Have you seen these amazing little balls near people’s windows recently? They’re not just a new decorating fad — they have some incredibly practical uses! Let’s discover why more and more people are adopting this clever little trick!
Aluminium foil: much more than a sandwich wrapper
We’re all familiar with aluminum foil for wrapping leftovers and snacks. But did you know that it can also become an invaluable ally around the house? Here are some surprising uses for this versatile material:
- Blocking heat and light
- Keep out unwanted small animals
- Cleaning certain surfaces
- Protect garden plants
Intrigued? Read on to find out all about these ingenious tricks!
The aluminium ball: your heat shield
When the mercury rises in summer, we’re all looking for ways to keep cool indoors. What if I told you that simple aluminum balls could help?
How does it work?
Aluminium has the property of reflecting the sun’s rays. By placing aluminium balls near your windows, you create a barrier that reflects some of the heat back outside. The result: your home stays cooler, without the need for energy-hungry air-conditioning.
How it works
- Take a sheet of aluminum foil
- Crumple it into a ball the size of a tennis ball
- Place several balls on the inside of your windowsill
- See the difference in temperature!
For even greater effectiveness, you can combine this technique with other anti-heat tips, such as closing the shutters during the hottest hours of the day.
Bye bye four-legged guests!
Fed up with small rodents squatting in your home? Aluminum balls can also help you get rid of them – without chemicals!
The principle
Mice and other small animals don’t like shiny, reflective surfaces. Aluminum balls create reflections that disorientate and frighten them. What’s more, if they try to nibble the aluminum, they’ll be in for a nasty surprise!
Instructions for use
- Make tinfoil balls as described above
- Place them near windows, but also in corners where you’ve spotted signs of rodents
- Replace the balls regularly to keep them shiny.
This method is particularly effective when combined with other natural rodent control techniques, such as the use of repellent essential oils.
Aluminium, an unexpected household helper
Who’d have thought it? Aluminium foil can also help you with your household chores! Here are a few tips for using aluminium foil as a cleaning product:
To shine silver
- Line a container with aluminum foil, shiny side up
- Fill with hot water and add a tablespoon of salt and bicarbonate of soda.
- Immerse your silver cutlery in the water for 3 minutes
- Rinse and dry: they’ll shine like new!
To clean your iron
- Place a sheet of aluminum foil on your ironing board
- Sprinkle with salt
- Run the hot iron over the foil: the residue will magically come off.
These eco-friendly techniques will save you money on household products, while still being effective!
Aluminium is also popular in the garden
Aspiring gardeners, listen up! Aluminium foil can also help you in the vegetable garden or in your flower beds.
Keep greedy birds away
Does your ripe fruit attract too many birds? Hang strips of aluminum foil near your fruit trees. The noise and reflections will keep them at bay.
Boost plant growth
Place pieces of aluminum around your tomato or bell pepper plants. The reflected light will stimulate their growth. But be careful not to overdo it, as too much light can also harm plants.
A few precautions to take
Before transforming your home into a glittering Ali Baba’s cave, keep the following points in mind:
- Don’t block your windows completely: natural light is important for your well-being.
- Make sure you secure the aluminum balls so they don’t roll around.
- Don’t use this technique near heat sources such as radiators.
- Remember to recycle your aluminum when you change it
A final word
Now you know all about the surprising uses of aluminum balls! This simple, economical trick can really improve your everyday comfort. So, are you ready to give it a try?
