I finally found the secret to perfectly straight braided cables — and it doesn't cost a thing

A person straightening out a cable with a Home Hacks badge on the bottom right.

Welcome to Home Hacks

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Home Hacks is my new Tom’s Guide column where I detail the small but meaningful improvements I’ve made around my home. From adding useful new accessories to my desk setup to using smart home gadgets in unexpected ways and of course, repurposing old devices, I hope I can give you some inspiration for your next project.

Sometimes it’s the small things that make a big difference when it comes to whether or not something feels premium. For instance, let’s say you just picked up the new MacBook Pro M5 or even the more affordable MacBook Neo, both of those Apple laptops come with a braided cable in the box to give you that high-end, premium feel.