Owning a home can be difficult, as consistent maintenance is necessary. In addition, you must ensure that everything functions correctly, or you’ll encounter larger and more difficult problems. Furthermore, some home issues are simple to fix, yet hiring a professional can be expensive.
If you aim to save money while maintaining an ideal home, you’re in the right spot. Here are 50 home repair tips and tricks that will simplify your life. Remembering these tips will enable you to fix problems quickly and at no cost.
Use Crayons to Fill Nail Holes
Removing paintings and items from walls can be inconvenient because the nail leaves a hole. Fixing it usually costs money. However, with this tip, you can easily repair the mark without needing to call anyone. Simply find a crayon that matches your wall’s paint color. Press the crayon tip into the hole and rub it up and down. By coloring the wall, the nail hole will become invisible. The best part is that it doesn’t cost you anything and takes little time.
Use Ice to Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Cleaning garbage disposals can be challenging, but if you don’t maintain it correctly, you may end up needing a replacement, which can be costly. However, don’t worry. Ice cubes can help you clean the disposal effortlessly. Simply put some ice cubes into the machine and run it with cold water. As the ice melts and grinds, it will clean the disposal, even in difficult-to-reach spots. After cleaning, you can add fruit peels for a pleasant scent or salt to eliminate any unpleasant odors.
Eliminate Unpleasant Garbage Odors with Two Ingredients
No matter what, garbage cans always begin to smell, even if you use trash bags. One way to eliminate bad trash odors permanently is to use bread and vinegar. Simply take a piece of bread and apply vinegar on both sides. Then, place it at the bottom of your can overnight. The next day, when you change the trash bags, you’ll notice that no smell forms. To prevent the bread from dirtying your can, put baking paper underneath it. This easy solution will permanently solve your problem.
Create a Hole in the Trash Can Liner for Ventilation
Here’s another trash can tip that will be very helpful. Many people have garbage cans with liners and know how hard it is to remove the trash without spilling. If you also experience this problem, you should try this technique. Simply drill a hole on the side of the liner. This will solve the suction problem and make it easier to take out the trash. However, be careful not to drill holes at the bottom, as substances might leak from them.
Apply Tape for a Straight Caulk Line
Caulk is an excellent material for repairing various structures and preventing leaks, but it can be difficult to apply. Achieving a straight edge is tough, even with careful application. However, using this tip, you can create perfect edges with caulk. All you need is some painter’s tape, which is easily found at hardware stores. To get a straight edge, apply the tape on the wet caulk and then remove it. Make sure to do this before the caulk dries; otherwise, you might pull off some dried caulk, resulting in a crooked line.
Do you have a broken bulb? Try using a potato.
Light bulbs blow out quite often, and when you attempt to remove them, they can sometimes break. Furthermore, if a bulb shatters, you’re left with the challenging task of removing it. Trying to remove it with bare hands can result in injury. This is why this technique can be very useful in such situations. Simply cut a potato in half and use one half to unscrew the bulb. Press the fleshy side of the potato into the broken glass and twist it in an anti-clockwise direction. Voila, the bulb will come out quickly, keeping your hands safe.
Remove Stripped Screws Using an Elastic Band
Removing stripped screws can be quite challenging. Although using just a screwdriver is possible, it can be time-consuming. This method is helpful if you want to save time. First, you’ll need a rubber band and a screwdriver. Place the rubber band over the screw head with one hand and secure the screwdriver with the other. Then, twist to remove the stripped screw. This technique works because the rubber band provides the needed friction for easy removal.
Repair Nail Holes Using a Soap Bar
Coloring nail holes with crayons can be effective, but there’s a better method for white walls. You can easily fix the hole without spending any money. Just use a bar of soap that matches the wall color. Rub one edge of the soap over the mark, moving in a counter-clockwise motion. This will cover the hole so well that you’ll soon forget it’s even there. However, remember that sometimes soap leaves residue; to address this, use a damp cloth to gently clean the surface.
