15 Everyday Hacks to Extend the Life of What You Use Daily

A little extra care can go a long way—especially when it comes to the things we use every day. From turning your clothes inside out before washing to keeping bread in the fridge and skipping the cheese touch, these small tricks help your essentials last longer. Why toss it when you can make it last?

1. Store Fruits and Vegetables Properly.

Proper storage of produce can prevent premature spoilage. For instance, avocados, peppers, and tomatoes should be kept on the counter, while citrus fruits last longer in the fridge. Separating fruits and vegetables, and using paper towels to absorb excess moisture, can also help maintain freshness and reduce waste. ​

2. Vacuum carpets regularly.

Regular vacuuming isn’t just sprucing up your space—it’s the secret to making your carpets last longer. Everyday dust and grime don’t just sit on top; they burrow deep into the fibers, making your carpets look dull over time.

And those tiny, rough particles like little stones? They’re like mini knives slicing into your carpet, causing real damage. So grab that vacuum and give your carpets some love.

3. Wash clothes inside out.

Your clothing labels might keep mum, but turning your clothes inside out before washing is a laundry hack you shouldn’t skip! Here’s the scoop: flipping them protects the outer fabric from wear and tear, lets detergent zero in on sweat stains, and cuts down on annoying pilling and thread knots. Plus, it safeguards any decorative details from damage. So, give your garments a flip before washing—they’ll look fresher and last longer!

4. Store bread in the freezer.

While keeping bread in the fridge doesn’t outright harm your loaf, science says refrigeration actually speeds up the staling process faster than if you left it on the counter. So, what’s the secret to longer-lasting bread? Wrap it tightly in plastic or foil, pop it in the freezer—sliced or whole—and when you’re ready, reheat it in the oven for that fresh-from-the-bakery taste.

If reheating isn’t your jam, you can keep it well wrapped at room temperature, but be aware it’ll start losing its mojo after a day or so. Bottom line: for the freshest bread that lasts, the freezer is your best friend!

5. Don’t touch cheese with bare fingers.

Who knew cheese could be such a diva? Handle it with your bare hands—even if they’re freshly washed—and you’re basically fast-tracking mold growth. Instead, wrap your fingers in plastic or slip on some food-safe gloves when dealing with your favorite cheddar or brie.

And don’t forget: a clean cutting board is a must. Any leftover crumbs can invite unwanted mold to crash your cheesy party.

6. Rotate and flip your mattress.

If you want to keep that “brand-new bed” feeling every night, here’s the secret: give your mattress a spin every three months. Just rotate it, so the head becomes the foot—easy-peasy. This simple move helps maintain better support over time, ensures even wear of the fillings, and minimizes those pesky dips and sags.

If you’ve got a double-sided mattress, don’t forget to flip it over during each rotation to keep both sides fresh and comfy!

7. Freeze flour.

White flour can chill in the freezer for up to two years, while whole grain flour stays good for about one year. Plus, freezing zaps any pesky pests that might be lurking. If freezer space is tight, the fridge is your next best friend—white flour lasts up to one year there, and whole grain flour keeps for about six months.

8. Clean your razor and dry it after each use.

To extend the life of your razor blades, it’s essential to keep them dry after each use. Moisture can lead to rust and dullness, especially in humid environments like bathrooms. After shaving, rinse your razor thoroughly to remove hair and shaving cream, then dry it completely—either by patting it with a towel or giving it a quick blast with a hairdryer. Some individuals even dip the razor head in rubbing alcohol before drying to disinfect and speed up evaporation. Proper storage, such as placing the razor in an airtight bag with a silica packet, can also help absorb moisture and prevent rust formation. These practices can significantly prolong the sharpness and usability of your razor blades.​

9. Add a few grains of rice to salt.

Fed up with your salt shaker turning into a salty clump? Try tossing in a couple of uncooked rice grains at the bottom before filling it with salt. The rice acts like a mini moisture magnet, soaking up water vapor faster than the salt can.

The result? Your salt stays loose and flows freely—no more banging the shaker to get it out!

10. Oil wooden cutting boards.

To prevent drying out—which can cause warping and cracks—make sure to oil your cutting boards at least once a month. Here’s a simple way to do it:

• Sprinkle coarse salt over the board and scrub it with half a lemon. Wipe it down and let it air dry completely.
• Using a clean, soft cloth or paper towel, apply a thin, even layer of mineral oil all over the wood surface.
• Allow the oil to penetrate the wood for 2 to 8 hours.
• Use a dry cloth or paper towel to remove any leftover oil, so the board doesn’t feel damp or sticky.

11. Wash your jeans wisely.

Hold up before you toss those jeans in the wash! Washing them every 10 wears is the sweet spot to keep their unique style and fit intact. Overwashing can fade their color and mess with that perfect denim vibe.

Got a pesky stain? No worries! Just spot-clean it with a bit of mild soap and a damp cloth or even an old toothbrush between washes.

12. Minimize the use of fabric softeners.

Some fabrics absolutely hate softeners. Like, NEVER EVER let it touch them! For example, using a softener on your jeans can leave a residue that ruins their vibe. Other items to keep away from softeners are athletic or performance wear, microfiber cloths, towels, children’s sleepwear, swimwear, and lingerie.

13. Store onion and garlic correctly.

Ditch sealed plastic to keep onions and garlic fresh and flavorful. It speeds up spoilage. Instead, store them in a cool, dark spot with plenty of airflow—think paper bags or baskets. Done right, they’ll stay good for up to six months!

14. Freeze your tights.

It’s a common annoyance: a single snag can ruin your tights, leading to frequent and costly replacements. That’s why we’re thrilled about this clever hack. Simply throw your tights in the freezer before wearing them for the first time, and you’ll find they become less prone to ripping.

All you need to do is lightly dampen them under running water and gently squeeze them out. Place them in a plastic bag and leave them in the freezer overnight. The following day, take them out and let them thaw naturally at room temperature.

15. Keep Your Refrigerator Organized.

Organizing your fridge correctly ensures optimal temperatures for different food items, extending their freshness. Store raw meats on the bottom shelf, dairy products in the middle, and ready-to-eat items on the top. Fruits and vegetables should be kept in separate drawers to prevent ethylene gas from causing spoilage. Proper organization can reduce food waste and save money annually. ​

Think you’ve got the little things all figured out? Think again. A few smart changes can make your routine smoother and your wallet happier. Ready to level up your everyday life?