Next time you’re at the dollar store, you might want to pick up a package (or 7) of clothespins. Whether you have a clothesline or not, you need these things in your life. As you’re about to learn, they’re good for all kinds of different life hacks. Here are 11 funky things you can do with plain old clothespins.
1. Hang Your Scarves
Your favorite fashion accessory can be held beautifully in place with clothespins. Glue a bunch to a board (you can paint it or cover it in contact paper) and voila…you’ve got a scarf display piece.
2. Clippy Magnets
Yes, “clippy” magnets are a thing, especially if you have some clothespins and washi tape handy. Simply cover one side of the clothespin and stick a magnetic strip on the back. Super cute and functional!
3. Get Handy
Next time you’re hanging a picture or need to hammer in a nail, grab a clothespin to use as a guide. You’ll be able to drive the nail in straight without banging your fingers. Bonus!
4. Fix Up Chopsticks
Having trouble with chopsticks? Want to make them easier for the kids? Borrow the spring from a clothespin, and suddenly your chopsticks open and close with ease.
5. Keep Earbuds Untangled
So frustrating when those earphones get all tangled up. Wrap them around a clothespin (decorate it first if you wish), and you’ll never have to fight with them again. The struggle is real, people.
6. Freshen Your Car
Make your own car air freshener that clips right onto your vents for a blast of scent. Essential oil and a clothespin are all you’ll need.
7. Pants Hanger
Run out of those hangers with the clips on them? No problem. Grab a regular hanger and clip your pants or skirt right on there.
8. Keep Mail in Check
Mail. It’s a mess! Rather than sorting it in to piles, use clothespins to keep different categories of mail together. You could even use the magnet trick above and hang it all on the fridge. Label the pins so you know just what you’re looking at.
9. Toothbrush Tamer
Don’t want your toothbrush sitting the counter, especially when traveling? Clip on a clothespin and it’ll stand up and stay clean.
10. Spoon Holder
Tired of your spoon sliding into the sauce? This hack from Martha Stewart just might save dinner. Clip a clothespin on the spoon handle and it’ll stay put.
11. Thread Holder
Those little spools of embroidery thread aren’t the best for storage. Keep it from getting tangled by wrapping it around a clothespin and using it to hold onto the end for you.
