Fix a Squeaky Door with Mayonnaise

One classic condiment can work wonders as an in-a-pinch lubricant to silence a squeaky door: mayonnaise. First, remove the hinge pin on your door by tapping it with a hammer, then coat the pin with a light layer of full-fat mayo. Work the pin back into the hinge, and open and close the door a few times to distribute the lubricant. Finally, wipe away any oily excess with a damp cloth. The squeak should be no more!

Fix a Squeaky Door with Petroleum-Based Wax

The petroleum-based wax in paraffin candles can also help quiet metal hinges. Light a candle so the heat softens the wax, remove the hinge pins from the door, then (carefully, so as not to burn yourself!) cover them with the melted wax. Slide the hinge pins back into place, and give it a listen: If the door is still noisy when you open and shut it, repeat the process again until the squeak is gone. No need to reach for a towel after this job—the candle wax shouldn’t leave you with any excess residue to wipe away.

Fix a Squeaky Door with Steel Wool

Another possibility: A recurring squeak might signal that your hinge pins are too dirty for the door to function properly. If that’s the case, your lubricant alone won’t solve the annoyance—instead, you’ll want to start with a good cleaning. Remove the hinge pins, and scrub dirt and dust from each using a steel wool pad. Then coat the hinges in a lubricant, like one of the two household stand-ins mentioned above. Tap the hinges back into place, and swing the door open and closed a few times to test. Hear that? Of course, you don’t—there’s no more squeaking!

It can be a real chore to deal with all of your home’s trouble spots and “quirks,” especially after you’ve learned to live with them. Sometimes it’s out of pure procrastination, putting off for months a minor repair that would take only five minutes to complete. Other times, we may delay because we’re just not sure how to handle the problem (but we sure don’t want to pay a handyman to do something we should be capable of doing ourselves). Whatever the case, these little annoyances can add up to much bigger frustrations, leaving us with a feeling that the house is completely falling apart. Never fear: We’ve outlined 11 of the most common annoying house problems and provided the quick-and-easy fixes that will bring your home back to tip-top shape.

Running Toilet

The most common culprit here is a leaky rubber flapper, which allows water to flow from the tank to the bowl when you flush. There’s a very simple and inexpensive fix, but first, verify that the flapper’s the cause by dropping some food coloring into the tank. Wait a few minutes. If you see the food coloring bleeding into the bowl, take a trip to your local hardware store to pick up a new flapper.

Damaged Screens

Almost nothing can bug you more than a torn window screen, but take a deep breath of that fresh air—it’s an easy repair to make. For a tiny tear, apply clear nail polish to the spot to bond the screen together. For larger rips and tears, use window screen repair tape (available on Amazon) or a repair patch. If the mesh is beyond repair, you can replace the screen in the existing frame using a kit from the hardware store, like this one from The Home Depot.

Filling In Picture Holes

Hide eyesores leftover from hanging pictures by filling the hole with premixed spackling, applied with a putty knife. After it dries, smooth over the spot with a small sanding sponge. If you no longer have the original paint for the wall, any paint store can match the color if you bring in a sample.

Sticky Locks

A sticky keyhole just needs a little lubricant. The problem is that WD-40, spray silicone, and other liquids attract more dirt down the road and can make the problem even worse. Instead, try powdered graphite, which you can order from Amazon. It comes in a little tube with a small nozzle so you can squeeze it into tight spaces like keyholes. Be sure to put a little on the latch while you’re at it.

Diverting Gutter Runoff

If your gutters are dumping water right next to your foundation, you’re just asking for trouble. Use a flexible corrugated drainpipe to lengthen and extend your gutter downspouts well away from your exterior. You can choose to bury the pipe or leave it exposed—either way, make sure the water is headed away from your house and not back into it.

Windows That Stick

If you have a window that has been painted shut, score the paint all the way around with a utility knife. Then take a putty knife and gently tap it into the gap with a hammer to free the window. If it’s still stuck, you may need to try a small pry bar at the bottom to break it loose. To prevent damage, use only a small piece of wood between the pry bar and sill.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can have several causes, but the solution can be as simple as adjusting your pressure-reducing valve. You’ll find this bell-shaped valve near where your main water line enters the house. Loosen the locknut before making any adjustments, then turn the bolt on the valve to affect the water pressure. Clockwise increases pressure and counterclockwise decreases it. Adjust a half turn and then check; repeat as necessary.

Dripping Faucet

Depending on the source of the leak and the type of faucet, your quick fix may vary, but you’re most likely dealing with a worn washer or O-ring. If you have separate handles for hot and cold water, shut off the water to one at a time to determine which causes the drip. Once you know, make sure the water is shut off and then disassemble the faulty handle so you can reach and replace the washer and O-ring. If the faucet is really old, consider replacing it with a new model that will match the holes left by the old model.

