Rubber bands are more versatile than you might think. While commonly used for bundling items, their flexibility and strength make them handy for a wide range of creative and practical uses.
From organizing your office to DIY projects around the house, here are 20 innovative ways to put rubber bands to work in your everyday life.
1. Enhanced Jar Grip
Struggling with stubborn jar lids? Wrap a rubber band around the lid to provide extra grip, making it easier to twist off. The added friction helps you open jars with less effort, making it a handy tool in the kitchen.
2. Custom Phone Stand
Create a practical phone stand by stretching a rubber band between two paper clips or binder clips. This DIY stand can hold your phone upright, making it perfect for watching videos or making hands-free calls. Adjust the rubber band’s tension to fit your phone securely.
3. Cable Management
Avoid the mess of tangled cords by using rubber bands to bundle and organize cables. Wrap a rubber band around each group of cords to keep them neatly coiled and easily accessible. This method is perfect for managing chargers, power cords, and extension cables.
4. Food Storage
Extend the life of your produce or snacks by using rubber bands to seal bags and keep them airtight. Simply wrap a rubber band around the top of the bag and fold it over to secure. This helps prevent moisture and air from spoiling your food.
5. Bookmark Solution
Use a rubber band as an impromptu bookmark by sliding it over the edge of your book or planner. This keeps your place without damaging the pages and is a great solution for readers on the go.
6. Organize Small Items
Keep small office supplies or craft materials organized by bundling them together with rubber bands. This method is ideal for pens, brushes, or markers, reducing clutter and making it easier to find what you need.
7. Emergency Hair Tie
In a pinch, a rubber band can substitute for a hair tie. It’s not as durable as a proper hair elastic, but it can hold your hair back in a temporary fix. Just be sure to use a band without any metal parts to avoid breakage.
8. Artistic Stencils
Incorporate rubber bands into your art projects by using them as stencils or texture tools. Wrap them around a canvas or use them to create patterns with paint. The elasticity of rubber bands can add unique textures and effects to your artwork.
9. Adjustable Clothing
Transform loose-fitting clothing into a more tailored look by using a rubber band to cinch the waist or hem. Simply loop the band through the fabric and secure it to create a custom fit. This trick is especially useful for quick fashion adjustments.
10. Cabinet Door Securing
Prevent cabinet doors from slamming shut or keep them open with a rubber band. Wrap the band around the handles or knobs to hold the doors in place, making it easier to access items or prevent accidental closures.
11. Anti-Slip Grip
Enhance the stability of items on smooth surfaces by placing a rubber band around the base of vases, candleholders, or other objects. The rubber band creates friction, reducing the risk of slipping or tipping over.
12. Envelope Sealing
Instead of using glue or licking envelopes, secure them with a rubber band. This method is especially useful for bulk mailing or when you need to keep envelopes closed temporarily.
13. DIY Stress Ball
Create a homemade stress ball by filling a balloon with flour or rice and securing it with rubber bands. The rubber bands help maintain the shape and provide a satisfying squeeze, offering stress relief and fun.
14. Paintbrush Protection
Protect paintbrushes between uses by securing them with rubber bands. This prevents bristles from becoming misshapen and keeps them clean, ensuring a longer lifespan for your brushes.