Summer is nearly here, and it’s time to figure out how to make it even better than it already is. These 14 hacks are meant to make the summer living easier, tastier and more fun, so scroll through to see just what your summer needs!

1.Make beach and pool time with the kiddies much easier with a beach bag that unrolls into a towel with a pillow. This is a fun DIY project that older kids could help with. They’ll love to design their own.

2. Store your ice cream in a gallon-sized freezer bag for easier serving right out of the freezer every time. Really!

3. Got a picnic in 30 minutes and forgot to cool the sodas? No problem! Watch this video to see how a salt and ice water bath will chill them down in just a couple of minutes.

4. So did you realize that you can use the soda can’s tab to hold a straw in place while you drink it? I didn’t!

5. If you love popsicles but hate the mess {especially with the littles}, just cut a slit in the center of a cupcake liner to catch all those sticky drips before they happen.

6. Freeze aloe vera gel in ice cube trays to use the next time you get a sunburn. This is genius!

7. Lighten your hair naturally, with the help of the sun’s plentiful rays. DIY & Crafts has 10 different ways to do it.

8. Soothe an itchy bug bite with a baking soda paste.

9. Fill your water bottle about 1/3 and then lay it on its side in the freezer. When it’s time for your next hike or bike ride, grab your bottle and add water to fill. The frozen part will keep your water colder for longer.

10. Use one muffin tin to separate and serve condiments at your next barbecue. You can also use a muffin tin to portion and serve scoops of ice cream.

11. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and use it to clean and freshen your patio furniture. It deodorizes and discourages mold growth.

12. Debug your car after a road trip with a shot of cooking spray.

13. Before you cook your next batch of corn on the cob, add a little milk to the water in the pot. It helps to sweeten and tenderize the kernels. This is a trick I already use, and it really works!

14. Recondition your baseball mitt with a little olive oil.