Clever uses for zip ties
Few items are more versatile around the home than zip ties.
They’re extremely cheap and simple to use and have a multitude of uses.
The humble zip tie was first invented in 1958 to help organise wires on aeroplanes while they were still in construction. Today, you can find them just about anywhere and the good news is that you can buy biodegradable ones!
Here are a few of our favourite clever uses for zip ties.
Hang Christmas lights and garlands
This trick is just in time for the festive season. You can keep Christmas lights, garlands and wreaths in securely place without damaging your trees or railings. When it’s time to take them down, it’s as easy as using scissors to cut the zip ties open.
Train vines and support heavy plants
If you’re trying to train vines to grow on a trellis fence or need to support heavier plants to grow upright, zip ties are a clever and inexpensive solution. Just be sure not to secure too tightly so the plant has some room to move.
Quick child-proofing
If you have young and curious grandchildren, you can quickly child-proof cupboards and drawers by tying them together with zip ties. Even the most enterprising young hands won’t be able to get around them and this solution has the benefit of being cheaper than investing in child locks.
Hang your broom and mop
Most mops and brooms come with a loop on the top of the handle but frustratingly won’t hang from a hook. Create a second loop through the handle with a zip tie about an inch wide – you can hang this from a hook in your utility cupboard to keep everything neat and tidy.
Secure zips
If you’re travelling and want to lock your suitcase, zip ties can be a great alternative to the traditional lock. You can secure two zip pulls together and then cut any excess length off the zip tie, creating a small and virtually invisible solution.
Hold a fly up
If you have a fly on your favourite trousers that doesn’t seem to stay up, try this handy trick. Pull a zip tie through the top of the zipper and create a small loop, roughly the width of the button on your trousers. When the zipper is done up, you can attach it to your trousers before doing up the button, keeping everything in place.
Organise cables
Keep cables together and hide away unsightly wires with the help of zip ties. You can secure wires together and attach them to the back of a console or table leg without damaging your furniture.
Do you know any clever uses for zip ties? Share your wisdom in the comments below!
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
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