Squeaky Doors

Most folks will grab the trusty WD-40 to tackle a squeaky door, but that’s actually not the best choice for long-term lubrication. Stick with WD-40 for cleaning metal parts and protecting against rust, and use silicone spray here instead. The odor isn’t quite as strong, and your squeak won’t come back as quickly either.

Clogged Drain

Next time your tub drain is clogged, skip the Drano and pick up the Cobra Zip-It Drain Cleaning Tool from Amazon. This barbed plastic strip costs only a few dollars, but it is worth its weight in gold. Simply slip the Zip-It tool into your drain, twist, and pull out the clog. It works better and faster than gunk-dissolving chemicals, and it’s much safer for the environment and your health. Bonus: It’s reusable.

Dirty Old Caulking

Old caulking around tubs, toilets, and sinks is unattractive and ineffective. Fortunately, it’s not hard to replace. First, apply some caulk remover and let it sit for a few minutes, following the package’s instructions. Carefully scrape it away with a putty knife. Then, add a thin bead of new caulk and smooth it over with your finger for that clean, finished look.

Ditch The Drips

Try stretching a large rubber band around a paint can from top to bottom, so that it stretches across the middle of the open top. Use the rubber band as a paintbrush scraper so that excess paint drips back into the can, instead of leaving a mess along the outside of the can.

Wax Creative

Do your dinner parties end with you scraping candle wax from the tablecloth? Never again! Protect your table from candle drips by wrapping a large rubber band around the base of the candle. The band catches drips before they hit the table. Bonus: You can use a rubber band to keep a candle from wobbling in the candle holder.

Grip ‘N’ Go

If you have a mop, broom, rake, or shovel with a broken grip, use several wide rubber bands to create a comfortable and secure new handle. Simply wrap them around the end of the pole as far down as you normally hold the handle. Now, wave goodbye to blisters!

A Screw Loose

Stripped screws are no joy but you can work around them if you know what you’re doing. To remove stripped screws, place a rubber band flat across the top of the screw head. Then, push a screwdriver over the rubber band, letting the rubber fill in the indentations in the screw head. Slowly and carefully turn your screwdriver counter-clockwise to remove the screw. You may need to reposition the rubber band several times if the screwdriver breaks through the rubber.

Faux Finish

Patterned paint rollers and stampers may be all the rage—but who needs them! By wrapping several rubber bands around an ordinary paint roller, you can create striking faux finishes of your own design. When you roll the paint onto the wall, a textured pattern remains, courtesy of the rubber bands.

Open Wide

If that pickle jar resists your best efforts to open it, wrap a wide rubber band around the lid and twist. The rubber band makes a great non-slip gripper to make opening jars a snap.

Control Curious Kids

Childproofing the home is important with little ones running around—but attaching gadgets and gizmos to every surface of the house can really add up. Here’s one affordable idea to keep in your back pocket: Tie rubber bands around kitchen cabinets knobs to create an effective toddler lock. Simply stretch thick rubber bands tightly between the cabinet knobs to lock them in place, and rest easy while the young one explores.

Cord Corral

Bring some order to the cord chaos behind your desk, entertainment center, or anywhere electrical cords get tangled. Wrap excess lengths of cord in rubber bands to keep them neat and tidy. Extra points if you color-code each rubber band to help you identify which cord belongs to which appliance.

At A Glance

Need a little extra paint for a quick DIY project? This simple trick will help you determine which leftover paint can can do the job simply by scanning the shelf. When you’re done with your next paint job, mark the “full” line with a rubber band. Well, now aren’t you the organizing pro?

You can cut down on both harmful chemicals and costs by making your own cleaners from products that are probably already in your pantry.

Many kitchen basics also serve as grease cutters, abrasives, surfactants, disinfectants, or deodorizers. For instance, acidic items like lemon juice, vinegar, and ketchup can cut grease, whether it’s on your windows or in your oven. Abrasives like baking soda, salt, and even coffee grounds can scour away crud at the bottom of pots or inside the bathtub. Coconut oil is just one example of a surfactant, which is a substance that reduces the surface tension between liquids or liquids and solids. In other words, it attaches to dirt molecules and makes them slippery so they slide off of surfaces.
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer, and medicine-cabinet regulars like hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, and tea tree oil are common ingredients in homemade disinfectants.

To learn more about keeping your home fresh and clean without harmful chemicals, check out this collection of our 10+ favorite pantry powerhouses.

1. Salt

Salt is abrasive and absorbent, and it has disinfected properties to boot! Put its strengths to good use by sprinkling salt on fresh grease stains in the oven. When the oven cools, wipe clean with a soft cloth. It’s also great for removing stuck-on food from finicky cast-iron pans: Just add a cup or so of kosher salt and a little warm water to the pan, and scrub lightly. Dry immediately and thoroughly.