Quiet Noisy Floors with Baby Powder
Wooden floorboards can be quite bothersome. Over time, some of them may loosen and make a loud squeaking sound. This can disturb others and annoy you as well. However, with a bit of talcum powder, you can silence the noisy boards for good. Simply fill a squeeze bottle with some powder. Then, sprinkle it between the gaps of the floorboards. To apply it effectively, you should use a makeup brush. This will help you push the powder into the cracks without getting your hands dirty. Once you’ve finished, the noise will be completely gone. Remember, it doesn’t necessarily have to be talcum powder.
Repair Wood Dents with an Iron
If you have wooden furniture or floors in your home, then you should learn this trick. With this method, you can remove dents from all types of wooden surfaces. The best part is that it only takes a few minutes. Furthermore, it’s a completely safe technique that won’t cause any additional damage. Start by wetting the area with the dent. While you dampen the dent, heat your clothing iron. Then place a damp cloth over the spot and iron it. Be sure to move the iron in a circular motion. Within a few minutes, the dent will disappear.
Remove Crayon Marks from Your Wall Using WD-40
If you have children, you probably know their tendency to color on any surface they find, whether it’s a wall, floor, or any other structure. This can be problematic since marker writing is difficult to remove. But don’t worry. With this trick, you won’t need to repaint your wall. It has been tested and proven effective, so you can fully trust it. Simply spray some WD-40 on the markings. This spray can remove colors, markers, crayons, and much more. However, be aware that this method is not effective on oil-painted and matte walls.
Utilize toilet cleaning liquid to clean grout.
Grout can spoil the appearance of your floors. It makes your home look dirty and grimy. The most troublesome aspect is that it is very noticeable. If you host parties at your house, it will leave a bad impression on your guests. So, if you have grout between your floor tiles, it’s time to eliminate it. Simply pour the toilet cleaning solution into the gaps. Allow the solution to sit for at least fifteen minutes. Afterward, mop the floor with warm, clean water. And voilà, the grout will be gone, leaving your floor shinier than ever.
Using Kool-Aid to Detect Toilet Leaks
Plumbers today often charge a lot to diagnose toilet leaks, and if they find one, they’ll charge even more to fix it. This leads many people to prefer fixing the problem themselves. However, tampering with a toilet based on mere suspicion can cause more damage. But don’t worry. With this simple trick, you can verify your suspicions for just 20 cents. All you need is a dark-colored Kool-Aid packet. Open the toilet tank and pour in the contents. If the water in the toilet bowl changes color after thirty minutes, you have a leak.
Clean Your Oven Using Dishwasher Tablets
Cleaning ovens after baking can be time-consuming, particularly when it comes to removing grease from the door. However, using this method makes it much easier. The secret to cleaning oven doors is to use dishwasher tablets, as they quickly eliminate all stains. It’s important to wear gloves while using them because the tablets contain bleach, which can irritate the skin. Also, remember to wet the tablet before wiping the door, but avoid soaking it completely, as it may hinder effective cleaning.
Eliminate Odor from Sink with Lemon
Dirty dishes can occasionally cause an unpleasant odor in the kitchen sink, making it difficult to work nearby. Therefore, it’s important to keep the sink smelling fresh. A great way to achieve this is by using lemon juice. Lemons are citrus fruits that impart a nice fragrance to both dishes and sinks. To give your sink a fresh scent, mix lemon juice with boiling water and pour it down the drain. In just a short time, your sink will smell pleasant.
The Ultimate Trick for Cleaning Your Bathtub
White bathtubs tend to get dirty fast, even if you rinse them with water daily. Mildew and scum can build up on the edges. Over time, it begins to lose its shine and looks aged. However, with this cleaning trick, you can restore your bathroom to its former glory. To clean the bathtub, all you need is some liquid dish soap and a scrub brush or broom. Start by applying the soap to the inside of the tub and spreading it with a broom. Allow the soap to sit on the surface for a few minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.
