Thanks to the internet, we have a wide litany of what are now called “life hacks” to help us out with the day to day struggle. However, because it’s the internet, there are just some life hacks that don't work. Not well, anyway. So we’ve tested some of the more financially detrimental hacks and brought them to you in this article. Don’t try these at home!
”As someone who has faced as much disappointment as most people, I've come to trust not that events will always unfold exactly as I want, but that I will be fine either way.” - Marianne Williamson
Whack Hack: Dryer Sheets in Air Vents
Truth: You may have heard through the internet that putting a dryer sheet in the air vent will create an aromatic, pleasant sent throughout your vents. Absolutely do not do this because it’s a major fire hazard. You’re not supposed to put anything in a vent, that kind of defeats the purpose. Moreover, if you’re going for a pleasant odor throughout the house, there are many other ways to achieve that without burning your house down. Here are a few ways to improve the interior air that aren’t potentially dangerous life hacks for the home.
- Flowers
- Herbal bouquets
- Scented candles
- Air fresheners
- Potpourri
- Aromatherapy diffusers
- Pomander balls
- Vinegar in a bowl (seriously)
Whack Hack: Using Duct Tape to Seal Ductwork
Truth: It’s in the name, right? Duct tape should be used for ductwork? Makes sense, right? Unfortunately, all ductwork repairs should be done by a professional. Using duct tape is one of the worst fake life hacks you can perform, because the heating in your vents will degrade the adhesive quickly. This translates to pricier heating and air bills as well as potential mold damage. So play it safe and hire a pro if you’re having HVAC issues.
Whack Hack: Change Your Filters Every Month
Truth: While that is the professionally recommended advice, it’s also worth noting that the professionals in this case also sell the filters. In reality, this falls under the list of life hacks debunked. Sure you can replace them every month, but it might be better to just check them every month. If they appear worn or dirty, then replace them. It’ll save you some money in the long run. Unless you have respiratory issues or allergies, it might be best to just leave the filter alone for a bit.
Whack Hack: Citrus Can Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Truth: While it may be true that lemons can be a great deodorizer, citrus fruit still contains acid. Same with oranges, tomatoes, and limes. That acid will wear away the blades of your garbage disposal. Alternatively, in actually useful life hacks for home, simply pour some ice cubes down the disposal for cleaning. You can even do the same with eggshells. Just stay away from the citrus.
Whack Hack: Toilet Paper Roll Speakers
Truth: Proving once again the old adage of, “I read it on the internet so it must be true,” toilet paper rolls are not good for speakers. As any audiophile will tell you, it’s difficult to get non-electronic equipment to work with digital sound, least of all toilet paper rolls taped together. Any ideas otherwise are just fake life hacks. However, a bowl (or similarly-crafted structure) can provide minimal support because of the design.
Whack Hack: Toasters Make Great Ovens
Truth: It looks like it could work, but it doesn’t. Turning your toaster sideways might look like a cool way to make a toasted sandwich, but it’s more likely to cause a fire. Plus, little burnt crumbs will spill everywhere - inside the toaster, your sandwich, and the counter. If you’re working with cheese? That cheese is now cemented inside your toaster forever. This is definitely one of those life hacks that don't work.
What are your favorite life hacks? What works for you and what doesn’t? Care to share? Look at our Facebook for more ideas!
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