2. Lemons

The fresh scent and acidic properties of lemons can work wonders around the house. Clean wooden cutting boards by rubbing them with half a freshly cut lemon; add some coarse salt for a more abrasive, deeper clean. The lemon-and-salt trick also works well for getting rid of soap scum on shower doors: Sprinkle coarse salt on half a lemon, rub it on the shower door, let it sit for 5 or 10 minutes, scrub, and then rinse. When you’re done, toss the lemon rind in the garbage disposal to keep it smelling fresh.

3. Cream of Tartar

Cream of tartar, another helpful acid, shines at removing stains from tablecloths or clothing: Combine 2 tablespoons cream of tartar with 2 drops of peppermint, eucalyptus, or lemon essential oil. Add just enough water to make a paste. Spread the paste over the stain and allow it to dry before washing. Cream of tartar is also handy for getting coffee stains out of mugs, carafes, and other containers. Put a tablespoon or so of cream of tartar in a mug, add a little water to make a paste, let it sit, then rinse.

4. Ketchup

Given that tomatoes and vinegar are key ingredients in ketchup, it’s not surprising that this tangy condiment is mildly acidic—a characteristic that makes ketchup good at removing tarnish from copper and brass. Simply mix a half cup of ketchup with 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar. Spread on the copper and let stand for about 15 minutes (if heavily tarnished, up to an hour). Rinse first in soapy water and then in clean water. Dry thoroughly. Ketchup is also effective at getting rid of tarnish on cast iron.

5. Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil has plenty of uses beyond wrapping up last night’s leftovers. For starters, it helps easily remove tarnish from silver. Place silver items in a sink or pan filled with water. Add 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar or baking soda along with a few strips of aluminum foil. Let the silver soak for an hour or until it’s tarnish-free. Rinse well, and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.

6. Vanilla Extract

Put vanilla’s pleasant, clean smell to work around the kitchen. For a fresh-smelling refrigerator, pour 2 ounces of vanilla extract (imitation is fine) into a saucer or a small, shallow bowl. Place the vanilla on a lower shelf and leave it for a few days. Similarly, you can deodorize your microwave by putting 4 teaspoons of vanilla and 2 cups of water in a microwave-safe bowl and heating it in the appliance. Once the water boils, turn off the microwave, let the bowl sit for 30 minutes, and then remove it. Finish by wiping down the inside of the microwave.

7. Olive Oil

That same olive oil that livens up your dressings and marinades can also energize surfaces around the house. To keep terra-cotta pots looking clean and new, coat them inside and out with a light layer of olive oil. To make leather shine, rub on some olive oil, let it sit, and then wipe off the excess.

8. Sliced Bread

The next time you have to deal with a broken glass, sweep up the larger pieces and then grab a slice of bread. Use the bread to sponge up the remaining shards and the dust-like specks that the broom missed, then carefully throw the bread away. As well, stale bread can be used to remove smudges and fingerprints from painted and papered walls. Remove the crust, roll the bread into a tight ball, and then dab it at the offending smudge.

9. Mayonnaise

Everybody’s favorite condiment really shines—literally—at cleaning. Remove water rings from finished wood by applying mayo to the stain and letting it sit for a few hours. Wipe it away with a clean cloth, then buff dry. And if your houseplants are dull and dusty, apply a little mayo to the leaves and polish them up to give your plants a healthy glow.

10. Rice

Rice is absorbent, which is why restaurants typically put a few grains in their salt shakers to prevent the salt from clumping. That absorbency also makes rice a good candidate for cleaning the coffee grinder. Pour in 1 or 2 tablespoons of rice, grind it up, and then pour it out. The rice will have captured some of the oils and residue, leaving the grinder much cleaner. Rice is also good for cleaning vases and other awkwardly shaped glassware and ceramics. Pour a little uncooked rice into a dirty vase. Add water and a little dishwashing liquid, and then swirl it around. The rice will help scour the inside of the vase, getting into those hard-to-reach spots. When you’re done, dump out the rice and water, rinse out the vase, and let it dry.

11. Cornstarch

To clean windows and leave them with a streak-free shine, add cornstarch to your homemade vinegar-and-water cleaning solution (1 tablespoon cornstarch per 3 cups of liquid). What’s more, cornstarch can clean more than just windows. A solution of 1 part cornstarch and 2 parts water makes a lightly abrasive scrub for dirty pots and pans, or sinks and tubs (it’s a good idea, however, to check the manufacturer’s care instructions on these items first).

Here’s a tip for those who love plush toys: When it’s time to freshen up and deodorize your menagerie of non-washable stuffed animals, first vacuum and spot clean them, then toss them into a large bag along with 1 or 2 cups of cornstarch. Close the bag, shake it well to coat the toys, and let sit for a few hours. Remove the stuffed animals from the bag and shake them out or vacuum them before returning them to the toy box.

