50 Everyday Items with Hidden Features

HA Staff - January 13, 2023
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Everyday items are apart of the human experience. No one can get through their day without their phone, toothbrush, money, or keys. We need these basic items to get by everyday! There are so many of these items that we use on a daily basis that come with features that are often overlooked.

We’re talking about everything from secret compartments to special buttons, these hidden features can be incredibly useful and make our lives easier. In this article, we will explore some of the most common everyday items with hidden features and how they can benefit us in our everyday lives. Grab a snack, your favorite blanket, and get comfy! You won’t want to miss out on this list!

1. Small Buttons on Jean Pockets

What are the small buttons on the pocket of jeans? They are more than just a fashion statement; they have actually hidden features with a range of practical benefits. These buttons can be used to adjust the fit of your jeans, prevent gaping in the back, or even keep your wallet safe from pickpockets. With these cleverly designed everyday items, you can be sure you’re always looking and feeling your best.

2. Drawer Under the Oven

Many of us use ovens on a daily basis without realizing that they can also double as storage spaces. Ovens often come with a hidden drawer underneath that can be used to store items such as baking sheets, pans, and other kitchen utensils. This drawer not only saves you valuable counter space but also makes it easier to access your kitchen items when you need them. By utilizing this hidden feature of your oven, you can make your kitchen more organized and efficient.

3. Poms on a Beanie

Beanies are a fashion statement for many, especially beanies with those cute little pom-poms at the top! Poms have been sewn into the fabric of some beanies so that the wearer can use them as a multitool. These poms can be used to open cans, tighten screws and act as a makeshift pocket knife. With this hidden feature, beanies are no longer just an accessory; they’re a very useful tool!

4. Bobby Pin Zig Zag Side

We often don’t think about the potential of hair products, but did you know that a bobby pin has hidden features? The zig-zag side of a bobby pin can be used for a variety of tasks, from separating individual strands of hair to unlocking locks, making it an incredibly versatile tool. With its hidden features and multiple applications, a bobby pin is sure to come in handy in any situation. You most likely have some sitting on your floor as we speak.

5. Ridges on Coins

Coins are items that everyone uses at least a few times. In fact, the ridges on coins not only make them easier to stack and sort, but they also serve a purpose when it comes to detecting counterfeit bills or coins. The ridges on the edges of coins can help tell apart genuine from counterfeit currency, making them invaluable tools in the fight against counterfeiting. How cool is that?

6. Double-sided Erasers

Erasers are a staple item for anyone who likes to write, draw, or doodle. But did you know that some erasers have hidden features? Double-sided erases are one of these items – they have two sides, each with its own unique properties. The first side can be used to erase pencil marks while the other side is perfect for erasing markers or any other ink-based writing material. This makes double-sided erases a must-have tool for any creative person!

7. Chinese Takeout Boxes

Chinese takeout boxes have long been a staple of the takeout experience. These infamous boxes have uses you probably didn’t know about. You can open up your Chinese take-out box and use it as a plate! These features are designed to make your food easier to transport and store, and can even help you reheat your leftovers!

8. Hole by Smartphone Camera

The hole by a smartphone camera is a pocket-sized device that allows you to take pictures, record videos, and even measure distances with your smartphone camera. This device is perfect for measuring distances in hard-to-reach locations or taking photos at difficult angles. With this device, you can turn your everyday smartphone into a powerful tool. Who knew?

9. Silica Gel Packets

Silica gel packets are often found tucked away in shoe boxes and other consumer products, but do you know what they’re actually used for? Silica gel packets have a variety of uses, from absorbing moisture and preventing spoilage to inhibiting the growth of mold. They can also be used in everyday items like wallets and handbags to protect against humidity. Not only are these tiny packets incredibly useful, but they also contain hidden features that many people don’t know about.

10. Applesauce Foil Lids

If you’ve ever found yourself without a spoon for applesauce, you’ll be pleased to know about this hidden feature. You can use the lid of your applesauce as a spoon! All you need to do is take the lid off, then mold the lid into a spoon. Voila! You now have a spoon to enjoy your applesauce with.

11. Hole in Pen Caps

The hole in the top of a pen cap is one of the most underrated and overlooked features. The hole serves an important purpose and is intended to help prevent choking hazards. It also helps release pressure that can build up inside the pen, which can cause it to malfunction. This feature allows people to use pens safely and effectively with minimal effort.

12. The Tab of a Pop Can

What exactly is the tab on a pop can really used for? Well, it turns out it has many hidden uses. This small piece of metal can be used to open bottles and cans, remove splinters, tighten screws, and even measure small distances. The tab of a pop can is an often overlooked everyday item with surprising features that make it a versatile tool in any household. Tell this fun fact to your friends!

