15 Everyday Items People Use Completely Wrong
Have you ever wondered if you’re using things around your house the best way possible? Many of us pick up habits without realizing there might be a better, easier method.
By adjusting how you use common items, you can save time, avoid hassle, and make your daily routine smoother. Here are 15 everyday items you might be using wrong—and how to fix it.
Microwave – Use a microwave-safe cover to prevent soggy food and heat evenly
Covering your food in the microwave is key. Using a microwave-safe cover keeps moisture in and stops messy splatters.
A cover also helps heat food evenly, preventing cold spots. Make sure anything you use is labeled microwave-safe.
Don’t seal the cover too tightly; leave a small vent for steam to escape. Stirring your food halfway through helps it heat more evenly.
Dishwasher – Avoid overloading and position items for better water flow
Stuffing your dishwasher might seem efficient, but it blocks water from reaching everything. Dishes packed too tightly don’t get fully clean.
Leave space between plates, bowls, and cups so water can circulate. Place bowls and cups facing down to stop dirty water from collecting inside.
Avoid blocking the spray arms with large items. If the arms can’t spin, your dishes won’t rinse properly.
Bobby Pins – Use the ridged side down for a stronger hold
The ridged side of a bobby pin should face your scalp. This creates friction and holds your hair better.
If the smooth side is down, the pin may slip out. Try using the ridged side down for a tighter hold.
Turning pins this way also helps hide them, keeping your hairstyle neat.
Soda Cans – Use the tab as a holder for your straw
After opening a soda can, flip the tab around. Align the hole with the can’s opening.
This holds your straw steady and stops it from floating or spinning. It’s a quick trick that makes sipping easier.
Plungers – Press down firmly to create a better seal before plunging
To use a plunger well, press down firmly to create a tight seal over the drain. Without a good seal, you won’t get enough suction.
Make sure you’re using the right plunger for the job. For toilets, use a flange plunger; for sinks, a cup plunger works.
Moisten the plunger’s edge before pressing it down. Once sealed, use steady pushes and pulls to clear the clog.
If the seal isn’t working, adjust the plunger’s position and try again.
Cereal Boxes – Tear along the perforated line for easy pouring
Cereal boxes often have a perforated line for a reason. Tearing along it opens a flap for easier, less messy pouring.
Opening just part of the box helps keep cereal fresh. Next time, check for the flap before ripping open the whole top.
Plastic Wrap – Use the textured side out for better cling
Plastic wrap sticks best when the textured side faces out. The rough side clings better to bowls and containers.
If the smooth side is out, the wrap may slide off. Always check which side is textured before covering your food.
This keeps air out and your leftovers fresher.
Freezer – Don’t overpack to allow air circulation and keep food fresher
Overpacking your freezer blocks cold air and can cause food to thaw and refreeze. Leave space between items for air to flow.
Use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Cool hot food before freezing to avoid raising the freezer’s temperature.
Regular cleaning and defrosting help your freezer work efficiently.
Pizza – Reheat on a skillet instead of the microwave to keep it crisp
Microwaving pizza often makes it soggy. Instead, try reheating it in a skillet on medium-low heat.
The skillet keeps the crust crispy while melting the cheese. You don’t need extra oil—just heat and enjoy.
Phone Chargers – Don’t coil tightly to protect the cable from damage
Tightly coiling your phone charger stresses the wires and can cause fraying. Loop the cable in loose circles instead.
Always pull the charger out by the plug, not the cable. Silicone sleeves or rubber protectors can help prevent wear at the ends.
Avoid tight knots and sharp bends to make your charger last longer.
Metal Straws – Clean properly with a brush to avoid bacteria buildup
Rinsing metal straws isn’t enough. Use a small brush with warm water and mild soap to scrub inside.
After cleaning, dry the straw completely to prevent rust or bacteria. Store it in a dry place for next use.
Scissors – Use the bottom blade for smoother cuts on fabric
The bottom blade of your scissors should stay flat on the surface when cutting fabric. This keeps the fabric steady for cleaner cuts.
Pressing too hard or using the wrong part of the scissors can cause jagged edges. Let the bottom blade do the work for smoother results.
Tupperware Lids – Warm slightly to snap on more easily
If your Tupperware lids are hard to snap on, warm them a bit to soften the plastic. Run the lid under hot water for a few seconds.
You can also microwave the lid for about 10 seconds—watch closely to avoid melting. The lid should fit more easily after warming.
Coffee Filters – Place upside down for better flow and less spillage
Try placing your coffee filter upside down. This helps water spread evenly and prevents the filter from collapsing.
Rinse the filter with hot water before use to help it stick to the sides. This improves water flow and reduces mess.
Give this a try for a cleaner, better cup of coffee.
Shoe Laces – Double knot to prevent slipping during activities
Tying your shoelaces with a double knot can keep them from slipping. After making your regular bow, just tie the loops together once more.
This extra step helps your laces stay snug. A double knot is especially helpful if you’re running, hiking, or doing any activity that moves your feet a lot.
It stops your laces from coming undone and causing you to trip. If your laces are too long, a double knot also keeps the ends from dragging or catching on things.
It’s an easy trick that only takes a few seconds. Try this next time you lace up.
