10 BRILLIANT USES FOR POOL NOODLES

Clever ways to repurpose the foam toys

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1 MAKE IT EASY TO FILL A LARGE BUCKET

You need to fill a utility bucket, but it's too big to fit under the faucet in your sink. The fix? A pool noodle! Simply set the bucket on the floor, slip the noodle over the faucet and run it down to the bucket. The noodle acts like a hose, funneling the water to flow right into the bucket.

2 Safely store a rake

Even though you try to store your rake out of the way in your shed or garage, you worry about someone bumping into the sharp tines. To prevent any injuries, reach for a pool noodle to make a protective "case." Just cut down the center of the noodle with a utility knife, then place it over the tines of the rake. Store as desired. Problem solved!

3 Sidestep gardening pain

If crouching down while tending to your garden leaves your knees aching, create your own kneeling pad. To make: Cut three sections from a pool noodle wide enough for your knees to rest on and bind them together with rubber bands so they resemble a mini "log raft." The foam will provide cushion so you can happily tend to your plants pain-free.