1. Gold Bond Friction Defense
Preventing Friction
Gold Bond Friction Defense is a game-changer for anyone who suffers from thigh chafe. This nongreasy stick helps prevent sweat-induced friction and all the painful irritation that comes with it.
Easy Application
Applying Gold Bond Friction Defense is simple:
- Remove the cap.
- Twist the stick to reveal the product.
- Apply directly to areas prone to friction.
Versatile Use
This product isn’t just for athletes. It’s perfect for anyone preparing for a long day of walking or any activity that might cause friction.
Keep a stick of Gold Bond Friction Defense in your bag for quick relief and prevention of irritation.
Long-Lasting Protection
One application can last for hours, making it ideal for daily use or special occasions where you need extra protection.
2. Pipe Insulation
Keep Your Pipes Warm
One of the most practical uses of pipe insulation is to keep your pipes warm during the colder months. This prevents them from freezing and bursting, which can lead to costly repairs.
Reduce Energy Costs
Insulating your pipes can also help reduce energy costs. By keeping the heat in, your water heater doesn’t have to work as hard, saving you money on your energy bills.
Easy Installation
Installing pipe insulation is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Measure the length of the pipe you need to insulate.
- Cut the insulation to the appropriate length.
- Wrap the insulation around the pipe, securing it with adhesive or tape.
Tip: Use two grits of sandpaper on each pipe—80-grit for sculpting a precise radius, and 100- or 120-grit for finish sanding.
Versatile Material
Pipe insulation isn’t just for keeping pipes warm. It can also be used for other DIY projects, such as creating a caulk nest for your shop. Simply cut 10-inch-long pieces of 2-inch PVC pipe and glue them side to side with PVC cement.
3. Cable Ties
Stay-Put Cord
Zip ties are great to have on hand for quick repairs and fastening jobs around the shop. For instance, you can zip-tie one end of an electrical cord so it stays with the cord reel. Keep the connection loose enough to pull out enough cord to reach an outlet.
Hide Cords
Help keep your home office space organized by using PVC pipe to hide cords. Wrangle all those computer, mouse, monitor, and phone cords and hide them in some PVC pipe. You can even use some colorful tape to match your office décor.
Drill Bit Girdle
Save those wide rubber bands that are wrapped around broccoli and other veggies and stretch them over your electric or cordless drill. Use them for onboard storage of smaller drill and driver bits and screws.
Handy Rag Cutter
Easily cut up old t-shirts and towels to use as shop rags with this simple cutter: Clamp a sharp utility knife in a vise and start cutting the material. Continue cutting or tear the material into the desired size and shape.
Rubber-Band Bolt Holder
Mechanics often use special magnetic inserts in sockets to prevent the bolt from falling out while they try to thread it into a tight spot. Simply cut a rubber band into strips and lay a strip across the opening of the socket. Then insert the bolt head. The rubber band will wedge the bolt head in the socket, allowing you to start threading without losing the bolt.
Cable ties are incredibly versatile and can be used in a multitude of ways to make your life easier. From organizing cords to creating makeshift repairs, they are a must-have in any toolkit.
4. Garden Rake
Handy Rake Handle
Save your back when raking mulch or shoveling heaps of dirt by adding another handle to your long-handle tools. A section of PVC pipe with a tee fitting and cap works perfectly. Add a screw through the tee fitting and into the handle for won’t-budge stability.
Mix Concrete with a Rake
Try a garden rake instead of a hoe the next time you have to mix concrete. The rake won’t splash as much water over the edge, and the tines do a good job of combining the water with the powder. With a hoe, you waste a lot of time just pushing powder around the tub.
Pro Tip: A medium mixing tub costs around $7 at home centers and is perfect for this task.
Makeshift Trench Tool
If you need to dig a narrow trench, consider mounting a pry bar on an old hoe handle. This makeshift tool can save your knees and speed up the process significantly.
5. Old Sneakers
Old sneakers can be surprisingly useful around the house. Instead of throwing them away, consider these creative ways to repurpose them.
Ladder Bumpers
You could buy special rubber bumpers for the tops of your ladders to protect your siding or walls, but why? A pair of old sneakers (who doesn’t have some!) and a little duct tape will do the job just fine.