12. Baking Soda

This cleaning powerhouse works its magic in every room of the house. It’s a gentle abrasive that absorbs odors and, when mixed with water, dissolves dirt. Freshen carpets by sprinkling baking soda, letting it sit for a few hours, then vacuuming it up. To clean bathroom grout, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the dirty grout, and then spray it with a 50/50 solution of vinegar and warm water. Wait a few minutes, scrub with a brush, and then rinse.

13. Vinegar

Vinegar may be the most versatile cleaner and disinfectant around. Among its other uses, it descales coffeepots, cleans grout, makes windows sparkle, and disinfects cutting boards and countertops. You can even use it to clean your oven. To manage caked-on residue, first, preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Then mix vinegar, water, and baking soda in a deep, wide casserole dish, and place it in the preheated oven for about 20 or 30 minutes, adding hot water when the water level gets low. Let the oven cool a bit, then wipe down the interior.

1. Mirrors give the illusion of space

Place mirrors on closet doors to refresh the interior and visually expand a small room.

2. A small mirror can become a cute decoration

You can turn an ordinary plastic-framed mirror into a beautiful interior decoration using rope and glue.

3. Put a beautiful and practical jar organizer on the wall

A jar organizer will save space in your bathroom and become a nice interior decoration.

4. Make a lampshade a piece of art

Replace your old lampshade with a new and stylish one. Here are instructions for making origami.

5. A colorful print on curtains can refresh any room

Bring a colorful print to your plain curtains to renew the interior.

6. Hang curtains closer to the ceiling to create the illusion of large windows

Hang curtains as close to the ceiling as possible to make windows look bigger.

7. A long shower curtain makes the bathroom look more spacious

Use the same idea to get the illusion of a high ceiling in the bathroom; just hang a long shower curtain close to the ceiling.

8. Create an unusual rod for curtains

An unusual rod for curtains will emphasize the style of the interior and show off your great taste.

9. Creative ties will make curtains look attractive

Lovely and unusual ties like these will be the highlight of the interior.

10. New handles will refresh your cupboards

No need to buy new furniture to refresh the interior. Sometimes, new small details are all you need to drastically change the room.

11. Create a colorful frame for the TV

Use a colorful frame to highlight a TV in the room.

12. Try to hide annoying wires

Use a shower rod to hide wires.

13. Make cables part of the decoration

Besides hiding wires and cables, you can also situate the cables in different ways to make them look more attractive.

14. Create a stylish headboard

15. Easily build a bed canopy using curtain rods

Use curtain rods to build a bed canopy and let your childhood dream come true!

16. Use drawers to increase storage space

Drawers under the bed will help you increase space for storing things and keep your home organized.

17. Paint linoleum to upgrade the floor

You can refresh old linoleum by painting wide contrasting stripes on it.

18. Dark colors make a ceiling look higher

Dark ceilings and light walls will add depth and finesse to the interior.

19. A framed mirror looks more luxurious

A beautiful framed mirror will give the bathroom a finished appearance.

20. Cover outlets and switches with colorful cases

You can perfectly fit electrical outlets and switches into the interior design by decorating them with scrapbook paper, mosaic tiles, or other small items.

Use Soft Socks to Clean Blinds

The next time you need to clean your window blinds, use a sock over your hand. Your hand makes a perfect tool for reaching all of the nooks and crannies on the blinds, and the sock picks up dust wonderfully. When you’re finished, just throw the sock in the washing machine.

Knife Block

Who says practical storage can’t be pretty? This DIY Knife Block, made from old books, is easy to make. Simply pick some unique books in your favorite color scheme and tie them together tightly with twine to create the perfect home for all your kitchen knives. You can even create different color schemes based on the seasons and holidays, making this a versatile hack. Need more counter space to accommodate a knife holder?

Beat the Dust out of Cushions with a Tennis Racket

Upholstery absorbs lots of dust — and then sends it airborne every time you sit down. Routine vacuuming reduces the problem, but can’t suck out the deep-down dust. So take cushions outside a couple times each year, preferably on a windy day, and spank the dust out of them. An old tennis racket makes a great upholstery beater.

Scour Off Grime with an Electric Toothbrush

Next time you’re at the discount or dollar store, pick up an electric toothbrush to add a modern twist to routine cleaning. Rapid vibration will quickly scrub out stubborn dirt, while the long handle can get to hard-to-reach places without all the elbow grease.

Tennis Ball Bottle Opener

Slice a tennis ball in half using a utility knife. (Be sure to stabilize the ball in a vise or with clamps while cutting.)

Use Tongs to Clean Blinds

Make quick work of cleaning your window blinds by using kitchen tongs! Secure rags to the ends of the tongs with twist ties, and then clamp the tongs on each blade to clean both sides of the window blinds at once.

