Devin Jacobs
It’s incredible how some old-school tricks still work wonders in today’s world, which is run by gadgets and tech. The ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s were a time of great innovation and practicality. They were full of clever and resourceful hacks that are just as useful today as they were back then. They didn’t have smartphones, but they sure knew how to make the most of what they had. Here are 15 timeless hacks from decades back that are still as good as gold today.
Homemade Cleaning Solutions
If you’ve ever spilled something on your favorite shirt, you’ll appreciate the home remedies for stain removal that were popular in the 19th century. Ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice were the go-to solutions for tackling tough stains. Guess what? These natural stain removers are still highly effective and preferred today!
Herbs as Natural Air Fresheners
Victorians knew the charm of fresh herbs for keeping their homes smelling lovely. Bundles of lavender, rosemary, and mint were hung around their homes to freshen the air and ward off insects. This charming practice has made a comeback, as many homes now avoid synthetic fragrances to incorporate these natural air fresheners.
Newspapers for Insulation
Did you know that newspapers were once popular choices for keeping homes warm? In the 1800s, people would layer newspapers on their walls and attics to create a cozy barrier against the cold. So, the next time you’re looking for a way to insulate, consider grabbing those old newspapers you’re thinking of trashing.
Repurposing Glass Jars as Storage Solution
Glass jars have been a staple in households for generations, used for canning, preserving, and storing various goods. However, savvy homemakers of the past recognized their potential for organizing the home beyond the kitchen. By repurposing glass jars, people could keep their dry goods like flour, sugar, and spices fresh and easily accessible.
The Efficiency of the Clothesline
Air-drying laundry was the norm in the 19th century and is still a fantastic option today. It is super energy-efficient and also helps extend the life of your clothing. If you have the space, you can set up a clothesline and enjoy the fresh air while saving on your energy bill.
Potato for Cleaning Paintings
Cleaning artwork can be delicate, but some in the 1980s turned to raw potatoes for help. They believed that the starch in potatoes could lift dirt and grime without damaging the painting. While unconventional, this method showcased a creative way to care for precious art using kitchen items.
Roll Clothes for Packing
Packing can often feel like a game of Tetris, but rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save you space and minimize wrinkles. This method maximizes your suitcase capacity and makes it easier to see all your options at a glance. Plus, unroll and hang them up when you arrive at your destination—no ironing required!
Paper Clip for Zipper Pulls
Zipper pulls can break at the most inconvenient times, but there’s no need to panic. A simple paper clip can serve as a temporary zipper pull. Just attach it to the zipper slider, and you’re good to go till you can get a proper repair. This quick fix is perfect for bags, jackets, or pants.
Candle Wax for Stuck Drawers
If you have drawers that stick and refuse to open smoothly, save yourself from further frustrations by trying this simple but clever hack: rub a candle on the edges of the drawer slides. The wax will create a slippery surface that will make it easier for the drawer to glide open and shut.
Use a Rubber Band for a Better Grip
A simple rubber band can make a big difference in your kitchen’s adventure if you need to handle a stubborn jar! Wrap one around the lid for extra grip, and you’ll have the leverage you need to twist it open with ease. This hack is especially handy for those with weaker hands or arthritis.
Old Gift Card as DIY Bookmark
As an avid reader, you know the struggle of losing your place. Instead of buying fancy bookmarks, grab an old gift card or a piece of cardboard. Cut it to your desired size, and voilà! You have a personalized bookmark that’s both functional and eco-friendly. Plus, it’s a great way to recycle something that might otherwise end up in the trash.
Bread for Freshness
Want to keep your cookies soft and chewy? Place a slice of bread in the container with them. The bread will absorb moisture to prevent your treats from hardening. This hack extends the life of your baked goods and makes for a delightful surprise when you reach for a cookie and find it perfectly fresh.
Baking Soda as Shoe Deodorizer
Refrain from fretting if your shoes have seen better days and are starting to smell! Shake a small amount of baking soda into and let it sit overnight. It will soak up the odors and leave your shoes smelling fresh. Be sure to shake out the excess before wearing them again!
Soothing Chapped Hands With Natural Products
Let’s face it: dry skin can be a real nuisance! To combat chapped hands, people turned to a mixture of hog’s lard, rosewater, honey, and ground oatmeal. This homemade remedy is still relevant today for natural skincare solutions. You can try this soothing concoction if you’re dealing with dry skin.
