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Discover the surprising hidden functions of everyday items that can revolutionize how you use them! In this video, we delve into the ingenious design behind common kitchen gadgets and tools, revealing their true capabilities. By understanding these secrets, you can maximize efficiency and enhance your daily tasks. Join us for a journey into the world of clever design and practical hacks that can simplify your life!
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00:00So, elevator buttons sometimes feature a star symbol or even a minus sign.
00:05The star usually identifies the floor with the main entrance or an emergency exit, often the ground floor or lobby.
00:12This is particularly useful for visually impaired passengers and is even mandatory in some places.
00:18Usually, the star is found on the ground floor button, but in some elevator designs, the labels are placed differently.
00:25The minus sign generally marks the basement level.
00:29Many truck beds have small recessed slots along the sides.
00:33These allow you to place 2x6 wooden boards across to create sections, keeping items from sliding around.
00:40People who never notice this feature often complain about cargo rolling all the way to the bed, unaware that the
00:46bed already allows for simple built-in divines.
00:50Some digital services have clever hidden features.
00:53On Spotify, for instance, there is a playlist collection created with Barilla that times your pasta cooking perfectly.
01:01Different pasta types even have playlists for different lengths.
01:06Netflix also has a dedicated fitness category where you can stream workout sessions.
01:12Marmite jars may look round, but they actually have flat sides.
01:16When the jar is almost empty, it's better to store it on its side.
01:20This design makes it easier to scoop out the spread and ensures you use up nearly every last bit.
01:27The standard calculator on some iPhones hides a scientific function.
01:31Simply rotate your phone while the calculator is open and the advanced version appears.
01:36If you make a mistake entering numbers – I never do, but you might – just swipe left across the
01:42screen to delete the most recent digit.
01:44Now, if you find your iPhone flashlight too dim or too strong, press and hold the flashlight icon.
01:52This reveals a brightness control slider that you can easily adjust the level of light to suit your needs.
01:58The tick-tock container isn't only a storage box.
02:01Its cap has a small groove that is designed to dispense a single mint at a time.
02:06Instead of shaking out a whole bunch, you can use the cap to get exactly one.
02:12That extra tray inside a rice cooker has more uses than many expect.
02:17Instead of just being for rice, it's actually a steaming basket.
02:21You can use it for vegetables, fish, or other foods.
02:24People often steam broccoli or carrots this way.
02:28Coffee shop takeaway cups may all look the same, but their shape serves several purposes.
02:33The top part is wider, making space for your nose as you drink,
02:37while the bottom is narrower, so even small hands can get a good grip.
02:41The design also allows the cups to be stacked efficiently.
02:46Now, a pizza box can be much more versatile than it seems.
02:50If you're eating alone, place the lid across your chest as you eat to catch crumbs and toppings before they
02:56drop on your clothes.
02:57Hey, now they tell me.
02:58The lid can also be torn into four to make makeshift plates.
03:02And if you have leftovers, you can refold part of the box inward to create a smaller container for storage.
03:10An old pillowcase can be repurposed into a wash bag for delicates.
03:15Simply place your underwear, stockings, or slips inside.
03:18For best results, turn the opening into a drawstring by folding, hemming, and threading a cord through it.
03:24Tighten the drawstring before washing, and your delicates will be protected inside the machine.
03:30Now, if you ever forget your cutlery at a picnic, dental floss can help.
03:35Plain, unflavored floss cuts smoothly through foods like banana bread or soft cheeses, often giving cleaner slices than a knife.
03:43Go figure.
03:44Toothpicks can also act as small substitutes for forks when serving finger foods.
03:50Glasses or sunglasses with frames that feel unusually flexible are built that way on purpose.
03:56This elasticity makes them more comfortable to wear, and help prevent the frames from breaking or getting loose too quickly.
04:04The mesh bags that oranges or onions are sold in don't need to go straight into the trash.
04:10Instead, tie them up and use them as handy scrubbers for pots, pans, and kitchen surfaces.
04:15They're surprisingly effective for cleaning.
04:18Now, Ritz crackers have scalloped edges that are functional as well as decorative.
04:23You can actually roll the edge across slices of cheese, cutting them down to perfect size to fit neatly on
04:29the cracker.
04:30Wow.
04:32Kitchen shears often include a small serrated notch where the blades meet the handles.
04:36This design allows you to strip herbs like thyme, rosemary, and chives quickly and cleanly, saving the trouble of picking
04:44leaves by hand.
04:46Plastic milk jugs usually have a concave section in their design.
04:50This isn't just for looks.
04:52It makes room for expansion.
04:54When milk spoils, gases build up inside the container, pushing the concave area outward instead of bursting the jug.
05:01The same thing happens if milk is frozen, since it expands as it solidifies.
05:06Alright.
05:07Grocery carts often have a loop built into them.
05:09It's intended for lightweight items like jackets or bags, keeping them separate from your groceries so they don't get mixed
05:16in with food.
05:17Packs of cotton pads often come with two convenient features.
05:21The strings can be used to hang the package on a hook, keeping the pads easy to reach.
05:26And instead of untying the strings every time, look at the bottom.
05:30There's usually a perforated line.
05:32Tear it open once, and you can pull pads out whenever you need them.
05:37There's a simple trick to get salt or pepper to pour out smoothly.
05:40Take one shaker, flip it upside down, and notice the ridges on its base.
05:45Then, rub it against the ridges of another shaker.
05:48The vibrations created by the friction will make the salt or pepper flow out more easily.
05:55Most headphones, whether wired or wireless, have tiny holes built into them.
05:59These are not design flaws.
