8 Household Replacements for a Flat Head Screwdriver

A Flat Head screw driver can preform all kinds of home improvement tasks and repairs surely. But sometimes you might not have one readily available. Do not worry though since there are some very simple household items that can easily replace tools such as a Flat Head in a jam.

Unlike a Phillips Head screwdriver that has two blades and is in the shape of a cross, a Flat Head or regular screwdriver has only one blade.

Many Choices

A Flat Head is often easier to find a replacement for than a Phillips Head. You might be surprised to learn that many of substitutes can be find in your junk drawer in the kitchen. They can come in handy when you cannot find your Flat Head screwdriver or you don’t feel like walking across to borrow the neighbor’s or jumping into the car and heading up to the local hardware store to purchase one.

If you open your eyes and try to use your imagination combined with some very simple common logic, you will be rather amazed at how easy it is to track down a substitute for your home improvement repair job that you once thought could only be performed by a screwdriver.

Below are eight easy items to try and use in place of a traditional Flat Head screwdriver for your next home improvement or remodeling project.

Loose Coins

Whether it is a nickel, penny or dime, almost any lose change that you mind find in drawers, in between sofa cushions or in your clothing pockets can be used in place of a Flat Head screwdriver.

Butter Knife

A dull butter knife or one with a slightly serrated edge is also a simple solution to tightening or loosening something if you cannot locate a Flat Head screwdriver. Be sure it is clean and void of any food particles, liquids or grease.

Quick Keys

If you are in a real bind, sometimes, a key can be useful. The flatter the key; like a house key can often be used to tighten or loosen what would normally be tackled by a Flat Head screwdriver.

Washers

If you have any thin, individual washers, they can often be used to turn screws when a Flat Head screwdriver cannot be found.

Simple Nail File

Try an old-fashioned stainless steel pointed nail file that to unscrew or screw in screws that are normally done with a Flat Head.

A Sharp Knife

If a butter knife does not do the job, try a knife that has a sharp, pointed end. Be careful that you handle it with care and do not cut yourself in the process of repairing the intended item.

Use Fingernails

A long fingernail—real or artificial—can come in handy for tiny screws if a Flat Head is not available. As long as it is strong, it can take the place of the tool and either turn a little screw or loosen it without hassle.

Small Nail Clipper

Depending on the size of the screw, a nail clipper can squeeze, twist and turn the screw. It is also easy to hold as it is similar to a regular screwdriver.