Utilize Household Ingredients to Clear Clogged Drains
Clogged drains are extremely annoying. You have to wait for the water to go down and then remove any leftover debris. Avoid using chemicals for this task, as they can damage the drain and are an added, unnecessary cost, especially when you probably have everything you need in your kitchen already. To unclog drains, you need three items: water, baking soda, and vinegar. Begin by pouring boiling water down the drain. Follow this by pouring in half a cup of baking soda and then vinegar. Finally, pour water down the drain again after ten minutes, and it should clear.
Use Bleach to Sanitize Pipes
If your drains are frequently clogged, it indicates that your pipes need maintenance. You can either hire a plumber to do the job or try a quick fix yourself to ensure your pipes function correctly. All you need is bleach for this method. Pour some bleach down your bathtub or other drains, let it sit for at least ten minutes, and then flush it down with hot water. This process will help clear your pipes effectively. However, remember not to use this method too often, as bleach contains strong chemicals.
The Tea Bag Trick for Dirty Dishes
It’s ironic that teabags can both stain and clean your utensils. It seems strange, but it’s true. Teabags contain chemicals called tannins, which give tea its color. Tannins can also be used to clean dishes. So if you ever run out of dish soap, don’t worry. Just fill your sink with hot water and add either used or unused teabags. Then, use that water to scrub your dishes. The tannins will help remove grease easily. You can even clean individual pots by filling them with water and adding teabags.
Eliminate Static in the Dryer with Aluminum Foil
Many people use dryer sheets to dry clothes. However, some may not like this method due to the static they cause. If you’re searching for an alternative to dryer sheets, you’re in the right place. With this tip, you can dry your clothes efficiently. Simply roll some aluminum foil into a ball and place it in the dryer instead of using sheets. The foil reduces static electricity and doesn’t soften the clothes. Additionally, the aluminum ball can be reused for at least two months, helping you save a lot.
Find Studs Using a Measuring Tape
Finding studs in walls can be challenging if you don’t have the appropriate tools. Although you can purchase a stud finder, this could be expensive. On the other hand, using a measuring tape you already own will cost you nothing to locate studs. If you examine the tape closely, you’ll see some red numbers. These are primarily intended to aid in finding studs. Simply place the tape against the wall and mark the points that align with the red numbers. To ensure the tape’s accuracy, you can verify one spot.
Don’t have a funnel? Use aluminum foil.
Funnels are commonly used tools for transferring liquids into containers with narrow openings. Although you could attempt to pour water without a funnel, you would likely waste some of it. Therefore, knowing this alternative method is useful if you don’t have a funnel. First, take a medium-sized piece of aluminum foil and roll it so that it takes the shape of a funnel. Then, place it between the opening and easily pour the liquids. The advantage of a foil funnel is that it’s reusable and easy to find.
Remove Rust Using Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is highly versatile. It is ideal for wrapping goods and maintaining food warmth. Additionally, it works great for cleaning surfaces, clothing, and more. Foil can also help remove rust. If your chrome utensils or other items are tarnished, you can easily restore them. Start by cleaning the item with soapy water and a microfiber cloth. Then, crumple some foil into a ball and rub it over the rusted area. The rust will come off, leaving your item looking as good as new.
Use Cabinet Bumpers to Quietly Close Doors
When doors are slammed, they produce a loud noise that can disrupt the entire house. Additionally, it might give others the impression that you are upset. If you dislike slamming doors, there’s a simple trick to quiet them. You just need to buy some cabinet bumpers and attach them to the doors. These will cushion the impact and reduce the noise. This way, you can close the doors with any force and they won’t make a sound. You can also apply the bumpers to drawers that slam shut. With this approach, you can enjoy peace without spending much.
