12 Everyday Objects You’re Using Wrong (and How to Use Them Right) (2 of 7)

2. The Hole in the Pasta Spoon Has a Job

What’s the purpose of the circle in the middle? It measures roughly one serving (about 2 ounces) of dry spaghetti. Feed uncooked noodles (although seeing someone try to do those measurements with cooked pasta would be hilarious) through until it’s snug, and you’ll stop making “dinner for eight” when it’s just you and Netflix.

3. Those Shopping-Cart Loops Aren’t Decorative

The little metal loops near the kid seat are for hanging reusable bags upright. Eggs, chips, berries, and other delicate stuff stay unsquashed while the heavy things go in the basket. European supermarkets nailed this ages ago; now you can look like a pro too.