10 Everyday Items You’re Using Totally Wrong
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Many everyday products are often misused. Many people admit to making life harder by using objects incorrectly. We are unable to get the most out of our everyday items because we usually overlook the ingenious designs intended for optimal functionality.
The famous inventor Thomas Edison once said, “There’s a way to do it better—find it.” It is never too late to make your life easier with discovery and efficiency. Here are ten items you probably never knew you were using wrong and how to use them correctly.
Toothpaste
Most people believe that a toothbrush loaded with toothpaste is necessary for an effective cleaning, but in reality, a pea-sized amount is sufficient. Commercials show a toothbrush covered in foam, but that’s just for show. Using more can lead to unnecessary waste and does not improve oral health outcomes.
Too much toothpaste can lead to excess fluoride intake, especially for children. This small change in your daily routine can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy smile and conserving your toothpaste supply.
Aluminum Foil
You may think the cardboard tabs on the sides of your aluminum foil box are just for opening, but they actually serve a purpose. Those tabs can be pushed in to hold the roll in place and prevent it from falling out when you pull on the foil.
No more struggling with unruly foil or wasting sheets that accidentally unravel.
Bobby Pins
Bobby pins are a staple hair accessory, but not many know they have a right and wrong way to use them. Bobby pins are meant to be used with the wavy side facing down towards your scalp.
This design helps grip hair better and prevents it from sliding out as quickly. Once you switch to the correct placement, your bobby pins will stay in longer and provide a better hold for your hairstyle.
Wooden Spoons
Wooden spoons are great for stirring because they don’t conduct heat. They can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly.
Avoid soaking them in water for long periods, and always air dry them upright. To keep wooden spoons bacteria-free, clean them with a mixture of vinegar and water.
Bread
Most people cut bread by holding it upright and slicing it downwards. This may seem like the natural way, but it can cause the loaf to collapse or squish under its weight. Turn your loaf on its side and slice horizontally for a more evenly shaped and less messy slice.
Try turning the loaf upside down, using a serrated knife, and cutting from the bottom for perfect slices every time. The firmer bottom crust makes it easier to slice through without squishing the soft top.
Blender
A Consumer Reports survey revealed that over 90% of people do not use their blenders to their full potential. How you add ingredients to your blender can affect the result.
Liquids and soft ingredients should go in first to help create a vortex, pulling in harder ingredients for a smoother blend. Start with liquids, then add soft items like yogurt, followed by harder ingredients, and ice last.
Toilet Plunger
No one likes dealing with a clogged toilet, but ensure you’re using the plunger correctly when it happens. The key is to create an air seal around the drain. Place the rubber cup over the hole, push down gently, and pull up firmly.
Repeat this motion a few times to free up any blockages. Don’t push too hard or fast, as this will break the seal and reduce the effectiveness of your plunging efforts.
Dishwasher
Pre-rinsing is unnecessary. Modern dishwashers are designed to detect food particles, so pre-rinsing actually reduces their effectiveness.
Scrape off large food pieces, leaving some residue for the machine to do its job. You can save water and time by loading dishes directly into the dishwasher without pre-rinsing.
Microwave
About 90% of households in the U.S. own a microwave, as revealed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The microwave is an essential tool in modern kitchens, yet it’s more complex than just pressing start. Putting your food in the center of the microwave might seem logical, but it’s inefficient.
The center of the turntable is less exposed to the microwave’s radiation. Placing your food off-center ensures even heating. Place your bowl or plate on the edge of the microwave turntable to heat your food more evenly.
Charging Your Phone
A study by Battery University revealed that plunging to 0% or staying at 100% for too long might reduce your battery’s efficiency over time. Modern lithium-ion batteries fare better with partial charges rather than full ones. Keeping your battery level between 20% and 80% can extend its lifespan.
Leaving your phone plugged in overnight can degrade the battery over time. Modern smartphones have built-in circuitry to handle overcharging. Aim to keep your phone’s battery in that sweet-spot range between 20% and 80% and unplug it once it hits 100%.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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