If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a jar full of pennies, you might have wondered what to do with all that loose change. While most people consider pennies worthless, they still serve a purpose beyond sitting in a drawer or collecting dust. In fact, there are plenty of practical uses for pennies that can help you save money, reduce clutter, and even add a touch of creativity to your life. Let’s explore three clever ways to make use of those “worthless” pennies.
1. Create Unique Home Decor
One of the most fun and creative ways to put your pennies to use is by turning them into stylish home decor. Pennies, with their distinct copper shine, can be transformed into beautiful pieces of art that add personality to any room. Here are a few ideas:
- Penny Floor: For a unique and eye-catching look, consider creating a penny floor. This involves laying pennies in a pattern, either with the heads or tails facing up, to cover a floor area. While it requires a bit of time and effort, the end result is a stunning and durable floor surface.
- Penny Table: A penny-covered tabletop can make a bold statement in your home. To create a penny table, simply glue the pennies onto the surface of a table and cover them with a layer of resin for a shiny, polished finish.
2. Save for a Rainy Day (Literally)
Another practical way to put your pennies to use is by saving them for emergency or unexpected situations. While each penny may seem insignificant on its own, when collected over time, they can add up to a surprising amount. Here are a few ideas on how to start saving your pennies:
- Coin Jar: Set up a dedicated jar or container for all the pennies you come across. Every time you receive a penny in change, toss it into the jar. At the end of the year, you may have enough to buy something small, pay a bill, or treat yourself to a fun experience.
- Pennies for Charities: Some people also use pennies to donate to causes they care about. Many charities or local fundraising events accept coins as donations, and you can contribute your pennies to support a good cause.
3. Use Pennies for Practical Household Tasks
Believe it or not, pennies can serve a practical purpose in maintaining and improving the condition of your home. From cleaning to organizing, here are a few ways pennies can be useful around the house:
- Loosen Stubborn Jar Lids: If you’ve ever struggled to open a tight jar lid, a penny can come to the rescue. By placing a penny between the lid and the jar, you create friction that helps loosen the lid. This method works best with glass jars and can save you time and frustration when you need to open something quickly.
- Clean Copper Items: Pennies themselves are made of copper, so they’re a perfect tool for cleaning other copper objects. For example, if you have a copper pot or faucet that’s become tarnished, gently rubbing a penny on the surface can help restore its shine. You can also use vinegar and salt along with the penny to create a simple cleaning solution.
Conclusion
While pennies may seem like the least valuable coins in your pocket, they can serve a variety of practical purposes. Whether you’re creating unique home decor, saving for a rainy day, or using them for everyday tasks, pennies can be surprisingly useful. The next time you come across a handful of pennies, consider putting them to work in ways that not only save you money but also add value to your life in creative and practical ways.
FAQs
Can pennies really be used for cleaning?
Yes! Pennies are effective for cleaning copper items. Their copper content helps remove tarnish when used with vinegar and salt.
How can I make a penny floor?
To make a penny floor, lay out pennies in a pattern and secure them with adhesive. Once set, cover the floor with a clear resin for a smooth finish.
What is the best way to store pennies for savings?
A simple coin jar or piggy bank can work well for saving pennies. Just toss in every penny you come across, and you’ll be surprised at how much they add up over time!