Why are people placing a ball of foil on their door handle? Find out here.

Reducing Static Electricity

Why it works: Some people think that aluminum foil can help decrease static electricity on metal surfaces such as door handles. In places with little moisture, static electricity can give you small shocks when you touch metal objects. The idea is that foil can help reduce this static charge.
How to do it: Cover the door handle with aluminum foil or place a ball of foil on it, making sure it touches the metal surface. This method may not completely get rid of static shocks but can make them happen less often.

. Making Your Own Door Usage Indicator

Why it’s effective: If you want to check if a door has been opened, you can place a small ball of aluminum foil on the handle as a straightforward way to tell. If the small ball falls or moves, it means the door has been opened.

How to do it: Put a crumpled foil ball on the door handle so that it falls when the door is opened. This can be very helpful for watching doors in places that are used by many people or for keeping an eye on who comes in and out when you’re not around.