Bread Tabs for Labeling Cords

Not sure which cord goes with which electronic device plugged into your power strip? Save yourself the hassle of following the cord from the plugin to the device for each item you need to move by labeling them. Plastic bread tabs are perfect for labeling cords that are plugged into a power strip because they’re sturdy, have enough room to write on and can easily clip around the plugin end of a cord. Plus, they often come in different colors. You’ll be able to easily identify and move your electrical devices.

Paper Towel Cord Storage

Give empty paper towel rolls new life as cord wranglers. Fold small extension cords neatly before slipping them into their own individual storage sleeve. You can even label the cords by writing on the cardboard.

Coffee Filters for Dusting

The next time you clean your computer monitor or TV screen, use a coffee filter. The thin, cloth-like paper catches a lot of dust and can cover a large area. You can use a coffee filter for dusting other household accessories, too.

Bathroom Drawer Insert from the Kitchen

A silverware drawer insert works just as well in the bathroom for organizing toothbrushes, tubes of toothpaste, razors, clippers, lip balm, and more. The various sizes of compartments keep items looking neat and easy to find.

DIY Hand Scrub

Harsh hand cleaners can irritate the skin, especially during cold weather. But reader Jay Bjornstad uses dish soap with sugar instead — and it still cuts through the grease to get his hands squeaky clean after a long day in the shop.

Erase Marks on a Keyboard

When your computer keyboard gets dirty, use a standard eraser to remove the marks. Use a corner or small end of the eraser to press down firmly on each key and rub until the mark is gone.

PVC Knife Holders

Carrying kitchen knives safely for picnics and camping trips is challenging. So one reader made knife containers out of two PVC pipes and caps. He glued the cap on one end and marked the unglued cap with an ‘X.’ That way he always knows which end to open. We think this is one of the most brilliant camping storage ideas ever!

No-Latch (or Hands-Free) Door Trick

Need to go in and out of the same door a bunch of times while carrying stuff? It can be tough to do when the door keeps latching shut. To keep that from happening, take a rubber band and loop it around one doorknob or handle. Then, twist the rubber band once and then loop it around the other knob. The rubber band holds the latch down, preventing the door from latching shut. Now if the door closes, you can push it back open with your body even if your hands are full.

Roll It!

You’d be amazed how easy it is to move heavy, awkward objects with three pieces of PVC pipe. Move playhouses, yard sheds, empty hot tubs and rocks weighing well over a ton with this trick. Use 4-in.-diameter ‘Schedule 40’ PVC, which is available from home centers. Here’s how to do it:

• Lift the front edge of the stone with a pry bar and slip two pipes underneath. Place one near the front and one about midway so the stone rests on the pipes.
• Position the third pipe a foot or two in front of the stone.
• Roll the stone forward onto the third pipe until the rear pipe comes free. Then move the rear pipe to the front and repeat.

This technique works best on relatively flat ground. On mild slopes, you’ll need a helper to shift pipes while you stabilize the load. Don’t use this method on steeper slopes.

A finished basement increases the square footage of a home by adding living space that can be used as a TV room, home office, home gym, or children’s play area. The issue is that basements are often cold in the winter, especially for those who live in colder climates. Fortunately, there are several non-major renovation methods for warming up a cold basement. If you want to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your basement, consider the products listed below.

Cozy Area Rug

If your basement floors are always cold, a high-pile area rug in the main living area is a quick fix. TWINNIS’ plush rug is available in a variety of colors and four sizes, and its nonslip base eliminates the need for a rug pad. The fluffy microfiber material is soft enough to be used as a play surface for children.

Electric Fireplace

A sleek built-in electric fireplace, such as this one from Antarctic Star, can add warmth and elegance to a basement. It can be recessed, semi-recessed, or wall-mounted, giving you a variety of installation options based on your needs. It is available in six widths ranging from 30 inches to 68 inches to accommodate a variety of spaces. The fireplace is controlled by the device’s touch-screen buttons or the included remote control.

 Portable Baseboard Heater

Some basements come equipped with baseboard heaters, but if yours didn’t, it’s feasible to add one without undertaking a major renovation. This Fahrenheat portable baseboard heater simply plugs into a wall outlet and features nearly silent operation. For added safety, the unit will shut off automatically if its air intake is blocked. Its simple, unobtrusive design helps it to blend into any space.

Radiant Wall Heater

While portable space heaters are a good choice for heating areas of a basement as needed, a wall-mounted panel heater is a more permanent solution. This flat panel heater from Amaze Heaters heats spaces of up to 150 square feet using convection. The 24-inch by 24-inch electric wall heater measures only half an inch deep, making it subtle and unobtrusive on white walls.

Warm Throw Blanket

If your basement doubles as a den or TV room, it’s prudent to equip your couch with cozy throw blankets to stay warm while binge-watching the latest Netflix series. This throw blanket from The Connecticut Home Company—which topped our best throw blankets guide—comes in five sizes and a rainbow of colors to suit any décor style. The outer layer features faux fur, while the lining is made from a plush sherpa material.

