Cutting corners is often considered a bad thing. But when it comes to chores, errands, and pesky little tasks that eat up your day, some creativity and resourcefulness can save precious time and energy.
From starting a campfire to raking leaves and stopping the pasta water from boiling over the pot, many of the "problems" we face today have been tormenting people for ages, and believe me—there are more ways to take care of them than just your way.
Continue scrolling to learn how to make things easier!
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Wow Just Wow
what a great idea and it looks great.... the other day I found confetti with flower seeds in it, so you can use it outdoor and leave wildflowerseeds to grow, I liked that a lot
no need to downvote, if you don't like this Idea, this confetti is biodegradebal made on a Starchmixture or bio paper with environmentally safe colours and wildflower seeds. So you can have your confetti and don't hurt the environment.
Load More Replies...Smart even if itd be time consuming. Also if you're using confetti outdoors you kinda suck tbh. Edit- assuming it's not leaf confetti.
Rope in some small children to help (the only acceptable form of child labour ☺️)
Load More Replies...This is a terrific idea! I feel a little foolish I never considered it. (We used rice for our wedding, which the birds quickly cleaned up.)
Most confetti is made from rice paper nowadays. Or gather and press flower petals. Roses and geraniums are great for this.
I Use An Apple Corer To Prep My Roast Potatoes
Very cool will be giving it a shot, cool presentation on a plate
Of course, seeing a tip online is one thing and incorporating it into your life is another.
Jessica Koehler, Ph.D., an associate faculty member in the University of Arizona Global Campus Psychology Department, says habit formation is rooted in neuroscience, with the basal ganglia playing a pivotal role.
It sounds technical, but according to her, "This brain region, responsible for learning and motor control, is integral to developing automatic behaviors. As habits are repeated over time, the basal ganglia become increasingly active, strengthening neural pathways and making these actions feel automatic."
This efficiency allows the brain to conserve cognitive effort, but it also makes ingrained habits challenging to break.
I Thought This Was Well Known Untill My Father Who Has Been A Mechanic For 30 Years Had Not Seen It Before
Open your cable tie packets in the middle and you will never spill them all over the floor again. Pull out however many you need from the centre as seen below.
And after you have tightened the cable tie, but off the excess using side cutters but cut it across the wide side. It makes for a less sharp edge.
Bandaid Kept Falling Off. Cut The Wings Down The Middle And Cross-Crossed Them And Now It Stays On All Day
That tape they wrap over the puncture from lab blood draws is miraculous, works wonderfully on fingers, especially fingertips, I have multiple rolls, multiple widths. Available everywhere.
Need More Light When You’re Camping? Put A Water Bottle On Top Of Your Phone Flashlight For A Lantern Effect
This one actually blew me away the first time I learned it / tried it out. Works exceptionally well.
Exactly why people coming in South of the border spray paint their water jugs black. Border patrol spotlights won’t like them up as indicated in the photo.
Did this last weekend. Went out to the lake and the fire died down, so had to make a little extra light so the bears knew we were still there.
You can also set a flashlight on top of a water glass turned upside down. It makes it nice light.
After last storm I found that if you put flashlight into something that hold it upwards, room lightens up.
But if you really try and stick to it, chances are you’ll build a new routine into your life, whether it’s one of these hacks, a new hobby, or something else.
"The brain’s adaptability, known as neuroplasticity, makes change possible," says Koehler. "Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to learning and behavioral changes."
This means that while habits may feel hardwired, they can be reshaped with enough effort and repetition. "Research shows that it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit. The time frame can vary depending on the complexity of the behavior," Koehler adds. "Just as repeated action solidifies bad habits, the same principle applies to forming positive ones."
Keep At Least One Empty Tissue Box On Hand. When You’re Sick, The Spare Makes A Nifty Container To Put Your Used Ones Into - Instead Of Winding Up All Over The Place If You’re Bed Bound
Or you could just put them straight into the trash can, but I guess that's just me.
One of the reasons I keep a trash can in every room. And a box of tissues.
Load More Replies...I've done this. And as I have no family, there's no worry about mixups.
This Is Genius
Archie McPhee is an on-line catalog with many varieties of squeaky rubber chickens. Also they have a store in Seattle that's fun to visit
Plus you can play Led Zeppelin on them! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZzdYqBf8Mc
Stick them to the front and back bumper/fender of your car for easy parking everywhere.
I hung a tennis ball from the rafters. It just touches the windshield when I have pulled in as far as is safe to go.
When Painting Put A Garbage Bag Over The Tray For Less Clean Up After
How have I never done this despite doing exactly this whenever I put a resident / patient on the commode?
Because the bag will pull up along the roller. I'm not saying this is a uselessly bad idea, but there's a downside.
Load More Replies...If I need to continue painting in the next few days, I also put the paint brushes and paint roller tightly in plastic bags so I don't have to wash them. I also cover the roller base so I don't have to scrape the paint back into the can and can continue the next day. Works for regular latex-based paints, the rest is a different story.
You can also wrap the brushes in aluminum foil, then a bag and place them in the freezer if it will be few days before returning to the project. I, too, utilize your method.😊
Load More Replies...Hardware stores sell paint tray liners, might as well repurpose your plastic produce bags or whatever and save a buck
You can also dispose of the roller by placing it in a bag and sliding it off the handle. Then, simply throw the bag in the trash.
this also works to remove the sleeve so you can WASH IT OUT TOO! ( I am a pro painter of 52yrs....i hate waste so dont be lazy..wash it, please..