06:01They allow airflow, which is essential for balanced sound quality.
06:05By letting the ear circulate, the headphones can produce clearer, more natural audio.
06:11Stick-pack sachets are designed to be opened in a clever way.
06:15Instead of tearing one edge, the intended method is to tear down the middle.
06:19While it might seem like a small detail, opening them this way reduces mess and avoids bits of torn paper
06:25getting everywhere.
06:27Double zippers on backpacks or bags aren't just for convenience.
06:31They can act as a theft deterrent.
06:33If you align the zippers together, you can secure them with a small lock, making it harder for pickpockets to
06:39access your belongings.
06:41As for the tiny fifth pocket in jeans, it was originally designed to hold pocket watches, but it can also
06:47serve as a good hiding spot for the key.
06:50That small cylindrical lump on your computer or laptop charger cable might seem annoying when it snags on things, but
06:58it actually serves a valuable purpose.
07:00Ferrite beads prevent electromagnetic interference in two directions, from a device or to a device.
07:06The bead prevents the cable from acting as an antenna and receiving interference from these other devices.
07:13This is particularly common on data cables.
07:15Those on the charger cable reduce electromagnetic interference coming from this cable.
07:21Public restroom stalls often had large gaps at the bottom of the doors.
07:26While it may seem like a privacy issue, these gaps exist for practical reasons.
07:30They encourage people to use the restroom more quickly, helping keep lines shorter, and they also make it easier to
07:36check if someone inside needs assistance in case of an emergency.
07:42Now, many ointment tubes come sealed with foil or plastic film, which can be frustrating to open with your fingernails.
07:49That little point built into the top of the cap is there to puncture the seal quickly and cleanly.
07:55Smart!
07:56Some automatic lip liners and eye pencils include a hidden sharpener.
08:01Check the bottom cap of the pencil.
08:03It not only shows the product's color, but can also be removed to reveal a small sharpener inside.
08:10Certain toothpicks come with grooves that aren't just decorative.
08:14The first groove is intentionally weaker, allowing you to snap the toothpick in half.
08:19The smaller piece, often with another groove, can then be used as a stand to keep the pointed end from
08:24touching the table surface.
08:27All the bottles used to be of the same green color once, but later it was discovered that brown ones
08:33are way better at blocking UV light.
08:35Ooh, say no more!
08:38Last but not least, those wild patterns you see on a bus seat are there for a reason.
08:44They're meant to hide dirt.
08:45I mean, you can see for yourself.
08:47It's obviously easier to conceal that crazy smear of dirt if there's a pattern.
08:54You see these blades?
08:55They have notched corners to make your cutting experience smoother.
08:59Ooh!
09:00The front edge notch helps with separating blades during manufacturing,
09:04while the trailing edge notch helps the blade glide easily.
09:08And a fun fact!
09:09That notch on the front also helps you spot unused sections of the blade.
09:14Just a little visual indicator to make your life easier.
09:17When it comes to silver vs. black blades, they're both made from the same stuff.
09:22But black blades are sharper and are better suited for cutting through tough materials,
09:27while silver blades strike a balance between cutting power and durability.
09:32If you want that extra cutting oomph, go for black.
09:35Oh, almost forgot!
09:37The only thing those blades aren't meant to cut is food.
09:40It has a rust-proofing oil coating, which is not safe for humans.
09:46Check this one out!
09:47It's totally giving me childhood vibes.
09:50Now, I remember my grandma having tomato-shaped pin cushions just like this.
09:54And sometimes they would look more like a salad, with a little pepper thrown in there.
09:59Well, believe it or not, this salad actually has a purpose.
10:03The tomato keeps your pins in place, while the pepper keeps them sharp.
10:08Those peppers are filled with sand, which helps keep your pins nice and sharp.
10:12And it's not just sand.
10:14Crushed walnuts can also be used to keep your pins in tip-top shape.
10:19Now, look at this multiple pocket tool and this little hook on it.
10:23It's a bit of a mystery, but it's actually pretty handy.
10:27I counted at least four different applications.
10:30One, you can use it to carry all sorts of awkward stuff, like camping gear or heavy parcels.
10:36Two, need to twist some wire or play around with knots?
10:39Once, the parcel hook has got you covered.
10:42Three, this hook can save the day with those stubborn zippers, like the ones on your luggage.
10:48Four, it's great for pretending to be a budget version of Captain Hook.
10:52If you know more applications, let me know in the comments.
10:57Apple users, with this feature, you'll never get laundry surprises again.
11:01Now, I bet you've had this situation at least once in your life.
11:05You wash your stuff, and when you take it out of the washing machine, the size seems to only fit
11:11your cat.
11:12Your iPhone camera can actually translate those funky laundry symbols for you.
11:16There are two requirements, though.
11:18You must have iOS 17, and your phone must be in English.
11:22Take a photo of the care label, go to the Photos app, and see the details of the image.
11:27Everything will be automatically decoded and explained to you.
11:32Now, many toasters come with nifty, removable crumb trays at the bottom.
11:37It's super important to give these trays a good clean every now and then to keep your toaster running smoothly
11:43and avoid any potential fire hazards.
11:46Just pop them out, shake out the crumbs, and you're good to go.
11:49Where you shake them out is up to you.
11:52Those little compartments on your gas pump aren't just for show.
11:55They're actually there to hold your cap while you're filling up.
11:58This nifty feature keeps things tidy and prevents any spills or drips on the handle.
12:04So, say goodbye to messy refueling experiences and hello to a cleaner pump.
12:09Plus, it makes the whole process way more convenient and efficient.
12:15Now, I'll bet your oven gets so greasy and dirty sometimes that you can even hear it oink.
