From the ingenious Brazilian soap grip to eco-friendly Japanese banana peel polish, these life hacks from around the world are nothing short of astonishing. Get inspired to look at everyday items in a whole new way.
The Brazilian Soap Grip
In Brazil, people combat slippery soap issues by inserting a small sponge inside the soap. This hack prevents the soap from slipping out of hands and makes it last longer. The sponge absorbs the soap, creating a never-ending lather. “It’s like having a new bar of soap every time you shower,” says a commenter in a travel forum.
Norwegian Ice Skates Hack
Norwegians in remote areas use old kitchen knives as makeshift ice skates. They attach the knives to their boots using strong straps or leather bands. This innovation provides a practical solution for traveling across frozen lakes and rivers. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness found in daily life in Norway.
Japanese Banana Peel Polish
In Japan, people use banana peels to polish their shoes. The inside of the peel contains oils that give a natural shine to leather shoes. This method not only recycles waste but also avoids harmful chemicals found in traditional shoe polish. The result is eco-friendly and surprisingly effective.
Australian Vegemite Stain Remover
Australians have discovered that Vegemite, the iconic yeast extract spread, can remove tough stains. Stains lift away easily by applying a small amount on the spot and letting it sit before washing. This hack is particularly effective on grass and wine stains. “Who knew my breakfast spread could save my white shirt,” comments an Australian lifestyle blogger.
Indian Coconut Shell Scrubber
In India, coconut shells are used as natural scrubbers. They are durable, biodegradable, and have a rough texture, ideal for cleaning tough stains. This hack not only recycles waste but also provides an effective cleaning tool. It’s a great example of sustainable living practices in Indian households.
Turkish Lemon Salt Cleaner
In Turkey, lemon juice and salt are used as a natural cleaning agent. This combination effectively cuts through grease and grime, leaving surfaces sparkling clean. It’s a simple yet powerful solution, demonstrating the ingenuity of Turkish homemakers.
Ghanaian Basket Cooling System
Ghanaians use traditional woven baskets as natural refrigerators. Keeping the baskets in a cool, dry place and covering them with a wet cloth can keep produce fresh longer. “It’s amazing how simple and effective this old method is,” a local farmer and online commentator remarks.
Canadian Maple Leaf Bandages
In Canada, some people use maple leaves as natural bandages. The sap has antibacterial properties, and the leaves can cover small cuts or scrapes. This hack highlights the ingenuity found in rural Canadian communities where traditional remedies are still valued.
South African Fog Glasses Hack
South Africans have a unique way of preventing glasses from fogging up. They rub a small amount of dish soap on the lenses and then gently wipe it off. This hack creates a thin film that prevents fogging, which is particularly useful in the humid South African climate.
Filipino Rice Water Hair Rinse
In the Philippines, rice water is used as a hair rinse. The water in which rice has been washed is rich in nutrients, strengthening and adding shine to hair. This traditional practice is a testament to the resourcefulness of Filipino beauty routines.
Greek Yogurt Sunburn Relief
Greeks use yogurt to soothe sunburns. The natural probiotics and cooling effect of yogurt help reduce inflammation and provide relief. “Applying yogurt was a game-changer for my summer skincare,” says a Greek travel blogger.
Russian Tea Bag Deodorizer
Russians have a unique use for used tea bags. They dry them and place them in shoes or gym bags as natural deodorizers. This simple hack keeps things smelling fresh without the use of chemicals.
Mongolian Sand Heat Therapy
In Mongolia, hot sand is used for therapeutic purposes. People bury themselves in warm desert sand to relieve muscle pain and stress. This traditional practice showcases the natural remedies still prevalent in Mongolian culture.
Italian Olive Oil Makeup Remover
Italians often use olive oil as a natural makeup remover. The oil gently dissolves makeup, even waterproof varieties, without irritating the skin. It’s a luxurious, natural alternative to commercial makeup removers.
Indonesian Bamboo Sound Amplifier
Indonesians craft bamboo into natural sound amplifiers for their smartphones. They create a simple yet effective speaker by cutting a slot in a bamboo piece. “This eco-friendly amplifier has surprisingly good sound quality,” comments an Indonesian tech enthusiast.
French Baguette Keyboard Cleaner
In France, a stale baguette can be used to clean a computer keyboard. The hard crust picks up dust and crumbs from between the keys. This quirky hack creatively uses leftover bread, showcasing French culinary ingenuity even in tech maintenance.
Kenyan Ash Toothpaste
In Kenya, some people use fine wood ash as toothpaste. Ash is a natural abrasive and helps clean teeth effectively. This traditional practice is a reminder of the simplicity and effectiveness of natural remedies.
Swedish Ice Lanterns
Swedes create beautiful ice lanterns during winter. By freezing water in a bucket with a smaller container inside, they form a hollow space to place a candle. This creates a magical, glowing ice sculpture, perfect for long winter nights.
New Zealand Wool Dryer Balls
New Zealanders use wool balls as a natural alternative to dryer sheets. The wool balls reduce static and help clothes dry faster. “Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also save on electricity bills,” notes a New Zealand lifestyle blogger.
Mexican Avocado Seed Detergent
In Mexico, avocado seeds are used as natural laundry detergent. When boiled in water, the seeds produce a soapy substance, effectively cleaning clothes. This hack is a brilliant example of resourcefulness and sustainability in everyday life.
Dutch Bike Wheel Pot Rack
The Dutch, known for their cycling culture, repurpose old bike wheels into pot racks. They create a unique, functional kitchen accessory by hanging the wheel from the ceiling and adding hooks. This hack reflects the Dutch knack for combining practicality with style.
