From tightening a loose screw to preventing a door from slamming shut, rubber washers have dozens of everyday uses. Check out this roundup of 10 clever ways to put those little pieces of rubber to work!
What is a rubber washer?
A rubber washer is a simple device that can have a big impact. Its primary purpose is to create a watertight seal, but it can also be used to cushion and protect surfaces from wear and tear. rubber washers are usually made from natural or synthetic rubber, although other materials such as neoprene may also be used.
They come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to suit different applications. The most common type of rubber washer is the flat washer, which is often used in plumbing. However, there are also beveled washers, cone washers, and wave washers, among others.
While they all serve the same basic purpose, the specific design of each type of washer can make it better suited for particular tasks. In any case, rubber washers are versatile and durable components that are essential for a wide range of applications.
Other ways to use rubber washers around the house
Most people think of rubber washers as being used solely for plumbing purposes. However, there are actually a variety of ways that rubber washers can be used around the house. For example, rubber washers can be used to prevent creaking doors.
Simply place a washer between the door and the frame, and the wobbling will stop. Rubber washers can also be used to protect surfaces from scratches. If you have any furniture that is prone to scratching, simply place a rubber washer under each leg.
Another great use for rubber washers is to create your own custom coasters. All you need is a rubber washer and a sharpie. Decorate the washer with whatever design you like, and voila! You have a one-of-a-kind coaster that will protect your furniture from water damage.
Tips for using rubber washers in other projects
Rubber washers are one of those simple but essential hardware items that can be used in a variety of projects. Here are just a few ideas for how to put them to good use:
- Use a rubber washer to secure a loose screw or bolt. By wedging the washer in between the threading, you can provide extra grip and prevent the fastener from coming undone.
- Make your own vibration dampeners for electronics by sandwiching a rubber washer between two pieces of cardboard. This is particularly useful for minimizing noise from computer fans or other moving parts.
- Use rubber washers to protect surfaces from scratches or marring. For example, place a washer under the base of a vase or lamp to prevent it from leaving marks on your tabletop.
10 clever rubber washer uses you never knew
There are all sorts of uses for rubber washers beyond the kitchen sink. In fact, these humble little hardware supplies can be used for everything from organizing your home to preventing squeaks. Here are 10 clever ways to put rubber washers to work around your house:
- Keep small items like nuts and bolts organized by attaching them to a key ring with a rubber washer in between each one.
- Create a custom-sized mouse pad by gluing a rubber washer to the bottom of a piece of fabric.
- Keep shower curtains from blowing in by threading a rubber washer onto the curtain rod before attaching the hooks.
- Prevent cabinet doors from slamming shut by attaching a rubber washer to the inside of each door with double-sided tape.
- Make a no-slip grip for jars and bottles by gluing a rubber washer to the bottom.
- Quiet noisy doors by attaching a rubber washer to the top hinge on each door.
- Prevent creases in clothing storage bags by placing a rubber washer between the lid and rim of each bag before sealing it shut.
- Protect surfaces from hot pans and dishes by gluing rubber washers to the bottom of each one.
- Keep cords and cables tidy by threading rubber washers onto them before winding them up.
- Make a no-sew pillow sham by gluing rubber washers around the edge of a square of fabric.
The bottom line
Rubber washers are a handy item to have around the house. Not only can they be used to prevent leaks, but they can also be used to tighten screws, protect surfaces from heat, and quiet noisy doors. So next time you’re at the hardware store, be sure to pick up a few rubber washers!