Storing your batteries in the fridge can make them last up to 90 percent longer, and popping a dead battery in the freezer overnight can temporarily revive it — even laptop batteries. Just put them in a sealed bag to protect them from moisture.
Three Tricks to Make Things Last Longer
One easy way to save money is to get the most bang from the bucks you've already spent. You can make everything from a bar of soap to batteries last weeks longer than you thought possible, which translates straight into savings.
Give a dead battery a jolt
Get markers flowing again
If a washable marker has run dry, dip the tip into a cup of water. Hold it there until you see ink start to flow again, then recap it for 15 minutes. The moisture from the water rejuvenates the marker's pigments. Got a dry permanent marker? Repeat the same process using rubbing alcohol.
Boost your bar soap's shelf life
It may sound strange, but simply storing your bar soap unwrapped will give you more suds. The reason? Exposure to air dries out the soap, so it doesn't dissolve as quickly when it comes into contact with water. To get the benefit, unwrap any bars and let them dry out for at least a week.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive — 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →