How to Use Rubber Bands in Clever Ways

A bag of rubber bands in assorted sized can be purchased at most stores for less than a dollar. The usefulness of those rubber bands is invaluable. The following suggestions give you just a few of the many creative ways in which you can use a simple rubber band.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Prevent a casserole from spilling en route to a potluck. Use a couple of wide rubber bands to secure the lid.

2. Keep a spoon from sliding into the mixing bowl. Wrap a rubber band around the top of the spoon handle to catch on the edge of the bowl.

3. Tame broom bristles. Rubber-band a splayed broom for a few hours to bring the bristles back in line.

4. Cushion the remote control and prevent scratches on furniture. Wrap a rubber band around either end of the remote.

5. Wrap a rubber band around an open paint can, top to bottom. Use the rubber band to wipe the excess from the brush after dipping it into the paint, and avoid making a mess of the paint can's rim.

6. Childproof kitchen and bathroom cabinets for visiting toddlers. Use rubber bands around pairs of cabinet knobs to temporarily keep curious little ones out of the cupboards.

7. Extend the collar button of a dress shirt with a small rubber band. Loop the rubber band through the button hole and around the button. Put on a tie to hide this little trick.

Resources

• Source for rubber bands of all sizes, colors, widths.