Quick Home Fixes Everyone Can Do

Easy Fixes with Common Household Items

Many of us have experienced minor household annoyances that don’t quite warrant calling a professional but still require attention. Fortunately, a well-stocked toolkit isn’t always necessary to tackle these small jobs. With a bit of creativity and some common household items, you can resolve many of these minor issues quickly and effectively.

Unclog a Drain With Baking Soda and Vinegar

The combination of baking soda and vinegar is a tried-and-true solution for clearing clogged drains. Start by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain. Next, add half a cup of baking soda, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and wait for 5-10 minutes. You’ll hear a satisfying fizzing as the two substances react. Finish by flushing the drain with another pot of boiling water. This method works wonders for clearing out the gunk without harsh chemicals.

Fix a Squeaky Door Hinge Instantly

Squeaky doors are not only annoying, but they can also disturb the peace in your home. To silence them, apply a few drops of vegetable oil or olive oil onto a cloth and wipe it over the hinges. Move the door back and forth to allow the oil to seep into the crevices. This natural lubricant will eliminate the squeak and is easily available in most kitchens.

Repair a Leaky Faucet With Basic Tools

A leaky faucet can waste gallons of water if ignored for long. Luckily, fixing it is easier than you might think. Begin by turning off the water supply to the faucet. Remove the handle, and use a wrench to loosen the nut. Replace the faulty washer or O-ring, which are usually the culprits of the leak. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on to ensure the leak is fixed. Doing this yourself can save both water and money on your utility bill.

Refresh Grout With DIY Cleaning Solutions

Grimy grout can make even the cleanest bathroom look dingy. You can refresh it by mixing baking soda and water into a paste. Apply the paste onto the grout lines and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Scrub with an old toothbrush or a grout brush, then rinse off with water. For extra stubborn stains, spray a little vinegar on the paste before scrubbing. This method makes the grout look almost new without breaking the bank on professional cleaning services.

Stop a Running Toilet With Minor Adjustments

A running toilet is not only irritating but can also lead to increased water bills. Most running toilets can be fixed with a simple adjustment inside the tank. Remove the lid and check the flapper. Make sure it seals properly when the toilet is not in use. If it’s not sealing correctly, adjust the chain or flush lever. Alternatively, replacing worn or warped flappers often resolves the issue quickly and costs very little.

Revive Scratched Wooden Furniture

Scratches on wooden furniture can be an eyesore, but they are not permanent. You can hide small scratches using household items like walnuts. Simply rub a shelled walnut over the scratch in a circular motion. The oils in the nut will penetrate the wood, making the scratch less noticeable. For deeper scratches, a mixture of vinegar and olive oil can also help. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth and let it sit before buffing it out.

Brighten Up Walls Without Repainting

Walls inevitably accumulate scuffs and dirt over time. Instead of repainting, use a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap to wash the walls. Use a sponge to gently scrub the stubborn marks, being careful not to damage the paint. Magic erasers also work exceptionally well for tougher marks, leaving your walls looking fresh without the need for new paint.

By tackling these small fixes, you'll not only improve your living environment but also feel empowered knowing that you possess the know-how to address common home problems. With a little effort and everyday items, maintaining a pleasant and functional home is achievable for everyone.