18+ Easy Home Hacks Using Things You Already Have
Life hacks are only helpful when you can actually try them without running out to buy something new. That’s why this list works so well. Most of these ideas use things you probably already have at home.
And even if a few items are missing, they are the kind of everyday essentials worth keeping around. Once you have them, you will likely wonder how you ever lived without them.
1. I actually said out loud, “This is smart!” when I saw this hack.
Have you ever noticed how much empty vertical space your fridge wastes every day?
A simple dollar store drawer set can change everything. Slide one in and suddenly you’ve got neat layers instead of stacked chaos.
It’s such a smart way to see what you have at a glance and stop food from getting lost in the back.
No fancy organizers needed, just a small tweak that makes your fridge feel brand new.
2. We all know how gross a build up of hair in the drain can be.
It might sound a little unexpected, but zip ties are surprisingly perfect for this job.
Form them into a small loop and use it to pull out all that trapped, nasty hair in seconds.
It’s oddly satisfying and way more effective than you’d think.
If you want the step by step details, Instructables breaks it down really clearly.
3. Who else loves to get their nails done, but just can’t justify it all the time?
Be honest, who else struggles every single time they try to do their own nails?
If your polish never turns out quite right, this little hack might be exactly what you need.
It makes the whole process feel less stressful and way more doable.
Sometimes all it takes is one simple trick to finally get nails you don’t hate.
4. Do you have an online shopping problem like I do?
They’re secretly perfect for storing grocery bags and all those extra essentials that never seem to have a home.
Add a quick label, slide it into a cabinet or pantry, and suddenly everything looks organized without any extra effort.
It’s one of those simple little wins that just makes life feel easier.
5. CD racks might be outdated now, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t useful!
If you happen to have one lying around but no dish rack, this trick is a total win.
You can easily use it to dry your dishes without cluttering up the counter.
It’s simple, practical, and one of those clever swaps you’ll wish you’d tried sooner.
6. I always look forward to moving until I remember it involves packing and actually moving stuff to another space.
I’ve seen the garbage bag trick for moving a bunch of things at once, and it’s already pretty clever.
But this version seriously levels it up and makes the whole process even easier.
It saves time, cuts down on mess, and just feels like one of those why didn’t I think of that moments.
Once you try it, you’ll never go back to moving things the hard way.
7. Want to create your own natural cleaning wipes?
Start with a simple paper towel roll and cut it in half so it fits perfectly inside one of those store bought wipe containers.
It’s an easy setup that takes less than a minute, but it opens the door to a super useful DIY.
Sometimes the best home hacks really do start with the most ordinary things.
8. Having trouble hanging your broom, mop, or other cleaning supplies?
If your cleaning tools are always falling over or taking up too much space, this little trick is a lifesaver.
Slip a zip tie through the loop of your cleaning tool and tighten it just enough to create a hook.
Now you can hang it almost anywhere and keep things off the floor.
It’s such a simple fix, but it instantly makes your space feel calmer and more put together.
9. Have ugly water stains on your wood surfaces?
This one feels a little strange at first, but it actually works.
The Spruce suggests using mayonnaise to tackle those stubborn marks. Just spread it on, let it sit for about an hour or even overnight, and wipe it away.
The stain lifts right off, almost like magic.
It’s one of those unexpected fixes that makes you see everyday items in a whole new way.
10. And if you thought mayo was weird, try a banana on a CD to get rid of scratches.
Be honest, when was the last time you actually used a CD or DVD?
Most of them just sit around collecting dust, so why not put them to good use.
Try this idea and see how it works for you, then turn the leftovers into fun little DIY projects.
It’s a great way to reuse something you probably forgot you even owned.
11. Keep your empty cereal boxes and turn them into useful storage.
This idea is such a cute way to turn storage into something fun.
The Muddy Princess wrapped hers in pretty paper, but they work just as well left plain.
Use them to organize papers, plastic containers, or all those little things that never seem to stay put.
Practical, flexible, and way more charming than boring storage bins.
12. They’re also great as salt shakers for icy driveways and steps.
They work surprisingly well as salt shakers for icy driveways and steps.
Just fill one up and sprinkle exactly where you need it.
Simple, controlled, and way less messy than dumping straight from the bag.
13. Who knew a drying rack for dishes could be used to protect dishes in the dishwasher?
It’s one of those oddly satisfying inception moments.
But honestly, this little setup keeps your lids and plastic containers from sliding all over the place.
Everything stays stacked, contained, and exactly where you expect it to be.
14. I’m never using a candle warmer for a candle ever again.
And just like that, it’s officially a queso warmer.
No more sad, lukewarm dip with that crusty layer on top.
Your queso stays smooth, melty, and ready for every chip.
Honestly, this one feels like a small upgrade with major happiness attached.
15. Tiny apartment? Can’t fit any holiday decor? No problem!
All you have to do is add some tinsel or create a simple wooden wall hanging shaped like a Christmas tree.
It barely takes any effort, but the result is seriously adorable.
A fun little touch that instantly makes your space feel festive and cozy.
16. Don’t know what to do with an old parm container?
This little trick is a total summer game changer.
It turns into a lidded glass that keeps bees away from your poolside drinks.
You can finally sip in peace without swatting or worrying about surprise visitors.
Simple, smart, and perfect for warm weather hangouts.
17. This is also a great tiny space hack.
I seriously need to start doing this too.
I’m always dropping things and juggling way more than I should.
This one just makes everyday life feel a little less chaotic.
18. Have you ever thought about using a pool noodle to dry your makeup brushes after cleaning them?
Probably not, right?
That’s exactly why Gail swoops in to save the day.
Sometimes all it takes is one clever idea from the right person to make everything click.
19. This is a great space-saving hack for small freezers.
Honestly, this works for any freezer.
It frees up so much extra room, which obviously means more space for ice cream.
And let’s be real, that’s always a win.
20. Line your fridge with placemats for easy cleaning.
Cleaning the fridge easily lands in my top three most hated chores, so this feels like a total lifesaver.
It makes the whole process faster and way less annoying.
Sure, you still have to clean the placemats, but honestly… that’s a problem for later.
Find more inspiration in 20 Simple Bathroom DIYs for a Fresh New Look.
