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40 Simple Life Hacks Shared By People To Help Others Handle Adulthood Better
Interview With Expert
Tackling adulthood isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Let’s be honest, it can be downright overwhelming. That’s why any helpful shortcut or trick feels like striking gold. Today, we’ve rounded up some of the best responses to the Reddit question: “What’s a secret life hack you use that’s actually useful?” These aren’t your average internet hacks: they’re surprisingly smart, super practical, and kind of addictive once you try them. Whether it’s a genius kitchen tip or a time-saving habit, these tricks might just make your day-to-day feel a little more manageable… and even a bit fun.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
When looking at recipes online, click the print link. This cuts out the unnecessary backstory and random musings. You can also save the recipe as a PDF to your computer or even just the link to the printable version.
Sara 1 month ago
Yes but using the print button will take out all the extra stuff on the page including the ads that ad blockers don't catch
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RELATED:
#2
When you want to hang something on the wall (picture frame, etc) put a tiny dab of toothpaste on the item where the nail will sit. Line up the item where you want it on the wall, leaving a tiny gap where the toothpaste is. When it's where you want it, press the item all the way against the wall. This will leave a tiny toothpaste mark on the wall, telling you EXACTLY where to drive the nail. It works like a DREAM! No measuring, no multiple attempts, no time consuming methods. I've used this method for YEARS and it works so much better than anything else. I find eyeballing it in this way is better than even measuring, because rooms are rarely flawlessly proportioned, so even if you measure exactly, it won't look quite right.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
Blue tack and a long piece of string with chalk. Rub the string with chalk, a glob of blue tack at the bottom so it hangs straight down and use the blue tack to stick the bottom of it to the wall. Ping it. It'll leave a straight line chalk mark or should do 🙂
#3
If you're at a convention, or swap meet, or anything where vendors travel to a location, wait until the last day if you want a deal. Most people aren't eager to carry merchandise back home with them and are willing to give discounts.
arthbach 1 month ago
This only works if you don't really care too much about what you are buying. If you wait til the last day, your choice will be limited to the stuff no one else wanted.
revivalistic 1 month ago
This. Or for example at music festivals, band merch is available at the specific day that that band is playing.
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Peter Bear 1 month ago
I disagree. If it's a three-day convention, do all your shopping on day 2. They won't be sold out of things yet, but will still be willing to bargain because they don't want to carry things home. If you wait until the last day, odds are good that whatever you wanted is already gone.
We’ve all heard tips from professionals: lawyers with their legal hacks, dentists with tooth-saving tricks, and even burglars (yep!) warning us about what really deters them. These insights stick with us because they’re rooted in real-life experience, not theory.
So, when it comes to running a small business from home, who better to turn to than someone doing it every day? That’s why we spoke with Ankita Chopra, the creative mind behind Ankita’s Fashion Hub, a home-based brand that’s become a go-to for affordable kids’ gifts and party favors.
#4
If you're leaving the house early in the morning and you absolutely have to have something with you, put it in front of the door the night before. So that if you open the door, it bumps into the item and you can't possible forget it.
Auntriarch 1 month ago
Unless in your early morning haze you kick it out of the way muttering "which twát left that there".
Brian Droste 1 month ago
If iit is a small item you can put it in plastic bag and hang it on your doorknob so when you go to open the door you can just grab the plastic bag with the item inside it and go.
Cindy Brick 1 month ago
Putting it by your keys/wallet/phone helps a lot, too. Or put a note on top of those items.
Cindy Brick 2 weeks ago
Or put it in your vehicle the night before. That helps, too. (Don't do it in winter if the contents will freeze, obviously.)
#5
You lend the money you are willing to lose to the people you are willing to stop talking with.
arthbach 1 month ago
I agree with the first part, but not the second. If I am willing to lend money, it will be to people I want in my life.
Papa 1 month ago
i don't believe you understand the intent. While many people loan money to friends or family and it's repaid without problems, it often turns out the other way, so OP is saying to only loan money to people if it won't hurt you too much if they don't pay it back.
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Michael Largey 1 month ago
"Always borrow money from a pessimist. He won't expect it back" - Oscar Wilde
Zig Zag Wanderer 1 month ago
I have lent, and borrowed, literally hundreds of thousands of dollars to and from a lifelong friend. Never had a contract, never had a problem. It's call honour.
April Pickett 1 month ago
It's amazing how little honor there is when someone "can't" pay you back.
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SummerVeE 3 weeks ago
I don't think anyone is willing to lose money. Being in a bind financially is devastating and all consuming. I never asked for help from anyone, yet when I hit my lowest and was hungry, facing eviction and burying myself with skyrocketing compound interest credit card debt, my close friends paid my bills off and gave me enough to get back on my feet - no strings attached. Now that I'm in a comfortable financial position, I'll happily give my friends and family anything they need. Even if that means cutting into my personal budget. Money comes and goes. We all share generously and don't keep track of petty stuff. It's an incredible peace of mind to feel safe and protected.
#6
Not life changing, but when I get up from sitting somewhere in public (restaurant, park bench, picnic spot), I look back at that spot when I’m walking away to make sure I haven’t left anything behind. Often when you’re getting up and grabbing a bunch of things at once it’s easy to miss something or for something to slip out of a pocket (phone, wallet, glasses, keys etc) but when you look back at the empty area you’ll notice it.
WindySwede 1 month ago
Next up "When driving your car, make sure you have your winter tires on when snow/ice!"
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Anonymouse 1 month ago
Also when parking, turn and look back to see the way it will look on your return. note nearby poles/fixtures, since cars can change.
