IF THERE’S a will, there’s a way.

But then, there’s an easier way!

One of life’s pleasures is to discover and learn efficient techniques to everyday problems at home.

I found this book titled Life Hacks, written by Keith Bradford and published in 2014, which reveals secret tricks for ordinary tasks at home, at the office, and just about anywhere. The book originally costs $14.99 or P749.50 but I got it for P230 only at the Big Bad Wolf 2019 in Davao City.

It amuses me so I thought of sharing 10 tips here in case you need it, too.

1.

The best way to clean a microwave: Put a cup of hot water and vinegar inside, turn it on for three to five minutes, and wipe clean with ease.

2.

Use a blow dryer to instantly defog a mirror.

3.

Get a small pan and fill it with water, add some vanilla extract and cinnamon and put it on the stove. Your house will smell like a delicious bakery in no time.

4.

When washing windows, squeegee vertically outside and horizontally inside. That way if you streak, you’ll know which side they’re on.

5.

Out of toilet cleaner? Use lemon-flavored Kool-Aid mix. The citric acid helps remove stains and the lemon flavor leaves your bathroom smelling great. Just sprinkle in a pack, swirl it around the toilet brush, and let it sit for a few hours.

6.

Spiders hate peppermint oil. Put some in a squirt bottle with water. Spray your garage and door frames.

7.

Sick of having a box of tangled cords? Use old toilet paper rolls to organize them.

8.

Put a bar of unopened soap in your clothing drawers. It’ll make them smell extra fresh.

9.

In a rush to dry your clothes? Throw a dry bath towel into the dryer along with your wet clothes. They’ll dry much faster.

10.

Take a picture of your fridge and pantry on your phone before you go grocery shopping. You’ll never forget anything at the store again.

[The writer appreciates story suggestions. Follow her on IG @mommyaracasastumuran and YouTube channel www.youtube.com/c/AraCasasTumuran.]