30 People Expose Life Hacks That Just Don’t Work

Life hacks are everywhere, offering quick solutions for everything from cleaning to cooking to organizing. A simple search for “best life hacks” brings up endless lists of tips and tricks, promising to make daily life a breeze.

While some hacks can be handy, not all live up to the hype. A few so-called “life savers” may even have the opposite effect, creating more hassle than they’re worth—or worse, posing risks to health and safety.

Identifying which hacks work and which ones to avoid can save you time, energy, and money. But not everyone takes the time to separate facts from fads.

A thought-provoking Reddit thread once asked users to share “commonly recommended life hacks that are wrong or bad.” The answers shed light on many popular hacks that don’t perform as promised or may even be harmful when tested.

For instance, some kitchen hacks encourage shortcuts that can affect food quality or safety, while others in health and fitness have little scientific backing. What seems like a clever trick could be wasted effort or worse.

Here, we’ll look at some of these overhyped hacks and why they may not be worth the trouble. Before you dive into the next “game-changing” tip, it might be worth considering if the advice holds up in real life.

Can hacks really help you live happily?

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Don’t quit.

"Don’t quit; keep pushing no matter what. Sometimes in life, you need to understand when to throw in the towel and walk away."Freepik

Coworkers are not friends.

"I always see people on Reddit say that coworkers are not friends and to not develop friendships with them. Why? That's literally the worst advice I've seen parroted here. Like, don't be a degenerate in front of them, but developing friendly relationships with the people you see for a quarter of your life is normal and not problematic."

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The Dangers of DIY Hacks

Many DIY life hacks sound appealing, but they can sometimes lead to dangerous situations. For instance, Dr. John G. Haller, a safety expert, points out that hacks involving household chemicals can create toxic reactions.

He emphasizes that instead of mixing products like vinegar and bleach, individuals should prioritize using safer, tested cleaning methods.

Haller's research shows that understanding the science behind these products can prevent hazardous outcomes, urging the public to read labels and follow guidelines for safety.

A walk or working out to combat depression.

"When people suggest going for a walk or working out to combat depression because “you don’t NEED medication; you just need to clear your head. Depression and anxiety are all in your head.” B***h, no s**t it’s in my head. That’s why I take brain medicine."Pexels

"Opening bananas wrong."

"That b******t one about how we've all been 'opening bananas wrong' because we don't do it upside down like chimps. It literally doesn't f*****g matter. The banana opens easily the way I do it, and I'm going to keep doing it that way."

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"Cleanse" diet.

"Any kind of 'cleanse' diet or item. Your body already does that. Colonics, shakes, fasts, etc. don't 'cleanse' anything better than what your actual biology can do."

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A common misconception is that multitasking enhances productivity. Dr. David Allen, a productivity expert, argues that it often diminishes focus and efficiency instead.

His methodology emphasizes the importance of single-tasking and organizing tasks by priority, allowing individuals to maximize their potential.

By narrowing attention to one task at a time, people can achieve better results in less time, improving both performance and satisfaction in their work.

No Pain - No Gain.

"Pain is the body's way of telling you that you are damaged."Pexels

Sleeping less for success.

"The 'just sleep less' advice to be more productive is terrible. Lack of sleep affects health and focus, making you less efficient in the long run."Pexels

"Leave out of your comfort zone."

"Repeating constantly 'Leave out of your comfort zone.' Not everyone wants to leave it, and some people work very hard to have a safe space and comfort. Some people just want to settle, and it's fair."Pexels

The Myth of Quick Fixes

Many life hacks promise quick fixes for complex issues, but Dr. Brené Brown, a research professor, warns that these often overlook deeper emotional needs.

In her studies, she highlights the importance of vulnerability and authentic connections in overcoming personal challenges, rather than relying on superficial solutions.

Brown encourages individuals to engage in self-reflection and seek meaningful conversations, as these approaches foster resilience and long-term satisfaction.

Wake up at 5 AM.

"Just wake up at 5 AM, and your life will be fixed!" Nah, I’ve tried it, and all I got was more tired and cranky 😂"

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Do not put your toaster sideways.