As a work-from-home entrepreneur, Ankita swears by one golden rule: fake your office hours! “I tell everyone I’m in office from 10 to 6,” she said, grinning. “No chores, no scrolling, no long chats. I even wear something a bit formal. It’s comfy but puts me in the zone.” And that’s her secret weapon. It may sound playful, but this small shift in mindset tricks your brain into full work mode. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a little mind hack these days?
#7
Whenever you have medical test or scan, ask for a copy of the report.
Get copies of your hospital discharge summaries.
Keep all of it in a binder, newest stuff at the front. Take it with you to appointments just in case.
This is especially important for women but it can be helpful for everyone.
Binny Tutera 1 month ago
Not really. Went to my regular clinic, but a different Dr than my physician. He gave me weird vibes and denied me a prescription refill that I had to have. Went back when my regular doc was back- NO RECORD OF MY PREVIOUS VISIT!
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Blondie23 1 month ago
For those saying it's all online.... yes it is but you will be surprised how many providers don't have access to the different systems. There isn't one system that all medical information goes into. Especially if you go to another state or country. If you are having lots of medical problems... keep hard copies!!!!
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
When the big benefits swap over happened here last year? There was so much I had to prove, appointment dates, specialists names etc. I got "How am I supposed to prove this? Everywhere is paperless or becoming so... Plus you can't prove a phone call"... I feel this one so much
Veronica Jean 1 month ago
I can't tell you what a lifesaver this is for women especially. I have to fight with my doctor every visit I swear
#8
If you look like you know what you're doing, people tend not to stop you from doing things you shouldn't be doing.
🇺🇦 🇵🇸 TribbleThinking 1 month ago
I think you're both right. In my experience, it also matters if you are a medium sized female or a six-foot male with a rugby playing physique.
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Lady Eowyn 1 month ago
I got into the photographers only area at the Washington International Horse Show one year that way. Granted my camera looked like the ones the pros were using. I didn't stay long or get in anyone's way, just wanted to get pix of a friend who was competing in the sidesaddle classes.
Forrest Hobbs 1 month ago
Upvoted - this works incredibly well, especially if you are dressed appropriately for the place in question.
Alvia Vseobecna 1 month ago
yeah, like me taking 7th dessert from the fridge. confidence is everything :D
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
... Or just don't do it in the first place? Follow me for more face-palm worthy handy life hints!!! 👍😃
#9
Before buying tickets, delete your cookies and use private browsing.
Michael Largey 1 month ago
Before buying tickets, ask yourself "That much??? Really? ... Really?"
Organization is another pillar of her routine. “Google Calendar is my lifeline,” she laughed. “Every order, task, even ideas go there.” But she’s also old-school in the best way. Her handwritten daily checklists keep her grounded. “Ticking things off gives me a weirdly satisfying boost!” She also carves out time every Sunday for a quick weekly planning session. Just 20 minutes, but enough to keep the chaos at bay for the week ahead.
#10
"Don't put it down, put it away" helps me alot.
arthbach 1 month ago
Similarly, every time you leave a room, look for something to be go in the rubbish, recycling or right place.
Sue 1 month ago
I've been doing this a few years. Trying to get my daughter to do the same was impossible.
Load More Replies... GlitterPanda 1 month ago
100% this helps me! This and "if it takes less than 2 minutest to do , just do it now."
#11
Me and my dad usually freeze a loaf of bread to make it last longer. It tastes perfectly fine once its thawed out.
nottheactualphoto 1 month ago
And you can toast it straight from the freezer, without first thawing.
Lene Leth Winterberg 1 month ago
Is this a hack? I thought it was common sense? 🤷🏼♀️ My 99 y old grammys hack: when you bake buns or loaves of bread freeze them BEFORE they are completely cold. This will lock in monsteret in the backing 😉
Brian Droste 1 month ago
I found that when you freeze bread, it has a tendency to dry out the bread a little bit. I prefer to buy only enough bread where it won't spoil which is two loafs of bread at a time for me.
#12
Thought this was common knowledge but a friend recently asked what i was doing — spreading your food out in the microwave into a ring shape in your bowl/plate so it heats less unevenly. still uneven, but the biggest consistent temperature gradient is between the edges and the center, so if you can make as much of it edges as possible you more effectively lower the difference.
akamorn@aim.com 1 month ago
Yeah, from the 70s when "hacks" used to be called household hints. Now, everything is a HACK
Peter Bear 1 month ago
I'm sorry that the evolution of language offends you. Before they were 'hints' they were 'tips' or 'instructions', are you mad about that too?
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Lee Gilliland 1 month ago
Fresh Primavera sauce isn't regular tomato sauce, it's a lot of barely-cooed veggies including tomatoes as a minor ingredient.
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alchemilla vulgaris 1 month ago
hot, cold, or lukewarm, I would have to be REALLY hungry before I touch that concoction!
Lee Gilliland 1 month ago
It's a fresh sauce usually served in the spring. Quite tasty.
Load More Replies... GalPalAl 1 month ago
some microwaves will allow to set times and power levels. I often use a 7 or 8 power level for selected time followed by 5 of 6 in the consecutive amount of time to ensure everything is warmed. Frozen meals says 3 minutes on full power, 2 minutes power 7 and 2 minutes power 5.
And when it comes to boundaries, Ankita is crystal clear. “Noise-canceling headphones and personal space are a must,” she said. Even in a bustling home, she’s carved out a little desk zone, plant included! Her family knows that work hours are sacred unless it’s an emergency. It’s not about having a big office, she shared. “Even a corner can feel like your empire if you protect it well enough.”
