Dealing with car scratches can be frustrating, but you don’t always need to visit a professional detailer or buy expensive repair kits. In fact, many common household items can effectively remove or conceal minor scratches on your vehicle’s paint. Here are seven surprising household items that can fix car scratches:
1. Toothpaste
Toothpaste is a popular and effective solution for removing light scratches from your car’s paint. Simply apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to the scratch and rub it in with a clean, soft cloth using circular motions. Allow the toothpaste to dry, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. The abrasives in toothpaste help to smooth out the scratch and blend it with the surrounding paint.
2. Baking Soda
Create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water, then apply it to the scratch using a soft cloth. Rub the paste into the scratch using circular motions, then rinse it off with a clean, damp cloth. Baking soda’s mild abrasive properties can help to reduce the appearance of light scratches.
3. Vinegar
Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray the solution onto the scratch. Use a clean, soft cloth to rub the mixture into the scratch, then rinse it off with water. The acidity in vinegar can help to break down the clear coat and blend the scratch with the surrounding paint.
4. Nail Polish
If you have a clear nail polish that closely matches your car’s paint color, you can use it to fill in light scratches. Apply a thin layer of nail polish to the scratch, then allow it to dry completely. The nail polish will fill in the scratch and blend it with the surrounding paint.
5. Candle Wax
Rub a white candle wax over the scratch, then buff it out with a clean, soft cloth. The wax will fill in the scratch and provide a temporary solution until you can have the scratch professionally repaired.
6. Shoe Polish
Apply a small amount of black shoe polish to the scratch, then buff it out with a clean, soft cloth. The polish can help to conceal the scratch and blend it with the surrounding paint.
7. Super Glue
For deeper scratches that have exposed the underlying metal, you can use super glue to fill in the scratch. Apply a small amount of super glue to the scratch, then allow it to dry completely. Sand the glue down until it’s flush with the surrounding paint, then apply touch-up paint to match the color of your car.
Remember, these household items are best suited for minor scratches. For deeper scratches or significant paint damage, it’s always best to consult with a professional detailer or auto body shop for a more permanent solution.