Storing extra basil

To store a large amount of basil, chop all the leaves and place 2 tbsp in each cavity of ice cube trays. Fill all trays with water, freeze and transfer the cubes to zipped plastic bags. When you need the herb, place the portion in a strainer until melted and use it as usual.

Curling rug corner

To undo a curled rug corner, fold it in the opposite direction of the curl, press down with a warm iron for a few minutes, unfold and place a heavy object on the area for a couple hours. The heat and weight will make the corner to go back to the original shape.

Leak-free bottles

To prevent liquids from leaking when being transported, remove the lid of the bottle and wrap a small piece of plastic wrap over its opening. Close the bottle and carry it with more confidence.

Dryer sheets substitute

Soak a clean washcloth in liquid fabric softener and let it dry. Next time you do laundry, toss the washcloth in the dryer and let the steam do its job. The results are fresh scent garments and a lot of savings, since you can reuse the same washcloth for up to 30 loads.

Cleaning blinds easily

Soak a cloth with rubbing alcohol (or white vinegar) and wrap it around a silicone spatula, tying with rubber bands. The kitchen tool can easily access hard-to-reach areas, working between the slats, cleaning and disinfecting the blinds.

Slamming door

To prevent a door from slamming shut and disturbing the area, tie a light piece of string to both sides of the doorknob, keeping it running around the door’s edge. This will provide friction to slow the door when it meets the frame.

Revive a flower arrangement

Submerge the stems in a vase of hot water until the blossoms revive, then place the flowers back in a vase of fresh and cool water. Use this tip only on flowers that have already wilted (on new blossoms will have a contrary result).

Menstrual cramps relief

To alleviate cramps during the week of your period, add some oregano to your meals (about 2 tsp per day). The herb has compounds that relax uterine muscles, preventing them from contracting and cramping.

Swallowing large pills

If you have been prescribed a big pill that feels very hard to swallow, just roll it in some olive oil before taking it. The pill will slide right down your throat.

Overstuffed sub sandwich

To prevent sub sandwich filling from falling out and making a mess, remove some of the soft interior from the top and bottom halves of the bread (save this part for croutons or breadcrumbs), before adding meat, cheese, lettuce etc. The fillings will be held neatly inside your loaf.