, this toothpaste can easily clean solar lights. Gel toothpaste lacks enough abrasives to clean solar lights effectively.

Whitening Toothpaste

Another solution for cleaning solar lights is tooth-whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste is widely available in drugstores.

In whitening toothpaste, Hydrogen peroxide helps remove stubborn stains and brighten solar lights.

Baking Soda Toothpaste

Baking Soda-Based Toothpaste Baking soda cleans solar lights quickly and naturally.

Solar lights may be readily cleaned of dirt and grime using toothpaste with baking soda. Baking soda toothpaste may quickly and easily clean solar lights.

Avoid Using Colored or Flavored Toothpaste

Avoid flavored or colored toothpaste to extend the lifespan of your solar lights. This will prolong light life.

Flavored or colored toothpaste may harm solar panels or their plastic covers. Light-exposed toothpaste may cause this.


Benefits of Using Toothpaste to Clean Solar Lights

Benefits of Using Toothpaste to Clean Solar Lights

This offers several benefits that make it an effective and inexpensive solution to keep your solar lights shining bright.

Here are some of the key benefits.

Removes Stubborn Stains and Grime:

It removes dirt and stickiness. Dirt, dust, and precipitation affect solar lights throughout their lifespans.

This might cause smudges and debris on the light, which are hard to clean. Using a product designed for this problem will fix it.

Toothpaste removes these stains and filth since it includes abrasives, leaving the solar light clean and brilliant.

Restores Optimal Performance:

Dirt and dust on solar panels can impair sunlight absorption, reducing efficiency.

It removes buildup and optimizes performance. Cleaning the panels removes this accumulation, restoring optimal operation.

Washing the panels restores functionality. Fluoride, a mineral, dissolves buildup in toothpaste. This improves device performance and battery life.

Save Money:

By often cleaning solar lights through toothpaste, you can maintain them cheaply and sustainably. This can be environmentally friendly.

It’s cost-effective for solar light maintenance because it doesn’t require expensive cleaning products or equipment. So this saves money.

Easy to Use:

Sweeping solar lights with toothpaste is a straightforward process that anyone can do.

Water, toothpaste, and a soft-bristled toothbrush will keep your solar lights working. This finishes the job. Thus, cleaning them is easy.


Precautions and Safety Measures When CleaningThem🔧

Precautions and Safety Measures When CleaningThem
Image Credit: GrandadIsAnOldMan

While cleaning your solar lights with toothpaste is safe, there are some safety measures you should follow to safeguard both you and your solar lights.

Wear gloves since toothpaste abrasives can be hard on your skin. To protect your hands while cleaning your solar lights, put on gloves.

👉Wear eye protection: toothpaste can irritate and hurt your eyes if it gets in there. To prevent any accidental splashing, wear eye protection.

👉Be Gentle: Use caution and minimal pressure when cleaning your solar lights. A solar light’s plastic cover or solar panel might be harmed by excessive pressure.

👉Avoid Putting Toothpaste Inside the Solar Light: Toothpaste can harm the solar light’s internal components if it gets inside. When cleaning the area around the solar panel, take care.

👉Gel-based toothpaste has no abrasives; therefore, never use it to clean solar lights. Cleaning with it may not work.


Tips & Tricks for Using Toothpaste to Clean Solar Lights

Tips & Tricks for Using Toothpaste to Clean Solar Lights

A fantastic technique to keep your solar lights clean and in good working order is cleaning solar lights with toothpaste them with toothpaste.

Here are some pointers for keeping solar lights tidy with toothpaste:

Clean Your Solar Lights Regularly:

This process is done at least once every six months to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Avoid Placing Solar Lights in Shaded Areas:

Solar lights need direct sunlight to recharge, so keep them out of shady areas. Solar lights work best when placed in direct sunlight. South or southwest-facing lights can achieve this.

Replace Weak Batteries:

Solar lights with dead batteries may not work. If it still needs to be fixed, changing the batteries will. Solar lights perform best when their batteries are replaced every two years.

Properly Store Solar Lights:

Storing Solar Lights Solar lights should be stored in a dry, shaded area when not in use. This reduces the likelihood of damage to the solar panel or other components.


Alternative Cleaning Solutions to Use if Toothpaste is not Available

Alternative Cleaning Solutions to Use if Toothpaste is not Available

You don’t need to get stressed if you don’t have toothpaste.

There are other cleaning solutions that you can use to clean your solar lights. Here are some alternative options:

Vinegar and Water Solution

Mix equal parts of vinegar and water and use a soft cloth to clean the solar lights gently.

This solution can effectively remove dirt and grime from solar lights.

Baking Soda and Water Solution

Mix baking soda and water to form a paste and use it to clean your solar lights.

This solution can easily remove tough stains from solar lights.

Soap and Water Solution

Mix a few drops of dish soap with water and use a soft cloth to clean the solar lights.

This solution is gentle and effective for removing dirt and grime from solar lights.


FAQs

How Do You Know If Your Solar Lights Are Going Bad?

Signs solar lights are failing include dimming/flickering lights, shorter run times, corrosion, damage to solar panels or batteries, not turning on, and not lasting through the night.

How Do You Make Outdoor Solar Lights Brighter?

Clean the solar panels, replace old batteries with new lithium-ion batteries, use higher efficiency LED bulbs, and place lights in direct sunlight during the day.

How often should you clean solar lights with toothpaste?

Solar light manufacturers typically do not recommend using toothpaste. For general cleaning, wipe the solar panels with a soft cloth and mild detergent every 2-3 months. Avoid abrasive cleaning.

Is toothpaste safe to use on all types of solar lights?

No, toothpaste is not universally safe for all solar lights. Check manufacturer guidelines before using toothpaste on any solar light.

Can you use other cleaning solutions instead of toothpaste?\

Yes, you can clean solar lights using vinegar, baking soda, or soap and water. Use toothpaste precautions and avoid abrasive materials that can damage the lights.


Conclusion

To sum up, cleaning solar lights with toothpaste saves money, doesn’t harm the environment, and keeps them shining brightly.

By following these tips, you can keep your solar lights clean and shiny for years to come.

Cleaning solar lights regularly may extend their lifespan. You’ll save money and enjoy green energy’s perks.

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Kevin Smith

Hi, I am Kevin Smith; I promote solar energy’s limitless ideas on our Solar Energy Tip Company's different Platforms. Solar Energy Tip is your definitive solar resource. I provide expert advice, product recommendations, troubleshooting solutions, and in-depth talks about the fantastic world of solar energy.

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