How To Use Toothpaste Tablets: A Beginners Guide To Zero Waste Toothpaste

Here's how to use toothpaste tablets for a cleaner, more sustainable brushing routine. Read on for easy steps, eco benefits, and our top product picks!

Estimated Read Time: 3 minutes

Toothpaste tablets are changing the way we brush, and honestly, we’re here for it! These zero waste wonders come with all the freshness of your regular toothpaste, minus the plastic tube and messy squeeze. If you’ve heard about them but never made the leap, this guide is for you.

We’ll walk you through how to use toothpaste tablets, why they work, and what makes them such a smart swap for your bathroom routine.

What Are Toothpaste Tablets?

Toothpaste tablets are solid, chewable versions of your everyday toothpaste. They contain all the key ingredients needed for effective oral care: cleansers, flavoring agents, and sometimes fluoride or a natural alternative like nano-hydroxyapatite. But instead of being packaged in a plastic tube, they usually come in reusable tins or compostable pouches.

They’re ideal for travel, sure, but they’re just as convenient for daily brushing at home. Minimal mess, maximum sustainability.

How to Use Toothpaste Tablets (It’s Easier Than You Think)

Toothpaste tablets are super simple to use, even if you’ve only ever used traditional toothpaste before.

Step-by-step:

• Pop a tablet into your mouth.
• Chew it until it forms a paste. It takes just a few seconds.
• Brush with a wet toothbrush. Use gentle, circular motions.
• Spit, rinse, and smile. That’s it!

You can use toothpaste tablets twice a day, just like regular toothpaste. No extra steps, no weird aftertaste, no learning curve.

Do Toothpaste Tablets Actually Work?

Yes! Toothpaste tablets are just as effective as traditional toothpaste when used correctly. They help fight plaque, freshen breath, and keep your enamel strong. Many tablets (like our favorite from Huppy) are formulated with remineralizing ingredients that support long-term oral health.

The key is consistency. The American Dental Association recommend you brush for two minutes, twice a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles – stick to this with toothpaste tablets, and you’ll see the same clean, fresh results you expect from your regular routine.

Why Make The Switch?

Here’s what makes toothpaste tablets a smart choice:

• Zero waste: No plastic tubes. Most come in compostable or refillable packaging.
• Travel-friendly: Solid format = TSA-approved.
• Long-lasting: Tablets have a longer shelf life and no risk of goop explosions.
• Natural ingredients: Many brands skip synthetic chemicals and focus on cleaner, gentler formulas.

Bonus: they look really cute on your bathroom shelf.

Our Top Picks

Huppy Toothpaste Tablets

If you’re new to tablets, Huppy is the perfect place to start. These plastic-free toothpaste tablets are formulated with nano-hydroxyapatite (a non-toxic fluoride alternative) to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.

Why we love them:

• Fresh minty flavor (plus Watermelon Strawberry and Charcoal Mint!)
• Packaged in reusable tins or compostable refills
• Made with natural ingredients like xylitol, coconut oil, and peppermint
• Vegan and cruelty-free

Unpaste Toothpaste Tablets

Chew, brush, and smile with these zero waste toothpaste tabs, available with or without fluoride! Unpaste offers a clean, simple formula with effective cleaning power and zero plastic waste.

Why we love them:

• Helps whiten teeth without harsh bleaching
• Gluten-free, vegan, and cruelty-free
• Free from preservatives, SLS, saccharin, artificial colors, and nanoparticles
• Compostable packaging and 125-tablet packs (about a 2-month supply!)

How to use:

Chew or crush a tablet between your teeth, brush thoroughly, and rinse. Best when used twice daily. Note: Unpaste doesn't foam like conventional toothpaste, but it still gets the job done beautifully!

Ready To Make The Switch?

Switching to toothpaste tablets might seem like a small change, but it adds up fast. Over 1.5 billion plastic toothpaste tubes are thrown away each year and most can’t be recycled. By choosing tablets, you're helping cut down on plastic waste while still taking great care of your teeth.

So go ahead: pop, chew, brush, repeat.

Explore our full range of zero waste toothpaste here and make your oral care routine as clean as your conscience.