Every day, people use common household items incorrectly, inadvertently causing damage or being inefficient. Let’s explore the correct ways to employ ordinary items to enhance their effectiveness and also discover some hidden uses.
Aluminum Foil
The tabs on the sides of an aluminum foil box should be pressed in to secure the roll, preventing it from falling out as you pull. Many people are unaware of this feature and struggle with the roll. This simple but effective mechanism ensures ease of use and maintains the roll’s integrity.
Dishwasher Detergent
Overloading dishwasher detergent is a common mistake, which can leave residue on dishes and reduce the efficiency of the machine. The correct amount often seems less than expected; follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results. Using too much detergent can also shorten the lifespan of your dishwasher.
Toothpaste
A pea-sized amount of toothpaste is sufficient for effective cleaning, contrary to the long stripe depicted in commercials. Using too much toothpaste can be wasteful and doesn’t enhance cleaning. It can also increase the risk of swallowing excess fluoride, especially in children.
Plungers
There are actually two types of plungers: one for the sink and one for the toilet. The flat plungers are for sinks, while the flanged ones are for toilets. Using the correct plunger for the job increases effectiveness and maintains hygiene.
Creams with Pump Dispensers
When you think you’ve used all the product from a pump dispenser, there’s often more left inside. Cutting open the container can reveal quite a bit of product that the pump can’t reach. This ensures you get the most out of your purchase.
Oven Drawers
Many people use the drawer under their oven for storage, but it’s actually designed to be a warming drawer to keep food hot. Storing pots and pans is a common practice, yet using it as intended can make meal prep more manageable, particularly when entertaining or cooking multiple dishes.
Car Headrests
The detachable headrest in cars is designed for safety, not just comfort. In an emergency, the metal prongs can be used to break the car’s windows. Knowing this can be crucial in situations where exiting the vehicle traditionally is not possible.
Laundry Detergent
Similar to dishwasher detergent, more is not always better with laundry detergent. Overuse can leave residues on clothes and wear down the fabrics. It’s important to use the recommended amount to preserve clothing and machine health.
Tic Tac Dispenser
The lid of a Tic Tac container is engineered to dispense a single mint at a time using the tiny crater on the inside of the lid. Most shake several into their hand, unaware of this design. This feature helps control portion size and keeps the mints more sanitary.
Coffee Maker
Many people make coffee with tap water, not realizing that using filtered water can significantly improve the flavor. Minerals and impurities in tap water can affect the taste and performance of your coffee maker. Using filtered water can lead to a cleaner, better-tasting brew and extend the life of your machine.
Saran Wrap
Freezing or refrigerating the plastic wrap makes it easier to handle and less prone to tangling. While most use it straight from the box at room temperature, cooling it first can enhance its usability. This simple change can make the plastic wrap more manageable and effective.
Yogurt Containers
Flipping the yogurt container on its side before opening can redistribute the fruit from the bottom, making for a more even mix. Many eat it without stirring, leading to uneven flavor. This tip ensures every bite is as delicious as the last.
Mouse Pads
The texture of the mouse pad can greatly affect the sensor accuracy, especially for optical mice. While most use whatever is at hand, choosing a mouse pad with a fine-textured surface can enhance mouse movement precision.
Blender Lids
The removable insert in the middle of most blender lids is designed to add ingredients while blending without splashing. Many people stop the blender to add items, which interrupts the blending process and can lead to inconsistent textures.
Salad Spinners
Salad spinners are commonly used only for dry-washed lettuce, but they have additional uses that are often overlooked. You can also use them to drain pasta, remove excess water from swimsuits, or wash other delicate items.
Q-Tips
Most people use Q-Tips to clean inside their ears despite explicit warnings against doing so. Inserting them into the ear canal can push wax deeper and potentially damage the eardrum. They are better used for applying makeup, cleaning tight spaces, or arts and crafts.
Shampoo
Applying shampoo directly to the scalp without diluting it can lead to product buildup and irritation. It’s more effective to mix shampoo with water in your hands first, then apply it to your hair. This method ensures even distribution and reduces waste.
Conditioner
Unlike shampoo, conditioner should be applied primarily to the ends of your hair rather than the scalp to avoid greasiness and ensure that the driest parts of your hair receive moisture. Many people apply it like shampoo, which can weigh hair down and make it look oily. Starting application at the tips and working up slightly can keep hair hydrated and healthy-looking.
Bobby Pins
The correct way to use a bobby pin is with the wavy side facing the scalp, which provides a better grip. Many people use them the opposite way, which decreases their effectiveness. The flat side should face outward, giving your hairstyle a neater appearance.
Vegetable Peeler
Many people only peel in one direction, but vegetable peelers are designed to work both ways. Using a back-and-forth motion can make peeling faster and reduce waste. This technique also minimizes the effort needed, making the task less tedious.
Pasta Spoon
The hole in the middle of a pasta spoon isn’t just for draining water; it can measure out approximately one serving of spaghetti. Few realize this dual function, leading to consistently over or under-estimated portions. Using this feature can help control portion sizes accurately.
Can Opener
A common mistake is positioning the can opener on the side of the can when it should be placed on top. This orientation allows for a cleaner and safer cut by preventing the lid from falling into the contents. Using it correctly also minimizes the sharp edges on the removed lid.
Extension Cords
When using extension cords, fully unwinding them is crucial to prevent overheating. Many people do not realize that leaving them coiled up can cause heat to build up, posing a fire hazard. This practice ensures safety and efficiency in powering devices.
