To check for pregnancy at home, the most reliable method is to use a home pregnancy test kit that detects the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine. These kits are widely available at pharmacies and work best when used with the first morning urine after a missed period for accuracy. The test usually involves placing the absorbent tip in urine or dipping it into a urine sample, then waiting a few minutes to see if there is a positive result such as lines, symbols, or words indicating pregnancy. It is important to follow the instructions exactly and check the expiration date of the test for valid results.

Alternatively, there are several natural home methods using common household items and first-morning urine that some use to check for pregnancy. These include the salt test, sugar test, toothpaste test, bleach test, white vinegar test, soap test, shampoo test, and storing urine test. These methods rely on observing changes such as fizzing, clumping, color changes, or foam formation when the urine is mixed with the item. However, these natural tests are not scientifically proven and are unreliable indicators compared to commercial test kits. Confirmation by a healthcare professional is recommended.

Reliable Home Pregnancy Testing Steps

• Use a commercial home pregnancy test kit after the first missed period.
• Use the first urine of the day for highest concentration of hCG.
• Follow the kit instructions precisely.
• Read results within the recommended time.
• Confirm positive or ambiguous results with a healthcare provider.

Natural Pregnancy Test Methods (Unreliable)

• Salt test: salt added to urine fizzes or clumps if pregnant.
• Sugar test: sugar clumps in urine if pregnant.
• Toothpaste test: color or texture changes in toothpaste mixed with urine.
• Bleach test: bleach fizzes when mixed with urine.
• Vinegar, soap, shampoo tests: observe for bubbling, foam, or color change.
• Urine storing test: film forms on stored urine over time.

Using a commercial test kit is the most accurate home method to detect pregnancy. Natural tests can be interesting but should not replace professional confirmation.