Load More Replies...I tried this but the textured bottom of the tray is really necessary to get the roller to roll sometimes and the plastic bag just makes the bottom slippery and the roller does not turn easily.
Also, when the paint level gets low (and the paint is more sticky and not heavy enough), the bag slides all over. Proper liners, or wash.
Load More Replies...I use latex paint. I let my tray dry then peel the paint out of it. No need to clean up.
My late husband was a professional house painter. He used to say that latex and quartz paints don't allow the walls to breathe, and this can lead to mold and allergies
Load More Replies...Or buy liners that are super cheap AND textured. Unlike a plastic bag.
Line The Underside Of Couches/ Furniture With Pool Noodles To Prevent Pet Toys From Going Under
I have pool noodles on my bed legs and call them "toe bumpers."
Load More Replies...I guess my girl would Inventur a new game spontaneously called "How many pool noodles can I pull out?"
My parents just moved out of the house they lived in for 40 years. The amount of lost cat toys they found underneath various pieces of furniture is astronomical. Mom sent me a pic of everything she collected. It's a LOT. 😂😂😂
Great idea, but having the toys go under forces me to get up and get them rather than listen to crying with my lazy self
Many years ago, back in the days when smoking was considered cool, I used to roll up the silver foil from inside the cigarette packets into a little ball, and flick it into the air for the cat to play with. One day my big old clunky fridge died and after a lot of huffing and puffing we finally pulled it out only to find heaps of little rolled up silver balls had been batted under it by the cat.
The key to forming good habits is starting small and gradually building your way up.
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, advocates making tiny changes that are easy to maintain.
For instance, if you want to develop a habit of reading more, start by reading just one page a day—but try your best to stick to it. After you’re comfortable with that, add one more.
These small increments compound over time and can lead to remarkable results.
Do Y’all Grate Frozen Onion? Family Doesn’t Like Large Chunks Of Onion So I Grate Them
Kinda brilliant. But chopping is one of my favorite things to do while cooking. At least ever since I got some top quality knives. Before then not so much.
I actually tried this and it wasn’t the best idea.. it made it all mushy the onion flew all over the place I thought I was smart to do it but I was so wrong 😂 maybe it’ll work for someone else but wasn’t for me
I do this with shallots for meatballs and in marinara sauce too
Or you can use dried onion flakes. More flavore, less work. Same with garlic. If you are not serving it raw, then dried is the way to go.
I wouldn't mind chopping if my knives were better. They're the best I could afford. But grating frozen onion is a neat idea.
Zipper Always Falling Down? Use A Key Ring To Keep It Up
I use those small hair ties. Loop it around the hole in the zipper pull, then loop it around the button.
Hmm. Never had this problem in my life. Is it a common issue?
A faulty zipper has nothing to do with someone's body size.
Load More Replies...Life Hack: Vacuuming Into Those Annoying Gaps. Insert Vacuum End Into Toilet Roll And Squeeze Tight. It Can Get Those Hard To Reach Places In Between Stuff
Pizza Cutters Are An Under Utilized Kitchen Utensil
I like using a pair of scissors dedicated exclusively to kitchen use for this. Also opening food packages and slicing pizza
Me too! I use mine for green onions, cilantro, bacon etc.
Load More Replies...Exactly. It's easier to clean as well. Although, this is better for those unaccustomed to a kitchen with no knife skills, like my former SIL. Scary.
Load More Replies...As a former chef, I have twenty + very sharp knives I just use a 10in knife to slice pizzas. FYI: some places use the half moon knife, some use a 3inch putty knife.
"To increase the likelihood of sticking with a new behavior, try engaging in it at the same time every day," Koehler suggests. "This creates a sense of routine and makes the habit easier to integrate into daily life."
Also, reward yourself for following through on positive habits! "These rewards don’t have to be extravagant," the psychologist explains. "They can be as simple as acknowledging your progress or giving yourself a short break after completing a task. Celebrating small wins motivates you to continue the behavior."
My Car Visor Hack That Doesnt Extend. A Hair Ponytail Ring Thing, Hard Card Paper Cut To Size. Easy To Slide In Out As Needed
An elastic band used to tie back long hair. Usually stronger than an ordinary rubber band.
Load More Replies...If You Get Splinters In Your Fingers, Try Using Your Phone's Flashlight Like This, You Will See Them Much Better To Remove Them
If a powerful led can go through my finger, can a even more powerful one go through my torso (without killing me)?
Do you mean LED (light-emitting diode)? It's not a laser!
Load More Replies...I use a jewellers loupe... magnified beautifully. Get the splinters out of my husband's fingers really easily.
A Lawnmower Is More Effective At Picking Up Leaves Than A Rake
I figured this out at about the same age I decided jumping into leaf piles wasn't incredibly fun. I did a lot of chores and yard work growing up on an orchard though.
Good in the fall, under the snow in the winter, better lawn next year
Load More Replies...You should leave the leaves out on the lawn. Better for the lawn, better for the environment. In fact, get rid of the lawn. Green lawns are an environmental disaster. They are an invasive species that is destroying the native ecosystems of the country. I was replacing by own front lawn with native wildflowers, but we're now renting it out. I have a landscaping company which specializes in native species lawncare that comes out four times a year for maintenance. Yes, a native plant covered yard only needs maintenance three or four times a year. You remove invasives in the spring and summer, trim the native shrubs in the summer, and cut back the plants in the fall, so that the dead plant matter lays on the ground and decays, rather than standing and possibly burning. No weekly mowing, no monthly trimming,. And the flowering starts in the spring and goes on until the mid fall. And leaves from the trees are left in place to compost.
