13 Genius Duct Tape Hacks You Need to Know

Duct tape is the unsung hero of the toolbox. While most people think of it as a go-to for patching holes or sealing leaky pipes, this versatile adhesive has a long list of unexpected and creative applications, from home improvements to travel hacks and DIY emergencies. We gathered some of the best from duct tape makers, home pros, and the internet community at large to show that duct tape is much more than just a quick fix.

Create a DIY fly trap

Got flies buzzing around your kitchen or patio? A strip of duct tape can double as an impromptu fly trap. Simply hang a few strips, sticky side out, near a light or window, and the strong adhesive will do the rest—catching flies without any harmful chemicals. Just keep in mind it’s a short-term solution, as duct tape can lose stickiness over time, especially in hot or humid conditions.

Protect blisters and prevent chafing

Whether you’re breaking in new shoes or going for a long hike, duct tape can save your feet. Apply a piece directly over a hotspot or blister-prone area to reduce friction and avoid painful blisters. It also works well to prevent chafing under backpack straps or on inner thighs during long walks. Outdoor survival experts as well as long-distance runners and hikers have praised duct tape for its effectiveness in these situations. Just know it’s best used before blisters form or over intact skin, as applying it to open blisters can irritate the area or impede healing.

Make an emergency rope

Twist several strips of duct tape together, sticky side in, to form a makeshift rope for light tasks and quick fixes. Use it to secure items, tie down a broken car trunk, or even rig up a clothesline while camping.

Create a temporary hem for pants or curtains

Don’t have time to sew or iron a proper hem? Fold your pants, dress, or curtains to the desired length, and then tape the inside with a clean strip of duct tape. It’s invisible from the outside, holds firmly, and can be removed or adjusted as needed. Just note it works best on sturdier fabrics and may not adhere well to delicate or slippery materials.

Waterproof your shoes

Unexpectedly caught in rain or snow? Wrap duct tape around your shoes to help keep water out. It’s a temporary fix if your footwear isn’t weatherproof or the soles have started to split. This quick solution can be especially handy while traveling or hiking.

Fix a broken flip flop

Few things are more annoying than a broken flip-flop while you’re on the go. If the thong pulls through the sole, push it back in, and place a strip of duct tape across the bottom to hold it in place. It’ll get you through the day until you can find a replacement.

Use duct tape in craft and décor projects

Believe it or not, duct tape can be beautiful. With patterned and colored varieties available, it’s become a favorite tool for DIY crafters. Use it to make wallets, flower bouquets, Halloween costumes—and even full prom dresses. (Yes, that’s a thing—the Duck Tape brand even hosts a scholarship contest for it!) Duct tape is easy to cut, layer, and shape, making it ideal for both beginners and pros. The creative possibilities are endless.

Open a stubborn jar lid

If you’re struggling to open a stuck jar lid, duct tape can give you the extra grip you need. Cut a strip about 12 inches long, and stick one end firmly to the lid, leaving a “tail” hanging off the edge. Wrap the tail slightly around the lid, then pull firmly in the direction you’d twist to open it. The strong adhesive and added leverage help break the seal and give you better grip.

Clean your car

Dust, crumbs, and pet hair love to hide in the cracks and crevices of your car’s interior. For a quick and effective clean, make a duct tape glove. Wrap duct tape around your hand with the sticky side facing out, and pat down your dashboard, vents, seats, and between console cracks to lift dirt, dust, and hair.

Make a DIY car phone mount

Need to use GPS but don’t have a phone mount? Fold duct tape into a strong loop, or create a pocket that holds your phone against the dashboard. It’s a temporary but secure way to keep your screen in view while keeping your hands on the wheel.

Create a custom stencil

If you need to paint numbers, letters, or shapes on a box, wall, or craft project, fold strips of duct tape onto wax paper, cut out your design with a utility knife or scissors, peel off the stencil, and stick it on your surface. It holds paint out well and peels clean when you’re done.

Make a no-slip hanger

Keep your clothes from slipping off hangers by wrapping a strip of duct tape around both ends of the hanger bar (sticky side down). The tape’s texture helps grip clothing such as silk, tank tops, or wide-necked shirts so that they stay put.

Remove a splinter

If you have a splinter close to the surface of your skin, duct tape can help you get it out without tweezers. Survival experts such as Bear Grylls have recommended this simple first-aid trick: Cut a small piece of tape, press it firmly over the splinter, let it sit for a few seconds, and then slowly peel the tape off in the opposite direction of the splinter’s entry. With luck, the splinter will come out stuck to the tape. 

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Duct tape is more than just a repair tool; it’s a multipurpose problem solver. Whether you’re navigating a home repair emergency, hitting the road, or facing a minor wardrobe malfunction, having a roll of duct tape in your drawer, glovebox, or backpack can be a game changer.