Utilize a Magic Eraser to Remove Stains from Utensils
Magic erasers truly live up to their name. They can clean bathtubs, utensils, and much more. What makes them so remarkable is that they can remove stains that even a dishwasher cannot. So if you have stained utensils at home, it’s time to gather and clean them. The eraser can remove marks and discoloration from all items except those made from stainless steel, as it can damage the surface. For other materials, simply rub it well on the dirty area, and it will work its magic. However, make sure to wash the utensils after cleaning with the magic eraser.
Use a Magic Eraser to Remove Wall Stains
If the walls in your house are stained, you should get a magic eraser right away. In just a few minutes, your surfaces can be clean again. Simply use the eraser to scrub the walls and then wipe them with a damp cloth. Another challenging issue to address is wall discoloration. While you can’t stop it from happening, you can restore the surface’s appeal. Once again, use the magic eraser, which will make your home look shiny and clean. The best thing is that you won’t have to repaint your walls, and the sponge can be reused, making it a worthwhile investment.
Use Tennis Balls to Open Tight Containers
Opening tight lids demands significant effort, requiring a secure grip, particularly with glass jars. This is because the container might slip and shatter, resulting in time-consuming clean-up and the risk of injury from broken glass. To prevent such issues, consider using this technique: simply take a tennis ball and cut a portion of it in the shape shown in the picture above. After applying this method, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can open stubborn containers.
Use an Elastic Band to Keep the Door Open
If you have doors in your home that close as soon as you release the handle, you’re likely familiar with the frustration it can cause. You have to repeatedly open it if you’re frequently moving in and out. For instance, imagine you’re moving furniture into your room, but the door shuts while you fetch each item. You would need to set everything down, open the door again, and pick everything up once more. To prevent this situation, simply loop an elastic band around the doorknobs. This will block the latch, keeping the door from closing.
Repair Tears Using Nail Polish
Do your windows have mesh screens? If they do, you’re likely aware that they can tear quite easily. When this occurs, insects and dust can get into your home. Even a small rip can become an entry point for lots of creepy crawlies, some of which might be frightening. To prevent this, you can repair the mesh using nail polish. Remember to use a clear color, as it will work like glue and quickly seal the tear. This method is only effective for small rips, but it’s very useful and will quickly give you peace of mind.
Use Ice Cubes to Remove Carpet Dents
We all enjoy it when our home looks beautiful due to the decorations, and a key part of décor is the carpet. It takes a considerable amount of time to select the right one for your house. That’s why it’s frustrating when dents show up on them. However, this issue is completely avoidable and free to fix. To remove carpet dents, place some ice cubes on them. Wait until the ice melts, then soak up the water with paper towels or a cloth. Immediately after, use a toothbrush to level the surfaces.
Apply Vinegar to Your Showerhead
Most of us enjoy taking a quick steamy shower, but it can become problematic if the showerhead is outdated. Over time, mineral and grime deposits accumulate on the head, causing calcification and slowing down the water flow. If you’re experiencing this issue, we’re here to tell you that it can be resolved. You can restore the showerhead’s water flow using vinegar without causing any harm. Simply half-fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around the showerhead, allowing it to soak in the solution overnight.
Place Pool Noodles in Your Cluttered Garage
If your home has a small garage, you may know about the issues with opening car doors. Although exiting the vehicle might not be difficult, repeated contact with the wall can cause dents on the car door. You can solve this problem easily with pool noodles. These are soft barriers that you can attach to the walls. Whenever you exit the vehicle, the door will hit the pool noodle instead of the wall, providing a cushioned impact that prevents dents on your car.
Utilize a squeegee to remove pet hair.
Adopting pets is enjoyable because they are loyal and can alleviate loneliness. However, all pets share one common trait: they shed a lot of fur and hair. This isn’t a problem for floors, but removing hair from carpets can be challenging. With this tip, you won’t have to worry anymore. All you need is a squeegee. It’s a tool with a rubber blade that you can easily use to remove pet hair from carpets. Many people also use it to clean windows and floors.
