Brass doorknobs may cost more compared to other knobs, like stainless steel, but don’t dismiss it just yet. Brass, a copper alloy, is an anti-microbial material that helps keep your hands free from germs. Studies have shown that surfaces made of copper kill bacteria and viruses upon contact. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protective Agency registered copper as the first antimicrobial material.

Here’s a safer and more effective way to open a tight jar on your own: use a rubber glove. The rubber features a sturdy grip and makes it easier and more comfortable for your hands when pressing against the metal lid. Just make sure that the gloves are clean and dry.

Believe it or not, soda does help in composting. The sugar in the soda attracts good microorganisms that kick off the process, while the acidity content assists in breaking down organic materials faster.

You can avoid discarding blunt scissors with a little help from aluminum foil. Start by tearing a piece of foil measuring at about 12-inches, and fold it a few times until it’s 6 layers thick. Use the scissors to cut through the foil several times to sharpen it. Note that this technique will only work for slightly dull scissors, not for damaged blades.

There have been many speculations about what the strip at the bottom of toothpaste tubes really means, and we’re here to give you an answer. But it’s not as exciting as many might think. According to a toothpaste brand, the mark is an indicator for the manufacturing machine to know where to cut or fold each tube.

New and modern cars may have this feature in the key fob. All you have to do is press the unlock button for a few seconds and watch your windows roll down. In some cars, it can also open up the sunroof. To roll it back up to close, just press the lock button for, more or less, 5 seconds. Discover more of these features by checking out your car’s user manual.

Here’s how to know if your toothbrush needs a replacement. Take a look at the blue-colored bristles on a toothbrush — when the color fades because of use, it means you need a new one.

Sure, a cedar wood hanger may look cute in your closet, but it has an even better purpose than aesthetics. Cedar is known for emitting a scent that repels clothing moths from laying their eggs in wool and other fabrics.

They’re not just there for style or to make a fashion statement. The pompoms have a rich history across cultures in terms of why they’re used. Roman clergymen used to wear birettas that had colored pompoms on top to signify the group they belonged to, while sailors used them to protect their heads from bumping in tight spaces during rough voyages.