12:20Just kidding.
12:21I know you're a tidy person.
12:24Anyway, if you're looking for a way to bring your kitchen cleaning to a whole new level, here's a tip
12:29for you.
12:30Most oven doors have handy latches that let you pop the door off for easy cleaning, saving your poor back
12:37from the strain.
12:38When you're draining noodles or potatoes, there's no need to bother transferring everything to a colander in the sink.
12:45Just throw the colander right into the pot, hold it down, and pour the liquid out.
12:51It makes life so much easier, especially when you want to save that starchy water for recipes.
12:56It's a must for authentic pasta, by the way.
13:01So, let's say you've snagged this gem at a thrift store a while back for just under a dollar.
13:06It's seen better days, serving as an ashtray, but you decide it's time to give it a new lease on
13:12life.
13:13Here's the lowdown on how to make it shine again.
13:16Mix up a solution of boiling water, baking soda, and table salt in a bowl lined with aluminum foil.
13:23Let the piece soak for about 15 minutes, and repeat this process three times.
13:29In between soaks, gently scrub any rough spots with a microfiber cloth.
13:34After the final soak, dry the piece off and rub on some toothpaste, baking soda, and peroxide.
13:40Buff out any remaining tarnish with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
13:45Rinse it off, and now your piece is practically gleaming like a mirror.
13:51These aluminum foil boxes have nifty little tabs on the sides that make it super easy to grab a sheet
13:57without any hassle.
13:58It's like a fancy little bonus that makes the product a breeze and ensures you'll have a smooth sailing experience
14:05every time.
14:08Manual can openers often come with a handy built-in feature, also known as a bottle opener.
14:13It's like getting two tools in one.
14:15But did you know that this bottle opener actually has another useful function?
14:20It can help you loosen those stubborn, hard-to-open jars.
14:24Simply lift the lid slightly at a couple of points with the bottle opener, and then watch it as it
14:30effortlessly twists right off.
14:32Yeah!
14:35Okay, I just found that, apparently, you're supposed to save the first and last slices of a loaf of sliced
14:41bread for last.
14:42It's like a bread hack or something.
14:44Apparently, those end pieces help keep the rest of the bread fresher for longer, and you shouldn't eat them until
14:50you've devoured the rest of the loaf.
14:52So, next time you're making a sandwich, save those heel slices for the very end.
14:57Even bread-eating needs a good strategy.
15:00Now, look at those blue levers on the top rack of your dishwasher.
15:04I was curious about them, too.
15:06And it turns out they are actually water bottle sprayers.
15:09They help to ensure that your bottles get a thorough cleaning and rinse during the wash cycle.
15:16Many vegetable peelers have those little scoops on top for taking out the eyes from potatoes.
15:21And here's a cool tip.
15:23You can actually use vegetable peelers in both directions to peel faster.
15:27But most people just stick to one direction.
15:32When using yellow mustard, make sure to push the lid of the bottle all the way open until you hear
15:37a satisfying click.
15:39This way, the lid will stay securely in place and won't get in the way when you're dispensing the mustard
15:44onto your food.
15:45It's a simple step that can make your condiment experience hassle-free and enjoyable.
15:50So there.
15:53You know that little hole at the end of your pot or pan?
15:56Well, it's not just for show.
15:58You can actually use it as a handy holder for your forks and spoons.
16:02Next time you're cooking up a storm in the kitchen,
16:05just pop your utensils in that convenient little hole and keep them close at hand.
16:11Okay, just a heads-up to remember to switch the direction of your ceiling fan for the changing weather.
16:17And to give it a good clean, too.
16:19I've seen that a lot of folks found it helpful before to reverse the fan's direction by flipping a switch
16:26for different seasons.
16:27So this is just a friendly reminder to go ahead and do it again,
16:31pushing hot air down and pulling cold air up.
16:36When you're chowing down for some pizza, just tear off the top of the box and use it as a
16:41big old plate.
16:43You can even rip the box in half and fold it to save some leftovers for later.
16:48Well, that's it for today.
16:49What? You want to know more cool facts?
16:52Sure, but you'll have to subscribe and hit the bell to get more videos.
16:56I'm waiting. Go ahead.
17:01So you wake up and see that an out-of-control fire has taken over your room.
17:06At this point, the biggest danger isn't even the flames, it's the smoke.
17:11In the United States, smoke inhalation accounts for 80% of the fatalities caused by fires.
17:17That's why it's always a clever idea to have this mask close by.
17:21This is a personal escape hood, equipped with its own breathing filter, allowing people to escape intense situations like this.
17:28It only takes around 10 seconds to put this on, and it provides breathable air for 20 minutes.
17:34And those 20 minutes can make all the difference when it comes to surviving.
17:38But if your apartment is at the top of a burning building, going out the window might be your only
17:44way out.
17:45But hold on.
17:46First, you need to wear a backpack like this.
17:49This is actually a parachute safety system, known as SPARS.
17:53What it does is inflate a device with a parachute in about 15 seconds.
17:58The device, developed with advanced aerospace technology, will slow down your fall and make sure you land safely and as
18:05quickly as possible.
18:07If using a parachute feels a little too extreme to escape a fire, there is another option.
18:13The Rescue Ready Retrofit Ladder.
18:15This device is made from lightweight, durable materials and offers a safe way out in situations like a fire on
18:22the second floor of a house, for example.
18:25The latter can easily be installed right under windows, making it easy to use when you need it.
18:31One thing about fires is that they usually start small.
18:34So, the key is to isolate and put them out before they turn into a big problem.
