An umbrella blocks rain and sunlight right? What other uses do you see it for? Can't think of any? Seriously?

Never mind, we'll show you.

1. Umbrellas

The longer your umbrellas, the longer the table you can chope.

2. Milo tins

Definitely more civic-conscious than putting joss sticks directly onto grass patches. Or when you really rather not spend money buying a proper joss stick container/cauldron.

3. Khong Guan biscuit tins

These tins used to save money usually include old $1 and $20 dollar notes as well. The more rusted they are, the more likely they will include rare notes!

4. Milkmaid tins

Best way to recycle those tins. Lucky customers with a sweet tooth will also get a ga dai version of their kopi with the residual condensed milk on those tins.

5. Newspaper

Newspapers still have their uses! Best for wrapping your kang kong or ikan kuning.

6. Coins

One coin alone, it's worth $0.20. Put two of them together, and the kopitiam uncle will show you that you should not be wasting hundreds of dollars on shaving equipment.

It has been reported the newer coins do not have a good enough grip to kiap beard hair out efficiently.

7. Blackboard chalk

Dirty shoes? Chalk will fix it.

This is dedicated to old-school Singaporeans who remember days where schools had blackboards instead of whiteboards. And days when teachers were actually feared and commanded respect from students and parents.

8. Toothpaste

It does not work for burns. Repeat. It does not work.

Sunburns on the other hand... some people say it works. Better not try.

If you like what you read, follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest updates.