5 Everyday Items You’re Using Wrong (And How to Use Them Better!)
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We use countless everyday items without a second thought. But did you know that some of them have hidden features or specific ways they’re meant to be used? These small details can make a big difference—helping you save time, improve efficiency, and even get better results!
Here are five common household items that you’ve probably been using wrong, along with the right way to use them.
1. Bobby Pins – The Wavy Side Goes Down
Have you ever noticed that one side of a bobby pin is smooth while the other side has ridges? Most people insert the pin with the wavy side facing up, but that’s actually incorrect!
✅ How to Use It Properly:
- The wavy side should face down against your scalp. This design helps grip the hair better and prevents slipping.
- Insert the pin at an angle and push it in gently for a firmer hold.
- For extra security, use two bobby pins in a crisscross pattern.
Using bobby pins the right way keeps your hairstyle in place longer, reduces the need for constant readjustments, and prevents hair breakage.
2. Plungers – Using the Right Type for the Right Job
Most households have a standard plunger, but did you know there are actually two types? Using the wrong one can make unclogging much harder than it needs to be.
✅ How to Use It Properly:
- A cup plunger (the classic red rubber design) is meant for sinks and tubs, not toilets.
- A flange plunger (with a fold-out rubber flap) is designed specifically for toilets and creates a stronger seal.
- To get the best results, ensure a tight seal over the drain and plunge with firm, controlled movements.
If you’ve been using the wrong type of plunger, switching to the right one will make a huge difference the next time you have a clog!
3. Toothpaste – You Only Need a Pea-Sized Amount
Toothpaste commercials always show a long, curled strip of toothpaste covering the entire brush. But that’s purely for marketing! In reality, using too much toothpaste isn’t just wasteful—it can also be less effective.
✅ How to Use It Properly:
- For adults and children over 3 years old, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is enough for proper cleaning.
- Using too much toothpaste creates excessive foam, making you think you’ve brushed enough when you actually haven’t.
- For children under 3, a rice grain-sized amount is recommended.
By using the right amount, you can make your toothpaste last longer while ensuring better oral health.
4. Aluminum Foil & Plastic Wrap – Built-In Roll Holders
Ever struggled with aluminum foil or plastic wrap rolling out of the box when you try to tear off a sheet? You’re not alone. But did you know that the box itself has a built-in feature to keep the roll in place?
✅ How to Use It Properly:
- On the sides of most aluminum foil and plastic wrap boxes, you’ll see small perforated tabs.
- Press these tabs inward—they act as roll holders to keep the roll securely in place.
- This prevents the roll from slipping out every time you tear off a sheet, making the process much easier.
It’s a simple trick that most people don’t know about, but it can make a big difference in your kitchen routine!.
5. Chopsticks – That Break-Apart Piece Is a Rest!
Most people snap apart disposable chopsticks and start eating right away. But did you know that the breakaway top part actually has a hidden purpose? It’s designed to be a chopstick rest!
✅ How to Use It Properly:
- Before using your chopsticks, snap the top portion off carefully.
- Instead of throwing it away, place it on the table horizontally.
- When you’re not eating, rest the tips of your chopsticks on this piece to keep them from touching the table.
This small trick helps maintain cleanliness and prevents your chopsticks from rolling off the table. It’s a simple but clever design that most people overlook!
It’s surprising how many everyday items have hidden features or proper usage methods that most people don’t know about. By making small adjustments in how you use these items, you can improve efficiency, save money, and even make daily tasks easier.
Try these simple hacks and see how much of a difference they make in your routine! And if you found these tips helpful, share them with your friends—because chances are, they’re using these items wrong too.