#13
When I’m feeling lazy, I tell myself to just do it for one minute. Then it keeps piling on and I’m just like, aight fine I’ll wash all the dishes.
GlitterPanda 1 month ago
My dad used to tell me "pick up 5 things" when I needed to clean my room, after the first 5 I usually just went ahead and did the rest, or at least a lot more...I need to use this trick on myself more as an adult now
Ace 1 month ago
One of my pet hates, this stupid, stupid idea that will never work. Nobody's going to fool themselves into thinking that they'll spend just one minute washing the dishes. You wouldn't even get them into the sink full of hot water in that time.
Jaya 1 month ago
1 minute would probably be much too short for me, but I use this technique on all kinds of tasks, with 5 minutes. And it works soooo well for me. But about the washing in 1 minute: not everybody fills up the sink with hot water, some people just hold the plate under a hot tap for a second, wash it and then rinse it off with hot water. And that way you can definitely wash 2 plates in a minute.
Load More Replies... Lady Eowyn 1 month ago
Some of us live in small, old apartments that don't have dishwashers, and the lease prohibits getting one.
Load More Replies... #14
Got a stuffy nose and no matter how hard you blow it, it just seems to stay stuffed? It’s inflamed and you can trick your body into releasing the pressure. Blow all the air out of your lungs and plug your nose and mouth. Tip your head back and then up again slowly while holding your breath for as long as you can. When you go to take a breath the inflamed sinus will temporally go away and you’ll be able to breathe again. While it’s only temporary, it will make you feel so much better.
keyboardtek 1 month ago
Whenever I have stuffed sinuses, I hum the lowest notes I can. I use "MIM" and "MUM" for the syllables to hum. Slowly move the pitch up until you find the tone that resonates the loudest in your sinus cavity. Continue humming that pitch. The vibrations often loosen up the congestion.
Unkeptwoman 1 month ago
It sounds silly but I put my full face motorcycle helmet on and then hum. Works even better.
Load More Replies... Natalia Allen 1 month ago (edited)
Sinus congestion clears sniffing vinegar (sniffing not snorting, the latter burns, ask me how I know lol)
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
I once held my nose when I had a really bad cold... I sneezed, coughed and farted all the same time... I didn't even know you could do that!!! Surprised my head didn't fall off! 😄
Vermonta 1 month ago
you can do it all the time after age 60 - minus the coughing.
Load More Replies... #15
Using my knuckles to check if the month has 31 days or not.
Paula Smith 1 month ago
…..All the rest have thirty one, except February alone, which has but 28 days clear and twenty nine in each leap year.
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quentariel 1 month ago
I do this too. Although I usually remember the day counts, I check just to he sure.
Lee Gilliland 1 month ago
If you use your knuckles the knuckles are the 31 days and the valleys are the shorter months.
Load More Replies...For anyone starting out, her advice is simple: don’t splurge upfront. “Start small and scale slowly,” she emphasized. Fancy packaging and large stockpiles can wait. She recommends tracking every rupee and making sure you pay yourself, even if it’s a tiny amount. “It makes the business feel real and reminds you that your work has value.” Because let’s be honest, self-worth can take a hit when profits take time.
#16
Squeeze your abs if you feel light headed when you're standing up. It keeps your blood pressure stable.
Michael Largey 1 month ago
I only feel light headed while thinking. So it's an intermittent condition, not a chronic one.
arthbach 1 month ago
This works. In a similar vein. If you need to stand for a long time, don't lock your knees. Keep your muscles in active more. Gently wiggle the toes of one foot, then the other. Transfer a bit of weight to outside edges of your feet. This can all be done without the appearance of jiggling.
Lady Eowyn 1 month ago
Stand up slowly. If you're lying in bed, sit on the edge of the bed for a minute before standing up.
#17
Use your hands like squeegees on your body before using a towel to dry off. You'll dry faster and your towel will be cleaner in case you re-use it before washing.
#18
I am very allergic to poison ivy. Every other summer for years I’d stumble in to some or grab it and be covered during the hottest time of the year.. *UNTIL* I changed the background on my phone and computer to pictures of poison ivy in various stages of development and left it for about 6 months.
I haven’t had poison ivy since as I can recognize it instantly now.
Oh, and if you have a parent in a senior living facility, keep a bowl of candy in their room (for the nurses) and they will get more attention. ❤️.
MoBeLa 1 month ago
If you ARE exposed to poison ivy, immediately rub the contact areas with mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol. This takes off the oil, which is what causes the horrible rash that comes in the next day or two.
Eggwodd 1 month ago
Continue using the rubbing alcohol, during the stages, it dries it out quicker than anything over the counter I've ever tried. Don't rub, just dab so you don't spread it.
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Babs McGurk 1 month ago
I haven't had a poison ivy rash for several years, but used to get it badly every summer. One of the best remedies for the itch for me was to wash the area thoroughly with an anti-acne wash containing salicylic acid, then rubbing a mentholatum ointment into the area. That process helped immensely.
TheEternalferret 1 month ago
From experience, that bowl of candy is more likely to be emptied by other residents than the staff... My Mom has to hide her snacks for that reason.
Ankita also believes in protecting your mental bandwidth. “I tried to do it all myself, and I burned out,” she admitted. Her solution? Hiring help, just once a week for packaging. It made a big difference. She also takes one day off every week. “No calls, no packaging, just good food and rest,” she smiled. “Your business only runs if you do. Protect your energy like it’s your most precious stock.”
