21+ Uses for Magnets

When it comes to prepping, having versatile tools and resources is essential. One such tool that often goes unnoticed is the magnet. Magnets can be incredibly useful in various scenarios, from organizing supplies to creating makeshift devices. I want to explore these surprising uses for magnets that you may not have considered before during your prepping endeavors. Did you buy those colorful alphabet magnets for your toddlers? I did and they loved them

Uses for Magnets

How do magnets work?

Magnets have two poles, a north pole, and a south pole. Like poles repel each other, while opposite poles attract each other. This attraction and repulsion are caused by the alignment of magnetic fields. By using the opposing magnets effectively, all sorts of products and uses come into play.

1. Securing Emergency Lighting

​Attach small magnetic LED lights to metal surfaces to illuminate your workspace during power outages or emergency situations. Magnets can hold the lights securely, allowing you to have hands-free lighting wherever you need it. What to Use for Emergency Lighting

2. Organizing Tools

​Keep your tools and small metal items organized by using magnetic strips or bars. Attach them to the walls or peg boards of your workshop or storage area to easily store and access tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, and other metallic implements. Preparing for the School Year: Must-Have Items for Preppers

3. Creating Magnetic Hooks

​Convert ordinary hooks into magnetic hooks by attaching small magnets to their backs. These hooks can be used to hang lightweight gear, kitchen utensils, or even clothes, maximizing storage space in your prepping area. 35 Items Every Prepper Should Have When Traveling

4. Building DIY Compasses

​In emergency situations where you lack a compass, use the earth’s magnetic field and a magnetized needle to create a simple makeshift compass. Rub the needle with a magnet several times, then carefully float it on a still bowl of water to align with the Earth’s magnetic field, indicating the North-South direction. 10 Survival Items to Hunt For at Flea Markets

5. Tracking Metal Objects

​During prepping, it’s important to keep track of metal objects like knives, hatchets, and tools. Attach small magnets to these items or their sheaths to ensure they are always within reach and prevent misplacement. Why You Should Stock Up on Precious Metals

6. Crafting Magnetic Containers

​Transform empty tin cans or containers into magnetic storage solutions. Simply glue small magnets to the back of the containers, allowing you to stick them to any magnetic surface and store small items like screws, nails, or even spices. DIY PVC Frozen Ice Containers For Emergencies

7. Holding Tarps and Covers

​Secure tarps, covers, or makeshift shelters by using magnets to hold them in place. Attach magnets strategically to the edges of the material and fix them onto metal surfaces like stakes, ensuring stability during windy conditions or when protection is needed. How to Use a Tarp for Shelter

8. Improvising Door Latches

In emergency situations where traditional locks may not be available, use magnet sets as door latches. Place a magnet on the door frame and another on the corresponding area of the door to keep it securely closed, providing temporary security and privacy. 9 Prepping Tips for Outdoor Survival

9. Collecting Metal Debris

​Magnets are excellent tools for recovering metal debris or objects from hard-to-reach areas. Attach a strong magnet to a long stick or pole and use it to retrieve metallic items that have fallen into tight spaces, drains, or bodies of water. 10 Ways to Utilize Old Bath Towels for Preppers

​10. Assembling DIY Generators

​If you need help finding uses for magnets, then this one might work! Harness the power of magnets by creating simple DIY generators. By rotating magnets near a coil of wire, you can generate a small amount of electricity, which can be used to power low-energy devices or charge batteries in emergency situations. Power Outage: What to do Next

What types of magnets exist?

• Permanent magnets
• Neodymium magnets 
• Rare earth magnets 
• Temporary magnets 
• Ceramic magnets
• Magnetic poles
• Dark magnetic strip 
• Magnetic needle
• Industrial magnets
• Magnetic magnets
• Tiny magnets

What are some everyday uses for magnets?

• Holding up notes, photos, and artwork on the refrigerator
• Securing window curtains or shower curtains in place
• Organizing and displaying metal tools in workshops or kitchens
• Attaching name tags or badges to clothing
• Keeping cabinets and drawers closed with magnetic latches
• Holding metal keys or other small metal objects in one place
• Securing phone mounts in cars or on desks
• Storing knives on magnetic strips in the kitchen
• Closing and securing doors with magnetic door catches
• We use magnetic therapy for pain relief and healing (consult a medical professional)
• There are magnetic closures on bags, purses, and wallets
• Magnetic clasps for jewelry
• Educators use magnetic toys and games for entertainment and education
• Using magnetic drill bits can really come in handy to hold screws in tight places

Can magnets be harmful?

Magnets can be harmful and generate adverse effects if ingested, as they can cause damage to internal organs. They can also interfere with certain medical devices, such as pacemakers or implanted defibrillators. It’s essential to handle magnets with caution and keep any possible small hazardous magnet away from young children. 11 Dangerous Prepping Mistakes

Are all metals attracted to magnets?

No, not all metals are attracted to magnets or magnetic materials in general. Only ferromagnetic materials, such as iron, nickel, and cobalt, exhibit strong magnetic properties and can be attracted to magnets.

Do magnets lose their strength over time?

Magnets can slowly lose their strength over time due to factors like temperature changes, physical shock, and exposure to strong magnetic fields. However, permanent magnets can retain their magnetism for an extended period. How Does a Faraday Cage Work?

How are magnets used in transportation technology?

We’ve been using electric motors and their related magnets for years for many industrial purposes, including transportation. In recent years, and particularly with the advent of electric vehicles, magnets play a key role in generating motion. We’re now seeing all kinds of electric vehicles besides cars. Pickup trucks are coming into their own, along with small buses and other modes of public transportation.

We are just hearing about the use of high-speed magnetic trains and the trends indicate they will become very popular as their use expands. The term used for the way electromagnetics move the train is called magnetic levitation since the train actually floats above the track. The trains are able to reach very high speeds since there really isn’t any friction between the train and the track. It is estimated that the Maglev Train in Shanghai, China can reach a speed of 270 miles per hour, more than 100 MPH higher than most of the fastest standard high-speed trains in use.

These trains use what are called permanent magnets that are designed to last for many years.

Final Word 

Magnets are versatile tools that can greatly aid anyone’s prepping efforts. From organizing tools to creating makeshift devices, their uses are diverse and often surprising. When you take the time to figure out the uses for magnets in your prepping supplies, you’ll be better equipped to handle unforeseen circumstances and ensure a better approach to preparedness. May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Magnet with Blue Background Depositphotos_6741265_S, Magnet Colorful Letters Depositphotos_66862207_S