The Simple Solution To Always Find The End Of Your Packing Tape

Packing tape is such a versatile item, helping you do everything from close boxes to dust those hard-to-reach areas. However, we've all been in a situation where we pick and pick at the tape, trying to find the end, only for it to end up in chunks or even thin shreds. Not only is this frustrating, but it can be wasteful. But this doesn't have to happen to you anymore if you follow this simple solution to always find the end of your packing tape. For this hack, you'll need a toothpick.

First, you'll want to find the end. A simple way to do this is to dip your finger in a white powder or chalk and use it as a tracing agent. The white powder will create a line, indicating the end of the roll. Still can't find the end? Slowly run your finger up and down until you feel it. Pull it up and cut it to make it even. Then, take a handy dandy toothpick and place it horizontally about half an inch from the end. Take the remaining tape and fold it under the toothpick. It should make a tab, making it easier for you to grab for next time. The downside of this hack is that you'll need a new wood pick every time you use the tape. And if you do try to remove it, toothpicks can easily break, causing splinters. But don't give up — there are a couple other alternatives that work as well, like a paperclip and the tape itself.

Sometimes we don't always have a toothpick lying around, but that doesn't mean there isn't a way to find the end of your tape. Very similar to the toothpick, take a paperclip and place it at the end of your tape roll as a marker. Stick the clip a few centimeters or so out, making it easy to find and to peel when you need the tape again. Plus, a paperclip is a little more durable, making it easier for you to use indefinitely. This hack can be used for packing tape, and can also help you never lose the end of your duct tape roll.

You don't have a toothpick or a paperclip? With this solution, you don't even need an additional item. All you need is the tape itself. After you cut a piece, take the end of the roll and create a tab by folding it into itself. This small label will stick out, making it easier for you to find the next time you need it. After you finish that packing tape roll, don't toss it out just yet! You can repurpose your empty tape rolls around your house and garden as organizers or even crafting projects.