Are you ready for Valentine’s Day? Do you have a special date that you would like to impress? Or is there already someone important in your life who you would love to look your best for? If so, brighten your smile in a simple and inexpensive way: whiten teeth naturally before the big day arrives.

Here are 3 quick and simple tips you can work into your daily routine:

1. Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

A simple mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda on a damp toothbrush is a great way to whiten teeth naturally. In fact, one of the main ingredients in expensive teeth whitening kits is usually a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide and many toothpaste manufacturers include baking soda in their paste. Use this mixture at least three times a week. Discontinue use if your teeth or gums become sensitive and never swallow baking soda or peroxide as both can be severely toxic to your body.

2. Whiten Teeth Naturally With Fruits and Vegetables

Another teeth whitening home remedy that has worked for many is by using certain parts of fruit. Fruit contains healthy antioxidants and certain ingredients act as natural bleaching chemicals that can aid in the teeth whitening process. Although viewed by many as an old wives tale, people have been known to whiten their teeth naturally, over time, with orange peels, lemons or strawberries.

For example, you can crush crush up strawberries into a paste and then rub them over your teeth. You probably will notice that your teeth are whiter due to the acidity of strawberries. Basically, the acid helps remove stains from your teeth and this gives you the appearance of having bright, white teeth. But be careful, using strawberries and other fruits for teeth whitening purposes over time exposes your teeth to acid that will damage the enamel.

If you do decide to use fruit as a natural teeth whitening remedy make sure that you brush your teeth with regular toothpaste and rinse your mouth out with mouthwash immediately afterwards to wash away any remaining acid.

On a side note, brush within 30 minutes after drinking coffee, tea, or sodas. Drink plenty of water and eat raw fresh fruits and veggies as they help cleanse your teeth when you chew them.

3. Use Plain Table Salt

For many centuries, sodium chloride (table salt) has been a very effective and natural teeth whitener. Apply a small dab onto your toothbrush and brush gently from all sides. Repeat the process for 2-3 times and apply to all areas of your teeth. Afterwards, rinse your teeth, mouth and toothbrush with fresh water. This remedy is generally safe but if used more than once in a day your gums may swell. If you opt for this remedy, use it every other day.

So, the finishing touch for your Valentine is more than glowing skin or great clothes. You will have a fresh smile that everyone will love within a few weeks. But remember, when you whiten teeth naturally you will not see dramatic stark white results. Instead your teeth will gradually lighten over a week or two. Consistency is the key too. Don’t start the process and then stop after a few days.

Finally, keep in mind that when you whiten teeth naturally the best results occur if your teeth have been recently cleaned and you have no cavities or untreated dental issue. So go ahead and pull out that box of baking soda! A brighter smile is just around the corner.