#19
If you have writers block when working on an essay, try starting with the “easy” parts first or free writing your ideas without actually trying to write and essay. I find this gets me into the flow and it’s way easier to start writing.
Peter Bear 1 month ago
Quite often when I'm writing, I start in the middle, work my way to the end, then go back and fill in the beginning. It works for me, so it might work for others!
Michael Largey 1 month ago (edited)
When a writer friend of mine was having trouble starting a piece, he'd begin typing it as blank verse. Then later, he's come back and have the word processor replace all the carriage returns with spaces.
#20
To get permanent marker off of something, go over it first with dry erase marker.
I don’t understand why it works, but it does and it’s saved my a*s at work a bunch of times now.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
When I was in the physiotherapy hospital I'd bought a make up remover, they were pads but unfortunately irritated my skin, fortunately they were fantastic for removing marker pen from my table! They were about £1.50 from I think it was Superdrug.
#21
After finishing evening meal, I will immediately wash up everything we've used (no dishwasher) and will then immediately go to the bathroom and fully brush / floss my teeth. I do this with a timer to make it a little contest for myself. This has four benefits:
- get gently moving after eating which is good for you
- washing up gets done quickly instead of sitting in the sink for ages getting smelly
- by the time I've cleaned up and gone to the bathroom it's been long enough that brushing my teeth isn't immediate after eating, which is better for the teeth
- I don't snack in the evenings because I've already brushed and flossed and don't want to again
The timer isn't necessary but I'm motivated by light competition so it helps me.
Ace 1 month ago
I think I'll stick with chilling on the settee with another glass of wine, TYVM.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
I rinse my plates off and leave them to the side of my sink to do a big washing up later. Or put the pan to soak. If you're only one person in your home? It's a waste of hot water to do one plate and a knife and fork.
Alex Kennedy 1 month ago
Please re-read the item beginning “By the time…”
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#22
Put a rubber band around a jar lid for extra grip when opening it. Works like magic every time.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
... Or stab it with a knife.. Throw it at a wall... Shout at it!!! 😄
Rachel Reynolds 1 month ago
I have an oil filter wrench in my kitchen. They're like $5 and work like a charm
And finally, her favorite advice? “Start before you’re ready,” she said without hesitation. “There will never be a perfect plan or a flawless launch. But if you begin with honesty, a solid product, and the hunger to learn, the rest will fall into place.” After all, as she reminds us, every big brand started in a living room. So why not yours?
#23
Get outside and take a walk every day. The fresh air and excercise will help you sleep better. Even a 10 minute walk will help.
Firstname Lastname 1 month ago
This is true, until it's winter and you slip on the ice and can't sleep because you bruised your b*m.
JinxBox 1 month ago
If you walk each day your balance is better too. I really like walking and my friend is more lazy, she looks like a grandma on ice while I just dance through it. I'll outlive her by years just because I skip busses and walk when things are less than 3 km away.
Load More Replies... Brian Droste 1 month ago
It makes it hard to walk when you have flat feet even for ten minutes.
BarfyCat 1 month ago
You need some serious arch support and you'll be fine!
Load More Replies... #24
Set all of your bills up on auto-pay. You'll never have a late payment - and late payments can damage your credit rating.
The catch is you have to have money in your account to cover the payments, but you shouldn't have the bills if you can't afford to pay them.
Glen Ellyn 1 month ago
I won't do this. I've had friends and co-workers who have had double debits for a bill. You eventually get things fixed, but in the meantime, you can be broke. It takes just a few moments and clicks to pay my bills when I'm ready and know that there's enough $$ to cover them. [I'm low-income, so it matters.]
Kenny Kulbiski 1 month ago
Agreed! I've had them made mistakes and instead of putting the money back, credit to next month. Taking your money whenever they're in the mood instead of a set date and billing you after you've dropped their service. I'm cured.
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Alexia 1 month ago
DON'T do that. Calculation errors may happen in any of your bills and you'll pay them automatically. Happened to me once, the gas bill amount was almost double, and nothing justified it. I refused to pay and asked for explanations to the gas company. They tried to convince me to pay it. But eventually sent me the corrected bill.
keyboardtek 1 month ago
That is extremely rare. I ran my small repair business and had all my utility bill set on autopay. In 12 years, I ran that business, not once was there ever an autopay error.
Load More Replies... quentariel 1 month ago
My bank app announces when I have a new bill, but i like to make the payment affirmation myself (takes about 10 seconds and three clicks). I don't like money just dissappearing.
StrangeOne 1 month ago
No way. One of my bills is always due around the 6th. I don't always get my first pay of the month that early. After I pay rent with my last pay of the month, I don't have much left for other bills. So they have to wait. My phone bill doesn't even give you 3 weeks before it's due.
Alvia Vseobecna 1 month ago
I disagree with this one... I pay only the absolutely unchanging bills on auto (electricity, rent..). Rest is reevaluated if still needed after a certain period
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
Nopes... HUGE NOPES. My usual electricity usage is around £2 at the very most per day. I was being charged £4.80 to just under £5 a day. It took a huge amount of complaints but it was eventually changed. I got a refund, not the full amount though but it had taken to get to the point where I told them I'd spoken with an Ombudsman and OFGEM. They'd kept sending representatives over and the very last time? This guy was hammering on my front door. Like REALLY HAMMERING. It scared the c**p outta me. Do you think I'm actually going to answer the door if you're doing that?
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
I spoke with my housing association, OFGEM but also the police on the non-emergency number. So I'm now still on Pay As You Go. I budget and I've always known how much I need to put on the electric. So nope... I'm never ever going to use Auto-pay.
