6 Fourth of July Life Hacks

6 Fourth of July life hacks to make your Independence Day truly pop

BURGERS

Make a Thumb imprint in your burgers for better shaping and cooking

Everyone knows of the burger bulge – when your meat pops up in the center and pushing it down with the back side of a spatula is irresistible. Instead of watching all of those delicious juices and flavors seep out every time you flip, create an indent with your thumb right in the middle of the burger patty. As it cooks, the juices will naturally fill in the indent and it will keep your spatula habits in check.

DRINKS

Cool a Coke in 2 minutes or less

Fill a large serving bowl with an ample amount of ice water. Add a bit of salt and wait for the water to become super cold. Add in your drinks of choice and roll them around in the ice bath. Voila! In two minutes, you will be ready to serve ice cold beverages to all of your party guests!

SUN

Keep your skin ouch free

First, try and locate a sunscreen that not only has a high SPF, but also UVA and UVB protection. Then apply generously all over your body, even under your clothes. Most T-shirts only have an SPF of 7, so clothing does not guarantee a sunburn free zone. Make sure to re-apply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you are in water.

BUGS

Avoid pesky bugs with these natural remedies

Surround your patio or deck with one, two or all of these plants that act as a natural mosquito repellant. Don’t have time to garden? Buy a few off the list and rub it onto your skin the day of your celebration.

Citronella, Catnip, Rosemary, Basil, Lavender, Peppermint, Orange Peel, Garlic, Marigolds, Geraniums, Pennyroyal, Lemon Balm

BEAT THE HEAT

Homemade Slip and Slide

During your errand run, make a pit stop at your local home improvement store and pick up an extra-long plastic sheet. When you get home, unroll the sheet, strap it down with yard stakes or sandbags and get the water flowing. For extra slip in your slide, add some dish soap or bubbles to the mix!

BEST GUEST ABOVE THE REST

Know a host that has everything? Bring a watermelon as a party gift! Sweet, summery and always delicious!