Every day, we interact with countless objects without giving much thought to their histories or the weird facts surrounding them. From the mundane to the extraordinary, here is a deep dive into the secret lives of everyday objects that you may not know about.
Did you know that the microwave oven was invented by accident? Percy Spencer, an engineer working on radar technology during World War II, discovered that microwaves could cook food when a chocolate bar in his pocket melted. This serendipitous moment led to the invention of the microwave oven, transforming how we cook and reheat food today.
Ballpoint pens, a staple in offices worldwide, owe their existence to a Hungarian journalist named László Bíró. Frustrated with fountain pens' smudging ink, Bíró created a new pen using a tiny ball bearing in the nib to distribute quick-drying ink evenly. The ballpoint pen was patented in 1938 and became a global phenomenon.
Post-It Notes, now ubiquitous in offices and homes, were also a product of fortuitous discovery. Spencer Silver, a scientist at 3M, invented a low-tack adhesive that didn't have an immediate use. However, his colleague, Art Fry, saw potential when he needed a bookmark that wouldn't damage pages. This simple idea transformed into the versatile Post-It Notes we use today.
Ever wondered why doorknobs are made of brass? It's not just for aesthetic reasons; brass possesses antimicrobial properties. This means it can kill bacteria and other pathogens, making it an excellent material for frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and handles.
The origin of bubble wrap as a packaging material is also quite surprising. Invented by Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes in 1957, bubble wrap was initially conceived as a textured wallpaper! When the wallpaper idea didn't catch on, the inventors pivoted, and bubble wrap found its niche as protective packaging material.
Velcro, the hook-and-loop fastener used in everything from clothing to space suits, was inspired by nature. Swiss engineer George de Mestral noticed how burrs stuck to his dog's fur during a walk in 1941. This observation led to the invention of Velcro, which mimics the burrs' hook-like structure.
Even the humble rubber duck has an interesting backstory. It was initially patented as a chew toy by sculptor Peter Ganine in the 1940s. These floating toys have since become iconic bath-time companions for children worldwide, even inspiring the quirky
The Secret Lives of Everyday Objects
