Don’t Rush to Throw It Away — These 5 Common Items Can Still Save the Day
We all know the drill—spot an old or forgotten item in the drawer, and it’s easy to toss it. But before you reach for the trash can, consider this: many seemingly useless objects might actually rescue you when unexpected problems arise. From jammed zippers to stuck drawers, here are five everyday items that you probably have lying around—and that can still solve your daily dilemmas.
1. A Pencil Eraser for a Stuck Zipper
Has your zipper ever refused to budge? Instead of yanking at it and risking further damage, try this simple trick:
Gently rub a clean pencil eraser along both sides of the zipper teeth. The fine powder left behind acts as a natural lubricant, loosening the catch. The eraser wears down as it smooths out the friction, making it easier to slide the zipper—no special tools required.
Why it works: Pencil erasers contain rubber-like substances that can reduce metallic friction. They’re mild enough to prevent stickier lubricants or wax-based products from gumming up the teeth.
2. Safety Pin as a Key Ring Holder
Ever dropped a door lock to find you’re keyless? Grab a safety pin as a makeshift key ring:
Unfold it carefully (don’t drop), thread your keys through, then close it up. It holds tight, and most people carry pins anyway. Better than spending time rummaging through drawers for your real keychain—and much quicker than calling a locksmith.
Pro tip: Label the pin with a bit of tape or nail polish to keep track of which key is which.
3. Rubber Band to Stop Stripped Screwdrivers
Struggling with stripped screws at the bottom of drawers or appliances? A wide rubber band over the screw head gives your screwdriver extra grip. Press firmly and twist slowly—the rubber’s grip prevents slipping and allows you to turn out the screw.
Important: Make sure the rubber band is clean. Bits of dried food or dirt reduce traction.
4. Bread Clip as Cable Grip or Label
Plastic bread clips make surprisingly effective cable organizers. Snap one around a cable’s end to keep it from slipping through holes. Or, write on a clip and snap it onto cables (chargers, USB cords, TV cables). One glance and you’ll know which plug belongs to which device.
Why it’s handy: Small and reusable, they give you instant order without cable ties.
5. Bottle Cap as Easy Jar Opener
Struggling with jar lids too tight for bare hands? A clean, dry plastic bottle cap—the kind from water bottles—is perfect for giving you just enough extra grip to twist it open. The ridges grip metal lids better, and it’s reusable across hundreds of jars.
💡 Bonus Idea: Use a Tea Bag to Deodorize Your Fridge
Spilled a milk container in the fridge? A slightly damp but unused tea bag placed inside helps absorb odors. Activated charcoal in tea leaves does the deodorizing, and it’s easy to toss when done—no baking soda mess needed.
Why These Tricks Still Matter
- 🚫 No need for special tools or a trip to the store.
- 🧰 They repurpose everyday items before disposal.
- 💸 They help you save time and money compared to buying novelty tools.
Everyday life throws curveballs—zipper snags, stripped screws, stubborn lids—but with some creativity, even plain household items can pull double duty. Here’s a quick guide to keeping them handy:
| Item | Common Issue Solved | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Pencil eraser | Zipper stuck | Rub along teeth to apply friction-reducing residue |
| Safety pin | Lost keyring or need one fast | Thread keys, clamp shut |
| Rubber band | Stripped screw | Stretch over screw head for grip |
| Bread clip | Tangled cables | Clip around cables; label each plug |
| Bottle cap | Stuck jar lid | Use ridged cap for grip on stubborn lids |
| Tea bag | Refrigerator odors | Place a damp bag in fridge to absorb smells |
Final Takeaway
Next time you’re about to toss an old eraser or bread clip, pause—these budget-friendly, eco-conscious solutions can rescue you from everyday inconveniences. They’re proof that with a dash of ingenuity, even the most overlooked items can become life-savers.