Reverse Ceiling Fan

One reason basements are often colder than the rest of a home is that heat rises. Installing a ceiling fan can help address that airflow issue. Although it may seem counterintuitive, there’s a simple trick that allows ceiling fans to keep a space warm. Ceiling fans are generally set to spin counterclockwise and push cool air downward, but reversing their direction has the opposite effect, circulating warm air in a room instead. Choose a reversible model like this fan from Hunter Fan Company, which we rated as the best option for small rooms in our best ceiling fan guide. As a bonus, it serves as an additional light source.

 Radiant Floor Heating System

In new construction, it’s popular to install radiant floor heating systems, which are an efficient way to heat a home in winter. However, it’s also possible to add radiant floor heating to space during the renovation. Electric heated mats from Warming Systems come in a variety of sizes, and they even include a temperature-sensing thermostat. While this is one of our more expensive suggestions for basement heating, it’s also one of the most effective.

New Furnace Filter

If your basement furnace is underperforming, it’s likely time to change the air filter. In fact, dirty filters are one of the most common reasons HVAC systems falter. This pack of six Nordic Pure filters boasts a MERV rating of 12, which is considered ideal for home use. To stay on top of replacing your furnace filters, also consider signing up for an air filter subscription to ensure new ones are delivered at regular intervals.

HOW TO FIX A TOILET THAT WON’T FLUSH

The truth is that knowing how to fix a toilet that won’t flush always requires you to first identify the reason it’s not flushing. It’s one of those plumbing problems that require you to investigate.

Glen Wojcik, a plumbing and heating expert from Pioneer Valley Environmental, explains that a common reason for a toilet not flushing is that ‘a toilet is clogged and will simply not flush due to a blockage.’

If a blockage is indeed causing your toilet not to flush, Glen advises that ‘in most cases, a toilet plunger, not a sink or accordion plunger, can be used to dislodge the blockage. It’s important to make sure you have the right plunger that creates a seal when plunging a toilet. Without that seal, no pressure is generated to push or pull the blockage.’

Jake Romano Manager of John The Plumber, adds that ‘Oftentimes, something small becomes lodged in the bends and curves of the toilet. When this happens, it partially blocks the water flow, but not completely. To the homeowner, it may often appear that the toilet is functioning, however, it seems to clog more frequently than normal.’

Depending on what is partially blocking your toilet, you may be in luck and not need to do anything – ‘sometimes the matter forming a partial blockage will work its way out’. However, Jake cautions that in some cases, ‘a small piece of plastic like a lego will remain in the toilet until it’s removed by a plumber’s snake.’

If you’ve tried both the plunger and the snake and this hasn’t fixed the problem, your toilet might be not flushing due to a faulty flush valve.

HOW TO FIX A TOILET FLUSH VALVE

Jake explains that ‘if the fill valve isn’t working, your toilet tank may not be filling. If there’s no water in the tank, then there’s nothing to power the flush. Simply open the tank and check if there’s water inside.’

If there’s no water in the tank, you will need to replace the flush valve with a new one. Simply turn off your water supply, unscrew the valve with a wrench, and install a new one. If you’re not a competent DIYer and don’t really understand how bathroom plumbing works, it is best to call a plumber to replace your flush valve.

WHY WON’T MY TOILET FLUSH IF IT ISN’T CLOGGED?

There are several other potential reasons why a toilet won’t flush even though it’s not clogged. Glen explains that ‘if the toilet is not clocked or there is no blockage, there could be an issue where not enough water is used to push through the waste beyond the toilet trap. The trap is a bend in the toilet drain that keeps a small amount of water inside to prevent sewage gases from entering your home. When there is not enough water to push through the trap, the toilet won’t flush.’

The reasons for this problem ‘could be due to a leak in the tank, or the float inside the tank is not letting the water refill it. Low-flow tanks will only use about 1-1.5 gallons of water per flush. And when the tank is not fully filling, it will affect flushing.’

It could also be something as simple as ‘the water supply is shut-off, and this can be remedied by fully opening the water supply found behind the toilet, usually on the same side as the toilet handle.’ If you’ve just moved home, this could be the issue.

Jake also adds that some people don’t know that ‘the water level in a toilet can be adjusted’ and accidentally ‘change the water level without realizing it. If there isn’t enough water to power the flush, your waste isn’t going to go where it needs to go!’

Jake also alerts homeowners to the potential of the chain that helps lift the flapper becoming disconnected: ‘open the tank lid and make sure that the chain is secured to the flapper and the handle. If it’s connected, test the handle and watch. If the chain has too much slack, you may need to shorten the chain!’

Finally, sometimes, ‘mineral buildups block the little holes around the rim. If the water flow is restricted by grub in these little holes, it may restrict the power and prevent a strong flush.’ If this is happening, your toilet may need an industrial descaling solution – a job best left to a professional who will have the right chemicals.