"Do not put your toaster sideways to make cheese toast, as some life hacks suggest. It is a fire hazard."

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Multitasking makes you more productive.

"Actually, multitasking tends to make you worse at everything you’re trying to do. You end up scattered, doing a mediocre job on each thing instead of really focusing and excelling at one task. If you need to get stuff done, block out distractions and tackle things one at a time."Pexels

Life hacks often promise to save time, but sometimes, they just complicate tasks. Dr. Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, explains that simplicity is key to reducing stress.

She suggests evaluating each hack's practicality and effectiveness before integrating it into your routine. Instead of adopting every trendy hack, focus on those that genuinely enhance your life.

By prioritizing simplicity, you can reduce overwhelm and cultivate a more fulfilling daily experience.

A small balance on your credit card to build credit.

"Always carry a small balance on your credit card to build credit. No. Paying off your debts consistently builds credit."Pexels

If you are lost in an unfamiliar location...

"I saw one the other day that said if you are lost in an unfamiliar location needing rescue and your battery is about to die, change your voicemail to include your approximate location. Then people who call will be able to determine where you are after listening to the voicemail. Things that are very wrong with this advice:* Many people can go days without getting a phone call.* If you don’t answer the phone, most people probably won’t listen to the voicemail greeting.What you should do, if possible, is send one of your contacts your approximate location. GPS coordinates work. And always call 911."Pexels

Lemon Water for Detox.

"Drinking lemon water for detox. While lemon water can be refreshing, the body already has efficient detoxification systems (like the liver)."

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Health Risks of Popular Hacks

Many life hacks related to health can pose serious risks. For example, Dr. Michael Greger, a renowned nutritionist, warns against extreme diets that promise rapid weight loss.

He explains that such approaches can lead to nutrient deficiencies and long-term health issues. Instead, Greger advocates for a balanced diet rich in whole foods and regular physical activity.

Focusing on moderation and sustainability is crucial for overall well-being and long-lasting health outcomes.

Food hack.

"Any food hack that wants you to get sugar boiling hot and then spin it with a whisk in the air to make strings or says it'll turn into fairy floss or some such.You will burn yourself, and getting it off your skin is difficult because it's sugar. And they always aim it at gd teenagers.Howtocookthat on YouTube has a lot of the food-related ones and explains why they're dangerous or don't work."Pexels

"Putting your phone in rice."

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"Dressing like security or maintenance to gain access to restricted areas of events and venues. This could endanger the safety of others if an actual emergency occurred."

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One major flaw in many life hacks is the lack of scientific backing. Dr. Atul Gawande, a surgeon and author, asserts that relying solely on anecdotal evidence can lead to ineffective practices.

He emphasizes the importance of evidence-based solutions, particularly in health and safety contexts. By seeking information from reputable sources and professionals, individuals can make informed decisions that truly enhance their lives.

To "do it anyway" or "do it scared."

"Sometimes you do need to get yourself together/calm down before you do something. Like driving."Pexels

Bicarb soda down a drain will unblock it.

"That putting bicarb soda down your drain will unblock it. It doesn't do s**t. Source: I'm a plumber, and I'll charge you more as it makes it harder to clear the waste or drain."Pexels

Cod liver oil to induce labour.

"Drinking cod liver oil to induce labour is never a good idea. It can make the baby poop in utero. 'I did it, and it worked for me.' Good for you. You are lucky. A percentage of babies aren't so lucky, and they inhale the poop and get very sick or worse."Pexels

Evaluating Financial Hacks

Financial hacks are popular, but many can lead to poor decision-making. Ramit Sethi, a personal finance expert, cautions against following every trend without understanding its implications.

He encourages individuals to develop a solid financial plan based on their unique circumstances rather than relying on generic advice. Sethi emphasizes building a foundation of financial literacy and creating tailored strategies that align with personal goals for lasting success.

Asking for an itemized receipt.