13. Colored Squares on Tubes of Toothpaste

Toothpaste comes in multicolored tubes, right? Well, it turns out that each color serves a purpose. For instance, blue tubes typically contain minty flavors, while yellow tubes may contain tartar-control ingredients. Additionally, some manufacturers add special features to their toothpaste tubes, such as perforated lines which can help you squeeze out the last bit of product, or a flip-top cap for easy opening. With this hidden feature, colored square tubes of toothpaste offer convenience and practicality with every use.

14. Boot Loops

Boot loops are one of the most useful hidden features found in everyday items. It allows you to hang up your boots wherever you want, but mainly boot loops are there to put on your boots on easier. Everyone has struggled to put their favorite pair of boots on, and now with this hidden feature, you’ll be able to put on your boots in five seconds, easily. Say goodbye to being late to work because you couldn’t put your shoes on fast enough.

15. 57 Marking on Heinz Ketchup Bottles

Heinz ketchup bottles are an iconic part of many people’s lives, but did you know they have a secret feature? Heinz Ketchup bottles have 57 markings on the neck that indicate the optimal pouring angle, allowing users to get the perfect amount of ketchup with minimal effort.

16. Pocket in Women’s Underwear

Women’s underwear is not just for fashion anymore! With the new trend of pocketed underwear, women are now able to store their belongings in a discreet and comfortable way. These pockets can be used to store cash, cards, keys, and even a phone! This added feature of everyday items is revolutionizing how women carry their most important items with them on the go.

17. Long Neck Bottles

Long-neck bottles are a common household item that is often overlooked for their hidden features. The long neck design is not just aesthetically pleasing, but also provides additional functionality. These bottles have a variety of uses, like being able to pour liquids or store food in them without spilling, or even performing tasks such as measuring out ingredients for baking. With their versatility and convenience, they can be an indispensable addition to anyone’s home.

18. Airplane Seat Hook

Who knew a simple airplane seat hook could do so much? This hidden feature has become an invaluable tool for travelers. The seat hook can hold items like purses, coats, and bags securely during take-off and landing, giving passengers peace of mind to relax
or enjoy the flight. It also serves as a place to hang jackets, hats, or other small items while in flight. This cleverly designed everyday item is a great example of how ingenuity can turn even the most mundane objects into something extraordinary!

19. Metal Plates on Staplers

Metal plates on staplers have hidden features that make them incredibly useful for everyday tasks. Not only do these plates help to strengthen the connection between the staple and the paper, but they can also be used as a makeshift ruler or guide for writing
straight lines. Furthermore, metal plates can be used to make sure holes are punched in a perfectly even line. With these handy features, metal plates on staplers offer a range of solutions for all your office needs.

20. Grocery Cart Loop

Shopping trips to the grocery store may never be the same. You may not have noticed it before, but many grocery carts now come equipped with a hidden feature- a loop handle on the back of the cart. This little-known feature provides shoppers with an easy way to secure their items and keep them from spilling out of the cart. With this loop handle, you can quickly and easily secure bags, coats, and any other items you may need while shopping. Not only is this feature incredibly convenient, but it also ensures that your items are safe and protected from falling out of the cart.

21. Pot Handle Hole

Have you ever noticed that there’s a small hole in the handle of your pot? It’s more than just a design feature – it has a very practical purpose. This small hole is actually the key to making cooking easier, safer, and more efficient. It allows for excess steam to escape from the pot, making it safer to handle and reducing the risk of burning yourself or spilling boiling liquid onto your counter. The pot handle hole is an often overlooked, but incredibly useful feature that can make your cooking experience much better!

22. Arrow on Gas Gauge

Most of us are familiar with the arrow on the gas gauge that lets us know when our fuel level is low. But did you know that this arrow also has a hidden feature? When the arrow points to the left, it indicates that your car needs an oil change. This hidden feature can save you time and hassle by alerting you to when it’s time for a tune-up or oil change.

23. Holes in Airplane Window

You may have never known, but there are holes in airplane windows. It may seem like a strange design choice, but the holes actually serve an important purpose. These tiny holes, or breather ports, create a balance between the air pressure inside and outside of the plane. Without them, passengers would be subjected to a very uncomfortable flight experience.

24. Utility Knife Cap

From opening bottles to cutting boxes, the utility knife cap is the perfect solution for all your everyday needs. This simple yet ingenious device is designed with a hidden feature that reveals a retractable blade when twisted, making it an ideal tool for any task. With its compact design and easy-to-use features, this is one item you’ll be glad to have in your pocket!

25. Detachable Headrests in Vehicles

Ever wondered why your car has a detachable headrest? This super cool hidden feature is actually a life-saving mechanism. In the event of an accident, the headrest can be detached from the seats and used as a cushion for the head, protecting it from any serious injury.

