7 Bungee Cord Hacks That Will Always Come In Handy
Bungee cords are the kind of tool you don't realize you rely on until you need one. They’re light, strong, and endlessly adaptable, which makes them just as handy in daily life as they are for outdoor projects or travel. You might already use them for a few basic things, but they’re capable of much more. Here are a few smart ways to put them to work.
Keep Trash Can Lids Secure
If you live in a windy area or have animals that like to tip over trash bins, a bungee cord can save you a lot of cleanup. Simply stretch one over the lid and hook it under the handles on both sides. It'll hold steady against any large gusts of wins or curious critters, keeping your trash right where it belongs until collection day.
Support Drooping Plants or Branches
When a garden plant starts leaning under its own weight or a young tree needs extra stability, a bungee cord can help. Wrap it loosely between a sturdy stake and the stem. The elasticity keeps the plant upright without cutting into it or restricting its growth, and it adjusts naturally with movement and wind, meaning your plant will be supported without being stifled.
Hold Down a Tablecloth Outdoors
Picnics and backyard meals can sometimes turn into a battle with the wind. A couple of bungee cords clipped under the table, connecting opposite corners of the cloth or strapped across the top, will help keep everything secure. It saves you from chasing flyaway corners or adjusting the table setup every few minutes when the breeze picks up.
Create a Barrier for Pets in the Car
For pets that like to climb into the front seat, no matter how much you protest, a bungee cord can work as a simple divider. Stretch one (or a couple) across the gap between the headrests to form a barrier. It helps keep pets safely in the back while you focus on driving, but doesn't cut off their view of you entirely, helping them stay a bit more calm.
Keep Things Closed
If you travel in an RV or drive with packed storage bins, you know how easily cabinet doors, drawers, or lids can pop open. A bungee cord looped between handles or across lids keeps everything shut and stable while driving. It prevents contents from spilling and spares you from finding your belongings scattered across the floor after every bump.
Or, for stationary cabinets, they're good for keeping kids and pets out of places they shouldn't be.
Improve Open-Air Shelving.
Have a shelf, cabinet, or other storage opening without a proper door? Use a bungee cord across the front to help keep items in place. Similarly to the previous example, this is especially helpful if you're in an RV, truck, or your storage is otherwise mobile. Even when stationary though, it helps keep everything in and stops things from falling out when you're rooting around for what you need.
Keep Extension Cords from Pulling Loose
When you're using outdoor tools or holiday lights, extension cords have a way of disconnecting at the worst time. A small bungee cord wrapped around the joint between plugs keeps them secure. It absorbs tension and movement so you don’t lose power halfway through a task.
A handful of bungee cords can handle far more than just securing loads. They step in for small problems around the house, yard, or car that usually need quick thinking. They stretch, bend, and adapt to whatever job you give them, proving that sometimes the simplest tools are also the most reliable.