You probably use a lot of everyday items without thinking much about it, but what if you’re using them the wrong way? Some simple mistakes could be affecting how well they work.
Here are 10 common items you might be misusing and show the right way to use them. It’s time to make these everyday tools work better for you!
1. Bobby Pins
How They’re Misused: Many people mistakenly use bobby pins to secure large sections of hair, which can lead to a messy and ineffective hold.
How to Use Them Properly: Bobby pins should be used to secure small, precise sections of hair. For a stronger hold, position the wavy side of the pin against your scalp and tuck the ends under to prevent them from poking out.
2. Toothpaste
How It’s Misused: Many people squeeze toothpaste from the middle of the tube, making it harder to use all of it efficiently.
How to Use It Properly: Start by squeezing the toothpaste from the bottom of the tube. Roll it as you go up to use the most out of the tube and prevent waste. It helps keep the paste neat and easier to apply, too!
3. Aluminum Foil
How It’s Misused: You might use aluminum foil with the shiny side facing out, which isn’t always the most effective way.
How to Use It Properly: The dull side should be on the outside, as it reflects heat better. The shiny side is more effective for baking, while the dull side is often better at keeping heat in or reflecting light.
4. Blender
How It’s Misused: Many people load their blenders in the wrong order, which can lead to uneven blending or clogs.
How to Use It Properly: Start by adding liquids first, then soft ingredients like fruits or veggies, and finally harder items like ice or frozen foods. This order helps the blender work more smoothly and prevents jams. Don’t forget to use the pulse button for better control and smoother blends!
5. Wooden Spoons
How They’re Misused: You might be using wooden spoons for every kind of cooking, but they do have limitations.
How to Use Them Properly: Wooden spoons are great for stirring things on the stove, but they’re not ideal for tasks like scraping the bottom of a hot pan. For that, use a silicone spatula. Also, remember to wash them by hand and avoid soaking them for long periods, as they can crack and split.
6. Slicing Bread
How It’s Misused: Using a regular knife to slice your bread is not the best tool for the job.
How to Use It Properly: Use a serrated knife (the kind with little teeth). The serrated edges help cut through the crust without squishing the soft inside. Start from the middle of the loaf and slice straight down, applying gentle pressure.
7. Toilet Plunger
How It’s Misused: You might be using the plunger wrong by just pushing it down without much thought.
How to Use It Properly: When plunging, make sure the rubber part of the plunger completely covers the drain. Push down firmly to create suction, and then pull up quickly to break the blockage. Repeat the motion until the clog clears. Don’t just push up and down repeatedly in a half-hearted way.
8. Phone Charger
How It’s Misused: Charging your phone overnight too often can affect the battery life.
How to Use It Properly: Try to unplug your phone once it reaches 100%. Charging your phone all night can stress the battery, especially since most batteries lose some capacity over time.
According to a study by Battery University, the battery should deliver full capacity in its first year, but it may lose some power over time. (ref) To extend battery life, charge it when it drops below 20% and unplug it when it hits around 80%.
9. Dishwasher
How It’s Misused: You may be overloading your dishwasher or not placing items properly, which can cause dishes to stay dirty.
How to Use It Properly: Don’t cram everything in! Place bigger items like plates on the bottom rack, and smaller items like cups or bowls on the top. Make sure there’s enough space for water to reach all surfaces.
Also, don’t put items like knives or wooden spoons in the dishwasher, as it can cause damage.
10. Microwave
How It’s Misused: Microwaves are great for quick meals, but you might be using foil and metal containers, and not using microwave-safe covers.
How to Use It Properly: When microwaving food, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to prevent splatters and ensure even heating. Stir food halfway through cooking to make sure it heats evenly.
And don’t use metal containers or foil, as they can spark and damage the microwave. Fun fact: More than 90% of U.S. households have a microwave, so it’s good to make sure you’re using it the right way! (ref)
By making these small changes, you’ll get better results and take care of your things more easily.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.