Life hacks are all the rage right now, and I’m 100% on board! Funny enough, most life hacks I swear by, were shared with me by Germans around me (friends, family, YOU ALL). 🤩

Here are 8 incredible life hacks that Germans taught me which have changed my life for the better!

• 1. Tea Kettle Hacks 🍵
• 2. Measuring Tape Hacks 📏
• 3. Sandwich Hacks 🥪
• 4. Beer Hacks 🍺
• 5. & 6.Bedroom Hacks 🛏️ (x2)
• 7. Hanging Frame Hacks
• 8. The Biggest Hack

 1. Tea Kettle Hacks 🍵

Let’s talk about tea kettle hacks because who knew a simple kettle could hold so many life-changing secrets? One of the most mind-blowing life hacks that I’ve learned from Germans is how they approach boiling water. Instead of mindlessly filling the kettle to the brim, they only add the amount of water they need. This simple adjustment has saved me time and energy, not to mention it’s better for the environment. Small changes like this can make a big impact on our daily routines.

2. Measuring Tape Hacks 📏

Let me share some incredible hacks to make the most of your “German-style” measuring tape. It’s not just for measuring straight lines; some clever life hacks can make your DIY projects a breeze.

1. Corner Measurement

Use the flexible tape to measure corners accurately. The rigid retractable tape can’t handle corners as effectively, making the flexible tape a great alternative for precise measurements.

2. Versatile Tool

Consider the measuring tape as a versatile tool, not just for length measurements. It can also be used for marking, leveling, and even as a straight-edge guide for cutting materials.

3. Sandwich Hacks 🥪

Let me share one of the most brilliant life hacks I learned from my German family in Berlin that has made preparing sandwiches a breeze. The handy dandy Sandwich Boxes are a game-changer, as they contain everything you need for your sandwich, from cheeses to meats, neatly organized and ready to use. Simply slide it back into the fridge after use, and you’re all set for your next meal. Whether you enjoy sandwiches for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this practical hack saves you time and effort, eliminating the need to take your groceries out and put it all back in. It’s a simple yet effective way to streamline your sandwich-making process!

 4. Beer Hacks🍺

Let’s talk about beer hacks because, let’s face it, opening a beer bottle without a bottle opener is a crucial life skill. In Germany, it’s not just a backup plan; it’s a way of life. Here are some ingenious ways Germans open their beer bottles without a traditional bottle opener.

1. Using a Lighter

It’s not just for lighting cigarettes! Germans often use a lighter to pop open a cold one. The sturdy metal edge of a lighter can easily pry off the bottle cap, making it a handy alternative to a bottle opener.

2. Creative Objects

When in doubt, get creative! Germans use whatever’s at hand, from other beer bottles to solid objects like a table edge or even a sturdy stick. It’s all about finding that leverage to pop off the cap, and it’s a skill that many Germans have mastered.

.5 & .6 Bedroom Hacks 🛏️ (x2)

Let’s talk about some incredible bedroom life hacks that have made my laundry day and bed-making process much easier. These simple tricks have been game-changers in my daily routine, and I’m excited to share them with you!

Pillowcase Perfection

German pillows are huge (80 x 80) and I prefer mine (as a Canadian) half the size. Probelm is, Germany doesn’t sell many pillowcases to fit these smaller pillows. But we have the solution! (Unfortunately, for this trick, you’re going to have to watch the YouTube video above to really understand it.

• Slide and Tuck: Instead of wrestling with excess fabric, I simply slide the pillow into the pillowcase and then tuck in the extra fabric on one side, pushing it down to the corners. Then, I repeat the process on the other side, creating a snug and tidy fit that looks perfect every time!

Sheet Switcheroo

Changing bed sheets can be a hassle, especially when dealing with duvet covers, but I’ve learned some nifty life hacks from my time in Germany that have made this task a breeze.

• Inside-Out Washing: Instead of worrying about the orientation of the sheet when removing it, I wash it inside out. This not only saves time and effort but also makes putting it back on a seamless process, as it’s meant to be placed back inside out. This clever hack has simplified my bed-making routine and eliminated unnecessary frustration.
• Efficient Bed-Making: To effortlessly put the duvet cover back on, I start by tucking the corners of the duvet into the far corners of the cover. Then, I grab the corners of the cover, give it a good shake to settle everything in place, and finish off by securing the buttons. This method ensures a smooth and efficient bed-making experience, leaving my bed looking fresh and tidy in no time!

7. Hanging Frame Hacks

Let me share a brilliant hanging frame life hack that has made hanging shelves and picture frames a breeze. It’s a simple yet effective trick that I learned from a German friend, and it has saved me so much time and frustration. If you’ve ever struggled with finding the studs to hang up shelves or frames, this hack is a game-changer!

Easy Stud Location

When dealing with shelves or picture frames that don’t have a hole for easy stud location, here’s a clever trick to find the perfect placement without any guesswork.

• Tape and Mark: Cover the holes on the back of the shelf or frame with tape, starting from one end and extending to the other. Then, use a pen or marker to poke through the tape where the holes are located, creating a clear mark for easy reference.
• Visual Placement: Once you’ve marked the tape, remove it and line it up on the wall where you want to hang the shelf or frame. This visual guide makes it easy to ensure the placement is straight and aligned with your desired location.
• Secure Installation: Use a level to ensure the tape is straight, then hammer in your nails or use wall anchors and screws to securely hang your shelf or frame. This method eliminates any guesswork and ensures a precise and hassle-free installation.

8. The Biggest Hack

Let’s wrap up with the biggest life hack I’ve learned from Germans, and it’s a game-changer. The simple yet impactful advice is to be honest. It may sound obvious, but in my experience, it’s a game-changer. In North America, there’s a tendency to sugarcoat things, beat around the bush, and avoid being too direct. However, in Germany, people are more forthright and say what they mean without ambiguity. This straightforward approach to conversations has saved me a significant amount of time and uncertainty, especially when making plans or having important conversations. Embracing honesty has made my life in Germany more transparent and efficient, eliminating the need for guessing games and unnecessary stress.

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