We have a biiiiig yard. So we leave large patches to grow wild. Safes our backs and safes the bees, with wild flowers as bonus.
Load More Replies...It can't. That's why it's more effective with leaves.
Load More Replies...I do yard side gigs. Every fall I chop up the fallen leaves. Have one customer who demands they be removed. I bring them home and chop them up on my poor sandy soil yard. Amazing how thick it is now. Gotta be maple or poplar or aspen. Oak leaves take too long to break down.
Ice Cream Mug. Hands Won't Get Cold, Ice Cream Is Insulated, More Steady To Sit On Soft Surfaces. You Are Welcome
A cone will also keep your hands from getting cold and is crunchy. No ice cream cone ever given me was around long enough for insulation or surface placement issues ever to arise.
But... she's showing us a hack for pints of ice cream, not scoops.
Load More Replies...For those who eat a pint of ice cream while sitting in front of the TV regularly
Was gifted a Starbucks cup even though I don't drink coffee. Was confused until I realized it was the perfect size to hold a pint of ice cream.
The important part to understand is that (fleeting) bursts of motivation aren’t very sustainable for us.
Focusing on systems (the habits and routines that drive progress) is often much more effective than focusing solely on goals. While goals provide direction, habits are what keep you moving forward daily.
In other words, it’s about the process, not the results.
Summer Snack Hack I Learned From 8 Year Old Me: Stick A Spoon On Low Fat Vanilla Pudding And Put It In The Freezer For A Few Hours. Its Super Creamy And Cheaper Than Low Fat Icecream
Just In Case You Have Not Learned This Little Trick Yet
When building something that will be outside or in a wet environment (like this shower stool) one of the primary concerns is where the feet touch the ground. Because wood is just a bunch of straws, the feet tend to suck up (capillary) moisture and your project can rot from the ground up. Especially if the feet are in the dirt.
To stop this you need a barrier between the ground and the wood. So wrap tape around the feet so that tape creates a "bowl". Mix up some regular 5 minute epoxy (with epoxy, remember to stir/mix for much longer than you think you should) and pour the epoxy into your little bowl. It only needs to be about 1/8" thick. I know it's "5 Minute Epoxy" but let it cure overnight.
Remove the tape and rasp/file or sand it smooth. You now have a project that will last longer than if you had not done that.
Just remember appropriate breathing protection for both mixing and sanding. It's no joke!
Or use the rubber pads specifically designed to keep furniture off a wet floor.
Make sure you get the same amount of epoxy on the tip of each leg, or you will create a wonky chair.
Hack For Drying The Toilet Brush
Oh, thank God! I thought it was a hack to save on toilet paper!
So you dont spread germs. Unless you like germs.
Load More Replies...I saw this at the beginning of this thread, and my first thought was, "wtf, we are cleaning our b.um.hole this way now?
I've been doing this for years, it lets the bowl brush dry out before you put it back in the holder.
Height Adjustable Desk In Hotels
I used mine for my sewing machine. It was a light model. My grandson stole my ironing board ...he is the only one who irons today !!
Driving game players have been doing this for decades with their steering wheels.
Hmm... the cloth could cause the computer temperature to raise. I'd put something under it, like a cutting board
This is for all laptops used on laps...the air vents are generally on the bottom or sides.
Load More Replies...I Travel Alone And Always Lock My Doors Down This Way At Night So No One Can Open The Doors. It’s An Old Trucker Trick I Learned And I Hope It Helps Someone
Seems like way more trouble than it's worth. Why not just lock your doors like a normal sane individual if you're that paranoid?
Because they smash the window to get access to the door lock. This gives you time to get away while they struggle to open the door. Yeah, there's places that bad.
Load More Replies...When I took driving lessons back in the 90s we were explicitly told to NOT lock the doors when driving, because in case of an emergency it would be easier for us to leave the car, and more importantly potential helpers would have an easier time to reach us.
Load More Replies...The average *thief looking for cars to steal from isn't picking locks... that's not stopping the windows getting smashed out. Can't see this healing at all, the scumbags stealing out of cars tend to either just check every car looking for one that isn't locked, or they smash windows.
I think this is meant to stop someone from trying to open the doors as in a possible car jacking or abduction attempt.
Load More Replies...and to play devil's advocate, what happens if you wreck and that door is the only manner of egress? that's time i'd rather not waste trying to get the seatbelt undone
How To See Back Of Head! I Use Facetime And Screen Mirror To See The Back Of My Own Head When Preparting
Preparting might be a technique, smart pun, or both. I score it three points.
I did that -for the 1st time in my life- when I turned 50. I discovered I was bald at the top.
A Very Important Playlist
Weird I've done first aid training multiple times and every single class they say to use stayin alive. Figured id see that on here.
Most of those struggle though, unless you've actually got the music playing in the background. "Staying alive" is one of those that most people are easily able to get the rhythm close enough. As an aside I once had a course teacher suggest "Nellie the Elephant", except that the version that spring to my mind was the punk cover by Toy Dolls, at roughly twice the required speed.
