Everyday Surprises: You've Been Using These Products All Wrong

1. Fabric Samples

Joanne Fabrics, Michaels, Hobby Lobby, and home improvement stores are the best places to buy. The average product cost is $0*. You can generally pick up a fabric sample for free from most fabric and craft stores. This is helpful for making sure the fabric you've chosen truly complements the décor in your house. Seeing it at home is not the same as just being able to glance at it in the store. Having many swatches at home also allows you to have more time to deliberate and choose.

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©Stock Adobe But there's more to using fabric samples from Jo-Ann or Michael's Fabrics. To make sure they hold up, you can give them a wash in the washing machine. Making sure the fabric can withstand washing is half the battle, even if it has the ideal color and/or pattern.

2. Analog Watch

Amazon, Best Buy, and electronics stores are the best places to buy. Product Price on Average: $50–$100* Screens on Windows and Macs frequently dim or go to sleep when you don't want them to. You won't always be using your mouse; occasionally, you may turn away from the screen or pick up a book. A project can be ruined by a poorly timed screen nap, particularly if you're working from home and need to maintain collaboration (like in a Zoom meeting).

@TheAnchor69/TTwitter.com analogue watch mouse You don't have to constantly jiggle the mouse to keep your computer awake—there is a low-cost option. Purchase an analogue timepiece from Walmart or Best Buy and set it underneath the mouse. The mouse will keep the computer awake by following the movement of the second hand.