Load More Replies... #25
Two of them:
Don’t waste time in the kitchen. Meaning: if you are waiting for something to get done, do a dish, set a plate, prep the next phase, etc. It saves so much time
Not connected:
When facing a difficult choice and you “flip a coin” if you’re disappointed by the result you know in your heart what decision you really wanted.
arthbach 1 month ago
Whilst waiting for something to cook, you could check the items in the fridge, that they are all in date. You could take a couple of cans and use them as dumbells. You could tidy a shelf in a cupboard. You could empty the kitchen rubbish bin, or empty the compost caddy.
keyboardtek 1 month ago
When making a major decision, first make the decision in your head but do not tell anyone. Let it stew in your brain for at least a week. If after a week it still feels likes the correct decision, then tell everyone.
#26
Our library has cookbooks, I thumb through them and take pictures vs. buying now.
Data1001 1 month ago
I own like close to a dozen cookbooks, but I can't honestly remember the last time I c*****d one open. Usually I just wing it. But if I do have a question about how to make something, it's easier to just Google a recipe than to dig into a cookbook -- and you get a lot more results.
TheEternalferret 1 month ago
Or... Hear me out... Borrow the book. That's what libraries are for, after all.
When life hands you some free, practical advice, the smart thing to do is to take it! These posts are packed with clever little hacks that might just make your daily routine a whole lot easier. So, which one stood out to you the most? Was there a tip you wish you’d known sooner? Let us know what made you go “aha!” and don’t forget to share your thoughts!
#27
Buy a giftcard to your local grocery store every paycheck... in December I dont have to worry about groceries and can use that money for gifts.
Philly Bob 1 month ago
These days, I wouldn't invest in bananas let alone a gift card.
Load More Replies... Tyranamar Seuss 1 month ago
Why wouldn't you just have that money put in a savings account automatically?
#28
Do a “closing shift” tidy as soon as you’re home from work. 1/2 the time I don’t even take my coat off while I do this. Just spend 5 minutes making your space more inviting before you even sit down. You’ll thank yourself!
arthbach 1 month ago
As soon as I get home from work, I'll start making dinner. If I sit down, then I'll still be sitting 2 hours later, and dinner will be an ill-considered, tawdry little affair, instead of something healthy and delicious.
Gabby M 1 month ago
"ill-considered, tawdry little affair" LMFAO Love that!!!!
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 1 month ago (edited)
When I got home from work, I would clean one room. Monday, living room. Tuesday, kitchen, Wednesday, spare bedroom. Thursday, bedroom. Friday, bathroom. I knew d**n well I wasn't ever going to clean on the weekend.
Ace 1 month ago
Nope. I'll thank myself for that glass of wine the second I've got my coat off. The shopping that needs putting away will wait.
Gabby M 1 month ago
And again plops down next to Ace WITH the bottle this time!! Let em starve!
Load More Replies... #29
Discussing the budget with my partner 2-3x a month.
It helps us stay on track with our long term and short term goals. Helps us stay on the same page with the number one reason people get divorced. Keeps us both accountable for our daily spending. And when we meet financial goals it helps it be a big “proud” moment for each other.
It’s really nice knowing you’re “in it” with your partner.
Billo66 1 month ago
I don't have a partner to discuss anything with. As a result, I went shopping yesterday and got cookies, candy, popcorn, eggnog, and cheese.
Zig Zag Wanderer 1 month ago
I have a partner to discuss this with. We bought loads of marzipan chocs from Aldi because they were there, and we love them. Life goals!
Load More Replies... SummerVeE 3 weeks ago
No thanks. I agree to set up an auto transfer of an agreed on amount from my paycheck (personal checking account) into the joint checking account each month for shared expenses, and a second auto transfer into the joint savings account. The rest is mine to spend and I'm not going to agree to have my partner monitor my bank account and 'keep me accountable for my daily spending'. I've been down that road of surviving an a*****e, controlling relationship before. Never again.
#30
After months of tension headaches and getting them.fixed by a physio I can feel them coming on now, if I stretch my neck just right it takes them away before they start. I know this isn't for everyone but it works for me and hopefully others.
keyboardtek 1 month ago (edited)
I am tall with a long neck. My job had me tilting my head down to look at a workbench all day long. I had migraine headaches all my work life. At age 70 I finally went to a physical therapist to get my posture back to an upright position. She gave me about ten exercises that straighten up my back, shoulders, and neck. If I do them every day, I no longer have migraine headaches.
#31
I set my exercise goal on my smartwatch to 15 min and refuse to budge it. It’s deliberately small and achievable and not a “big deal”, and once momentum builds, I usually want to keep going.
Related, but I find the warm ups the hardest part of exercise, particularly mentally. It takes me about 15 minutes to properly warm up and get into my groove, at which point I’m happy to keep going.
#32
Not sure if it’s secret but if you’re drinking a soda can with a straw, flip the tab over and put your straw through it- no more floating straws.
kaycee14 1 month ago
Cans are outer packaging. Only a psychopath puts their mouth on the rim of a can that has been exposed to dirt, insects, rodents, etc. If you don't have a cup, use a straw.
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#33
Gym and Kitchen are necessary, but not sufficient, components to getting a sustainably healthier body and mind. It is what you do the rest of the day that matters just as much - keep moving your body in as many ways as you can even if you're not breaking a sweat!
arthbach 1 month ago
Gyms are only necessary for people who use cars to get from one place to another. I was visiting a 'walkable city' (or just 'city' as we call them in Europe), and I was walking around 5 miles each day. There were lots of buses, trams, taxis and ubers, but we walked. No need for a gym.