WHY DOES MY TOILET LACK POWER WHEN FLUSHING?

This is a related but slightly different problem: your toilet does flush, and there is water in the tank, but it doesn’t seem to flush fully, or there isn’t enough power to flush properly. If you’ve already checked the water levels and made sure that you haven’t accidentally adjusted water levels to low, there’s likely a different issue preventing your toilet from flushing properly.

David Mason, the owner of home solutions company The Knobx, explains that ‘When the toilet lacks power or does not flush fully, it is usually because there is something stuck in the impeller. The impeller creates the suction that pulls the water and wastes down the drain. So, if something is blocking it, the toilet will not flush properly.’

To fix this problem, ‘you will need to remove the cover of the toilet tank and clear any debris from the impeller. You can do this by reaching in and manually moving it around. If it is difficult to reach, you can try using a coat hanger or other small tool to dislodge the obstruction. Once the impeller is clear, reattach the cover of the tank and try flushing the toilet again.’

Given the coronavirus pandemic, it’s no surprise that an increasing number of people are opting to stay in their homes for as long as possible. These simple, low-cost updates will assist you in doing so.

Invest in a Walk-in Shower

As we age, standard shower and tub combos can become increasingly difficult (and dangerous) to use. While this is a pricier upgrade, installing a walk-in shower is one of the most valuable projects you can do in your home. Having a walk-in shower with a low threshold will make bathing easier for most older adults, and a no-step entrance makes it universally accessible for all, regardless of mobility needs.

Replace Knob-Style Handles

For those suffering from arthritis, knob-style door handles can be difficult to use. Lever-style handles, on the other hand, simply need to be pushed down rather than grasped and twisted. They can be installed cheaply and easily on doors throughout the home. Similarly, knobs on cabinets can be replaced with D-shape handles and pulls, which are easier to use.

Aging in Place

Aging in place is a priority for many older adults. Luckily, there are some easy, inexpensive modifications you can make that will improve your home’s accessibility and help you maintain your independence longer. The AARP HomeFit Guide provides tips and instructions for optimizing your home’s safety as you age. The best time to make these changes is now before your existing situation becomes hazardous.

Install a Handheld Showerhead

Replacing standard, fixed showerheads with handheld versions makes showering more accessible, regardless of your mobility level. Adjustable-height showerheads are further beneficial because they allow users to raise or lower the showerhead to an ideal height for either standing or sitting. Choosing a lightweight showerhead with a long hose makes bathing easier to navigate.

Switch Out Faucets

Lever-style faucets are superior to knob-style faucets for older adults because they require less dexterity to use. Better still are light-touch or sensor faucets, which simply require a tap or wave of the hand to turn on and off. As an added bonus, low-touch and no-touch options are more hygienic, no matter your age, to prevent the spread of germs.

Retrofit Cabinets

While renovating your entire kitchen can be a major expense, there are some small changes you can make that will create a big impact. It’s always best to store frequently used items between hip and shoulder height, but you can make your lower cabinets more accessible by installing pullout shelves. By adding extra shelves to your upper cabinets, you can make items easier to reach without the need for a step stool. Additionally, using pull-out containers for trash and recycling makes removing them much easier.

Add Extra Lighting

Installing additional lighting in your home will make it easier to navigate. Ensure that hallways and stairwells are well-lit, and consider installing motion-sensor lights that eliminate the need to find a light switch when entering a dark room. Task lighting over the kitchen sink, stove, and other work areas will increase visibility. Additionally, rocker switches are easier to use than toggle-style light switches. Swapping them out is also an inexpensive and easy project.

Switch to LED Bulbs

Climbing a ladder to change a burnt-out lightbulb can be difficult and dangerous. Switching out your standard incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs significantly reduces the frequency that they need to be changed. LED bulbs are energy-efficient and can last up to 50 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

Install Bathroom Grab Bars

Grab bars (also known as assist bars) are used to prevent falls and make it safer to navigate the shower, bathtub, or toilet. By installing grab bars in your bathroom, those with balance or mobility issues can benefit from added support. It’s important to note that grab bars are distinct from standard towel bars in that they are designed and installed to support significantly more weight.

Raise Toilet Seats

Those who have difficulty sitting down or standing up from a seated position can benefit from a raised toilet seat. Standard toilet seats have a 15-inch height from floor to top, but installing a raised version can add several inches, making it easier and safer to use the toilet. Comfort-height toilet seats typically range between 17 to 19 inches from floor to top.

Install a Ramp

Aging adults can benefit from having a no-step entrance to their home. While ramps are, of course, essential for people who use wheelchairs or have significant mobility issues, they can also be universally beneficial. While installing a permanent access ramp can be an expensive upgrade, temporary ramps installed over top of your stairs are more affordable. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) specifies that ramps should have a 5-degree incline to meet safety standards.