Also, the Bee Gee's hit 'Stayin' Alive' has the right beat and an appropriate title
Oh no, that old person looks like their heart has stopped. I know, I'll just call up Spotify on my phone and search for a suitable track that I like from this playlist to help with my CPR attempt!
I'm old - always did it to 'Nellie the elephant packed her trunk and said goodbye to the circus'
I dont know some of em but fast car by Tracy Chapman? I figured that's one basically everyone over 25-30 knows. If you don't check it out. Amazing song.
Load More Replies...You Can Trim The Nappy Bristles Off The End Of Your Broom To Make It More Effective Before You Replace It
But if I cut them off, the dog hair won't stick to them, and it will waft around even more than it does already. First I sweep, then I put the debris in the dust pan, then I hold the broom over the garbage and pull the 'dust doggies' off the fuzzy bristles.
I just snip off the strays with a pair of scissors.
Load More Replies...Ah yes, an American trying to lecture the British on English. Not arrogant and annoying at all.
Load More Replies...Love This. I’ve Been Doubling Up On The Hollow Hotel Pillows But That’s Usually Too Much. Will Definitely Try Your Method Next Time
I usually find hotel pillows to firm and high, I need a hack for that
Hotel pillows are always way too thick and hard for me. The towel in the pillow case is what I use instead if I can’t take my own pillow.
Hmm..I learned to do this in county jail because the pillows were trash and you only got one so to "double" it i folded it in half
Well that's nice your jail gives you pillows... It's so annoying sleeping without pillows.
Load More Replies...I have heard this complaint so many times, and it is bananas to me. Hotel pillows are _way_ too fat for me. So thick that I can’t even sleep on them. How are people needing _more_ pillow??
My Amazing Wife Taught Me This Fire-Starter Life Hack And It Works So Well
Take the lint you get from the dryer after you do your laundry and stuff it into a used up toilet paper roll or rip a paper towel roll in half and make two. It works INCREDIBLY well as a fire starter, and it creates less waste!
Unless you have 100% or plastic free cloth it’s ok, but not fabrics have synthetic stuff inside so you are burning Plastik, even if it’s just a super small amount.
We use egg cartons as well, plus paper towel rolls filled with old business correspondence (roll them up and stuff them in — they fit perfectly).
Load More Replies...Just read 'Les' comment above about plastics first!
Load More Replies...And this is why its so vital to clean filters and lint traps every time you use the dryer. The stuff is crazy flammable.
Today I Remembered That If You Don't Have A Candle, Orange Skin And Oil Of Olive Will Do It
That is honestly the first time I've ever seen or heard olive oil referred to as "oil of olive".
It is called huile d'olive in french, maybe OP isn't a native English speaker.
Load More Replies...Just make sure it's in a heat-proof dish as the oil in the fruit skin could ignite, and never leave a burning candle unattended.
I keep forgetting this is very aromatic too and not fake perfumes that can be toxic however, the oil of olive needs a rephrase
Use Your Spring - Loaded Salad Tongs To Keep Your Reusable Bags Open As They Dry
Well, I just learned something new today. I will check this one out...
This is the second hint from this post that I've written down to remember and use.
The whole purpose of the bag is to throw it away. And not worry about washing containers
The whole purpose of the zipper "lock" feature in those bags...is to make them reusable, just FYI!
Load More Replies...Maybe they're trying for a less wasteful household?
Load More Replies...No Screens But Don't Want Your Pets To Get Out? Baby Gate
Or to keep/ hem from tearing the screen. I haven't opened my windows more than 3" for years. Baby gate time!
We have 5 cats. We replaced our screening with pet screen for windows. Got it on Amazon. Not too difficult to do. The mesh is a little thicker but you can still see out and can open the windows without them damaging the screen.
Load More Replies...To keep my cats in I use 'rodent mesh', sold in garden centres. Can be cut to size, is stiff enough to be self-supporting, & once in place you can hardly see it against the light. You just have to anchor it to the frame with some small hooks.
Considering how many animals we have, our home is the 'baby gate capital' of the world! Keeps them from going in rooms we don't want them in, keeps some inside and others outside at the same time, helps to prevent animal fights and...they can also be resurrected with boards and hinges to make gates to keep your pets on or off the porch.
Use An Old Cupcake Tray To Organize Your Nuts And Bolts When Dismantling Something (In My Case, My Car’s Bumper)
Stuff lint in the egg carton and you got 12l little fire starters.
Load More Replies...Please buy your own at a thrift or dollar store for this purpose. Do not take the Nordic Ware muffin tin from the kitchen cabinet.
If anyone follows Tim Holtz ( IMO a crafting god) they will know that he uses vintage muffin tins to put his elements in when creating.
My brother in law drove me insane helping me change out my timing chain, chucked ALL the bolts into a can. Took me forever to sort 'em when reassermbling.
Used The Overnight Vinegar Hack To Clean A Decade’s Worth Of Scaling On The Shower Chain
I saw this vinegar hack on Instagram and thought I’d give it a try. You basically pour distilled white vinegar into a small ziplock, submerge the affected area and tie it with a rubber band overnight. Then I used a scrub daddy and wiped off excess stuff in the morning and voila, nearly brand new shower head chain woah! I used it on faucets around the house too, beautiful results. Only warning: the vinegar can eat through cheaper steel.
