The winner: My husband loves bagels from the bagel shop, and we normally buy a couple of dozen at a time. At home we slice each bagel and then put two halves in a sandwich bag and freeze them.
If you freeze them with the cut sides together, the two halves fuse and are impossible to separate. A trick I learned is stack the two halves with the cut sides to the outside, and the uncut edges together. They easily separate and can be popped in the toaster! Patti Ehrlich, Mooresville
Toilet paper tube trick
To avoid clutter and save space I take the cardboard core from toilet paper and use it to hold the cords from toaster ovens and such. Simply wrap the electric cord around your hand and slip them into the core. Steward Beasley, Lancaster , S.C.
Reuse those freezer bags
I reuse my freezer storage bags by washing them with soapy water and letting the dry. Inez Bolder, Charlotte
Utility closet’s in the bag
I have a small utility closet with little space. So I bought a clear shoe bag with room for 20 items. Most bottles and cans fit. Marlene Brodrick, Fort Mill
Share your ideas
Win a $10 credit on an Observer Deal Saver Deal. Send your tip, name, address and phone to clever@charlotteobserver.com or Home Section, Charlotte Observer, P.O Box 30308, Charlotte, NC 28230-0308.












