Where to Spit and Rinse
Short answer. For camping toothpaste disposal, use a pea-sized amount, brush well away from camp, water sources and trails, and spit in a spot that follows the rules of the area you are in. Rules differ between parks and trails, so check them before you go. When in doubt, spit less and pack out anything solid.
- Brush away from water, trails and your sleeping area.
- A small amount of toothpaste means less to dispose of.
- Rules vary by park, so check local guidance first.
- Pack out floss, picks and anything that is not food-grade.
Why the spitting spot matters
Toothpaste is not made for lakes and streams. Even small amounts add foaming agents, flavoring and other ingredients to water that other campers, animals and aquatic life depend on. Spitting beside a tent also leaves a sweet, minty smell near where you sleep.
Choosing a spot before you need it makes the routine easy. Walk a short way from camp in daylight, pick a place off the trail and away from water, and use the same place each time so the impact stays in one small area.
How far away is far enough?
Many land-management agencies give a distance from water for washing and waste, and the figure differs between regions and trail systems. We would not guess at it here. Check the park or trail website, the permit instructions or a ranger station for the number that applies to you.
As a general habit, stay well clear of streams, lakes, springs and the spot where you collect drinking water, and keep downhill and downstream traffic in mind so your rinse water does not run toward the water source.
Spit, scatter or pack out?
In many backcountry areas the usual advice is to spit a small amount, spread it thinly rather than leaving a pile, and keep it away from water. Some places ask campers to use a designated wash area or to carry used water out instead.
At a developed campground, a wash station or restroom sink is usually the best choice. If you are unsure which rule applies, follow the stricter one, since it costs you little.
Floss, picks and other solids
Used floss, interdental picks and tablet wrappers are litter, not rinse water. They do not belong in a fire ring, in the soil or in a vault toilet unless the facility says so. Carry a small sealable bag and keep it in your trash kit.
Cleaning between the teeth once a day is a basic that dental organizations commonly advise, and it is easy to keep up if the bag is already in your toiletry pouch.
- Carry a small sealable bag for used floss and picks
- Do not burn dental floss or plastic picks in a campfire
- Pack out empty tubes and wrappers
- Wipe the sink or wash area clean at developed sites
Rinsing without making a mess
A mouthful of plain water is enough for most rinses. Take a small amount from your bottle, swish, and spit in your chosen spot rather than letting a stream of water carry toothpaste across the ground.
Skip the habit of rinsing at a stream or spigot. If you use a mouthrinse, treat it the same way as toothpaste: small amount, away from water. If you have a mouth sore that does not heal, ongoing bleeding or pain, see a dentist when you are back in range.
Questions readers ask
Can I swallow my toothpaste to avoid spitting?
We would not recommend it. Swallowing toothpaste is not advised, especially for children. If you cannot spit, ask a dentist about options before your trip.
Is it fine to spit into the campfire?
Not as a routine. It can leave residue and attract animals, and it does not solve the underlying question of where to spit. A spot away from camp is a better habit.
What if there are no rules posted?
Use the stricter common-sense approach: well away from water, camp and trails, in small amounts. A ranger station or permit office can give you the exact local guidance.
Talk to a professional. Persistent bleeding, pain, swelling, loose teeth or sores that do not heal need a dentist's attention, not a supplement.