Who hasn’t dreamed of having that white smile seen in a toothpaste commercial? Those really bright teeth that shine even in the dark (okay, I exaggerated, but you get the idea). But not everyone has the means or the patience to go to the dentist for expensive whitening treatments or buy famous products that don’t always deliver what they promise.

The truth is, you can whiten your teeth at home, with things you already have in your kitchen. And before anyone says it’s nonsense, let me tell you: it works. But you have to be patient and disciplined, you know? It’s not an overnight miracle.

Here I’ve put together 5 homemade recipes that help improve your smile, leaving your teeth whiter naturally, without spending almost anything and, as a bonus, still taking care of your oral health.

Oh, just don’t overdo it, okay? Too much of anything is bad, even these prescriptions. And, of course, it’s no substitute for seeing the dentist every now and then, okay?

1. Baking soda with lemon – the favorite combo (but use with caution!)

This one’s a classic. Baking soda has a mild abrasive effect, helping to remove dirt from the surface of your teeth. Lemon contains citric acid, which provides a powerful cleaning boost.

• Ingredients : 1 teaspoon of baking soda + juice of half a lemon.
• How to use : Mix the two until a paste forms. Using a very soft toothbrush, apply to your teeth and leave it there for about two minutes. Then rinse well. But be careful: only do this once a week. Too much can damage your tooth enamel.

2. Coconut oil – weird, but it works!

This one’s for those who enjoy more natural things and are into detox. Coconut oil has antibacterial properties, helps remove plaque, and even leaves your breath fresh.

• Ingredients : 1 tablespoon coconut oil.
• How to use : Swish the oil around your mouth for about 10 to 15 minutes (it may seem like a lot, but it goes away quickly). Then just spit it out and rinse with warm water. You can do this every day.

3. Diluted apple cider vinegar – general cleaning

Vinegar is great for a deeper clean because it has antimicrobial properties. But it must be diluted, otherwise it can harm your teeth.

• Ingredients : 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar + 1 glass of water.
• How to use : Mix and gargle for 1 minute. Then rinse well. Use only 2 or 3 times a week.

4. Turmeric – yes, that little yellow spice!

It seems crazy to rub turmeric on your teeth, especially since it’s yellow. But believe me: it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it also helps with whitening.

• Ingredients : 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder + a few drops of water.
• How to use : Make a paste and apply to your teeth. Brush gently for 2 minutes and rinse. Use 2 or 3 times a week.

5. Strawberry with baking soda – sweet and effective

Strawberries contain malic acid, which helps eliminate surface stains. And with baking soda, it becomes a powerful natural whitener.

• Ingredients : 1 very ripe strawberry + 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
• How to use : Mash the strawberry, mix with baking soda, and apply to your teeth. Leave on for 2 to 3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use once a week.