The American magazine Consumer Reports has a feature this month on how much product is lost at the bottom of the tube, jar and bottle. Losing some product is a given, I suppose, but the results in some categories are surprising. While the article won’t change your life, it does offer a few tips on how to get the most out of your products. My tip: cut off the top of your tubes to dig out what’s left when you can’t squeeze any more out. From the article (percentages listed are what’s left in the container):

Skin lotion 17-25%

Brands tested: America’s Choice, Aveeno, Lubriderm, Olay, Suave

Tips: Store pump bottles top-up, squeeze bottles top-down. Tap firmly, add water and shake, or cut open (carefully).

Liquid detergent 7-16%

Brands tested: All, Tide

Tips: Tilt push-button jugs or remove their extra cap and pour. Store smaller capped bottles upside down when almost empty.

Condiments 3-15%

Brands tested: French’s, Grey Poupon, Gulden’s mustards; Heinz ketchup

Tips: Add a little water and shake. For mayo, use spatulas in assorted sizes.

Toothpaste 1-13%

Brands tested: Colgate, Crest

Tips: Squeeze or bend tube as best you can, pull it over a counter’s edge, or use a toothpaste squeezer, about $3.