We all think we know how to use the everyday stuff around us, but a lot of the time, we’ve been doing it completely wrong. From kitchen tools to household items, here are 15 common things that people misuse all the time (and what they’re actually meant for).
1. Food Storage Containers
Rectangular containers don’t heat food evenly in the microwave; the corners cook faster and dry out. Round containers spread the energy more evenly, so your leftovers warm up without scorching.
2. Blender
If your blender keeps stalling, you’re stacking ingredients wrong. Liquids should go in first, then softer foods, with ice and tough stuff on top so the blades don’t jam.
3. Toaster
Not all bread toasts the same way. Dense rye needs more time, while white bread burns faster. Even slices from the same loaf change over time, so adjust the setting as the bread dries out.
4. Broiler
Keeping the oven door shut while broiling traps steam and heat, basically baking your food instead of crisping it. Crack the door to vent steam and get that golden crust.
5. Microwaved Food
Seasoning before microwaving makes your food dry, since salt attracts too much energy to the outer layer. Add it after cooking, or stir it in beforehand.
6. Slow Cooker
Lifting the lid to peek inside drops the temperature and adds extra cook time. Resist the urge to stir until the last hour, it’ll turn out fine.
7. Food Processor
Blenders are designed for smooth blends, such as soups, while food processors are better suited for chunkier tasks like making pesto or chopping nuts. Using them interchangeably can wear out the motor or compromise the texture of your recipe.
8. Dishwasher
Where you place dishes matters. Carb-based messes clean best in the middle rack where the spray is strongest, while protein stains need the sides where detergent concentration is higher.
9. Stand Mixer
Your mixer’s beater might not be at the right height. Slip two sheets of paper under it if it’s too tight or too loose, and adjust the screw to avoid poor mixing.
10. Garbage Disposal
Running hot water while grinding food melts grease and makes it stick inside, leading to clogs. Use cold water during grinding, then hot water afterward to rinse.
11. Knives
Holding a knife only by the handle makes cutting harder. Pinch the blade with your thumb and forefinger for better control and precision.
12. Toilet Plungers
That red flat-bottomed plunger most people use is for sinks and tubs. Toilets need a flange plunger, which has an extra rubber extension to seal the bowl properly.
13. Plastic Wrap
Ever notice tabs on the sides of the box? Press them in and they lock the roll in place, so you can tear sheets without the roll escaping.
14. Toothpaste
That giant smear shown in ads is marketing, not dental advice. Dentists recommend just a pea-sized amount, any more is wasteful.
15. Ketchup Bottles
Instead of pounding the bottom, tap the bottle where the neck narrows (right where the “57” is). The ketchup flows smoother without the splat.
