Keeping your home running smoothly doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a bit of creativity and the right resources, you can make everyday tasks easier, save money, and even help the environment. Plus, with Gumtree’s marketplace full of second-hand gems, you can find affordable tools, furniture, and decor to bring these hacks to life. Here are 55 top life hacks for the home, updated for 2025.

Decluttering & Organising
1. Declutter with Purpose – Sort belongings and sell unwanted items on Gumtree.
2. Use Clear Storage Bins – Find cheap bins on Gumtree to organise seasonal clothes.
3. Use Drawer Dividers – Keep cutlery and tools organised, check Gumtree for options.
4. Label Everything – Print labels to quickly identify boxes and shelves.
5. Reuse Jars for Organisation – Store small items; find vintage jars on Gumtree.
6. Store Cables with Binder Clips – Keep wires tidy by clipping them to desks.
7. Keep a Donation Box – Regularly donate or sell items to keep clutter low.
8. Reuse Shoe Boxes for Storage – Decorate and store documents or photos.
9. Use Under-Bed Storage – Slide bins under beds; find affordable storage on Gumtree.
10. Store Items by Use – Keep daily essentials handy, seasonal items stored away.

Cleaning & Maintenance
11. Create a Cleaning Schedule – Divide chores into manageable tasks.
12. DIY Air Fresheners – Use essential oils and baking soda to freshen rooms.
13. Baking Soda for Cleaning – Clean carpets, remove stains, freshen laundry.
14. Use Dryer Sheets for Dusting – Repel dust with used sheets’ anti-static properties.
15. Use Rubber Bands to Remove Stripped Screws – Get better grip on stubborn screws.
16. Make a Home Maintenance Checklist – Schedule regular checks to avoid big repairs.
17. Use Command Strips in Rentals – Hang without damaging walls.
18. Use Furniture Sliders – Move heavy furniture without floor damage.

Kitchen Hacks
19. Freeze Herbs in Olive Oil – Preserve herbs in ice cube trays for cooking.
20. Use Magnetic Spice Racks – Save counter space by mounting spices inside cupboards.
21. Store Wrapping Paper on Paper Towel Holder – Keep wrapping paper neat and accessible.
22. Use Jar Lids as Coasters – Repurpose lids to protect surfaces.
23. Use Pegboards for Versatile Storage – Hang kitchen utensils and tools.

Energy Saving & Eco-Friendly
24. Switch to LED Lighting – Save energy with long-lasting bulbs.
25. Use Smart Thermostats – Optimise heating and reduce bills.
26. Use Solar-Powered Garden Lights – Sustainable outdoor lighting.
27. Compost Kitchen Waste – Turn scraps into nutrient-rich soil.
28. Use Reusable Coffee Cups – Reduce waste with second-hand cups from Gumtree.
29. Use Cloth Napkins – Swap disposable for reusable napkins.
30. Start a Home Swap Group – Connect locally via Gumtree to swap items and reduce waste.

Furniture & Decor
31. Upcycle Furniture – Refresh old pieces with paint or new handles, find pieces on Gumtree.
32. Install Wall-Mounted Shelves – Free floor space and display your favourite items.
33. Use Foldable Furniture – Save space with furniture you can store away.
34. Use Removable Wallpaper – Add style without commitment, find deals on Gumtree.
35. Use Mirrors to Create Space Illusion – Make rooms feel bigger and brighter.
36. Use Area Rugs to Define Spaces – Warm up and section off rooms.

Storage Solutions
37. Install Tension Rods Under Sink – Hang spray bottles to free space.
38. Use Magnetic Strips for Tools – Store tools and knives safely and accessibly.
39. Use Peg Socks Together – Prevent losing pairs when drying laundry.
40. Use Ice Cube Trays for Small Storage – Organise beads, screws, buttons.
41. Use Shower Curtain Hooks for Accessories – Hang scarves, belts, bags in your closet.

Practical Tips & Tricks
42. Peg Socks Together – Avoid losing pairs when drying laundry.
43. Create a Travel Essentials Basket – Keep travel chargers and adapters ready.
44. Store Travel Items in Suitcases – Organise chargers and adapters inside luggage.
45. Use Paper Towel Holder for Wrapping Paper – Keep rolls neat and handy.
46. Use Command Hooks – Hang items easily, ideal for rentals.
47. Buy Second-Hand Appliances – Find affordable options on Gumtree.
48. Buy Second-Hand Bikes, Tools & More on Gumtree – Great for family fun and DIY projects.
Money-Saving & Smart Shopping
49. Buy Second-Hand Appliances – Save money and reduce waste on Gumtree.
50. Find Upcycling Supplies – Check Gumtree for cheap furniture and paint.
51. Use Reusable Produce Bags – Say no to plastic, find bags second-hand too.
52. Create a Gift Box – Keep ready gifts sourced affordably on Gumtree.
53. Use Old T-Shirts as Cleaning Rags – Cut up old tees instead of using paper towels.
54. Use Magnetic Spice Racks – Save space and money by buying in bulk and organising smartly.
55. Negotiate Prices on Gumtree – Don’t be afraid to haggle! Many sellers on Gumtree are open to offers, helping you get the best deals on second-hand items.
Why Choose Gumtree for Your Home Hacks?
Gumtree is the UK’s leading local marketplace for second-hand items – perfect for finding affordable furniture, tools, appliances, and more. Save money, reduce waste, and find unique items to make your home smarter and greener in 2025.