Take Advantage of Smart Technology

With today’s innovations in technology, many simple home tasks can be automated and controlled through voice commands or by using a smartphone or tablet. Tech-savvy older adults can benefit from a host of automated features that can be managed via WiFi. By using smart technology or home assistance devices, users can set reminders, control lighting, adjust thermostats, play music, lock and unlock doors, and more—all without rising from their seats.

Fixing the wood trim on old pieces of furniture is easier than you may expect! Sure you have most of these tools in your own home already!

Find the Twin of the Broken Piece

First, you need to find a matching piece of trim. Most pieces of furniture have at least two pieces of matching trim. One on either side of the piece of furniture. So look to the opposite side of the furniture and see if that same detailed wood is still intact on the other side.

Notice on this dresser, there is a star on the bottom left, but not on the bottom right. The detail on the bottom center is also halfway broken. This is such a good candidate for this trick because we can use the one star and the other half of the detail on the bottom center to make new details.

Basically the goal is to use the twin of the broken trim to make a new piece that looks exactly like the broken one.

You can also use this method to recreate broken feet, corners, detailed grooves, etc.

You can even take a detail from a different piece of furniture and put it on a completely different piece of furniture. Once you have the mold, the sky is the limit.

Supplies to Fix Trim and Details on Old Furniture:

• Piece of Trim to Duplicate
• Pam / Vaseline
• Hot Glue Gun & Glue Sticks
• Bondo
• Utility Knife
• Sandpaper

1. Grease the area or trim piece that you are duplicating. I’ve used Vaseline or Pam cooking spray. The goal is to grease that area so you can get the glue off. If you skip this step, you might have a hard time removing the glue.
2. This will make it easy to get the hot glue off of the trim work.
3. With a hot glue gun, completely cover the trim / detail with hot glue. The hot glue needs to get into the details, and completely cover the area you want to duplicate.
4. Let the glue cool completely and dry. This will create a mold of the detail.
5. Carefully take off the glue mold.
6. Now you can use the mold to create more trim, or to fix areas of damaged trim.
7. Be sure to grease the mold before putting any type of product in it.
8. Once the new trim piece is created out of Bondo, use a utility knife to shave off the excess bondo before it dries hard. Then sand the edges and details to form the trim better.

We choose to use Bondo because of how strong it dries. This stuff dries super hard and is very strong. If you’re only wanting to create some pretty details, I’m sure you could use a clay of some sort instead.

How to Make Details and Trim with Hot Glue Molds

The Damaged Dresser Frame

On this dresser, a small amount of trim was chipped off of the structural frame below the drawer.

• Make a mold of the same trimUse a sharp utility knife to cut a straight edge on the mold (so it can sit right next to the edge of the leg)
• Smother bondo onto the damaged trim
• Placed the greased mold over the bondo
• Press the mold into place until the bondo starts to harden.

**Don’t let the bondo sit too long or it will get too hard to shape

• Use the utility knife to shave off excess bondo
• Let the Bondo dry completely
• Sand the Bondo and surrounding areas down until completely smooth
• Sanding bondo mold smooth

This method works with so many different variations too!!

Once the bondo is dry and shaped, it’s ready for paint!

Note: If there isn’t another piece of trim that matches what you’re wanting to fix, there are a couple of things you can do. Either take off the trim completely to make a cohesive look, or find another piece of detail on the furniture that you like, and use that as a guide.

Missing Trim on an End Table

On this table, part of the detail was chipped off. So we made a mold on the other side of the table leg, put an excessive amount of bondo over the broken area, then squished the mold onto the table.

We held the mold until it was firm, but not completely hard (about 4 minutes).

Then we used a sharp utility blade to cut off the excess bondo and form the bondo even more into the shape we wanted.

It’s best to do this quickly, and once the bondo is just barely set. If you wait too long the bondo will be too hard to cut. At that point sanding is the only option, and that’s a pain!

After the bondo was shaped, we let it dry completely, and then sanded off the thin remains and shaped it a little better with 220 grit sandpaper.

Missing Wood Veneer

On another dresser, the bottom detail had broken off. For this one, we basically reversed the mold method, and used the mold to create a dam where the bondo couldn’t go.

First we created a mold of the carved out detail. I made sure the glue didn’t run out of the carved detail, but only filled in the carving.

Once it was dry, I removed the glue, greased it, and placed it in the carving right above the missing wood.

Then I slathered the bondo over the area with the missing wood.

This time I removed the glue mold before the Bondo started to set up. This was a little tricky to do without messing up the Bondo.

Then I let the Bondo set up for a few minutes before I started to shape it with the utility knife.

Once the Bondo was completely dry, I was able to sand it down to the perfect shape with 220 grit sandpaper.

There are so many ways you can use this same method to create new detail, fix old details or let your imagination run wild.

You can use the same methods to recreate a broken corner, recreate a broken leg, make new details, the list goes on and on.