Vinegar soaked toilet paper will stick around taps, and plug holes overnight, then the next day all the limescale will wipe right off.
I tried all the vinegar hacks and then bought something named "The Pink Stuff". Never went back.
It works well on bathtub gunk as well. 1/2 and 1/2 seems to be the best mix.
Use Yellow Ducktape On TV Remote If You Have Black Furniture
My mother has sparkly holographic stickers on her spectacle case, makes it easier to find at the bottom of her bag.
We taped a length of bright pink string onto the stupidly small apple TV remote. There is usually a bit of it peeking out even if wrapped in blankets on the couch.
I purchased silicone covers for my roki remotes and you can get them all kinds of colors. Plus it makes it easy to hold and it doesn't slip out of your hand
I bought a yellow case for my phone so I can spot where I set it down.
This Is Life Changing
Use a bigger pot. The extra room and water makes the pasta nicer, more evenly cooked/ needs stirring less as it doesn't stick as much. And won't overflow!
Load More Replies...Better yet: boil, add pasta, shut off the fire, put lid on, timer 8mins. Professional restaurants use a huge steam table machine.
Handwritten “Open Date”
OMG! I thought it was just my OCD. Like you i date all things opened.
Load More Replies...I do this on milk, and also on cosmetics and skin care products.
Because Your Dad Deserves The Nobel Prize In Science
Why does everything nowadays have to have the word ‘åss’ in front of it?? It literally doesn’t mean anything or add to understanding of what the person wants to communicate. All that happens is I wonder what an årse Thermos would be.
Well it wouldn't be that shape for a start! Now I'm going to spend far too much time thinking about what an árse thermos would look like...
Load More Replies...Ice Cream Life Hack. Our Helper Slices The Ice Cream Into Squares As Soon As It Arrives From Grocery. Result: Easy Frozen Ice Cream Removal When We’re Ready To Eat! Do You Do This Too?
Who is keeping some icecream for later? You open it, you eat all of course. There is no such thing like leftover icecream, this is ridicolous 😤
It's a concept I learned as I got older and my metabolism slowed down, making old habits cause the purchase of larger garments.
Load More Replies...I'm not sure how that's significantly easier than just scooping it out.... also unless this was posted by an elderly or disabled person wow would I hate to work for these people in any capacity.
LOL! With 2 hairy, little rascals here at home, HA! Me and my Wife would be very lucky if we can enjoy our ice cream in peace, without our furry guys going berserk on us! 🐶🐱
Do people not know about insulated bags (AKA cooler bags) and hard plastic ice packs? If you know you will be buying frozen food, pack a couple of ice packs into an insulated bag and your ice cream or frozen nuggets will be fine for the trip home until you can put them in the freezer
The implication that it's somehow softer and easier to cut when you get it home suggest that it's partially melting on the journey, which may be why it then gets rock-hard later. Kept properly it will be no more or less easy to slice whether it's been in your freezer for a month or is straight from the shop.
it seems less cold in the shop freezer, yet save, than at home at - 20°C
Load More Replies...I Use A Hairpin To Mark The End Of My Duct Tape
Just fold over about 1/4 inch or so, that'll leave an easy opening tab.
That's what I always do. Now you've made me realize this isn't that smart lol
Load More Replies...Being petty or pedantic or... something... here but that's packing tape. Kinda smart though.
This method is especially good for the thin, easily torn clear box tape that is hard to get started
Use Broth In Your Boxed Mac N Cheese If You’re Out Of Milk
Well, my notifications tell me I had a reply to a comment I made here, and it does seem like something I would comment on, but there’s now no sign of my original response so I don’t know WTF is happening.
If you find this the matrix glitched. If you didn't find this please disregard. Your potential attention to this response is very appreciated 🙏👍
Load More Replies...I think you meant ‘bouillon’, but if you did mean ‘a non-ferrous metal that has been refined to a high standard of elemental purity’ I’m intrigued.
Load More Replies...Put A Small Amount Of Water In A Glass When You Microwave Your Pizza To Keep The Crust From Getting Chewy
This also works for defrosting bread or rolls in the microwave.
Hate cleaning stuck on food in the microwave? Squeeze half a lemon in a microwave safe cup with water in it. Nuke for 1 minute, and just wipe clean. Bonus, lemony fresh smell.
I don't microwave pizza at all, I put it into a real oven instead - 10 minutes 120°C
My oven doesn't even take that long. Indeed, it seems to be faster than the microwave oven for heating pizza.
Load More Replies...Leafblower vs. Dry Snow
Don't get snow in Sydney. Did when I lived in the Blue Mountains.Wish I still could, the air is wonderful
I do 5 driveways in winter for pocket cash, in Michigan. Almost caused a couple wrecks with my hack from folks who couldn't believe what they were seeing. 2 24" snow shovels side by side results in a 4 foot clearance path, takes no time at all. Get all 5 done in about 1.5 hrs, travel time and all (about 3-4 "of snowfall). Needs pretty good coordination at first to lift the shovels full to bank them.
I Think This Is Really How To Take A Step Toward Something That You Feel Vulnerable About
I shaved my head in Dec after knowing the time was approaching. Was nervous about the “omg! You shaved your head” comments. And after many interactions where I expected big responses and people didn’t seem to care I knew it was me making it a bit deal not them.
Until a friend’s 6y/o daughter made a huge reaction at a gathering with everyone there. I lt was perfect, all the adults just quietly didn’t say anything about it.
