---
title: "12 Ways You Never Thought to Use a Paper Clip"
date: "2017-04-18"
modified: "2017-04-18"
authors:
  - name: "Donna Boyle Schwartz"
    job_title: "Contributing Writer"
    link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/donna-boyle-schwartz/"
url: "https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/12-ways-you-never-thought-to-use-a-paper-clip-51028/"
categories:
  - "Cleaning & Organizing"
  - "DIY"
  - "Easy DIY Projects"
  - "Repair & Maintenance"
tags:
  - "DIY"
  - "How To"
  - "repurposing"
---

# 12 Ways You Never Thought to Use a Paper Clip

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clips.jpg>)

### Fix a Zipper

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-zipper.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

To fix a broken zipper, convert a paper clip into a DIY zipper pull. Simply thread the paper clip through the loop on the zipper, then pull on the clip when you need to zip and unzip your [clothing](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/surprising-household-item-uses-2023/>).

### Clear a Clogged Spray Bottle

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/spray-bottle.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Spray bottles can get clogged when they sit for an extended length of time. Instead of throwing the bottle away, unbend a paper clip and use the pointy end to break up the blockage. This trick also works with clogged glue bottles and hair spray dispensers.

### Create a Mini Cleaner Brush

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-keyboard.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Small and delicate items, such as jewelry, electronics, and figurines, can be difficult to clean. Create your own mini cleaning brush by wrapping tissue, paper towel, gauze, felt, or cotton around a paper clip, then use the tool to gently wipe the dirty item, getting into all the nooks and crannies. The mini cleaning utensil is especially effective for clearing debris out of [computer](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/15-easy-designs-for-a-diy-desk-48527/>) keyboards.

### Hack a Smartphone Stand

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-phone-stand.jpg>)
*instructables.com user&#160;ab727*

With the help of a paper clip, you can make a handy stand to prop up your smartphone. Start by straightening out all the bends in a large paper clip, then fold the clip in half to create a U shape. Bend each “leg” of the U-shaped clip forward to form a cradle in which to place your cellphone. The [DIY](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/18-clever-storage-solutions-you-can-diy-for-free-49712/>) accessory comes in especially handy when you're using your phone to access recipes, stream a TV show, or video chat!

### Hang Ornaments

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-ornaments.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Nothing is more annoying than running out of [ornament](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/50-insanely-easy-to-make-holiday-ornaments-46510/>) hooks in the midst of decorating the Christmas tree. But there’s no need to lose your holiday spirit, because paper clips can quickly come to the rescue! Thread one end of a paper clip through the ornament loop, and hang the other end on your tree for a no-fail DIY solution.

### Dye Easter Eggs

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-easter-eggs.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Christmas isn't the only holiday that can be improved by paper clips. At Easter time, they can be recruited into service for dyeing eggs. Twist a paper clip into a spoon-like shape with a base big enough to keep an egg stable, and then use it to dip the [eggs](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/21-brilliant-hacks-for-everyday-home-repairs-49944/>) into the dye. No more worrying about staining your fingers!

### Repair Eyeglasses

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-glasses.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

If you need to repair eyeglasses and just can't seem to find that pesky little screwdriver, you can grab a simple office essential for the task. Just use the tip of a paper clip as a [tiny](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-multitools/>) screwdriver to tighten or loosen the arms of a pair of glasses, or fix a loose screw.

### Keep Food Fresh

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-chip.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Everyone wants to keep snacks and other [food items](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/would-your-kitchen-pass-a-restaurant-health-inspection-50626/>) fresh, but you don’t need to waste money on plastic clips to hold chip or cereal bags closed. A couple of paper clips will do the trick just fine! You can even use a paper clip in place of a twist tie to secure bread bags.

### Hold Flowers Together

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-flowers.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Gardeners don’t need expensive florist’s wire to hold a lovely bouquet of [blooms](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/10-fast-growing-plants-for-almost-instant-curb-appeal-50133/>) in place. For a budget-friendly alternative, unbend a few paper clips, and use them to anchor each blossom exactly where you want it.

### Reset Electronics

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-reset.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Paper clips are the go-to tool for rebooting certain [electronics](<https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-smart-home-devices/>). If you have to reset your modem or router, simply unbend a paper clip, and use the end to press the tiny reset button.

### Hang Lightweight Objects

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-hang.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Paper clips can double as temporary hangers for lightweight items, such as [strings of decorative lights](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/13-breathtaking-ideas-for-backyard-string-lights-204277/>) or small picture frames. After securing each object to a paper clip, attach the clips to a string and use tape or hooks to display the collection on the wall.

### Mark Your Spot

![](<https://www.bobvila.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/paper-clip-duct-tape.jpg>)
*istockphoto.com*

Continually losing the end of a roll of tape can be a tedious time-waster, so enlist a paper clip to mark your spot. This trick works well on [duct tape](<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/12-things-you-didn-t-know-duct-tape-can-do-49778/>), packing tape, painter’s tape, or transparent tape. It's also a good idea to attach paper clips to each end of a roll of wrapping paper to prevent the paper from unraveling in storage.

## Author
Donna Boyle Schwartz is an avid writer with years of experience covering the home and garden beat in addition to out-of-home topics such as sports and local events. These days, she researches and writes editorial and advertising features on a vast range of home-related topics, including housewares, furniture, home fashions, flooring, remodeling, construction, antiques, art, garden, collectibles, and color/design trends.