Some household items turn out to be handy for jobs far beyond their original purpose. From kitchen supplies that end up in craft rooms to everyday products people use in unexpected ways, these familiar items often have more than one use.
The Drawer Beneath the Oven
The drawer beneath some ovens is a warming drawer, while others have a storage drawer for pans and baking sheets. Check your oven’s manual before using it, since putting cookware in a warming drawer or trying to keep food warm in a storage drawer may cause problems.
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Cotton Swabs
Cotton swabs come in handy for applying makeup, touching up small areas, and cleaning around the outer ear. Pushing them into the ear canal can force wax deeper inside or injure the ear, so keep them away from that area.
Flathead Screwdrivers
Flathead screwdrivers are meant for screws with a straight slot, but people often grab them to pry open lids or scrape away stuck-on material. Using one this way can damage the tip or make it slip, so a proper scraper or pry tool is a better choice.
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Kitchen Scales
Kitchen scales help measure ingredients and food portions for cooking and baking. They’re also useful for weighing small packages, jewelry-making supplies, and other items that need an accurate weight.
Handheld Showerheads
A handheld showerhead makes it easier to direct water while bathing or rinsing off. It can also help wash pets, rinse shower walls, and fill buckets that are too tall to fit comfortably beneath a faucet.
Pedialyte
Pedialyte was originally developed as an oral rehydration drink to help replace fluids and electrolytes lost during illness. Adults may also use it for hydration, though the right product depends on their needs and it isn’t a substitute for medical care when dehydration is severe.
Cookie Dough
Cookie dough is usually meant to be portioned onto a baking sheet and baked, but plenty of people sneak a spoonful before it reaches the oven. Raw flour and uncooked eggs can carry harmful germs, so choose dough specifically labeled as safe to eat raw if you plan to skip baking.
Mason Jars
Mason jars are commonly used for home canning and preserving food. They also work well for storing dry ingredients, holding craft supplies, displaying flowers, or keeping small items like buttons and spare change in one place.
Ice Cube Trays
Ice cube trays freeze water into handy portions for cold drinks. They can also hold small amounts of broth, leftover coffee, or chopped herbs covered with oil, so you can use just what you need later.
Pool Noodles
Pool noodles are designed to float and provide support during recreational swimming. Cut into sections, they can cushion furniture edges, protect items during a move, or help keep tall boots from folding over in storage.
Binder Clips
Binder clips hold stacks of paper together without staples. Around the house, they can also close snack bags, gather loose cords, or hold small items in place while you work.
Egg Cartons
Egg cartons protect eggs during storage and transport. Clean cartons can also hold small craft supplies or help organize seeds, while cardboard versions may work for starting seedlings if you account for how quickly they become damp.
