It’s a remarkable notion, I know. But I can’t believe how much “stuff” people overuse. Toilet paper, toothpaste, laundry detergent, paper towels. You name it.
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I read an article a while back about how companies have gone out of their way to manufacture larger product packaging and to create larger openings in condiment bottles, soap dispensers, etc. to passively encourage us to consume more. The article specifically mentioned toothpaste. You know all those great glossy ad photos and commercials of people slathering the perfectly curved spread of toothpaste onto their brush? It’s completely unnecessary. The article went on to say that several decades ago, people were using the recommended pea-sized drops of toothpaste. As far as the American Dental Association is concerned, this recommended amount hasn’t changed. Only the packaging and pretty advertisements have.
How much should I use?
Contrary to what toothpaste commercials show, the amount of paste or gel needed on your brush for effective cleaning does not have to be a heaping amount. Simply squeeze on a pea-sized dab of paste on the top half of your brush. If you brush correctly holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and brush inside, outside and between your teeth, the paste should foam enough to cover all of your teeth.
Dr. Dan Peterson, Family Gentle Dental Care
Anyway, the bottom line is: next time you’re about to use toilet paper, laundry detergent, hand soap, whatever … try using half as much. You’ll be surprised at how equally effective it is. Plus, your wallet and the environment will thank you.