Press the lid down with chopsticks vs Weigh the lid down with something

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Once the hot water goes into a cup of instant noodles, the lid tends to curl up, and people deal with it in different ways. Some lay a pair of chopsticks across the top and press the lid down; others set a bowl, a small plate or a book on top and walk away. Chopsticks feel simple because you need nothing extra and they are already in your hand, while a weight frees you up to do something else during the wait. Which one feels natural often comes down to habit and what happens to be within reach.

FAQ

Why do people keep a cup noodle lid closed in different ways?
Most people share the same goal: keep the lid from popping open so heat stays in while the noodles soften. The difference is mostly habit and convenience, since some reach for chopsticks and others grab whatever is nearby.
What is good about pressing the lid with chopsticks?
It needs no extra object, and your chopsticks are ready for eating the moment the wait ends. Some people find it fiddly, though, because the chopsticks can slip and it keeps one hand busy.
What is good about weighing the lid down with something?
A flat object covers the whole lid and lets you step away to do something else. The trade-off is that you need to find something suitable, and anything too heavy or lopsided can tip the cup.

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