18:39That's why some smart people teamed up with firefighters to create the Bridge Hill Fire Blanket.
18:45Think of it as a futuristic fabric with cutting-edge technology that can contain flames, smoke, and toxic fumes in
18:53just a few seconds.
18:55Okay, blame it on the classic movie Jaws.
18:58But let's face it, sharks have been living rent-free in our heads ever since.
19:03And while shark attacks aren't very common, they still happen.
19:07In 2023, there were over 100 reported incidents worldwide.
19:11But you don't have to live in fear.
19:14Thanks to items like shark bangs.
19:16This is a wearable device that can ward off sharks, and it doesn't need batteries or charging.
19:22You just wrap it around your ankle and let its powerful magnets do the work.
19:26What happens is that when a shark gets close to someone wearing the device, it senses the strong magnetic field
19:33coming from it.
19:34Then the shark probably freaks out because the signal is way stronger than any of its normal prey.
19:39So it ends up swimming away from you.
19:42Or at least, that's what we hope for.
19:45Now, sharks aren't the only danger you face in the water.
19:48All it takes is a sudden change in the tide, and you could find yourself in a situation where you
19:54need to fight to avoid drowning.
19:55But if life jackets feel bulky and uncomfortable to you, there is another option – the king jean.
20:02This is considered the smallest inflatable lifesaver in the world.
20:06It kind of looks like a high-tech bracelet.
20:08But when activated, it turns into a buoy in seconds.
20:12What's even more impressive is that you can reuse it up to 50 times, if you're that unlucky or careless.
20:18All you have to do is repack the balloon and swap out the CO2 cartridge before your next sea adventure.
20:25It also comes with a whistle, so you can get the attention of rescuers in case of an emergency.
20:31Now, this may look like a simple, ordinary credit card, but it can actually save you.
20:37Imagine you're in a car accident, and the vehicle ends up in a lake.
20:41As the car sinks, you're trapped, unable to open the window.
20:45Terrifying, right?
20:46Well, that's exactly why the OWL escape card exists.
20:50OWL stands for Open Window for Life, and just like the name suggests,
20:55it was designed to shatter your car's window in any emergency.
20:59The driver just needs to insert the card into the top or side slot of the window, with the arrow
21:04facing up.
21:05Then pull the base of the card toward them and release it.
21:09Bam!
21:10The glass shatters outward.
21:12But that's not all.
21:13It also has a built-in safety cutter to help you slice through a stuck seat belt.
21:18You've probably heard a million times how wearing a helmet while biking can save your life.
21:24Still, a lot of people skip it, saying they don't want to carry a bulky thing around all day.
21:30Well, those days are over with the foldable helmet.
21:34Thanks to its cool, adaptable design, it goes from a spherical shape to something more flat.
21:39So, once you're done with biking, just fold it up and throw it in your backpack.
21:44It's that easy.
21:46Outdoor adventurers will love the LifeStraw Sip.
21:49This stainless steel straw promises to clean in pure water using a filter that blocks 99% of bacteria, parasites,
21:57and microplastics.
21:58In other words, this tech can definitely prevent you from having any serious health issues.
22:04Its design is super slim and lightweight.
22:07Plus, there's no need for charging or batteries, so it's the perfect travel companion if you're planning a little getaway
22:14to the middle of nowhere.
22:17So, skiing can be pretty dangerous.
22:19But even so, millions of people are willing to take that risk every year.
22:24One of the big problems with heading out into the snow is that avalanches aren't always easy to spot.
22:30It's believed that for every four fatalities from being buried in snow, three are caused by asphyxiation.
22:37So, bringing the safe back SBX survival gear on your next trip is definitely a smart move.
22:44This is the world's first active air supply for snow burial, designed to keep avalanche victims breathing under the snow
22:51without a mouthpiece.
22:53What it does is create airflow through the snow by pushing away the CO2 that's been exhaled.
22:59This increases the survival window to over 90 minutes, which can be enough time for rescue teams to find the
23:06victim.
23:08Now, you never know when you might find yourself in a dangerous situation out of the blue.
23:12Even when you're just relaxing at home, something unexpected could happen, like a stranger breaking in.
23:20In situations like that, you probably need to stay quiet so you don't draw attention to yourself, and calling 911
23:27could be too risky.
23:29That's where safety apps like Noonlight come in.
23:32If you ever feel unsafe, just open the app and press the panic button right in the center of the
23:38screen.
23:38If everything's okay, release the button and enter your 4-digit PIN.
23:43But if things take a turn and you're in real danger, release the button without entering the PIN.
23:49The app will automatically notify the police and share your exact location so they can send help.
23:57Yep, the next product on our list is a toilet seat.
24:00But it's not just any regular one.
24:04This is the first-of-its-kind smart toilet seat that can actually tell if your body's at risk.
24:10How, you ask?
24:11Well, it monitors your number one and number two with some pretty advanced sensors.
24:17Then it gives you insights to help track and improve your gut health.
24:21And maybe even prevent serious problems down the line.
24:25Right now, this tech is especially useful in senior living facilities.
24:29The last item on our list isn't something you'd need at home.
24:32But if you ever see one next to you, just grab it.
24:36This colorful thing is called the Dazzle Box.
24:39And it could save a lot more disaster victims, especially during earthquakes and floods.
24:44It's a super-tough container designed to drop supplies from a plane or a helicopter.
24:49What's impressive is that the materials used for the Dazzle Box survived a 150-foot drop from a crane and
24:57it stayed intact.
24:58The inventors even added emergency LED lights, so it's visible at night.
25:03Right now, this funny-shaped box is still a prototype that won a design contest.