Or Lex Luthor. Or if you have an odd shaped head, a Conehead.
Load More Replies...Would it help to make him more attractive if the orange man got rid of his combover? Somehow I don't think so.
Load More Replies...Shaved my head 20 some years ago and have never missed having hair. Have save a bucket of bucks not having haircuts, shampoo, conditioner etc, just some razors now and then. Only real issue is that my hat slips off right after I shave my head :P
I'm a girl, well, an old one with thinning hair..I doubt shaving any off would be very flattering
I shaved my head and went as Uncle Fester. I did it partially as I was going to have elbow surgery in a week which would have made hair washing difficult. Many years later, my colleagues still call me and ask for a picture saying that that was the best costume they had seen.
Guy On The Plane Put His Boarding Pass In His Phone Case, Holding It Up With The Tray Table Latch
I like that the phone screen would be unaffected whether the person in front has reclined their seat or not, as opposed to using your tray.
Also, it’s a better height for watching stuff
Load More Replies...Who has paper boarding passes any more. It’s all on your phone already.
Beer Can Taco Stand
(read in Jeff Foxworthy's voice) You may be a redneck if you've ever crushed a beer can to use as a taco holder.
hell no, that's 10 cents a can we get back when we scan the empties, that's 30 cents wasted right there!
Never Using Lighter Fluid Again
hence why doritos (or any chip) also make a good fire starter - all the oils
My late husband LOVED Doritos almost as much as he loved chocolate! I remember reading about the Dorito firestarter and told him about it and he thought I was full of it. He had Doritos and I took one outside and tried to light it, and well, it quickly went up in a blaze of glory. He told me we could only ever use that method if it were life or death. LOL
Load More Replies...very red-necky. Where is the 1975 fleet side Chev with open bonnet and an old engine in the grass?
Or wood kindling? Hard to find I know, but you might be able to find some just laying around :p
I don't think I'd like to find out how this would affect my anaphylaxis
Have A Slat Bed That Creaks And Squeaks? Slide Cotton Swabs Under The Slats Where It Meets The Frame
I thought they were ice cubes at first, I probably need to go to Specsavers...
Load More Replies...I remember that a handyman of some sort was at my mum's house in the 1990s and said that baby powder would somehow stop the floor from squeaking.
My "Odd Socks Box" - Everytime A Lonely Sock Appears In The Washing Cycle It Goes Here Hoping To One Day Be Reunited
Same, but mine are all black cotton socks. So no one will know. 😋
Load More Replies...Looking at this picture, do they have any actual pairs of socks left?
Its your washer that "eats" your sock. Put socks at bottom of washer load so they won't float up and out the overfill level to be sent down the drain. Or tie a pillowcase up with all your socks together
That box has about 20 “onesies”…. I think there’s a story here! Case of the sock snatchers!
Organize Your Spaces With A Dab Of Hot Glue And Some Magnets. I Use Them All Around The House
Use Baking Sheets To Polish Your Faucets And Other Chromium Details
Yes, that doesn’t look like what I would mean by a baking sheet
Load More Replies...Dryer sheets. Its just parafin wax. Most are still good for this after a trip with the clothes
Chopsticks And 2 Rubber Bands Help Squeeze Out Every Drop Of Toothpaste
I just fold the bottom of the tube over and put an office binder clip on it.
I drag it along a sharp edge, like the bathroom sink. Leaves about 2.5g left. I checked!
I Got Tired Of Family Members Using A Cup Then Abandoning It
So now we each have our own colored rubber band we put around whichever cup we’re using that day… And I end up washing fewer dishes.
When we had family get-togethers my MIL would put out blue painter's tape and a marker for us to mark our glasses/coffee cups/whatever.
Phone/Tablet Hack For Car Passagers
That would require me to be able to pull the darn headrest out in the first place…
it's supposed to be very easy, but I get you. Often the car's ceiling is too low and you have to fold the seat to do it
Load More Replies...My Girlfriend Packs Her Underwear In Her Socks For Each Day She Won’t Be Home. I Think It’s Clever
I’ve Been Married To My Wife For 11 Years And She Just Taught Me That If I Use A Cheese Grater On A Cold Stick Of Butter, It’s Easier To Spread On Toast And Muffins
That works depending on how warm your house is. Summers up here even with ac sometimes you come home to nice soft butter sitting in a puddle of melted butter.
Load More Replies...I stopped keeping my butter in the fridge and now it's always soft. Best move ever.
I just slice the butter very thinly, as thin as a potato peeler can.
I just use oneend of the stick of butter directly on the toast--cut out he middleman
Use Zip Ties And A Wall - Mounted Coat Rack To Neatly Store Hair Tools And Keep Your Bathroom Clutter-Free
My dad was tired of seeing my “tools” — hairdryer, straightener, curling wand — lying around the bathroom like a messy workbench. So he grabbed some zip ties, looped them through the handles, and hung everything on a sturdy coat rack screwed into the wall. Now it’s all tidy, accessible, and off the counter.
Bonus: no more tangled cords!
It’s a super cheap and effective way to organize heat tools if you don’t have drawer space.
