How to squeeze every last drop out of household products

Reported by: John Matarese
Email: jmatarese@wcpo.com

You know the frustration - you're trying to get that last bit of peanut butter or that last dab of lotion that's eluding you. Not only is it frustrating, it's money wasted.

But there are some secrets for getting to it!

People interviewed outside a grocery store know the problem too well...whether it's squeezing out that last bit of toothpaste ...pumping lotion and getting nowhere.... or getting that last dollop of detergent from the bottle.

"It's frustrating."  "The ketchup is especially disturbing."  "Toothpaste by far is the worst."

But our partners at Consumer Reports Magazine have come up with some really handy maneuvers to get out every last drop....starting with a pair of scissors.

Jody Rolena at the magazine says "We found the cut-it-in-half trick works."

Toothpaste and Lotion Tubes

Take lotion - cut the tube in half and scoop out the rest- there's plenty left. This works for toothpaste, too.  Savings: perhaps a week' s worth of toothpaste.

Lipstick

Down to the bottom of your favorite lipstick? Have no fear.

Jody Rolena  says "Use a chopstick to scoop out whatever's left. Then transfer it to a small jar or travel-size container. You may need a lipstick brush to apply it."
 
Savings:  enough lipstick to cover several mornings.

Olive Oil

The stuff is as expensive as gold.  So when it appears to be gone, add some vinegar and herbs.  Savings: you have Italian dressing for one night's salad for your family.

Mayo and PB

Consumer Reports says a set of small spatulas is the secret for scooping out that last bit of mayo and peanut butter.  It goes where no knife or spoon has ever reached before.  Savings: you should get one extra sandwich per jug.

Honey and Molasses

As for that last drop of honey and molasses, put the jar in hot water. Once warmed up, it will flow out easily.  Savings:  Enough honey for 2 or 3 cups of tea.

Shampoo and Liquid Laundry Soap

Finally, shampoo or laundry detergent: Add water to the bottle when it runs out, instead of throwing it away.  Savings: you'll get one or two more washings.

This won't save you hundreds of dollars, but in this economy, every little drop helps...so you don't waste your money. I'm John Matarese.