25:08But if it ever hits the market, it could really become a game-changer.
25:14What's hiding inside Coca-Cola cans and regular household batteries?
25:19Why do magnets affect breakfast cereals?
25:22Do crosswalk buttons actually work or are they just useless decorations?
25:27What does that USB symbol really mean?
25:31I'm not sure I know the answers to these and similar questions, but I'm eager to learn the truth together
25:37with you.
25:38Let's find it out.
25:40Coca-Cola cans have a secret few people know about.
25:44Here's a Coke can.
25:45Let's submerge it in a highly corrosive alkaline solution.
25:49The aluminum dissolves due to a process known as hydrolysis, and we can see a plastic liner inside the can.
25:55It's made from a polymer or epoxy resin, and serves as some kind of a protective barrier between the aluminum
26:02walls of the can and the rather acidic soda.
26:07Despite a popular myth, household batteries don't actually contain liquid, and if you accidentally cut them open, no toxic liquid
26:14will spill.
26:15Most of them are dry cell batteries which are made of electrochemical cells.
26:19Those convert chemical energy into electrical energy.
26:23Larger batteries often house numerous small cells within them, too.
26:28Even Tesla vehicle batteries consist of multiple small cells.
26:32When combined, they easily provide the necessary voltage.
26:37Most toothbrushes have differently colored bristles, but they aren't just pleasing to the eye.
26:42Those bristles, often blue, have a functional purpose.
26:46They're called toothbrush indicators, and their colors fade as you use the brush.
26:50The American Dental Association recommends changing your toothbrush at least four times a year.
26:56And by getting paler, these bristles help you figure out when it's time to replace your toothbrush.
27:02You'll probably agree that there's no better snack than a pack of chips.
27:06Some are flat, others have ridges.
27:09Is it just aesthetics?
27:11Not really.
27:12The main purpose of those lines on some kinds of chips is to help with the distribution of spices and
27:17seasonings.
27:18In other words, all those substances that make your chips taste like cheese are mostly stored inside the lines.
27:24Plus, the lines make chips crunchier.
27:28Now, this one might be a surprise, but some breakfast cereals are magnetic.
27:33That's because they're often fortified with iron in the form of a fine powder.
27:38Due to the added iron, cereal flakes get attracted to magnets.
27:42All this may sound kind of alarming, but in reality, the iron content in the flakes is minimal and doesn't
27:47pose any threat to your health.
27:50That clear fluid in gel pens is called the ink follower or stopper fluid.
27:55The gel in such pens contains pigment particles dissolved in a polymer solution.
28:00The main task of the stopper fluid is to be a barrier to prevent the gel from evaporating or leaking
28:05out.
28:06Without this transparent fluid, your gel pen wouldn't function.
28:11The fluid always stays in one position and doesn't get dissolved with the gel.
28:16Neither does it move backwards or flow out of the pen.
28:21Many pedestrian crosswalk buttons, namely in New York, are placebo buttons.
28:26They do literally nothing when you press them.
28:29Originally, they were functional after being introduced in 1964, but today, most of them don't affect traffic lights,
28:35which are programmed based on the real needs of the traffic flow.
28:39Why do such buttons even exist, then?
28:42It's a simple psychological trick, providing you with an illusion of control.
28:48You might have noticed that movie theater seats are almost always red.
28:52This choice isn't random.
28:54It has strategic importance, which is rooted in visual science.
28:58The thing is, red light has a longer wavelength.
29:01It means that it's the first color to disappear in low light.
29:04It allows the audience to concentrate better on the screen once the movie begins.
29:08Such a design choice enhances the viewing experience by minimizing distractions.
29:15Speed bumps are crucial for pedestrian safety.
29:17But at the same time, they can seriously increase car emissions due to the non-stop acceleration and deceleration they
29:25cause.
29:26To address this issue, some cities, like London, are testing fake speed bumps.
29:31Those are optical illusions painted on the road.
29:34They look raised from a driver's perspective, but in reality, they're flat.
29:39Authorities hope that this approach will slow down drivers without having a negative impact on the environment.
29:47Soda bottles are always filled in such a way that there's some space between the liquid and the cap.
29:52That's because soda contains carbon dioxide.
29:55It's a gas that can expand once the bottle's heated.
29:58If there's no gap in the bottle, it can break because of the pressure building inside.
30:03Also, when you open your drink, the gases go out in the form of bubbles, making the drink overflow.
30:09The gap helps with this problem too.
30:13The USB symbol.
30:15Looking like a trident has always sparked multiple speculations about its origin.
30:21One popular idea is that it represents Neptune's trident and symbolizes power and adaptability.
30:27But there's also a little bit less exciting theory.
30:30A man who claimed to have designed the symbol in the 1980s stated that it was supposed to represent connectivity.
30:37The large circle symbolizes a computer, while the attached shapes, the circle, the triangle, and square, stand for different outputs.
30:47The design of a tennis racket has a specific feature known as the throat.
30:52It's an open space below the head of the racket.
30:54This space isn't just for storing balls, it also improves the racket's aerodynamics by letting air pass through.
31:01It seriously reduces drag during swings.
31:06Speaking of tennis, tennis courts are usually built with a north-south orientation.
31:11It helps minimize the impact of the sun's position during the game,
31:15ensuring that neither player has the sun directly in their eyes.
31:20Look closely at a tram's overhead lines, and you'll see that its contact wires zigzag back and forth instead of
31:27going in a straight line.
31:28That's because all trams have pantographs attached to their roofs.
31:33The upper part of the pantograph is gradually worn down by the overhead wire and eventually needs to be replaced.
