Plastic wrap usually sits tucked away in a kitchen drawer, coming out only when there’s leftover food to cover. But that roll of cling film can also help with several other household tasks, from keeping paint supplies from drying out to preventing toiletry bottles from leaking in your suitcase.
Its clingy texture makes it handy for covering, wrapping, and keeping small things together. Here are 11 practical uses worth knowing about.
Keep Paint Brushes Usable Between Breaks
If you need to stop painting for a few hours, you don’t have to wash your brushes and rollers right away. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to keep the paint from drying while you take a break, then clean them properly when you’re finished for the day.
Slow Down Banana Ripening
Bananas release ethylene gas as they ripen, and wrapping the stems can help slow the process a little. Wrap a small piece of plastic wrap around the stem cluster to buy yourself extra time before the bananas get too soft.
Protect Refrigerator Shelves
Refrigerator spills can leave sticky spots that take time to clean. Although plastic wrap can cover some flat, removable surfaces, check your refrigerator manual first, and avoid covering vents or areas that need airflow.
Help Prevent Toiletry Spills During Travel
Shampoo, conditioner, and lotion bottles can leak when you toss them around in a suitcase. Place a small piece of plastic wrap over the bottle opening before screwing the cap back on, then pack the bottles in a sealed bag for extra protection.
Keep Jewelry From Tangling
Necklaces and bracelets can quickly turn into a tangled mess inside a travel bag. Lay each piece flat between sheets of plastic wrap and press gently around the jewelry to keep it from moving around.
Seal Open Paint Cans Better
Dried paint around the rim can make a can difficult to close properly. Covering the opening with plastic wrap before putting the lid back on may help limit air exposure, but make sure the lid is firmly secured and follow the paint manufacturer’s storage instructions.
Extend the Life of Paint Rollers
If you’re returning to a painting project the next day, wrap the roller tightly in plastic wrap to keep it from drying out between sessions. Some people store wrapped rollers in the refrigerator, but keep paint supplies away from food and follow the product’s storage instructions.
Trap Fruit Flies
You can make a simple fruit fly trap with a small cup, a little apple cider vinegar, and plastic wrap. Cover the cup, secure the wrap with a rubber band, and poke a few small holes so the flies can get inside but have trouble getting back out.
Keep Flower Stems Fresh During Transport
Flowers can start wilting if their cut stems sit without water for too long. Wrap the ends in a damp paper towel, cover the towel with plastic wrap, and keep the flowers upright until you can place them in a vase.
Make a Spill-Resistant Cup
For a quick cover, stretch plastic wrap over the top and secure it around the rim. This may help contain small splashes, but it isn’t leakproof, so don’t rely on it to prevent spills in a bag or around young children.
Keep Lettuce Crisp Longer
Lettuce can wilt faster when it loses moisture in the refrigerator. Wrap washed, thoroughly dried leaves in a paper towel, place them in a suitable storage container or bag, and keep them refrigerated; you can also cover the container with plastic wrap if needed.
