15 Everyday Things You’ve Been Using Wrong Your Whole Life

The items on this list aren’t fancy. They aren’t the latest high-tech gadgets. In fact, they are simple, humble things that you probably use every day. Behind the exterior of these common objects is a hidden potential that you never realized — until now.

Find out how you’ve been using these everyday objects wrong and learn the correct way to use them. Once you know, you’ll never look at these items the same way again. Learn now and make your life infinitely easier.

1. Oreos

Still using your fingers to dip Oreos? Stop! Save your hands from becoming a sticky mess and make sure that your cookie doesn’t crumble to pieces before your eyes by using a fork to dunk it in milk. Just stick the prongs through the center for a better dip. Stay tuned for #7 to discover another dessert you’ve been eating all wrong.

2. Popcorn bags

Did you know there’s actually a secret way to shake out all those unpopped kernels? When the bag is cool, simply pull apart the bottom to form a small opening. Then hold the bag over the garbage and shake it gently to get rid of those kernels.

3. Earbuds

Wrap the wire OVER your ear to ensure that your earbuds stay secure. Seriously, this is life-changing.

4. Strawberries

Don’t cut the tops off your strawberries with a knife. Instead, use a regular plastic straw to poke the top off. This is way easier and will give you more berry for your buck.

5. Soda tabs

Turn your soda tab so the hole and the can’s opening line up. Now you have a handy and secure straw holder. Genius!

6. Cupcakes

There is no easy way to enjoy a cupcake. These small, adorable treats are deceptively tricky to eat. To avoid a face covered in frosting, twist off part of the cupcake’s stump and place it on top so the frosting is sandwiched in the middle. Mmmmm…

7. Band-aids

When it comes to band-aids, they aren’t one size fits all. To get a secure fit for finger and thumb injuries, take a large square band-aid and cut out a triangle on each side (the band-aid will resemble an hour glass icon). The notches will help the band-aid match the shape of your finger or thumb and keep the bandage in place while you heal.

There’s another common pharmacy item you’ve been using wrong. Check out #14 to find out what it is.

8. Pot handles

You’ve probably never paid attention to that hole in your pot handle, but it’s going to be your new best friend. Instantly transform that nifty hole into a spoon holder. This is too perfect.

9. Ketchup tubs

You can never have enough ketchup, right? To get the most in a single container, gently pull the sides of a ketchup tub apart. The tub will magically expand to hold more ketchup. Finally! My fries will never be lonely again.

10. Plastic bags

If you’re like me, you probably just bunch up your plastic bags into a neglected ball and shove them under your sink. There’s a better, space-saving way! Fold up your bags into little triangles for neat storage. You can find out how here.

11. Keychain bottle opener

You know that little slot on your keychain bottle opener? Use it to open cans (and save your finger nails in the process).

12. Toblerone bars

Eating chocolate shouldn’t be a source of stress. Enjoy your chocolate the smart way with this trick for Toblerone bars. Place your thumb at the top of one the pieces and press towards the bar to easily break it off. Who knew?

13. Dairy Queen to-go lids

Flip the lid and place your sundae inside for a convenient cup holder that protects your hands from freezing and saves your sundae from melting into a delicious but gooey mess.

14. Cotton swabs

This knowledge could actually save your ears from irreversible damage. Cotton swabs should only be used on the external cartilage of your ears and never placed inside your ears. Read more about how to properly use a cotton swab here.

15. Chip bags

After you’ve had a “reasonable” amount of chips and still want to maintain your dignity, fold up the bag properly to keep those taters fresh. Instead of simply folding over the bag or rolling it up, this technique will seal in the all the crispy goodness until the next time you want to indulge.