12 Common Things That are Tricky for Left Handers

Interesting Facts
By Ella Brown

Left-handed individuals often face unique challenges in a world predominantly designed for right-handed people. Everyday items and tasks can become unexpectedly tricky, leading to frustration and adaptation.

Below, we explore 12 common things that left-handers find particularly tricky, along with potential solutions and insights.

1. Scissors

© Ciselier

Scissors are often designed for right-handed use, making it tricky for left-handers. The alignment and grip can feel awkward, leading to uneven cuts.

Left-handers might find the pressure required to cut frustratingly high. To alleviate this, specially designed left-handed scissors are available.

Investing in a good pair can make a big difference, providing comfort and precision. Adapting to these tools helps left-handers engage in crafting and cutting tasks more easily.

2. Can Openers

© Serious Eats

Can openers often pose a challenge due to their right-hand orientation. The twisting mechanism requires awkward hand positioning for left-handers, causing discomfort.

There are left-handed can openers available, specifically designed to accommodate this need. These devices make opening cans more intuitive and less physically straining.

Using the right tool can transform a cumbersome task into an easy one, demonstrating the importance of accessibility in kitchen tools.

3. Notebooks

© Reddit

Writing in spiral notebooks can be particularly difficult for left-handers. The spiral can dig into the hand, causing discomfort.

Smudging is another issue, as the left hand drags across freshly written ink. Opting for notebooks with the spiral on the opposite side can help.

Additionally, using quick-drying pens or pencils can reduce smudging. These adjustments make note-taking more pleasant and legible for left-handed students.

4. Measuring Cups and Spoons

© Serious Eats

Many measuring cups and spoons have markings facing only one direction, favoring right-handers. This can make gauging measurements awkward for left-handers.

Tilting or twisting the cup disrupts the accuracy and ease of reading. Fortunately, dual-marked measuring cups can solve this issue.

Such kitchen tools ensure that everyone, regardless of dominant hand, can cook and bake precisely and effortlessly.

5. Computer Mice

© Logitech

The design of most computer mice suits right-handed users, with button shapes and placements catering to them. Left-handers might find the ergonomics uncomfortable.

Switching the primary click and using ambidextrous mice can improve the experience. Some companies offer mice specifically designed for left-handers.

These adaptations ensure comfort and efficiency in a tech-driven world, enabling smoother navigation and productivity.

6. Musical Instruments

© Keep Drumming

Many musical instruments are designed for right-handers, posing challenges for lefties. Guitars, for instance, often have strings and frets set up for right-handed playing.

This requires left-handers to either adapt or seek specifically designed left-handed instruments. Such instruments can be harder to find and more expensive.

Despite these hurdles, dedicated left-handed musicians can thrive by learning techniques and finding suitable instruments to express their creativity.

7. Gaming Controllers

© Reddit

Gaming controllers often have layouts favoring right-handed users, leading to challenges for left-handers. Button placement can feel unnatural, affecting gameplay.

Some manufacturers provide controllers with customizable layouts to better suit left-handed gamers. These options enhance comfort and control.

Adapting to such tools allows left-handers to enjoy gaming without compromising on performance or fun.

8. Doors and Doorknobs

© Probrico

Doors and their knobs are typically designed with right-handed individuals in mind. This can make opening and closing them awkward for left-handers.

The direction of twist and handle placement can require uncomfortable hand movements. Lever-style handles offer a more left-hand-friendly solution.

These adaptations promote ease of access and usability, making daily navigation smoother for left-handed people.

9. Zippers

© Zipper Shipper

Zippers often present challenges as they’re typically designed for right-handed manipulation. The pull tab placement can make zipping up tricky for left-handers.

Left-handers might struggle with aligning and fastening zippers efficiently. Some clothing brands now offer left-hand-friendly zippers.

These adjustments can significantly enhance the ease of dressing, allowing left-handers to zip up comfortably and confidently.

10. Credit Card Machines

© The New York Times

Credit card machines are predominantly set up for right-hand use, with card slots and keypads placed accordingly. This can make transactions cumbersome for left-handers.

Reaching across or awkwardly positioning oneself is often required. Some stores provide more accessible machines for left-handed users.

These improvements help streamline the shopping experience for left-handers, ensuring convenience and efficiency at checkout.

11. Sporting Equipment

© Better Baseball

Sporting equipment, like baseball gloves, is often made for right-handers, making it difficult for left-handers. The fit and function can be awkward, affecting performance.

Left-handed sporting gear is available but might be limited in variety and availability. Finding the right equipment empowers left-handers to excel in sports.

Proper gear ensures better engagement and enjoyment, fostering a love for active pursuits irrespective of hand dominance.

12. Watches

© Wrist Enthusiast

Watches typically feature crowns and buttons on the right side, tailored for right-handed use. This can make setting and adjusting time tricky for left-handers.

Some brands offer left-handed watches with reversed designs, providing easier access and functionality. Wearing watches on the right wrist can also help.

These adjustments enable left-handers to manage their timepieces comfortably, combining style with practicality.