Angie May 1 month ago
And since not every city is walkable I'm glad this is an alternative for people no matter where they live.
Load More Replies... #34
Create a contact in your phone called Furnace Filter and add your furnace filter size to never forget it. .
Philly Bob 1 month ago
Many forced air heating and A/C units have air filters that need replacing. Some have permanent filters that need rinsing and cleaning.
Load More Replies... keyboardtek 1 month ago
That means one has to keep your phone with you at all times. I lost my flip phone. I never owned a smartphone. Seeing everyone addicted to them looks like a major drag in my opinion.
Nikki Sevven 1 month ago
Or just use the Notes app like a sane person. The first time I had to buy a light bulb for my fridge, I was staggered by the ridiculous number of variations in bulb size, connection size, wattage, etc. I have a Notes file just for stuff like this.
Anonymouse 1 month ago
just filters - fridge has one, furnace has one, I have several other things like water filters etc that all have their own sizes... Windshield wiper blade sizes? also in contacts under my car I added one called Books, and note which book series by which author I need, or last one read.
#35
Put your car keys on top of your lunch in the fridge.
arthbach 1 month ago
Tacker, how? Does your vehicle not require a key? Or are you that forgetful that you would think, "Where on earth are my keys?! Oh yeah, in the fridge, with my lunch." and then open the fridge, take the keys and forget about your lunch?
Load More Replies... J Adams 1 month ago
Of all the places to leaves keys so you don’t forget them the fridge seems the least useful, what’s wrong with a coat pocket, a purse, if you’re feeling really fancy why not put them in the shoes you intend to wear? Not sure cold keys in my pocket on a winters day is something I’d want and surely cold temperatures for hours would harm electronic car keys
Nikki Sevven 1 month ago
Mine are on a carabiner which is always clipped to a ring on my purse.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
Am I completely weird? I always keep everything in exactly the same place. Soon as I'm in? Keys go there, charge phone and make sure you've put your frozen chicken in the freezer and not the cupboard...
April Pickett 1 month ago
I presume you mean at home, in your own fridge. Not the community fridge at work.
Papa 1 month ago
Do you not own an automobile, or lock your house or apartment when you leave?
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#36
If you have hiccups, take a straw, cover your eardrums with your fingers, and suck water through the straw.
Changed my life. Don't know why, but covering your ears is way more effetive.
Hugo 1 month ago
As a child I was told to lean forward and drink out of the far side of the cup or glass.
Angie May 1 month ago
Same here! Did that for years until I read you can hold your breath and drink a glass of water for the same effect, and can confirm that works great too.
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Angela C 1 month ago
Almost always works for me. Also for those with nut allergies sunflower seed butter is the same texture and works just as well
Load More Replies... WindySwede 1 month ago
drink some water, the normal way, and it will go away. Or take a deep breath and then tense your stomach muscles, works as well!
Lene Leth Winterberg 1 month ago
I hold my breath until I can feel pressure in my ears, release my breath and concentrate on breathing slowly and deeply for a few breath. Works for me. The whole drinking thing doesn’t work
Peter Bear 1 month ago
Eat one single teaspoon of straight sugar. Why this works? Dunno. But it does. And even better... if you have hiccups, close your eyes, hold your breath, and mentally recite to yourself 'I am not a fish' three times. I have tested this on at least 10 people so far and it has always worked. Need a larger sample size.
Brian Droste 1 month ago
I had the hiccups earlier this morning. i take a spoonful of sugar to get rid of my hiccups.
#37
If you’re buttering bread and the butter is a little too hard, use the back of a spoon to spread the butter. Far less likely to rip the bread. My preferred method of spreading whether it’s too hard or not though tbh.
arthbach 1 month ago
Don't use a spoon. Instead put some butter on a plate. Then cover the butter with a mug that had just previously had boiling water in it. The heat from the mug will soften the butter. Of, forget about bread, and make some toast. The cold butter will melt on the toast, and be quite delicious.
#38
Dumpsters can have a LOT of stuff you can sell, give to family/friends, donate to the needy. Can save/make you a lot of money
There is a crazy amount if new, or slightly used stuff stores throw out that goes right into the landfill. It is eye-openly shocking how much utter waste is happening. I have more stuff now I got for free that I could use that I would have never bought before because I am so frugal. I find so much stuff sometimes that I have to leave it behind because it is not practical to take it all.
Alexia 1 month ago
NOPE. Non-hygienic to say it at least. You may catch a skin disease and you'll spend more money on the treatment. Happened to someone I know; he gave up looking in dumpsters after that.
Glen Ellyn 1 month ago
Same here. There's nothing in there that's worth the risk. Besides, the smell alone puts me off even getting close to a dumpster. 🤢
Load More Replies... April Pickett 1 month ago
It can be a good idea, but be cautious. I wouldn't get in the dumpster because of sharp edges, glass, splintered wood, etc. If you're going to do it, stand outside the dumpster. Wear full clothing; long pants, socks, solid shoes, long sleeve tops, probably two tops.
GlitterPanda 1 month ago
Make sure you check the laws in your area about dumpster diving. in some places it is fine, but some places it will get you into a lot of trouble
StrangeOne 1 month ago
If that's theft, then every garbage collector is a thief. The reason businesses claim their trash is theft is liability and the fact that, despite tossing away the items, they don't want other people making a profit/use out of their stock for free, and telling their buddies about it.
