November 13, 2025

The Many Handy Uses of Zip Ties You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

I have to admit, zip ties might be one of the most underrated tools around. They’re inexpensive, easy to use, and surprisingly strong. I keep a pack in my junk drawer, one in my toolbox, and even a few in my car. Over the years, I’ve found more ways to use them than I ever expected. Once you start looking, you realize zip ties are the quick fix you didn’t know you needed.



One of the most obvious uses for zip ties is organizing cords and cables. Whether it’s behind the TV, under your desk, or in the garage, tangled cords are a nightmare. I bundle cables together with zip ties and instantly make everything look neat and manageable. If I need to adjust later, I just snip and replace them. It’s such a small thing, but it makes a big difference in keeping spaces tidy.

Zip ties also come in handy for home repairs. I’ve used them to secure a loose fence, temporarily fix a broken vacuum handle, and even hold a plant stake in place when I was out of gardening wire. They may not always be a permanent fix, but they can buy you time until you get the proper materials. I like knowing I can grab one and solve a small problem in seconds.

Speaking of gardening, zip ties are lifesavers outside too. I use them to tie up tomato plants, secure trellises, or bundle together hoses and extension cords when I’m done working in the yard. They’re weather-resistant, so they hold up pretty well against the elements. Plus, they come in different sizes and colors, so I can match them to what I’m using.

When I travel, I toss a few zip ties in my suitcase. They make a great backup if I lose a luggage lock, and I can use one to keep zippers together for extra security. I’ve even used them to fix a broken zipper pull on a bag. It’s not fancy, but it works.

Around the holidays, I use zip ties to hang lights and decorations. They make it easy to secure garland to railings or wrap lights around outdoor posts. When I’m done, I just cut them off and toss them. No tangled string or lost hooks to deal with next year.

They also come in handy for car emergencies. Once, when a plastic panel in my car came loose, I used a couple of zip ties to hold it in place until I could get to the mechanic. I’ve even seen people use them to temporarily attach a bumper or secure a muffler that’s come loose.

Honestly, the list goes on. From organizing tools to making DIY projects easier, zip ties are one of those little things that prove how simple solutions can make life smoother. Every time I use one, I’m reminded that sometimes, the best tools aren’t the biggest or most expensive, they’re the clever little ones you can count on for almost anything.