Terrible Life Hacks Iowans Try in the Winter

We’ve all heard of “life hacks” — those clever little tips and tricks designed to make our everyday lives a bit easier. Some of them are truly innovative and can be game-changers, helping us save time, money, or effort. But then there are those life hacks that are just downright questionable, often offering terrible advice that can lead to frustration or even injury. With winter still hanging around for at least another month (thanks for that, Phil), it's more important than ever to be cautious when trying out these so-called solutions. While the internet is full of interesting shortcuts, not all of them are safe or practical, especially when it comes to dealing with slippery sidewalks, cold weather, and other winter hazards. So, before you rush to test out the latest viral hack, take a moment to think — is this really going to help, or will you end up hurt, frustrated, or worse? Stay safe and make sure you don’t fall for something that’s more trouble than it’s worth.

Good Winter Life Hacks You Can Try

These come from weather.com. I assume if anyone knows anything about fighting the weather it's these guys.

• If your car gets stuck in snow, kitty litter or car mats can help get you out of a slick spot.
• Ice on frozen door handles can be melted off with hand sanitizer.
• Take shorter, lukewarm showers. You'll avoid getting dry skin. (No Thanks)
• Spray nonstick cooking spray on your shovel and the snow will come right off every time.

Bad Winter Life Hacks

These tips come from all over the internet, and many have little thought put into whether they are actually safe or effective. Remember, not every clever trick is a good one, and sometimes the simplest, most conventional methods are the best. Stay safe and make sure you don’t fall for something that’s more trouble than it’s worth. Don’t do these.

• Setting up candles and clay pots to heat your room instead of turning on the radiator.
• Your furnace not working? Turn on your oven and leave the door open. The heat will fill the house instead of being wasted. This is only half right. It's a good Idea if you have an electric oven. Bad idea if it's gas.
• Need to clean an area after muddy snow is brought in? You can by mixing bleach and ammonia...
• Insert a copper penny into a screw-in fuse box circuit as a temporary measure until replacement fuses could be obtained.
• Don't want to go to the grocery store due to weather? microwave an egg for a quick meal.
• All Winter tires are a scam, in fact you don't even need new tires. Bald tires will do fine.

Stay Safe Iowa!