Hack To Keep Products From Creating Mold In The Shower. My Grandma Taught Me This Trick To Use Shelf Risers To Let The Bottoms Of Shampoo Bottles Etc From Getting Moldy On The Tile Or Niche
Use Magic Erasers To Remove Yellow From Headlights
There are several life-hack type tricks for deyellowing and defogging headlights, and I've tried a number of them. Toothpaste, bug spray, etc. None really worked. I was detailing the car and thinking that a magic eraser would probably do it... did a quick google search, verified my theory and went to town. 20 minutes later my headlights were significantly less yellow and also pulled some of the weird, hazy film off as well.
Headlights were on a newish Tacoma, which are notorious for going all yellow and ugly. Note: doesn't seem to help the "fogging" as much. Some folks suggested added some rubbing compound to help actually polish them.
Bonus tip: magic erasers also work similarly to clay bar for pulling bits of gunk out of the paint. Just know that they are microabrasive, so don't go crazy on one spot or it might damage the clear coat.
Most toothpastes work well for this using a regular cloth or rag.
Defrost Things Quickly. Needed To Defrost These In A Jif And Chatgpt Put Me On This Life Hack Called A Metal Pan Sandwich, So I Thought I’d Share
Just put it in an cold water bath? This sounds like it won't work if the stuff is uneven with only a few contact points.
The metal, in close contact with the frozen item, will conduct heat a lot better then the surrounding air would,
Load More Replies...Rubbish. Only if you leave it out for an extended time such that the exterior is getting warm. I do indeed often use a microwave, but care must be taken to do it slowly, especially with meat, to avoid warming it up and starting to cook on the edges. For a steak I'd do it for about a minute on 40%, leave for five minutes, repeat, each time checking how much more it needs, and if it's starting to get at all warm leave if for longer, then drop the minute to just 30 seconds if it still needs any more..
Load More Replies...I Lost A Silicon Tip. But I Found That It Got Easier To Simply Tell Which Was The Right One
They are bent in a certain way to follow the opening of the ear canal. Think of scissors for left and right handed people, same principle.
Load More Replies...Need Tweezers In A Pinch?
I'm not convinced this would be as simple as depicted. Seems like you'd have slippy-slidy coins, and the middle one would just come shooting out the back end.
With A Boonie Hat, You Can Slide Trimmer Line Into The Little Slot In The Brim To Give It More Stability
I found it useful for both hiking and cycling when it's windy, so it doesn't flip up and expose the skin to UV rays. The design looks better too.
Thrift Some Vintage Parm Jars To Use For Baking Soda For Easy Fridge Deodorizing And By The Sink To Wash Produce
I'd be nervous using that in the kitchen and someone thinking its meant to go on food. I don't think its toxic or anything because its used in cooking but probably not tasty as a seasoning
That’s what labels are for :) and baking soda tastes kinda salty so probably depends on what it was mistakenly put on.
Load More Replies...Hack For Getting Pet Hair Off Furniture Or Just About Anything
As a pet lover who has searched for ways to get fur off furniture, car interiors etc. more times than I can count, I had to share this because it’s not a hack I have seen anywhere else-use a dry shower squeegie! It works like magic!
I use rubber gloves. Just run your gloved hand along the item in question, then grab the hair. It works astonishingly well!
When Reheating Thick Pizza In The Oven, I Skewer The Centers With Stainless Steel Straws To Ensure The Center Heats More Evenly With The Outside
I’ve never done a test by reheating one with and one without the skewer simultaneously, but the science checks out and the pizza reheats perfectly.
Using Medical Gloves Instead Of Bubble Wrap
I’m intrigued who has lots of examination gloves but can’t access bubble wrap?
Err, lots of people? I always have a box in the bathroom, but there's usually a few pairs in any shop-bought first aid kit anyway. Useful for lots on non-medical purposes.
Load More Replies...You Can Use Your Pocket Knife As A Pill Splitter In A Pinch
This seems way more difficult than just setting the pill down and cutting it. Unless you really like chasing down pill fragments of course.
One of my teeth turns out to be the perfect pill cutter. Just have to get a good grip on the half that I'm keeping.
Load More Replies...I put a toothpick under it and press both sides. Works with glass cutting, great for many hard materials.
An even easier way is to place the medicine with the halving groove facing down on the table and lightly tap it on the bottom of a drinking glass. Sometimes it will split in half right there or break enough to make it easier to split in half.
Old pill popper trick. Crush half for nasal induction save half for later or to swallow for longer term effects. Source: Me I was the a****t. Worked with my Adderall tablets. Does not work well with capsules. Don't do as I did but information is better than stigma.
I Like To Make My Own All Purpose Cleaner
I try to avoid store bought cleaners for a variety of reasons. Yeah, it's not that expensive to buy a bottle of cleaner. Most range from $3.99-$5.99. But homemade cleaner is gentler on the respiratory system, results in less plastic waste, saves a few dollars, and utilizes ingredients a lot of people already keep on hand. I use 1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol. I used to add essential oils (as you can see on the photo) but I ran out a while back and don't feel like spending the money to buy more. Skipping the essential oils also makes it safer to utilize on upholstery. I use it to deotorize my couch. What kind of frugal cleaning tips do you have?
That must be the recipe for the Finest Universal Cleanser Known. (Old funny folk song) You can wipe it on the ceiling, you can rub it on your walls. You can buy it in pint cannisters, even use it on your... bannisters.
A lot of essential oils are toxic for pets. Thanks, Denise Dombowski, for helping getting the info out.
