16 Pumpkin-Carving Hacks That Will Be a Serious Game Changer This Halloween

For those who like to carve their pumpkins on the earlier side, this will help give the jack-o'-lantern a longer life and work to keep it from rotting as quickly.

Smearing on some Vaseline to the edges of your final creation will keep them from drying out as quickly and curling when they do.

If you poke holes from a stencil, draw the shape after with a marker to give a clearer idea of exactly where to cut.

Use dry erase marker instead of anything permanent in case your little one makes a mistake or changes their mind.

If you don't have pets, try spraying your carved pumpkin with bleach. This will help to keep bugs and mold away from your child's creation.

Skip the knife and consider using a cookie cutter. With the help of a hammer, you can get festive shapes fast!

There are endless designs you can make with different-size drill bits.

Don't have your kids struggle with trying to carve individual teeth — go with plastic ones instead.

Instead of cutting off the top to get the insides out, try making a hole in the bottom. This will make things easier for removing the insides and adding the light or candle and help to prevent the pumpkin from collapsing into itself.

Coat your pumpkin with a layer of floor cleaner before you carve to help keep that perfect orange shine.

It instantly creates the perfect nose — every time!

These little packs — which oftentimes can be found in pockets — can be put inside a carved pumpkin to help prevent mold from forming.

Some of their extra toys, like Mr. Potato Head and Lite-Brite lights, can be incorporated into the Halloween fun.

If you are worried about candles or want to add some color, glow sticks are an easy and fun option.

Whether you use an ice cream scoop (we recommend the flat kind to make it easier to scrape the edges) or a big ladle, it will be easier for little hands to hollow out the pumpkin.