Washing Machine Hack
Experts recommend putting a few old towels into the washing machine when you’re washing shoes. This way, there will be enough things in the machine and the shoes won’t hit the glass the whole time.
Clean Sandpaper
Make sandpaper nearly new again with a lowly old sneaker. Start up your power sander and dust collection system (remember to wear hearing and eye protection). Then slowly press the rubber sole of an old sneaker along the sandpaper—you’ll see a difference instantly!
Caring for sneakers properly extends their life and maintains their appearance. You must use the right cleaning methods based on material.
6. Nail Brush
Keep Your Nails Clean
A nail brush is an essential tool for maintaining clean and healthy nails. Regular use can prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria under your nails, which is crucial for both hygiene and appearance.
How to Use a Nail Brush
- Wet your hands and the nail brush with warm water.
- Apply a small amount of soap to the brush.
- Gently scrub under and around your nails.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
- Dry your hands and nails with a clean towel.
Additional Tips
- Use a nail brush daily for best results.
- Replace your nail brush every few months to ensure it remains effective.
- Consider using a soft-bristled brush if you have sensitive skin.
A nail brush is a simple yet powerful tool that can make a significant difference in your personal hygiene routine.
7. Air Fryer
Versatility in Cooking
The air fryer is a game-changer in the kitchen, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. It can cook a wide variety of foods, from crispy fries to juicy chicken wings, with little to no oil.
Easy Cleanup
Cleaning an air fryer is a breeze, especially if you use a nail brush for scrubbing the corners and small grooves. Regular brushes with big handles can’t get into the tiny crannies, making a nail brush an essential tool.
Energy Efficiency
Air fryers are not only quick but also energy-efficient. They use less electricity compared to conventional ovens, making them a cost-effective option for everyday cooking.
If you haven’t tried using an air fryer yet, you’re missing out on a convenient and healthier way to prepare your favorite meals.
8. Wooden Pallets
Pallet Dolly
Transform a simple wooden pallet into a versatile dolly for your workshop. Reinforce the pallet and install four swiveling casters, one at each corner. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make a pallet dolly sooner!
Cardboard Drop Cloth
Save large pieces of cardboard from boxes and store them along a wall in your garage or workshop. They make perfect disposable drop cloths for messy projects like refinishing furniture or changing the oil in your car.
Handy Rag Cutter
Repurpose old wooden pallets into a handy rag cutter. Use the sturdy wood to create a simple device that can cut rags from old clothes or fabric scraps, making it easier to clean up spills and messes.
Wooden pallets are incredibly versatile and can be repurposed into numerous useful tools and accessories for your home and workshop. Don’t underestimate their potential!
9. Garden Hose
Gentle-Grip Pliers
Use pieces of garden hose or other tubing to soften the jaws of slip-joint or other pliers so you can grip plated surfaces without damage. Size them so you can slide them up the handles to keep them handy.
Sprinkler Socket System
If you use spike-type sprinklers, try setting them into permanent sockets made from 1-in. PVC pipe. Not only will these sockets make moving the sprinklers a snap, but they’ll keep the sprinklers upright and shooting water where you want it.
No-Ladder Gutter Cleaner
This gutter cleaner is inexpensive, takes about 10 minutes to make and will help you avoid ladder climbing. Buy 3/4-in. PVC pipe, two elbows, a garden hose coupling, and a cap at a local home center. Drill 1/16-in. holes in the cap as shown. Make the handle long enough to comfortably reach your gutters, and cement the parts together with PVC glue.
Pro Tip: Using a garden hose for various DIY projects can save you time and effort, making your tasks more efficient and less cumbersome.
10. Shopping
Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to save money and time is to plan your shopping trips in advance. Make a list of what you need and stick to it. This helps you avoid impulse buys and ensures you get everything you need in one trip.
Use Coupons and Discounts
Always be on the lookout for coupons and discounts. Many stores offer digital coupons that you can download to your phone. Using these can save you a significant amount of money over time.
Shop Online
Shopping online can be more convenient and sometimes cheaper than shopping in-store. Look for free shipping offers and compare prices across different websites to get the best deal.
Buy in Bulk
For items you use frequently, buying in bulk can save you money in the long run. Just make sure you have enough storage space for your bulk purchases.
Shopping smartly not only saves you money but also makes your life easier. With a little planning and the right strategies, you can make the most out of your shopping trips.
