55 Ultimate Life Hacks for the Home in 2025

From cleaning tips and pointers on living more eco-friendly to ways to make everyday life a little easier, these are our simple life hacks to use around the house that we think could help everyone.

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.

Storage ideas for decluttering your home

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.

Small Kitchen Storage Hacks

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.

Additional kitchen storage

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.

What you need to know when buying used large domestic appliances

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.