Probably the most popular improvised tool is the humble butter knife

Cuts like a screwdriver. Jet Odrerir

Not everyone has a full toolbox handy, but there are many things around the house that can be used in a pinch.

Probably the most popular improvised tool is the humble butter knife. Who hasn't used one as a screwdriver? If space allows, it's better to use the top of the blade held perpendicular to the screw because you want it to fit as snugly as possible in the slot on top.

If your knife comes to a rounded point, you can use it for Philips head screws, the ones with the '+' shape.

Depending on the thickness of the knife it could also be used as a pry bar for opening small cans of paint or removing small pieces of trim. Flipped over, it can be used as a light-duty hammer for tacks or small nails. Use your forefinger and thumb as a guide to keep the knife handle on track. Keep in mind that you might not be using it as flatware after it has done some hardier chores.

Light work

When you're doing some light electrical work but don't have a wire stripper there are a couple ways to get the job done. A nail clipper can be used to cut light-gauge wire. If you use a light touch, they can also be used to cut just the plastic insulation covering the wire. Another way of removing a little insulation from the end of wires is to heat it up with a cigarette lighter for a second and then quickly pull the plastic off of the end of the wire with your fingers. Not the method a mother or lawyer would recommend, but quick and efficient nonetheless.

Toothbrushes are very handy to have around. When they've become too worn for your pearly whites they can still be used for a variety of cleaning jobs. You can keep different brushes for different uses.

Use a clean brush for cleaning the crevices of computers and other electronic devices, and keep a dirty one on hand for cleaning small areas like bicycle sprockets. They are also handy for cleaning hard-to-reach corners before painting. It's not a bad idea to boil the brush for 10 minutes before using it around the house.

Pants to old paint

If you are planning on using paint that's been sitting for some time, it may need to have the dried flecks strained out before it goes on the wall. An old pair of nylons works well; just cut out an area about 50 centimeters square that doesn't have any holes in it and slowly pour the paint through into a separate bucket.

If you have a hinge that's sticking or squeaking, you can use vegetable oil to lubricate it. Pour a small quantity of oil into a bowl and apply using a cotton swab/bud. Try to work it into the top of the hinge, using enough that some runs inside then wipe off the excess with a paper towel.

The wheels that run on the track on a security gate will work much better if they are oiled as well. To get the oil on the wheels? Use an old toothbrush.

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If you have any questions about keeping your house in order, email Jet at [email protected]