You would be surprised the amount of things you can do in just five minutes! All You [1] shares a few ideas for simple things that will help you make the most of your spare time.
Keep up your candles
Can't figure out how to clean dirty, dusty candles? Wipe them with old nylon panty hose, and they'll quickly shine back up.
Be prepared for a crisis
Take a few minutes to rearrange your storage so that animal travel carriers are within reach. That way, if there's an emergency such as a fire or flood, you won't have to rifle through a closet or under a bed to find them.
Capitalize on unused cupboard space
For a charming (and unexpected) touch, hang jars on the underside of a shelf. It's a great way to gain extra storage in kitchens and workrooms. Collect matching jars (baby-food ones work well) and remove the labels. Drill a hole in the center of each lid. Place a washer on both sides of the lid, thread a screw through and attach each lid to the shelf using a drill or electric screwdriver. Fill the jars with whatever you have that needs stowing.
Check your smoke detector
Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years. Look on the bottom of your alarm to find the date the device was manufactured.
Figure out how much your stuff is worth
Thinking of selling something on eBay but not sure how much you'll get for it? Check out www.ztail.com, a web site that helps you calculate the going rate for items ― anything from MP3 players to sunglasses and toys. The site surveys similar items on eBay, and fellow users weigh in, too.
Assemble a sewing kit
Simplify minor repair jobs ― keep sewing supplies nearby. Stash thread in basic colors, sewing needles in various sizes, buttons, a thimble, scissors, a tape measure and a seam ripper in an old mint tin.
Feel comfortable in your shoes
Soften every step with a foam insert. A soft foam insert absorbs the shock in the heel and cushions the ball of the foot so soles will feel pampered all day.
Rinse your way to whiter teeth
Whitening gels, strips, and trays can be time-consuming and costly. An alternative solution: mouthwash. Look for new formulas that promise to freshen your breath, brighten your smile, and help protect against future stains.
More great money-saving hacks from All You:
- 6 Ways to Get Unsightly Sweat Stains Out of Your Favorite White Tops [2]
- It Worked for Me: "I Washed My Dry-Clean Only Clothes in the Washing Machine" [3]
- Here's How to Clean All Of Your Beauty Tools [4]