Load More Replies...If one isn’t keen on the vinegar smell soak orange peels in the vinegar for two weeks, strain and proceed with recipe.
Or just buy some citric acid granules. If you get the catering pack size, they are really cheap and last for ages. I have a 2kg package in my kitchen right now.
Load More Replies...Keep A Top Sheet In Your Vehicle To Have Instant Shade When You Park. I Learned About This While Homeless, Living In My Suv. Having To Park In Parking Lots Without Shade
What am I looking at? It appears to be tucked into the window opening at the top and then the window is closed on it which makes sense but then how is it also tucked tightly into the bottom of the window track? I'd be afraid of it damaging that part of the door/window/seal/mechanism
Maybe the window glass is actually down to allow air movement, so sheet may be threaded in to the window slot?
Load More Replies...Saw This Here Some Years Ago And Always Use It: For When You Have To Drill Holes In The Wall, But Don’t Have Anyone To Hold A Vacuum Cleaner While Drilling
You Can Stir Natural Peanut Butter Before You Even Open The Jar By Carefully Putting The Jar Into The Whisk Attachment Of A Stand Mixer
I ran it for about five minutes on the second lowest setting. This is my very first proof of concept. My intention was to 3d print an attachment, but this worked so well, I might reconsider.
Plus 5 minutes squeezing it into the whisk and buggering your whisk up….
Load More Replies...4 Binder Clips And 2 Paper Clips Can Make You A Quick Phone Stand For This Slow Office Month
I Feel Like This Straw Washing Hack Is Genius
okay i feel like that’s genius. however, this is the first time in my adult life that i’ve ever lived somewhere that has a dishwasher, so this is all kind of new for me. my mom would have me unload the dishwasher as a kid, but never load it and we def didn’t have metal straws back then.
Feels like they would have a hard time being cleaned, on the inside. As Han Solo would have said it.. 🤓
yes, with a small bottle/gun brush or pipe cleaner
Load More Replies...You Can Make Loads Of Fun Things With The Tape Too, And Stick Things To Eachother And The Walls And Hang Stuff From The Overhead Fans And Lights - Super Universal, And Cost Like $1 Per Roll
I presume painter’s tape is the same as masking tape, and therefore an absolute cinch to pull off, which is why it’s recommended, but I agree, the parent should be the one removing it.
Load More Replies...Is that allowed on planes? TSA might think they're going to restrain all the passengers as hostages.
This is an easy-to-tear tape; you would struggle to tie anyone up with a roll or two.
Load More Replies...This ought to be given to kids in restaurants instead of crayons and paper
There's a local pizza place in my town that gives kids a ball of pizza dough to play with.
Load More Replies...Damp Fabric And Cold Drink In Front Of The Fan With The Window Open Better Cooling
Rali, we bought fans with water reservoirs in the bottom this year, they work much better than fan alone (in UK) can recommend them
Load More Replies...Wet towels out of the washer work great, too....and dry fast here in Colorado.
Keeping Yourself Online. Did Anyone Think About This?
It's to keep you showing as active online for work or school instead of the screen locking when you go idle and they know you are away from your desk
Load More Replies...I mean, I'm old-fashioned. I just do my work instead of being a time-thief....
Earonn, some employers will reprimand you for just going to the bathroom.
Load More Replies...A watch with the seconds hand works fine as a mouse juggler. Just put your mouse on the watch and the movement will keep the pc alive. Just don't use very tiny watches!
Travel Hack: Tooth Brush In Empty Water Bottle
Maybe it's to transport it. Can't think why though.
Load More Replies...When Hotel Curtains Let Too Much Light In, A Quick Fix
I've got little clippie animals on my bedroom curtains at home (Garfield, Odie, and an unnamed koala since you ask). But I keep a sleep mask in my toilet bag, mostly because all my friends have pale curtains in their spare bedroom
Also you can use the hotel hangers that have clips to fasten blinds together
Not Sure If This Is A Lazy Hack Or A Life Hack… Found At My Parents House
Most salt containers have a dispenser built in. I'd be very worried about that one just falling off in use.
Just make the hole a little smaller than the screw-in cap.
Load More Replies...We pour our salt (kosher) into a small bowl (ramekin), use a pinch at a time.
Why does being kosher make any difference to this? Does it just mean it's in flakes or larger pieces?
Load More Replies...Saw The Bad Remote Hack And Figured I’d Share Mine. A Cheap Spatula Does The Trick. Haven’t Lost The Remote In Years
saw another post where they put bright colored tape around it, but I prefer giving the remote a home--a specific place to be at all times. works well with the threat of no tv privileges is on the table
Tired Of Your Trash Cans Getting Blown Open By The Wind? Buy Some Seatbelts
What even are most of these? I've never had wind blow them open unless it's so windy they also just blw them over / away.
And also, here the trash company owns the bins. So this would be vandalism? Also, I would forget to remove it when they go emptying it, and have a full bin for no more trash...?
Load More Replies...Then the trash collection workers would have to undo that contraption to empty the bin? That would be terrible
Use Those Plastic Things That Come With Bread To Close Chip Bags
Not exactly groundbreaking but I use the swiffer floor mop dry sheets as rags to wipe up dust from shelves and other non floor places. Works well in the car too.
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Load More Replies...Not exactly groundbreaking but I use the swiffer floor mop dry sheets as rags to wipe up dust from shelves and other non floor places. Works well in the car too.
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