Imagine a material you use every day, often without thinking, and that immediately ends up in the trash. A simple, insignificant object… yet full of potential. What if that toilet paper roll became an effective DIY tool, capable of repairing cracks and joints? A surprising, but incredibly practical, trick.
A DIY solution for small jobs: clever and economical
In this era where every euro counts, and where environmental concerns have become paramount, practical ideas are emerging everywhere. And this one is truly worth exploring: transforming toilet paper into a sealing paste.
It’s economical, affordable for everyone, and very practical for small repairs around the house: filling a crack, reinforcing a joint, or plugging a small hole in a wall.
The equipment you need
Before you begin, gather this simple equipment, often already found at home:
- 1 roll of unscented white toilet paper
- Boiling water
- A salad bowl and a colander
- Silicone sealant (white or translucent)
- Expanded polystyrene (often found in appliance packaging)
- A spatula or a putty knife
- Protective gloves
- An airtight container for storage
Preparation steps
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Prepare the paper base
Start by tearing the roll into small pieces. The smaller they are, the better. Then pour boiling water over them in a bowl. Wait a few minutes: the paper will turn into a soft paste.
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Drain and knead
Put on your gloves, then remove the excess water using the sieve. You should obtain a compact paste, ready to be mixed.
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Add the silicone
Gradually incorporate the silicone sealant into the paper pulp. Mix vigorously until you obtain a homogeneous texture that is neither too runny nor too dry.
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Incorporate polystyrene
Crumble the polystyrene (like that from TV or appliance packaging) and add it to the mixture. This will make the paste lighter and improve its filling power.
Apply it directly to the areas to be repaired: cracks in ceilings, around windows, small holes in walls. For a better finish, you can optionally add a little acrylic paint or dye.
And if you’ve made too much, no worries: store the rest in an airtight container away from air.
Some useful precautions
- Wear gloves: silicone can irritate the skin.
- Work in a well-ventilated room: the product may give off a strong odor.
- This mixture is not suitable for very humid areas or areas permanently exposed to water (such as shower walls).
A trick that could turn into a small business
Did you know that some people have started selling this homemade paste? Combining artisanal production with local convenience, this skill is gaining popularity. By offering this service in your neighborhood, or by selling pre-made jars, you can earn a little extra income while helping others.