How to Properly Rotate Fans
Did you know that fans should rotate in different directions during winter and summer? The direction of rotation significantly reduces your utility bills, making it crucial to understand this trick. In winter, your fan should rotate clockwise at a low speed to draw warm air and distribute it throughout the room. In contrast, during summer, it should rotate counterclockwise at a higher speed to circulate cool air and help keep you comfortable. Note that this feature is available in newer fan models and not in those that are ten years old.
Eliminate Grout with These Easy Ingredients
Many people believe that grout is permanent and cannot be removed. If you think this too, you’re wrong. Grout can be easily handled. We previously suggested using toilet cleaning liquid for this purpose. However, there is an even better method to eliminate discolored and grimy grout. This method involves using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap. The measurements for these ingredients are ¼, ½, and one teaspoon, respectively. Apply the mixture to the grout and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, clean the area with warm water and a broom.
Apply bubble wrap to windows during the winter.
Loose windows can be problematic in the winter because they let cold air in and warm air out. Even with a heater running, you might still feel cold. Professional window repairs can be expensive, but there’s a DIY solution you can try. Simply wet the window with water and stick bubble wrap sheets onto it. The bubble wrap will adhere to the glass and block the airflow. Just remember that this might make your house look less attractive from the outside.
Avoid the Formation of Clogged Drains
Although there are numerous methods available online to clear clogged drains, we offer a solution that stops blockages from occurring in the first place. The best part is it’s very inexpensive. Simply head over to Amazon to buy a product named TubShroom (shown in the picture). It replaces the drain cover and stops hair from going down the drain. The only maintenance required is occasional cleaning, which is much quicker than dealing with a clogged drain.
Silence Squeaky Doors and Cabinets Using Cooking Spray
After living in the same house for a long time, you’ll likely encounter noisy cabinets, floors, and doors. If you’re dealing with this problem, we’re here to assist. You can use WD-40 or cooking sprays to quiet the doors and cabinets. Just take whichever can you have and spray the hinges of the noisy items. In a few seconds, the noise will stop, bringing you relief. To keep the spray from spreading onto the cabinet, you can place a piece of baking paper in between, allowing you to spray only the hinges.
Apply Aspirin Solution to Your Plant
Home repairs aren’t just about the items inside your home. Your garden is also a crucial part of the house. If it doesn’t look nice, it can give people a negative impression of you. Therefore, it’s important to care for the plants on your property. A way to enhance the color and fullness of your grass is by using aspirin. Simply dissolve one tablet per gallon of water and spray the solution in moderate amounts every 2 to 4 weeks. Soon, you’ll see the positive effects and wish you had known this trick earlier.
Apply nail polish to keep screws from loosening.
Securing screws in place can be challenging. Over time, they may loosen and detach, which can result in the object breaking apart and causing financial loss. To prevent screws from loosening, there is a remarkably effective solution: nail polish. Though it may seem unconventional, applying transparent nail polish to the screw before inserting it into the object can help significantly. The polish acts like glue, keeping the screw firmly in place for an extended period.
Utilize hydrogen peroxide to eliminate pests.
Hydrogen peroxide is well-liked for its versatility. It can be used for cleaning, unclogging drains, and a variety of other purposes. It’s also effective for pest control, as these creatures dislike its components. If pests are damaging your beautiful garden, consider spraying hydrogen peroxide. You can apply it to both the plants and the soil. However, be careful not to use a brand with a concentration higher than 3%, as it could harm your plants along with the pests, which would be counterproductive.
Restore Scorched Pots Using These Ingredients
If you have burnt pots in your kitchen, it’s time to take care of them. With this trick, you can make them look like new again. The three essential items you’ll need are baking soda, foil, and hydrogen peroxide. First, sprinkle baking soda to completely cover the burnt area. Then spray a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. This will create a paste-like mixture on the pot. Let the paste sit for at least five to six hours. After that, come back to the kitchen with foil and scrub the pot. Be sure to wash it once its appearance is restored.