"The advice I see on Reddit about asking for an itemized receipt is incomplete.Asking for an itemized receipt does not automatically drop the total cost. Instead, asking for an itemized receipt allows you to identify line items that don't make sense, don't apply to you, or weren't rendered.For instance, I was charged a materials delivery fee as part of a home renovation project, even though I transported all the materials to my home myself. Since the service was not rendered, I got that cost stricken from my total, but I had to first identify it manually and draw attention to it—it didn't just automatically go away when I asked for the itemized receipt."Pexels

"Vinegar and baking soda is not a cleanser."

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"Freeze a wet sponge for an ice pack that won't drip."

"The whole 'freeze a wet sponge for an ice pack that won't drip' is wrong on every level. If the sponge is saturated, it will absolutely drip as it melts. If it was only damp, it won't drip so much, but it also won't have much thermal mass and thus won't deliver much cold. Either way, it will be a stiff rectangle that won't conform to the body part you need chilled. So many things make much better ice packs, including the classic of ice cubes in a plastic bag."Pexels

Many life hacks are based on outdated methods that don't suit modern lifestyles. Dr. Penelope Leach, a child psychologist, notes that parenting hacks often fail to consider children's evolving needs.

She advocates for adapting strategies that resonate with current parenting principles, focusing on emotional intelligence and connection rather than rigid rules. By fostering understanding and flexibility, parents can create healthier family dynamics that support their children's growth.

The harder the mattress, the better.

"I used to sell mattresses and commonly had customers who believed that the harder their mattress, the better it was for them.Untrue. If you lay down and you're comfortable, then it's a good mattress. You don't need to sleep on a slab of stone for health benefits.Also, it's a pain, but turning your mattress every now and then is good for its long-term health."Pexels

Freezing hard drives.

'Freezing hard drives: Risky. Better to use professional services. Lemon juice as sunscreen: Bad idea. Use real sunscreen. Coffee to sober up: Just a myth. Only time works.'Pexels

"Using Dawn dish soap on kittens to kill fleas. It doesn’t work. It’s a hoax. Even Dawn said it doesn’t kill fleas."

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The Importance of Context

Life hacks can vary in effectiveness depending on individual circumstances. Dr. Ian Kerner, a sex therapist, explains that relationship advice needs to be tailored to specific dynamics.

He suggests that couples should engage in open dialogue about their needs and challenges instead of relying on generic hacks. This personalized approach fosters deeper understanding and intimacy, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.

The most effective cleaner.

"Mix vinegar and bicarb in a spray bottle for the most effective cleaner—enjoy cleaning with salt water. The effective part is the reaction of mixing the two, not the resultant solution."

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"The saying 'it will come when you least expect it' means that you have to look and fight for what you want."

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It's ok to wipe your eyeglasses with your shirt.

"TP or paper towels? No, that s**t can still scratch the lenses, and you should use the cloth that came with your glasses instead."

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While life hacks may seem harmless, some can lead to unintentional consequences. Dr. Kelly McGonigal, a health psychologist, emphasizes that stress management techniques should be evidence-based.

Instead of relying on quick fixes, she recommends incorporating mindfulness practices and self-compassion techniques to build resilience over time. These strategies can enhance well-being and promote healthier coping mechanisms in challenging situations.

Stop applying lemon on your face!

"Stop applying lemon on your face thinking it's gonna heal your acne and pigmentation! And for God's sake, putting random food in your hair!! It's better to just eat that food instead."

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Life hacks are meant to make life easier, but not all of them work as well as they claim. Some might be harmless but don’t help, while others could be risky. Trying these quick fixes is tempting, but it’s usually wiser to be careful.

The best approach is to examine each tip closely, especially if it involves your health or safety. Stick with hacks that come from trustworthy sources and skip the ones that seem questionable. This way, you’ll avoid unnecessary problems and find tips that make a positive difference.

Practical Steps for Healing

In summary, while life hacks can provide convenience, many of them lack scientific backing and can lead to adverse effects. Experts like Dr. John G. Haller and Dr. Brené Brown stress the importance of evaluating the effectiveness and safety of these hacks before implementation. By focusing on evidence-based practices and personalized strategies, individuals can foster more profound, long-lasting improvements in their lives. Ultimately, investing time in understanding the challenges and seeking guidance from credible sources can lead to better outcomes and a more fulfilling daily experience.