HOUSTON – There are multiple uses for items that you've probably got around your house, including rubber bands and clear nail polish.
Before you clear out that junk drawer, consumer expert Amy Davis has some new ways everyday items could come in handy.
The next time you have trouble opening a jar, try wrapping a rubber band around the lid a of couple times to give you a better grip. You can also use rubber bands in your dishwasher to tether stemware and other delicate items to the rack.
Salt is great for seasoning your steak or salad, but it can also help you clean up spills. If you accidentally crack an egg on the counter, cover the mess with a handful of salt and then, using a paper towel, you can wipe it away with ease.
What about those awful tea stains in your mugs? Sprinkle some salt on a lemon peel and rub it around the inside rim of the mug to remove them.
Clear nail polish can be used to keep things from slipping out of place. If your eyeglasses are a little wobbly, tighten the screws and then top off with a drop of polish to keep them secure. For sweater and shirt buttons, apply a dollop to the center of the button to keep the thread from coming loose. You can also paint a thin coat on your jewelry to prevent it from losing its luster.
Colored toothpicks are great for marking which steaks and hamburger patties are well done and rare.