Use Windex to Move Large Appliances
Moving large appliances is a challenging task. You can’t lift the heavy item, so you need to slide it using the wheels. This can result in the appliance leaving scuff marks and dents on your floor, as most appliances come with low-quality wheels. Repairing this damage can be expensive since you may need to replace all the tiles or floorboards. However, using Windex can help you prevent floor damage. Simply apply the liquid along the path you’ll use to move the appliance. Just remember not to use this method on wooden floors.
Line pots with filter paper.
If you’re a plant owner, you’re likely familiar with the soil problem. No matter what you try, soil tends to escape from the bottom of the pot. Consequently, you need to clean the area quite often. If this issue is causing you frustration, it’s time to solve the problem. All you need to address the issue is coffee filters. Before adding soil, put a coffee filter paper inside the pot. This will let the water drain away while keeping the soil contained. As a result, you won’t have a mess to clean every day.
A Simple Trick for Cleaning Your Microwave Quickly
Cleaning ovens and microwaves can be time-consuming due to particles adhering tightly to the surfaces. This often requires hours of scrubbing to clean them thoroughly. However, with this trick, you can reduce the cleaning time to just a few minutes. Simply mix equal parts water and vinegar in a bowl, then microwave it for at least 8 minutes. The steam produced from the solution will loosen grease and other particles, allowing you to quickly wipe the appliance clean. Remember to use a microwave-safe container for heating the solution.
How to Deal with Frozen Locks
Lock freezing is a frequent issue during winter and snowy weather. The cold can cause ice to build up on the locks of your house, car, or other items. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait for hours for the ice to melt, especially if you use the right methods. One technique to de-ice a lock is to apply hand sanitizer, as the alcohol will melt the ice quickly. Alternatively, you can warm your key and insert it into the lock. You can also breathe on the lock’s surface, but this method will take a few minutes instead of seconds.
Use Windex to Repair Printer Cartridges
Printer cartridges are quite costly these days. Additionally, some of them may get clogged. In such situations, your instinct may be to purchase a new one. However, you don’t have to do that anymore. With this method, you can unclog the cartridge in seconds. Simply apply some Windex to a paper towel. Then wipe the surface of the cartridge where the ink is released. Keep rubbing the bottom until you see some lines of ink on the towel. Remember to use the paper towel while it is still damp from the liquid.
Use bread to handle broken glass.
When you break something made of glass, always be careful around the broken pieces. Avoid picking them up with bare hands to prevent serious injury. One safe method to clean up is using bread. Yes, really. Bread can stick to the glass shards effectively. The best thing is that it works well for all sizes of glass pieces. So
Whenever you break glass, take a piece of bread and try this method. We believe you’ll be impressed after tidying up.
Eliminate the Musty Odor from Your Washing Machine Using This Method
Specialists recommend cleaning your washing machine at least once a month. Failing to do so can lead to a persistent musty odor in the appliance, which will also make your clothes smell unpleasant. To clean your washing machine, use vinegar, baking soda, and detergent. Add these three substances to the drum of the machine and run the longest cycle at the highest temperature. After the cleaning cycle is finished, leave the machine’s door open for a while to allow air circulation, ensuring that the appliance has a fresh scent afterward.
Use Potato and Salt to Clean Cast Iron Pans
It’s well-known that using soap on cast iron pans is not recommended, as the chemicals in soap can diminish the pan’s ability to prevent food from sticking. However, this doesn’t mean you should leave your pan unwashed after each use. Instead, sprinkle some salt on the surface of the cast iron. Then, cut a potato in half and use the skinless side to scrub the surface. This method will help remove old food residues. After cleaning, apply some oil and heat the cast iron in an oven. Then, you can store the pan until you need it again.