Chances are very high that you have never looked at your freezer and wondered, “Am I using that right?” We use most everyday items the way we found them being used, no questions asked. Because of this, it’s likely some items that we rely on daily aren’t reaching their full potential.
You might be shocked to discover that your faithful microwave has a certain best way to reheat yesterday’s pizza or that not all toilet plungers were created equally. Here are 13 things in your home that you probably aren’t fully utilizing and how to make the most of them.
1. Microwave
The microwave has become our go-to for quick meals, but many people toss their food inside without a second thought. For instance, reheating pizza directly on a plate can leave you with a soggy mess that makes you question your life choices.
Use a microwave-safe cover to keep that cheesy goodness intact and help it heat evenly. Microwaving certain plastics can release harmful chemicals, so always opt for microwave-safe dishes and keep metal far away from that rotating plate.
2. Dishwasher
The dishwasher is the magic appliance we’ve come to heavily rely upon. However, cramming every single item inside can lead to a less-than-stellar clean. Many folks stack pots and pans in a way that blocks the spray arms, leaving grime behind.
Place plates and larger bowls on the bottom rack, ensuring they’re all facing the same direction and placed between the tines of the rack. Smaller bowls and cups belong on the top, facing downward. Be sure not to overcrowd, and opt to handwash delicate items such as knives, nonstick cookware, and fine china.
3. Spaghetti Spoon
The spaghetti spoon is designed with features that create a seamless way to cook and serve pasta. Did you know that the hole in the middle isn’t just for show? It’s actually there to measure a single serving of spaghetti.
Moreover, when serving spaghetti, many people tend to grab a clump of noodles without any technique. This often results in messy plates and saucy hands. Use the spoon’s pronged design to scoop pasta like a whiz—one perfectly portioned swirl at a time.
4. Kitchen Sponges
Kitchen sponges are great for scrubbing away grime, but they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria if not cared for properly. Most people don’t realize that microwaving your sponge for a minute or two can zap those pesky germs and refresh its scrubbing power.
Just be cautious and don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with a charred sponge instead of a clean one! It’s best to keep sponges off the counter and on a dish with proper airflow so they can completely dry in between each use. Keep an eye on your sponges and replace them when they start to look sad.
5. Bobby Pins
Some of us have toned arms from frequently fighting to keep bobby pins secure on our heads. Instead of pinning your hair with the flat side facing in, which can lead to slippage, place the bumpy side against your scalp for a little bit of extra holding power.
This simple switch can give your hairstyle the grip it desperately needs and keep those pesky pins in place throughout the day. If your hair is thin, sometimes it’s helpful to give each pin a quick zap of hairspray before adding them to your hairstyle.
6. Plungers
Not all plungers were created equal. There are two main types: the standard cup plunger and the flange plunger. The cup plunger is excellent for sinks and tubs, while the flange plunger is your best friend when it comes to toilets.
Using the wrong plunger can lead to less-than-stellar results, so familiarize yourself with your tools to avoid messy situations. Don’t forget that plunging requires technique- make sure to create a good seal and use firm, controlled motions.
7. Natural Peanut Butter
Natural peanut butter is a delicious choice, but the oil separation can throw off many users. Instead of stirring it into submission every time, try storing it upside down after you use it. You can also store it in the fridge (where it should be anyways) to minimize separation when the oil hardens slightly.
This will allow the oil to mix in more easily and save you from an arm workout every time you want to make a peanut butter sandwich.
8. Slow Cookers
Slow cookers are synonymous with ease and convenience, but did you know you shouldn’t open it while it’s doing its thing? Additionally, throwing everything in cold can result in uneven cooking and a dish that’s more “meh” than marvelous.
For best results, heat up your slow cooker for a few minutes before adding ingredients. Keep an eye on cooking times and try not to mess with your meal too much once it’s cooking in the pot.
9. Non-Stick Cookware
Non-stick cookware is a blessing, but using metal utensils on them can scratch the surface and ruin the coating. Opt for silicone or wooden utensils to keep your pans in top shape and prevent food from sticking.
This also applies to cleaning them. If you’ve somehow managed to make your non-stick pan into a sticky mess, avoid using metal scourers to get the grime off. Let the pan soak with a bit of dish soap and water before gently scraping off the residue.
10. Coffee Maker
Your coffee maker can be a real workhorse, but it also deserves some love. Many people forget to clean their coffee makers regularly, leading to a buildup of mineral deposits that can affect the taste of your brew.
Run a mixture of vinegar and water through your machine every month to keep it in good working order and guarantee the perfect cup every time. If you see any visible buildup in the pot or basket, use dish soap and water to gently wipe it off.
11. Can Opener
A can opener is a handy tool, but using it incorrectly can turn a simple task into a battle of wills. Instead of cranking the handle furiously, take your time and let the tool do the work.
A gentle, steady hand will make the process smoother and your cans easier to open. You won’t risk launching a piece of sweet corn across the kitchen in a fit of frustration.
12. Phone Charger
Do you charge your phone overnight? Join the club of those unknowingly risking their phone batteries. Many assume their phones are smart enough to stop charging once full, but leaving them plugged in for hours can generate unnecessary heat.
Over time, this might slowly affect battery health, leaving you puzzled over why your phone’s juice doesn’t last like it used to. Try unplugging your phone before bed, or consider a charger with auto shut-off features.
13. Washing Machines
We’ve all had that moment where we realize every single piece of clothing we own is in the dirty bin. This typically results in us tossing everything into the washing machine, hitting a button, and walking away. However, overloading the washer is one of the biggest blunders—cramming too many clothes in at once creates unnecessary stress on the parts of your machine and shortens its lifespan.
It’s smarter to separate your clothes into smaller, color-coordinated piles that fit nicely in the washer. This also keeps smaller items like socks and underwear from getting lost in the drain pipe because of overcrowding. No more orphan socks!
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I’m a Language and Literary Studies (Honors) graduate with 11 years of experience in magazine and blog writing and content creation. I’m passionate about storytelling for change and believe in the power of words to make a difference. My writing is thought-provoking, accessible, and engaging, focusing on the Psychology of human behavior, complex social issues, personal experiences, and the latest trends. I’m a wife and a Mom of three.
