Bruno Pugh
Most people unknowingly use everyday items the wrong way. It’s surprising how small changes in how you use things can save time, effort, or money. These 15 common household essentials come with hidden tricks you might be missing, which could make your daily routine more complicated than necessary.
Bobby Pins with the Wavy Side Down
Believe it or not, bobby pins are designed to be worn with the wavy side down. It ensures a firmer grip, especially for fine or silky hair. By flipping the pin, you’ll experience fewer slips throughout the day. This trick will keep your hair in place longer and minimize styling frustration.
Aluminum Foil Boxes with Built-In Tabs
Aluminum foil boxes have hidden tabs on their sides, which hold the roll in place. Pushing them in stops the roll from slipping when you tear off a sheet. Additionally, the serrated edge allows for clean, precise tearing. Many miss this feature, but once you know, you’ll wonder how you managed it before.
Soda Can Tabs as Straw Holders
Ever notice the hole in the soda can tab? That’s no accident. It’s intended to hold your straw in place. Flip the tab around, and it becomes a convenient tool that stops the straw from floating or bobbing out. Next time you pop open a can, try this nifty trick for a more effortless drinking experience.
Pizza Boxes as Plates and Storage
Pizza boxes are more than a packaging tool—they’re cleverly crafted to be multifunctional. Tear off the top half along the perforated lines, and each box section becomes an easy-to-hold tray. Fold it into plates for convenient eating, while the bottom becomes a leftover storage box.
The Measuring Tape’s Hidden Helpers
If you’ve ever looked closely at a measuring tape, you’ll notice a small hole in the metal tip. This is for hooking onto nails or screws to measure single-handedly. Its serrated edge can also be used to mark surfaces if a pencil isn’t handy—precision and convenience in one.
Spaghetti Spoons with Built-In Portion Control
The central opening of a spaghetti spoon might be aesthetically pleasing, but it serves a practical purpose. It’s there to measure out a single serving of pasta. To use it, insert the dry spaghetti through the hole; if it fits snugly, you’ve measured out a single serving.
Layering Ingredients in Blenders
For optimal blending, load ingredients in layers. Start with liquids, followed by soft items like fruits, and finish with harder ingredients such as ice. This arrangement allows the blades to move freely. It also prevents ingredients from getting stuck and creates a smooth blend. This method also works for soups and sauces.
Tic-Tac Lid Dispenser
Shaking a Tic Tac container often spills multiple mints and leads to stale ones. Designed to dispense one mint at a time, the lid’s small groove cradles a single mint and ensures freshness. To use it effectively, simply tilt the container to release one mint without shaking. It keeps your portion controlled.
Ketchup Cups for Expansion
Those small paper ketchup cups at fast food restaurants can be expanded. By pulling on the sides, the pleated design increases the cup’s size and creates more dipping space. This feature enhances convenience by making it easier to dip larger items without the need for frequent refills.
The Tilted Technique For Ketchup Bottles
Ever struggled to get ketchup out of the bottle? Instead of banging it from the bottom, tilt the bottle slightly and tap the “57” embossed on the neck. Ketchup is a non-Newtonian fluid, so tapping reduces viscosity and facilitates a smoother flow.
The Microwave Ring Method
To heat food evenly in the microwave, arrange items in a ring around the edge of the plate rather than piling them in the center. This positioning allows the microwave to circulate heat more evenly, so you’re left with perfectly warmed meals every time while avoiding those cold center bites.
Staplers with Built-In Remover
That little metal tab at the back of your stapler can serve as a built-in staple remover. It has a pointed edge that grips the prongs of the staple. By applying upward pressure, you can easily lift staples from paper. This feature saves you from hunting down another tool.
Q-Tips
Q-tips are commonly used for cleaning ears, but they can push wax deeper and can result in obstructions or infections. The ear naturally cleans itself. Instead, use Q-tips for makeup touch-ups or cleaning hard-to-reach areas in your home. Their cotton tips provide gentle application and removal without causing irritation.
Plastic Storage Containers
Microwaving food in plastic containers can be risky. Not all plastics are microwave-safe; some can leach harmful chemicals when heated. Always choose containers labeled microwave-safe or opt for glass. Repurpose plastic storage containers for organizing craft supplies, storing dry goods, or even using them as plant planters.
Soap Bars with Raised Edges
Soap bars with raised patterns and grooves have their usefulness. These features enhance air circulation, allowing the soap to dry faster after use and reducing moisture retention. As a result, the bar lasts longer, providing better value by maximizing the number of washes before it diminishes into a mushy mess.