Most of us don’t think twice about the little tab on top of a soda can. You pop it open, finish your drink, and toss it into the recycling bin.

But those tiny tabs can actually come in handy around the house. I’ve seen them used to fix broken zipper pulls, create extra space in a closet, hang picture frames, and even turn into some pretty clever DIY projects. They’re small enough to save without creating another pile of clutter, and you really only need one for some of these tricks.

So before you recycle your next empty can, pull off the tab. Here are 9 everyday problems you might be able to solve with something you were about to throw away.

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Double Up Your Closet Hangers

Running out of room on the closet rod? Slide a soda tab over the hook of one hanger, then thread a second hanger through the lower opening to hang clothes vertically instead of side by side.

Replace a Broken Zipper Pull

A missing zipper pull doesn’t necessarily mean the bag or jacket is unusable. Slip a soda tab through the zipper slider for a quick temporary handle that’s much easier to grab.

Add a Hanger to a Picture Frame

If a lightweight frame doesn’t have hanging hardware, a soda tab can work as a simple DIY hanger. Secure one end to the back of the frame with an appropriate small screw, leaving the other opening exposed so it can catch on a wall hook or nail.

Keep Earbuds From Becoming Tangled

Small wired earbuds have a way of turning themselves into knots the minute they’re tossed into a drawer or bag. Wrap the cord neatly and use a soda tab to help hold the bundle together until you need it again.

Keep Charging Cords Organized

The same idea can work for lightweight charging cables and other small cords. Bundle the cord first and use the tab as a simple keeper so you’re not constantly untangling a drawer full of wires.

Create a Small Hook for Lightweight Items

With careful cutting and bending, you can transform a soda tab into a small S-shaped hook. It’s best reserved for very lightweight objects since the tab wasn’t designed to support significant weight.

Make a Keychain

Connect several tabs with jump rings, ribbon, cord, or another sturdy material, then attach them to a key ring. This easy upcycling project can be customized with paint or colorful cord.

Make a Reusable Water Bottle Carrier

Connect tabs with crochet or sturdy cord to create a flexible holder that fits around a reusable water bottle. Add a crocheted strap, and you’ve turned two reusable materials into something you can actually carry.

Keep Small Rolls of Ribbon or Cord Together

Short pieces of ribbon, twine, embroidery floss, and thin cord can quickly become a tangled mess in a craft drawer. Wrap the material neatly and use a soda tab as part of a simple tie or keeper to help keep everything contained.