31:39To wear it down evenly, the wire is not installed strictly along the tram's path, but in zigzag patterns.
31:47As the tram moves, the pantograph slides along the wire, and it wears down evenly.
31:54Those cone-shaped water cooler cups?
31:57Their shape is intentionally designed to prevent users from setting the cups down.
32:02This allows employees to minimize the risk of spilling water on their desks around various electronic devices.
32:08Plus, less material is used to produce cone-shaped cups, which makes the process less wasteful and more cost-effective.
32:16It also kind of supports sustainability by encouraging people to drink their water quickly and dispose of their cups immediately
32:22after.
32:25Most suitcases have two zipper pulls, and it serves several purposes.
32:31First of all, if one zipper fails, the other can keep the suitcase closed.
32:35Even better, having two zippers allows you to have easier access to small sections of your suitcase without having to
32:42open it entirely.
32:44And finally, when you have two zippers, you can connect them with a padlock for increased security.
32:52Some plastic milk containers have dents on their sides.
32:56These dents serve several purposes.
32:58When milk spoils, it usually causes swelling and high-pressure buildup inside the container.
33:04That's when the dent pops out and doesn't let the jug blow up.
33:07Plus, if you decide to freeze the milk, it will expand like any other fluid.
33:12And then again, the indentation will pop out and prevent the container from breaking inside your freezer.
33:21If you ever had a problem figuring out why fake pockets exist, you need to hear this.
33:27The main reason is that if a clothing item has a specific cut or shape, pockets may spoil it.
33:33They can alter the item's shape either in the warehouse or already on the retail rack.
33:38The solution? Getting rid of the pockets in key areas.
33:42Plus, fake pockets are obviously cheaper, and they don't get stretched out.
33:48The thermos wasn't actually invented to keep your coffee warm.
33:52It was made by a Scottish scientist who wanted a safe place to keep his chemicals at a stable temperature.
33:59So, he took two bottles, put the smaller one inside the bigger bottle, and vacuumed out the air between them.
34:09There are some inventions that make us say,
34:11Dude, why didn't I come up with this?
34:14And then you have the next question.
34:16Why don't we have it in my hometown yet?
34:19I'm talking about things like splash-proof toilets, liquid trees, and skyscrapers with slides.
34:27Yep, they're all pretty real, and you're about to fall in love with them.
34:32Have you ever used a public bathroom in the summer in your shorts and sandals and got splashed?
34:38It happens to the best of us, so no worries.
34:41If only there was some solution to this problem.
34:44Perhaps a urinal with a small hole so no liquid goes where it shouldn't.
34:49Looks pretty yucky and painful to me.
34:52An assistant professor at the University of Waterloo, Zhao Penn, and his colleagues came up with a way better solution
34:59for this sensitive issue.
35:01Their designs were inspired by physics and dogs.
35:05When a stream of liquid moves on a solid surface at a shallow angle, the splash is reduced,
35:10and the smaller the angle, the fewer splashes you'll see.
35:14You can even minimize them to a zero.
35:16And when dogs do their business, they lift their hind legs and do it on the vertical surface of a
35:22tree or a wall.
35:23I don't know if they actually care about it, but this does reduce the splash.
35:28Good job, Pluto!
35:30The team invented several models and presented them at the American Physical Society conference, and it was a hit.
35:37The inventors say that all of the models are no splash,
35:40but their favorites are the slice of apple and the one that looks like a tall and slender J with
35:46a narrow and long opening.
35:48The new urinals aren't just super cool, but also more sustainable.
35:52You won't have to wash the floor with water, chemicals, and human energy after every use, which is a win
35:59-win.
36:00Here's another innovative public toilet idea for you, this time from Japan.
36:05They have completely transparent walls, which means, yes, you can see everything that's going on inside,
36:12from the toilet itself to the hand wash sink.
36:15It sounds pretty creepy, but the idea was actually to create a safe restroom in the park.
36:21Visitors can see if there's someone hiding inside before entering,
36:25and also check if the toilet is clean before entering.
36:28When you go inside and lock the door, the walls change color to opaque, and no one will be able
36:34to see you.
36:35They used glass covered with PD-LC film to make the walls,
36:39which allowed them to go from being transparent to safely in tents using electricity.
36:45Alright, now you've nearly convinced me to try one of those magical toilets.
36:50Oh, and they also double as excellent lanterns in the dark, shining bright in different colors.
36:55Bring a couple to my local park, I don't mind.
36:59Take a deep breath.
37:00If you don't like what you're breathing in, do something about it.
37:04That must have been exactly what the smart guys at the University of Belgrade, Serbia thought,
37:09and invented the liquid tree.
37:11The liquid tree, not the pun and laugh a bit,
37:15consists of a glass tank filled with over 150 gallons of water,
37:20some microalgae, and a solar panel, which provides electricity to a small pump.
37:25The microalgae need heating, so just in case there's no sun and the temperatures drop,
37:30the photobioreactor is also connected to the city grid.
37:35Microalgae work hard to do some photosynthesis magic and convert water and CO2 into oxygen,
37:41and then it goes into the atmosphere.
37:43The liquid tree also comes with a bench to sit on and enjoy its work.
37:48The liquid tree needs more work than a regular tree in the park.
37:51They need to replace the water and microalgae almost completely every month and a half.
37:57And they also need to take out the biomass that is the byproduct of the process.
38:02And let's admit, nothing can replace those blooming babes in spring.
38:07If you ever find yourself casually wandering in the forests of Estonia,
38:11don't freak out if you see some giant megaphones.
38:14These wooden, acoustic giants were set three hours away from the country's capital by interior architecture students.
