7 Household Hacks That Actually Work (and 5 Popular Ones That Don’t)
The internet is full of “genius hacks.” Some are great. Some are useless. And a couple can actually cause damage. We sorted them out for you.
1✅ WORKS: Rubber band on a stripped screw
Lay a wide rubber band flat over a stripped screw head, then press your screwdriver into it. The rubber fills the gap and gives you grip.
2✅ WORKS: A walnut on scratched wood
Rub a shelled walnut over light scratches in wood furniture, then buff with a cloth. The natural oils darken and blend the scratch.
3✅ WORKS: Binder clips for cables
Clip binder clips to the edge of your desk and thread charging cables through the loops. No more cords falling behind the desk.
4✅ WORKS: Steam-cleaning your microwave
Microwave a bowl of water with some lemon slices or a splash of vinegar for a few minutes. The steam loosens stuck-on mess so it wipes right off. (Let it cool a moment before you open the door.)
5✅ WORKS: Reheat pizza in a pan
A dry skillet on medium heat, with a lid for the last minute, gives you a crispy crust and melted cheese. The microwave makes it soggy.
6✅ WORKS: Wooden spoon over a boiling pot
Laying a wooden spoon across a pot can help keep starchy water from boiling over. Still keep an eye on it.
7✅ WORKS: Tennis balls in the dryer
A couple of clean tennis balls (or wool dryer balls) help fluff up comforters and pillows while they dry.
8❌ DOESN’T: Wet phone in rice
Apple and other phone makers actually advise against it. Rice doesn’t pull water out well, and tiny bits can get into the ports. Instead, unplug it, tap out excess water, and let it air-dry.
9❌ DOESN’T: Oil in pasta water
The oil just floats on top and doesn’t stop pasta from sticking. What works: plenty of water and stirring in the first couple of minutes.
10❌ DOESN’T: Searing meat “seals in the juices”
Food scientists have tested this. Searing doesn’t lock moisture in — but it does create delicious browned flavor, so keep doing it for the taste.
11❌ DOESN’T: Storing batteries in the fridge
Modern alkaline batteries hold their charge fine at room temperature. The fridge can even cause condensation. Keep them somewhere cool and dry.
12❌ DOESN’T: Cola as a miracle cleaner
Cola has a little acid, but regular cleaning products work far better — and they don’t leave behind a sticky sugar mess.
