12 Everyday Objects You’re Using Wrong (and How to Use Them Right)

Learn the right way to use 12 everyday objects, from knives to microwaves, and turn tiny tweaks into faster, safer, and smarter daily habits.

Think you’ve mastered the basics at home? Plot twist: there are at least a dozen everyday objects that you’re either misusing or straight-up ignoring. From the correct way to pinch kitchen knives to those mystery loops on shopping carts that nobody can figure out, these little life hacks and tweaks will save you time and make you question common sense.

Let’s decode the pasta-spoon hole, fix your microwave hot-cold roulette, and even make your ceiling fan more than just a cooling device for those frosty winter days.

1. The Kitchen Knife “Pinch” Grip

White-knuckle gripping the handle makes big knives feel wobbly and therefore quite dangerous. Instead, pinch the blade with the thumb on one side and the index finger on the other. Then grab the handle with the rest of your palm. You’ll get control, cleaner slices, and fewer “oopsies” to clean up later.