Johann Hunt
Everyday objects are far from ordinary. They hold hidden histories and unexpected truths that we often overlook. The things we use without a second thought—our toothbrushes, paper clips, coffee mugs—can be surprisingly full of stories. Some of these stories are downright weird, and others challenge the way we think about these items.
The Elevator Button Conspiracy
If you’ve ever pressed the “Close Door” button in an elevator and wondered why it doesn’t work, you’re not alone. In many elevators, the button is just there for show—it doesn’t have any power. Only certain elevators have functioning close-door buttons—most are placebo buttons, offering the illusion of control.
The Secret of the “Dry” Erase Marker
That “dry” in dry-erase markers? It’s a bit of a misnomer. These markers use ink made from a mix of alcohol, pigments, and silicone. While the marker feels dry to the touch, the solvent in the ink evaporates quickly, leaving only pigment behind. It’s a magical illusion.
Why Your Jeans Aren’t Really Blue
Blue jeans aren’t naturally blue. The indigo dye used to create that signature color is a bit of a trickster. Indigo is a rare plant-based dye, which means most jeans today rely on synthetic indigo. Over time, the color fades, giving you that “worn-in” vibe. Fashion is more chemistry than you think.
The Mystery of the Bread Tag
The little plastic tag holding your loaf of bread shut is for more than convenience. It’s part of a clever coding system. The color of the tag (red, yellow, blue, or green) corresponds to the day the bread was baked. So, check the color next time you pick up a loaf. It’s a bakery secret!
Your Toothbrush is a Breeding Ground
We all know our toothbrush is supposed to clean our teeth, but did you know it might harbor bacteria, especially when left uncovered? Your toothbrush bristles can harbor up to 100 million bacteria after just a few days. Regularly replacing your toothbrush prevents germs from building up.
The Unlikely Origins of the Post-it Note
Post-it notes weren’t created from a genius plan—they were an accident. Spencer Silver, A scientist at 3M, attempted to create a super-strong adhesive but instead developed a weak one. His failed experiment led to the creation of the sticky note, now a staple of office life.
The Unseen World of Paper Clips
Paper clips were initially designed to serve one purpose: to hold papers together. But in reality, they’ve been used for so much more. During World War II, they became symbols of resistance in Norway, as people wore them to secretly show their defiance against the occupation.
Why Your Coffee Cup Isn’t Really Hot
Do you think your coffee cup is boiling over with heat? Think again. The cup’s design misleads your senses. The ceramic material used for mugs is an excellent insulator, which means the outer surface might not feel as hot as the liquid inside. It’s a small deception that keeps you from burning your hand.
The Mouse That’s Not Really a Mouse
A computer mouse might seem innocuous, but it has some unexpected origins. The first mouse, invented by Douglas Engelbart in 1964, wasn’t even called a “mouse.” It was originally called an “X-Y position indicator” before it became the ubiquitous rodent-shaped device we know today.
The Tinfoil Conundrum
Aluminum foil isn’t foil at all. It’s a thin aluminum sheet rolled so thin it looks like foil. Historically, actual “foil” was made from thinly beaten metal, but aluminum revolutionized the process, giving us the shiny, versatile kitchen staple we’ve come to rely on.