Load More Replies... #39
If you're looking for something, when you find it, place it in the first place you looked. Obviously this is where your brain thinks it should go.
Ace 1 month ago
No, it's where my brain thought I had left it last time, nothing to do with where it should be or where you'll leave it next time.
Philly Bob 1 month ago
It will always be found in the last place you looked.
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#40
Instead of untwisting pairs of cat6 cable with my fingers I use my drill. It speeds it up quite a bit and my fingers don't hurt at the end. I do a lot of them.
Ace 1 month ago
Cos this is such a common thing, right? (I don't even want to know what Cat6 cable is or why you'd need to untwist it).
WindySwede 1 month ago
To make your own patch cables, or connect installation wires to a thingamabob. KD-PG8032-C6.png 
#41
Undo one end of a box of soda cans. Then turn it around and open the other end. Then push all the cans into the fridge standing up and pull the box out with the other hand.
GlitterPanda 1 month ago
or don't judge other people on what they drink (something that effects you in no way whatsoever)
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#42
You can dewrinkle clothes with a wet washcloth placed with your clothes in the dryer for like 20 minutes on medium heat.
Dryer sheets can be placed down to keep mice away from furniture/cushions (this is good for cabins, vacation homes or basements).
I just saw this online: putting frozen meat between two frying pans defrosts it pretty quick. I have yet to try this but it apparently works.
Jan Rosier 1 month ago
or just plan ahead and place the frozen meat out of the freezer into the fridge the evening before you need it...
Glen Ellyn 1 month ago
You can also defrost meat by putting it in a bowl of cold water - just make sure the package is watertight or you can seal it in a ziploc bag.
WindySwede 1 month ago
Does this for every meal with frozen meat. Works great and fast!
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#43
If you walk into a busy restaurant, look around and see how many people are still waiting on their food. If it’s a lot, the kitchen is backed up and you’re going to be there a while.
GlitterPanda 1 month ago
Or it means a lot of people showed up at around the same time and were all recently seated?
April Pickett 1 month ago
It still means the kitchen is going to be backed up.
Load More Replies... #44
To keep a rolling office chair from sliding away from your desk, use your foot to force the wheels around in a circle a little. This will turn the wheels all in different directions so that it resists movement a little and kind of locks in place.
#45
Alexa, add ____ to the grocery shopping list. As I’m cooking, run out of things while making kids lunch, etc- I now have my grocery list at any time to reference in the store rather than having to think what I’m out of.
keyboardtek 1 month ago
People complain about video monitoring in our cities and then they bring Alexa into their rooms.
Load More Replies... Glen Ellyn 1 month ago
I simply add things to the white board I have in my kitchen. I also have three columns for the stores I shop the most. I know from experience which place has the best prices for what I need.
kaycee14 1 month ago
In order for "smart" devices to hear your shopping list, they have to be monitoring everything you say. People think those devices only start "listening" when you say its name (Alexa, Google, etc.) But I've experienced Alexa turning on and inserting itself into conversations when no one has said "Alexa, ___."
Philly Bob 1 month ago
All you have to do is stand in a room and mention a product enough. You'll start seeing ads for said and similar products on your media and phone. My sister and I were discussing feline comestibles in her house and when I got home, sure as hell...
Load More Replies... Brian Droste 1 month ago
I don't have Alexa. I use old fashion pen and paper. If I need to buy something I normally don't buy, I will when I can write it down. When I do my normal grocery list I have it already written down so I don't have to try to think of it.
Zig Zag Wanderer 1 month ago
Or a wipe-off board on the fridge, perhaps? Simple is best, and doesn't let random strangers give you promotional 'advice' on what to buy.
#46
Bacon grease on cookie sheet/pans leaves no stain like cooking spray does..
#47
If I drop something I try to catch it with my foot, unless it’s a knife obviously.
Data1001 1 month ago
Bad habit to get into, because you'll eventually try it with something that will leave either a bruise or a cut. I sliced the bejeezus out of my leg a few years back, trying to stop a pot lid that slipped from my hands from hitting the floor at full speed and damaging the tile... but I damaged myself instead, lol.
Philly Bob 1 month ago
My daughter took 9 stitches to the top of her foot from a butter knife!!
Load More Replies... Brian Droste 1 month ago
I thought of that a long time ago then I thought to myself that I would get into automatic habit of doing that and I drop a knife or a heavy object on my foot I would either stab my foot or hurt my foot with a heavy object. Then it would cost me more to go to my doctor or ER than bending down and picking it up off the floor. So nope for me.
BookFanatic 1 month ago
If I drop something--no matter what it is--I'll hop out of the way and then bend over and pick it up. Of course, I still have the ability to bend over...
#48
If you're bad about forgetting important things at home, homework, phone charger, etc. make a pile of everything you'll need to take with you and leave it with your shoes, so you'll see it all as you're getting ready to walk out the door.
#49
To always create an impression such that you are under-estimated. .
#50
Wake up early and give your girl/wife/significant other the full monty of flowers , candy, gifts for special occasions like Valentines, anniversary THE FIRST THING IN THE MORNING.
The longer you leave them to their thoughts over the day the greater the expectation will be, especially on those days other friends and co-workers are getting bestowed gifts.
Ace 1 month ago
Yeah. Rephrase it like "they'll be thinking nice things about you all day" and it doesn't sound so bad.
Load More Replies... #51
I always keep a spare key hidden in a magnetic box under my car, so I never get locked out no matter where I am.
Claudiola 1 month ago
Will not work with most key fobs. If you hide a fob, they can just open it up and drive away.