26. Indentation at Bottle of Wine

Have you ever been in a restaurant, looking at the bottle of wine on the table, and noticed the indentation at the bottom? This indentation isn’t just for style; it has a very practical and clever use. The indentation serves as a way to identify how old the wine is. The more indented the bottle is, the older it is.

27. Tabs on Foil and Cling Wrap Boxes

There are small tabs on the side of your aluminum foil and cling wrap boxes. These tabs are more than just decoration—they are a hidden feature that makes it easier to use these products. These cleverly designed tabs make it possible to quickly dispense aluminum foil and cling wrap with minimal effort, saving time, energy, and frustration in the kitchen.

28. Wired Earbuds

Everyone has a pair of wired earbuds, but few people know about their hidden features. In addition to providing great sound quality, these earbuds also contain unique functions such as noise cancellation, voice prompts for incoming calls, and audio notifications. With these features, you can easily stay connected without having to constantly look at your phone. Wired earbuds are the perfect way to stay connected while on the go!

29. Vacuum Cleaner Attachments

Cleaning your home can be a tedious task, but having the right tools makes it much easier. Vacuum cleaner attachments are one of those items that can help speed up the process and make it more efficient. Not only do they help you reach hard-to-clean areas, but they also come with hidden features that can make your cleaning experience even more enjoyable. From crevice tools to pet hair removers, these attachments have the power to transform a mundane chore into an effortless endeavor.

30. Brushes on the Sides of Escalators

Escalators have long been a staple of public transportation, but did you know that most escalators have a hidden feature? Many modern escalators are equipped with brushes on their sides, which help to clean the steps and keep them free of debris. This innovative solution helps keep escalator users safe by preventing slips and falls. Furthermore, it also helps reduce maintenance costs for transit companies as the brushes do much of the work for them.

31. The Slot at end of the Measuring Tape

Have you ever needed a measuring tape but didn’t have one handy? The small slot at the end of a measuring tape is often overlooked, but it can be an incredibly useful tool for making measurements. This hidden feature can help you measure objects that are difficult to access or too small for traditional measuring tools. With this cleverly designed slot, you can quickly measure any object with precision and accuracy.

32. Wooden Hangers

Wooden hangers have been around for decades, but many people do not realize that there are several hidden features that make wooden hangers even more useful. Not only do they save space, but they also help keep clothes bug-free and tidy. They are also great for hanging multiple items at once and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to match any decor. With so many hidden features, wooden hangers can be a great addition to anyone’s wardrobe!

33. Paper Condiment Cups

Paper condiment cups are a common item found in restaurants and food establishments around the world, but did you know that they have hidden features? These small cups can be used for more than just storing condiments. From organizing small items to creating emergency fire starters, paper condiment cups can be surprisingly versatile.

34. The Fifth Pocket in Jeans

Jeans are an essential part of any wardrobe, but a pair of jeans can have more than just four pockets. This ‘fifth pocket’ is the hidden feature that has been used for decades. It’s usually located on the inside of the waistband and is a great place to store smaller items such as coins, keys, and cards. With this secret pocket, you can keep your items safe and secure while still looking stylish.

35. Hole at the top of Lollipop Sticks

Who knew that the simple lollipop stick had a hidden feature? The small hole at the top of the stick can actually be used to hang your lollipop up when you’re done eating it. This feature not only helps keep your lollipop clean and un-smeared, but it also helps save space in your kitchen or office. So next time you grab a lollipop, remember that the hole at the top of the stick is more than just decoration – it’s actually a thoughtful design feature with multiple uses.

36. Lines on a Solo Cup

Everyone has been to a party with solo cups. If you look closely enough, solo cups actually have lines. Most people think it’s just a decoration, but it serves an important purpose. The lines indicate how much liquid is in the cup—the first line shows eight ounces, and each subsequent line adds four more ounces to the total amount. This feature is incredibly useful for those who like to keep track of their beverage consumption—whether they are hosting a party or just enjoying an afternoon alone.

37. Notebook Margins

Notebook margins have been around for centuries, but few people know that they can actually have hidden meanings. By incorporating symbols or text into the margins of notebooks, people can convey messages or feelings without having to write out an entire sentence. This is an effective way to express emotion, share memories, and even pass on a message to someone in the future. It’s a fun way to make your everyday items more meaningful.

38. Child Proof Pill Bottle Caps

It’s common knowledge that child-proof pill bottle caps are designed to make it difficult for young children to open them. What many people don’t know is that these caps have a hidden meaning behind them. Each cap has a unique color and design, representing the type of medication inside the bottle. Thanks to this thoughtful design, it’s easier for adults to identify which medication belongs to whom, saving time and energy in the process.

