Often taken for granted, the humble rubber band is one of the most useful inventions ever made. Patented in England in 1845 by Stephen Perry, the rubber band was originally developed to hold papers and envelopes together in a tidy bundle. Of course, it didn’t take long for people to realize the full extent of its potential. Rubber bands can be used for a variety of different uses, whether in a household emergency, to clear clutter or, as strings on a homemade guitar for your kids; the list is endless. Here are six new uses for rubber bands that may just get you out of a pickle!
Unscrew a tight cap
A stubborn lid on a jar is often frustrating. Running the lid under hot water or tapping it with a wooden spoon doesn’t always seem to do the trick. Reach for a rubber band instead. Using a thick rubber band, stretch it around the top of the jar lid and twist clockwise. The rubber band ensures a solid grip, that will help you open that lid with ease.
Secure clothing on a hanger
Keep clothing off the floor in your closet, by using rubber bands to secure them. Simply loop a rubber band vertically over each end of the hanger to keep clothes in place. A rubber band provides enough grip to keep slippery clothing, like blouses, off the floor.
Get a grip on a stripped screw
A stripped screw can quickly turn a fun home improvement project into a grueling challenge. Don’t fret! A rubber band can help. Press a wide rubber band between the screw’s head and the screwdriver to give it better traction.
Secure an earring
This handy tip is pure genius. If you’re out and about and lose the back of your earring, a small, square piece of rubber band can be cut and secured to the back of the earing to keep it in place.
Stabilize a cutting board
An unstable cutting board can be dangerous. To stabilize it and keep it from sliding, wrap a rubber band vertically, around each end. The traction from the rubber band will keep the cutting board in place while you cut your veggies.
Limit a liquid pump
Prevent kids from using too much pump soap by wrapping a rubber band around the bottle’s neck, just under the spout. This will ensure that the pump only goes down partway. Each pump will yield half as much soap, while still ensuring an adequate amount of soap to get their hands clean.