Lukas (he/him, it/its) 1 month ago
I thought they meant a house key when I read it the first time
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#52
If you need to lie, make a boring one. One full of technicalities, bland details etc.
I was asked to bring my sister's birthday cake in secret, but she saw me sneaking out. When she asked me about it, I just made an ordinary and bland story about someone calling me to pick up some mail for our father, but when we arrived there we found out someone had put a wrong number, and then... she left before I finished talking.
Data1001 1 month ago
I'm pretty sure I've read that when someone is lying, they tend to say way too much about it, to try to convince the other person. However, I also read that a convincing lie will be one which includes an embarrassing detail about you; they figure that you'd never make up a story which puts you in a bad light.
keyboardtek 1 month ago
To be a successful liar one must have a good memory to keep track of all the lies and who you said them to. That is why it is so easy to spot a liar. Or you can just become a rich jerk who does not care who he lies to, become President, and not care at all that everything you say is a lie that is easily proven.
Load More Replies... #53
Baking dishes and casseroles with baked on food. Fill with hot water and add dish soap. Put a dryer sheet in it while soaking. Everything comes out easy the next day, using the sheet to get the baked food off. Used to have to soak for days!
DragonsFox 1 month ago
Baking soda and dish soap is effective. I’m not sure I want to put dryer sheets on things I cook with…
Philly Bob 1 month ago
I use those scrubbies that look like steel wool but aren't. Soak the iten for an hour then wash with the scrubbie and the stuff comes off easily.
BookFanatic 1 month ago
I'm not the best cook, so I burn a lot of food onto my cookware. An ex showed me if I add water and boil it for 10-15 minutes it lifts the burnt-on crud off enough for me to scrub it with minimal effort. Just...don't stick your hands into the boiling water right off the bat.
Binny Tutera 1 month ago
The dryer sheet really does help. And for those who question the method- you’re supposed to wash it with soap after! The dryer sheet is just to get the baked-in stuff off.
#54
Have a one year old- after having him found we were always running late getting to places, now I just tell myself we have to leave half an hour before we actually do and we’re either right on time or sometimes early!
#55
I get myself caught in small irrelevant lies occasionally, making people think I am bad at lying. That way, If I need to keep an actual secret, I can go full neglect and people won’t question me.
Peter Bear 1 month ago
Everyone lies. Go ahead, tell me you never lie... because that's a lie right there.
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 1 month ago
No, people who have seen you being a bad liar also think you're a liar.
#56
Walk through your home and tell ChatGPT everything you see that's out of place or that you'd like to improve. It'll take everything you said, organise it by room, and organise it by priority. You can talk to it as you're cleaning or when you're done a task and have it check off your list. If you don't have a lot of energy but feel like you need to get something done, it'll throw an easy one your way, or break a bigger one down into smaller tasks for you.
Glen Ellyn 1 month ago
Eh, pen and paper works just fine, thank you. I don't need any device to tell me what to do.
#57
Using the mobile youtube site to avoid ads.
Peter Bear 1 month ago
Yeah this doesn't work. Get a decent free adblocker. May not be perfect, but will cut them down tremendously.
#58
Conditioner before shampoo. Makes your hair feel softer and fuller.
Data1001 1 month ago
Won't all the conditioner wash out with the shampoo? When you do it last, the rinse still leaves some conditioner in your hair, but I wouldn't expect there to be anything left of it if you shampoo after.
Ace 1 month ago
Importantly, one major role of the conditioner is that it reduces the hairs tendency to tangle by using something called a 'cationic surfactant' effectively reducing static attraction. Even after it's been fully rinsed off. Shampoo contains anionic surfactants which help with detergent action and will completely counter any effect of the conditione.
Load More Replies... Ronja Oksanen 1 month ago
shampoo goes to your scalp and roots, conditioner goes to the lengths so it should not matter what order you put products in your hair but I still call BS.
What do you think ?
Lady Eowyn 1 month ago
When did household hints become hacks? A lot of these are really stupid, and don't take into account different situations.
Rubyjune45 1 month ago
What happened to this site? I think adding political articles have brought in the trolls! The comments used to be interesting and helpful. These were just petty pissy ones.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
I've to apologise. I can be highly sarcastic. Some of these though are very American. In the UK, not everyone has a dishwasher. I'm the dishwasher! 😄 Best life hack I've discovered? Don't worry about it. It'll still be there the next morning, relax and watch whatever you want on TV, listen to whatever music and rest 😉
ILoveMySon 1 month ago (edited)
I place extra condiments from take out orders in the pocket of my picnic cooler. Additional extras are placed in zip lock bags and attached to my "regular" bottles with a rubber band. Works better than saving but not using them IMO.
Lady Eowyn 1 month ago
When did household hints become hacks? A lot of these are really stupid, and don't take into account different situations.
Rubyjune45 1 month ago
What happened to this site? I think adding political articles have brought in the trolls! The comments used to be interesting and helpful. These were just petty pissy ones.
SkippityBoppityBoo 1 month ago
I've to apologise. I can be highly sarcastic. Some of these though are very American. In the UK, not everyone has a dishwasher. I'm the dishwasher! 😄 Best life hack I've discovered? Don't worry about it. It'll still be there the next morning, relax and watch whatever you want on TV, listen to whatever music and rest 😉
ILoveMySon 1 month ago (edited)
I place extra condiments from take out orders in the pocket of my picnic cooler. Additional extras are placed in zip lock bags and attached to my "regular" bottles with a rubber band. Works better than saving but not using them IMO.
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