39. Plastic Part on Tic Tac Container

Tic Tac containers have a small plastic part on them that many people overlook. But this part is actually very important, as it has a hidden meaning behind it. This small plastic piece is meant to serve as an indicator of how many Tic Tacs are inside the container. By counting the number of ridges, you can get a sense of the amount of candy that still remains in the package.

40. Triple Handle on Jerry Can

The triple handle on a Jerry Can is an everyday item that has a hidden meaning behind it. This practical design feature is more than just a convenient way to carry the can; it actually serves a symbolic purpose as well. The three handles represent the three virtues of courage, strength, and resilience, and serve as a reminder to stay strong in challenging times.

41. Left-Hand Buttons on Women’s Shirts

Women’s fashion has a long history of secret symbols and meanings embedded into the clothing. One of the most well-known examples is the left-hand button on women’s shirts. This small detail can be a sign of how powerful a woman is or how she wants to be perceived in society. By understanding the hidden meaning behind these buttons, women can make more educated decisions when choosing their wardrobes.

42. Dent on Milk Containers

Dent on milk containers have been around for centuries, and they hold more meaning than you might think. These dents were traditionally added to indicate that the milk was pasteurized, however, they now serve as an indicator of quality assurance. Not only do these dents provide a visual cue to check the freshness of the milk but also provide a subtle reminder of safety guidelines and industry standards while helping preserve the integrity of the product.

43. Black Film on Microwaves

The black film you see inside many microwaves has a hidden meaning: it serves as a shield to protect the microwaves from electromagnetic interference. This film absorbs any radiation emitted by cell phones, computers, and other devices that could interfere with the microwave’s performance. By absorbing this radiation, the black film helps keep your food cooking quickly and evenly.

44. Half Belts on Coats

Have you ever seen a half belt on a coat and wondered what it meant? These everyday items are often overlooked but actually have hidden meanings. Half belts on coats are a symbol of prosperity and wealth, as they were traditionally worn by wealthy merchants in the 17th century. Today, these fashionable accessories remain popular, adding an element of sophistication to any outfit.

45. Wrench-Shaped Screwdriver Handles

There’s more to everyday items than meets the eye. Take, for example, the common wrench-shaped screwdriver handle. It has a hidden meaning that speaks to its purpose: it helps you get a better grip when you’re tightening or loosening screws. The shape of the handle also makes it easy to identify from a distance, so you can quickly locate your tool in your toolbox or drawer.

46. Square Hole in McFlurry Spoon

It might seem like an odd design choice, but it actually serves an important purpose. The square hole was designed to fit perfectly into the lid of a McFlurry cup, allowing customers to stir their ice cream without having to hold the spoon. This smart design is just one example of everyday items which have been created with hidden meanings and purposes.

47. Threaded Bands on Audio Jacks

These small components are often overlooked, yet they serve an important function. They provide a way to secure the connection between audio devices and can also indicate the type of audio connection. Depending on their color or design, threaded bands can also carry a hidden meaning or message that conveys important information.

48. Hole in Pasta Scoops

The hole in the center of pasta scoops is a common sight in most kitchens, but it has an interesting backstory. The hole serves a purpose beyond just making it easy to hang up; it’s actually a subtle way of indicating the size of the scoop and how much pasta should be cooked. This is because the size and shape of the hole are designed to match that of a specific type of pasta, allowing cooks to quickly determine how much they need for their dish. This hidden meaning reveals a clever way that everyday items can be used in an unexpected way.

49. Keyboard Letter Arrangements

Curious about why the letters on your computer keyboard are arranged in a non-alphabetic order? This strange arrangement actually has a hidden meaning behind it. The keyboard layout was designed to help typists save time and energy by placing the most frequently used letters in convenient locations. This clever arrangement of keys is just one example of everyday items with hidden meanings.

50. Little Hole in Elevator Doors

You’ve probably noticed the little hole in the elevator doors. It may seem like an insignificant detail, but it’s actually a surprisingly important safety feature. This tiny hole is designed to allow people to check if the elevator is occupied prior to entering and prevent potential accidents. It’s an example of how everyday items can have hidden meanings and be more significant than meets the eye.

Last words

Everyday items that we use every day can often come with hidden features and capabilities that you would have never expected as you can see from this article. From a juice box containing a built-in straw to a coffee mug that doubles as a bike lock, it is absolutely amazing to think about how versatile and useful everyday items can be when we take the time to explore their capabilities. We bet you didn’t know about a lot of these items and how they can help make your life easier. This truly goes to show that you never know how useful something could be! Share this article with your loved ones and friends so they can know about these hidden features!

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