38:22That's way cooler than the hamster roller coaster I once built for a science fair, I have to admit.
38:28More than half of Estonia is covered by woods, and they're pretty proud of this natural wealth.
38:33So it's not the first art project of this kind.
38:36And there was a winding, elevated pathway and a faceted woodland cabin.
38:40The idea of the megaphones is to crank up the natural sounds of a forest and also to serve as
38:47a rest spot for hikers.
38:50These wooden beauties are large enough to host several people.
38:53And hey, if you walk this far into the woodland, you'll be thankful for this.
38:58The students were given a task to invent some concepts of a forest library.
39:03They built the megaphones off-site and brought them to their permanent spots.
39:08They're set in such a way that sounds from three directions meet in the center
39:12and create a cool, natural surround sound effect.
39:16Have you ever helped your friends move into a new apartment in a building without an elevator?
39:21Then you're gonna love this one.
39:24Houses in Amsterdam have hooks on top.
39:26This is a medieval invention for pulling stuff up the houses.
39:30The simple tech consisting of a wheel and a rope still functions now, centuries later.
39:35Why not just use the stairs?
39:37Well, if you get inside one of those narrow Amsterdam buildings,
39:41you'll see there's hardly enough room to comfortably ascend,
39:44and you can forget about even trying to pull a table on top.
39:49Back in the medieval ages, pretty much like now,
39:52only rich people could afford housing around the canals in the best parts of the city.
39:57Those people were mostly traders and used the canals for their business.
40:01They stored goods in the same houses they lived in,
40:04and with regular floods, they had to find a way to keep the goods dry.
40:09And that's why they needed to invent something to lift furniture,
40:13goods, boxes, instruments, and food on the upper floors,
40:17and pull it in through fully open, wide windows.
40:21The lifting tech is one of the reasons the houses in Amsterdam are leaning forward.
40:26This position helped keep both the lifted stuff and the walls and windows safe during transportation.
40:33They didn't have to touch each other.
40:35The gables also assisted in the process and had to be made firm to withstand all the heavy weight.
40:42And in case you're wondering what gables are,
40:45they're sections of wall between the edges of a dual-pitched roof, typical for Amsterdam.
40:51Folks who live or work in skyscrapers have the opposite problem.
40:56Getting out of the building can take a while as you wait in line for the elevator.
41:00A slide going from the top of a skyscraper could be a solution.
41:04In 2016, they added one outside of the U.S. Bank Tower in Los Angeles at the height of 1
41:10,000 feet.
41:12The see-through slide, made of glass just one inch thick,
41:15was built to withstand hurricane-force winds and earthquakes.
41:18It was built to bring tourists to the building, though not for the convenience of office workers.
41:24And then they decided it wasn't such a great idea,
41:27so the slide was removed as part of the reconstruction of the building.
41:32A Hong Kong photographer and editor who became famous online went even wilder with his imagination
41:38and designed a double-decker bus with a slide.
41:42It's not his only futuristic photography masterpiece,
41:45as he likes to play with perspective and proportions.
41:48I can totally see myself sliding away when someone asks me to pay for the ride.
41:55You know what? Onions can help fight off the flu.
41:58Hmm. And apparently they can do it in various ways.
42:01Like, you can put them in your socks,
42:03which somehow transfer their disease-fighting abilities through your feet.
42:07Or you can drink onion-infused water to treat or prevent illnesses like colds or the flu.
42:12Well, unfortunately, these are all false beliefs.
42:16When it comes to directly combating cold or flu viruses, onions are unlikely to have a superimpact.
42:22But overall, they're good for you.
42:24At the same time, onions do have a high concentration of quercetin.
42:29It's a pigment known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
42:34The correct way to open a new deodorant is by manually prying the top off.
42:39Nope.
42:40Removing the cap from a new deodorant stick involves twisting it.
42:43This move triggers the mechanism to push the safety cap off.
42:47This method helps avoid the hassle of manually prying the lid off,
42:51leaving deodorant residue under your nails.
42:55Now, what about the ideal time for using deodorant?
42:58You might think it's in the morning before you leave the house,
43:01but the optimal time to use deodorant is in the evening.
43:04At this time, your body temperature is cooler and your underarms are less moist,
43:09providing a greater opportunity for the deodorant to work effectively on your skin.
43:14Applying deodorant in the morning is still okay for those people who don't suffer from excessive sweating.
43:19So if you sweat a moderate amount, there's no reason to change your daily routine.
43:25Now, keeping your shower curtain inside or outside the tub is a choice.
43:29But, apparently, putting the shower curtain inside the tub reduces splashing and prevents water from escaping.
43:35The decorative cloth curtain belongs on the outside, whereas the plastic one should be on the inside.
43:41I mean, the whole idea is to prevent splashing water.
43:45Now, watering your plants on scorching hot days harms them.
43:49Mmm. Rain showers occur during the summer season all over the world, and plants easily survive in these conditions.
43:56At the same time, when you water your plants on hot days,
43:59a substantial amount of liquid might evaporate before it can effectively benefit the plants.
44:04It's worth noting that this might be different for some sensitive indoor plants, such as African violets.
44:10It can result in leaf damage if you pour very cold water directly onto their leaves.
44:16Now, let's continue with another garden-related thing.
44:20Tree roots only reach as far as the outer edge of tree branches.
44:24Myth or fact?
44:25Well, it's a misconception.
44:27The root systems of many trees can extend well beyond the diameter of their crowns.
44:32For instance, magnolia trees can have roots that reach nearly four times their crown diameter,
44:37while the roots of red maple trees can exceed their crowns by up to three times.
44:43It's easier to shuck corn before it's boiled.
