Rubber Band Hacks That Will Have You Stocking Up

Charlie Golsley in home living

1/26/25

[updated: 4/22/25]

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Rubber bands are a household staple that often go unnoticed until you need one. But their versatility extends far beyond bundling papers or sealing a bag of chips. Here are ingenious uses for rubber bands that you probably never considered.

1. Jar Opener Extraordinaire

Struggling to open a stubborn jar lid? Wrap a thick rubber band around the lid for added grip. The rubber band creates friction, making it easier to twist open even the most challenging lids. This hack is especially handy for those with limited hand strength.

2. DIY Smartphone Mount

Need a quick solution to prop up your smartphone? With a sturdy rubber band and a few household items like a fork or a cardboard stand, you can create a simple yet effective smartphone holder. It’s perfect for watching videos or taking hands-free calls.

Using rubber band in car's vent to mount smartphone.

3. Paint Can Cleaner

Avoid messy paint drips by stretching a rubber band across the top of your paint can. Use the band to wipe excess paint off your brush, keeping the edges of the can clean. This trick also reduces waste and keeps your workspace tidier.

Using rubber band on paint can to catch drips of paint from brush.

4. Customizable Clothing Fit

Have a pair of jeans or a shirt that’s just a bit too tight? Loop a rubber band through the buttonhole and attach it to the button for an instant extension. This quick fix is perfect for temporary adjustments or during pregnancy when your size might fluctuate.

5. Tangle-Free Cord Organizer

Keep cords, cables, and headphones neat and tangle-free with a rubber band. Simply coil the cord and secure it with a rubber band. It’s an affordable and effective way to manage the clutter of cables in your home or bag.

Pack of rubber band on a table with a closeup of a hand holding a pair of earphones.

6. Seal Open Food Containers

No way to close the food leftover? No problem. Twist the top of an open snack or frozen food bag and wrap a rubber band around it several times to create an airtight seal that helps keep food fresh longer. For containers, place a zip lock over the open side and put the rubber band around the middle to air seal the container.

Rubber band around zip lock to seal spam container.

7. Childproof Cabinet Handles in a Pinch

If you’re in a rush or visiting a home without cabinet locks, wrap a rubber band tightly around two knobs to keep curious little hands from getting into cleaning supplies or sharp utensils. For handles that are not knobs, you can get creative by using things like chopsticks to place the rubber band around for securing a cabinet.

Rubber bands are far more versatile than they seem. These simple hacks demonstrate their potential to solve everyday problems with ease. Keep a stash of rubber bands handy, and you’ll always have a quick fix at your fingertips!