Kitchen Hacks: 7 Unexpected Tools
Our kitchen contains a multitude of tools and gadgets, but it seems like we’re always missing that one gadget we need — or a tool just won’t get the job done. Before you run to the store, look around your house. You might find a common household item can do double duty. Here are seven unexpected kitchen tools to start your mind on its way out of the box.
#1 Dental Floss
Great for more than cleaning between the teeth — it can replace a knife when it comes to cutting soft foods, like goat cheese or cake. The floss slices through without gumming up the way a knife would — and you can toss it for easy cleaning.
#2 Pants Hanger Clips
Multipurpose, using as a bag clip to keep snacks, flour, chocolate chips and other bagged items fresh; or as a recipe holder. Take the clips off the hanger for cupboard storage or countertop reading or leave them on the hanger and hook it onto a cupboard knob.
#3 Hammer
Instead of investing in a meat tenderizer you’ll use once in a blue moon, grab your hammer, cover your meat with parchment or plastic wrap and smash away.
#4 Folder Organizer
Available at most dollar stores, they’re designed to save space in the office, so why not in the kitchen too? Use to store cutting boards, pot lids, cookie sheets and other long, flat items.
#5 Plastic Bottle
If you need to separate egg whites and yolks, try using an empty plastic bottle. Crack your eggs into a bowl, put the open bottle mouth near the yolk, press down and watch as the yolk slides in, leaving the whites behind.
#6 Wine Bottle
Have empty wine bottles lying around but no rolling pin for your cookies/pie crust/baking needs? Remove the label and wash the outside of the bottle (use dish soap and an abrasive cleaning pad), then roll out your dough with glee.
#7 Stockings
The breathable fabric can prolong the life of produce like potatoes and onions. Put a potato in, tie the stocking; add another potato, tie the stocking; repeat until you have a lumpy looking leg; hang from the inside of your cupboard door. Every time you need a potato, just cut below the knot and enjoy.