The internet can be a source of 

inspirational and unusual ways to use 

ordinary household items. Here are just a 

few examples:

1. Ketchup can be used to clean copper.

2. Lubricate a stuck zipper track by 

applying a drop of olive oil with a 

cosmetic swab-tip.

3. White vinegar will remove tea stains 

from a cup and coffee stains from your 

carafe, but be sure to rinse

them thoroughly.

4. Minor drain clogs can be cleared with 

half a cup of salt, followed by a quart of 

hot water.

5. If you break a drinking glass, a slice of 

white bread will pick up the tiniest shards 

from the floor.

6. Electrical tape can temporarily seal 

a leaking drain pipe. (Unlike water 

supply pipes, drains work by gravity, 

not pressure.)