Most people have probably seen zip ties before, even if they’ve never actually used them. A zip tie is a thin plastic strip with tiny teeth on one side and a locking head on the other. Once you thread the pointed end through the locking head
and pull it tight, it stays secure. They’re inexpensive, easy to use, and incredibly handy to keep around the house, garage, car, or workshop. They come in different lengths and colors, and many can be found at dollar stores, hardware stores, home improvement centers, or online. Some are heavy-duty for larger projects, while smaller
versions are perfect for everyday organizing tasks.
Here are 10 clever and practical ways to use zip ties that almost anyone can do.
1. Tame Tangled
Cords
Few things look messier than a pile of tangled charging cords, computer cables, or appliance wires. Use a small zip tie to loosely bundle cords together. Don’t pull it overly tight if you may need to move the cords later.
You can also use
different colored zip ties to identify cords quickly. For example, blue for phone chargers, white for computer cords, and black for television wires.
2. Keep Hangers From Sliding
If silky shirts or dresses constantly slide off hangers and
onto the closet floor, zip ties can help. Wrap a small zip tie around each end of the hanger and tighten it. The raised texture helps keep slippery clothing in place. This is especially useful for tank tops, lightweight blouses, or nightgowns.
3. Secure Outdoor Decorations
Zip ties work wonderfully for attaching holiday decorations, signs, lights, or small wreaths outdoors. Because they hold tightly, decorations are less likely to blow away in wind or storms. Black zip ties tend to blend in better on fences or railings, while clear ones are less noticeable on lighter surfaces.
4. Keep Seasonal Lights Neatly Wrapped
Holiday lights can quickly turn into a tangled mess when tossed into a bin. Instead, wrap strands into loose circles and secure each bundle with a zip tie before storing them away.
You can even attach a small gift tag or label to the zip tie that says things like "Front Porch," "Tree," or "Mantel" so decorating next season feels much easier.
5. Stop Trash Bags From Sliding Into the Can
Sometimes a trash bag slips down into the garbage can the second something heavy is tossed inside. Thread a zip tie through the handles or edges of the bag and attach it to part of the trash can frame or handle area to help hold it in place. This works especially well in garages or outdoor bins.
6.
Organize Tools in the Garage
Many tools already have small holes in the handles for hanging. Zip ties can create loops for hanging awkward tools that don’t already have one. You can also bundle similar items together, such as extension cords, garden stakes, paint brushes, or small hand tools.
7. Fix a Broken Zipper Pull
If the pull tab breaks off a jacket, backpack, suitcase, or purse zipper, a zip tie can become an instant replacement. Thread it through the zipper hole and trim the excess. It may not look fancy, but it works surprisingly well until the item can be repaired or replaced.
8. Support Garden Plants
Zip ties can gently support tomato plants, vines, or flowers that need help staying upright. Attach stems loosely to stakes or cages. Be careful not to pull too tightly, since plants need room to grow.
9. Keep Hangers Together
Use a zip tie to connect several hangers together when transporting clothing. It's especially handy when moving, taking garments to a hotel, or carrying multiple outfits to an event.
10. Emergency Car Fixes
Many people keep zip ties in their vehicle because they can temporarily secure loose items until proper repairs are made. They may help hold up a loose bumper edge, secure dangling splash guards, bundle jumper cables, or keep items from rolling around in the trunk.
They don’t replace real repairs, of course, but they can definitely help in a pinch.
A Few Helpful Tips Before You Use Them
When trimming excess plastic from a zip tie, use scissors or wire cutters carefully because the cut edge can be
sharp. Some people lightly sand the edge or turn it away from where hands may brush against it.
It’s also smart to keep a small variety pack on hand. Once people start using zip ties, they often discover new uses for them constantly. Sometimes the simplest little tools end up being the most useful.
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