44:46Well, in the past, before the invention of modern cooking methods, many recipes involved pre-shucked corn.
44:52However, you can still grill it with or without the husk when it comes to recipes like grilled corn.
44:58A recommended technique is to partially shuck the corn, leaving only a few layers closer to the cob still attached.
45:04This method retains moisture while also providing appealing char marks on certain kernels.
45:11Alternatively, you can cook whole, unshucked ears of corn in the microwave or by boiling it, if you prefer.
45:19Moving on with everyday items you've been storing wrong.
45:23Take eggs, for example.
45:25Leaving them in the fridge door is good for them, right?
45:27No.
45:28This can lead to a rollercoaster of temperatures every time you grab a snack.
45:32As for nuts, they're happier in the fridge.
45:35He can make them go all wonky, especially if they're the kind with lots of good fats.
45:40So, keeping them chilled helps them stay fresher and tastier.
45:45There's another common myth about nuts.
45:47It's said that roasting them decreases calories, proteins, carbs, and fibers they contain.
45:52But no, both cooked and uncooked nuts have similar amounts of those.
45:57The main goal of roasting nuts is to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
46:01Keep this in mind, though.
46:03When nuts are roasted, the healthy fats they contain may get damaged.
46:07And in the end, this can result in a reduced nutrient content.
46:11Now, let's talk about avocados.
46:14Don't toss them in the fridge if you want them to ripen on schedule.
46:18They like hanging out at room temperature.
46:20We can also put an end to another avocado-related myth.
46:24Avocados are fattening.
46:25Yeah, they do have a high-fat content, compared with most other fruits.
46:29But this doesn't necessarily make them bad for your health.
46:33In fact, avocados contain what's often called healthy fats, which can help reduce harmful cholesterol levels in your body.
46:41Now, let's carry on with diet and food.
46:43Swapping white table sugar for unrefined options like honey, maple syrup, and coconut sugar is supposed to make your diet
46:51healthier.
46:51Well, don't fall for this myth.
46:53Sugar is sugar, no matter whether it's refined or unrefined.
46:58While unrefined sugars may contain a few extra vitamins and minerals, the advantage is minimal because they're still considered added
47:05sugars.
47:06These added sugars can add up and contribute to your diet's recommended limit on daily sugar intake.
47:13Full-fat products aren't a one-way ticket to weight gain.
47:17That's a myth from the 80s and 90s.
47:19Some people are still scared of fat, but it shouldn't be the case.
47:22Fat plays a few essential roles, such as protecting our organs, maintaining cell membranes, supporting health and development, and helping
47:31absorb vital vitamins.
47:32The key is to choose heart-healthy, unsaturated fats like olive oil, canola oil, nuts, nut butter, and avocados over
47:41saturated and trans fats found in fatty meats and high-fat dairy products.
47:46There's a common belief that avoiding carbs entirely will make you lose weight.
47:51Well, that's a myth too.
47:53Low-carb diets have made their rounds, vilifying carbs, including fruits and whole grains.
47:58While some people have had success with these diets, it's usually because they've cut out highly processed, carb-laden foods,
48:05like chips, cookies, and white bread.
48:07You know, all the stuff we like.
48:09Eliminating an entire food group isn't the best approach, as you might miss out on essential nutrients.
48:16Another belief is that you can get rid of body toxins with a detox diet.
48:20Well, sorry, most detox diets don't live up to their promises.
48:24Your body is already good at detoxing itself with the help of your liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract.
48:31You don't need to buy any special products.
48:34If you want to rejuvenate your body, focus on eating more whole foods, staying hydrated, and cutting out highly processed
48:41junk food.
48:44Okay, I have three life hacks for you.
48:46These aren't myths.
48:48Firstly, you can stop a pot from boiling over by putting a wooden spoon over its top.
48:53Secondly, if you position a cheese grater vertically, there's a better way to use it.
48:58Lay it down horizontally.
49:00This way, the process will be less taxing for your arms.
49:03My next tip is about your yoga mat.
49:06Leaving it in a hot, humid spot like your car can ruin it.
49:10Keep it cool and dry for maximum yoga zen.
49:14Now, many people know they should keep their fancy fragrance bottles away from direct sunlight.
49:19So, some people store them in the refrigerator.
49:22This isn't the right move, unless you want your perfume to lose its overall depth.
49:27I mean, yes, fragrances don't like heat or humidity, but the interior of a refrigerator is too dry and cold
49:34for them.
49:35So, it has the opposite effect and breaks down the scent molecules.
49:39And please, resist the urge to rub a bit of perfume on your wrist.
49:43It may be tempting, but rubbing your fragrances is a big no-no.
49:47This practice not only muddles and weakens the scent, it also causes the top notes to evaporate quickly.
49:56They say that if you have old photos in your house, the right way to stash them is by putting
50:02them in cardboard boxes.
50:04Well, this is a misconception.
50:06These types of boxes can damage your memories.
50:09Go for acid-free archival boxes if you want your pictures to look as good as new.
50:13The next one is more of a hack than a myth.
50:17It turns out dishwashers are more user-friendly than we give them credit for.
50:21When you're loading or unloading the dishwasher, you can save your poor back from unnecessary strain by pulling out the
50:28basket.
50:30You might think that foundations are safe at room temperature.
50:33But if you store your foundation in a makeup bag, heat can mess with the oils in your makeup.
50:38So, pop this product in a cool drawer.
50:41Eye creams and serums can benefit from the chill too.
50:45Organic or homemade cosmetics without preservatives should also be refrigerated.
50:49But always check expiration dates.
50:52I know I do.
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