Ice Cream Scoop Trick
Are you struggling to scoop hard ice cream? Here’s a quick fix: immerse your ice cream scooper in hot water before digging in. This heat will help the scoop glide through the ice cream effortlessly, giving you perfect scoops every time. This hack saves you time and prevents those frustrating moments when your scoop won’t budge!
Coffee Filters for Cleaning
Coffee filters aren’t just for brewing your morning cup! Use them as a lint-free cloth to clean windows and screens. They’re perfect for removing dust and smudges without leaving pesky fibers behind. This simple hack is a great way to repurpose something you already have!
Hairdryer to Remove Labels
Removing labels from jars, bottles, and other items has always been challenging, as the adhesive often leaves behind a sticky residue. However, using a heated hairdryer is a quick and safe method that allows you to peel it off without residue and also helps you reuse containers without damage.
Keeping Food Cool Without a Fridge
Before the fridge was a household item, people found other ways to keep food cool. Root cellars and ice houses were typical back then. They used the earth’s natural insulation or harvested ice to keep perishables fresh. These old-school methods are still relevant for keeping food longer without modern appliances.
Making Your Soap (DIY)
Making soap at home was a regular chore in previous centuries. Using lye and animal fat, families crafted soap for everything from laundry to bathing. This DIY approach meant they knew exactly what was in their soap—no hidden chemicals or additives. Making soap today can be just as satisfying.
Muffin Tin for Snacks
Dishing snacks in a muffin tin is a hack that remains popular for parties. You can achieve this by filling each cup with treats like nuts, candies, or fruits. The individual cups make it easy for guests to grab their favorites while adding a fun, creative touch to your snack presentation.
Safety Pin for Zipper
What happens when your zipper tab breaks, and you don’t have a paper clip nearby? Don’t fret! A safety pin can save the day. Attach it to the zipper slider, and you’ll have a makeshift pull that works like a charm. This quick fix is perfect for bags or clothing, ensuring you can still zip up in style!
Old Toothbrush for Cleaning
Don’t toss that old toothbrush! Repurpose it to clean hard-to-reach places around your home. It’s perfect for scrubbing grout, cleaning jewelry, or getting into tight appliance spots. This clever hack keeps your home sparkling clean and gives your old toothbrush a new lease on life.
Use a Fork for Straining
Straining food is expected in the kitchen, especially when cooking pasta or boiling vegetables. While many people reach for a colander or sieve, using a fork to hold back food while pouring out the liquid is a go-to technique that has stood the test of time for preventing spills.
Keeping Bugs Away with Mint
Mint was more than a flavor; it was a powerful tool against pests. People would plant mint around their homes or place fresh leaves near windows to repel insects like ants and mosquitoes. The robust and refreshing scent of mint was a non-toxic barrier that kept pests out of their homes and gardens.
Binder Clips for Cable Management
Binder clips have become a popular go-to for cable management over the years. They are a handy, budget-friendly way to keep your cables neatly arranged. Attach them to the side of your desk and thread your cords through the metal loops. This simple trick keeps cables from slipping off and cluttering your workspace.
Tennis Ball for Car Dents
There’s a proven, fun, and effective way to keep your car looking its best after it gets dented. Instead of heading to the repair shop, grab a tennis ball, make a small cut in it, and rub it over the dent. The rubber can help pop out minor dents without damaging the paint.
Preserving Food with Salt
Beyond seasoning, salt was a lifesaver for our ancestors when preserving meat and fish. They relied on salt to inhibit bacterial growth and keep their food safe. This technique is still valuable. Using salt, you can preserve your food and enjoy delicious meals while minimizing waste.
Aluminum Foil for Heat
Looking for a way to keep your home cool during hot summer days? Cover your windows with aluminum foil to bounce back sunlight and reduce heat. Aluminum foil has been used since the days before air conditioning to help keep homes cooler by reflecting heat. It works great on windows that get direct sun.
Charcoal for Water Purification
If you’re looking for a natural way to make sure your drinking water is pure and safe to consume, consider using activated charcoal filters. This ideal water filter, which removes toxins and improves taste, was used long before modern filtration systems came along. People from the 80s understood the effectiveness of charcoal for water purification.
Tension Rod for Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies can clutter under your sink. But there’s a clever hack—use a tension rod to hang spray bottles and essentials. This simple solution keeps things organized and has been around for decades. Install the rod under your sink, then hang supplies from the rod using handles or clips.