Cleaning your bathroom is unlikely to be a chore you relish. After all, who’s ever claimed to love scrubbing toilets or tackling mildew stains? However, that doesn’t mean it needs to be a completely thankless task or a particularly time-consuming one. Check out these 14 bathroom cleaning hacks with less effort.
The key to sparkling shower tiles is already in your pantry: white vinegar.
“Heat the vinegar in the microwave and spray it on while it’s hot,” suggests Brad Roberson, president of Glass Doctor, a Neighborly Company. Roberson suggests adding a tablespoon of dish soap to the mixture if the smell bothers you, noting that this can also help cut through tough grime.
If you’ve got mildew or surface mold in your bathroom, a clean dish brush is a tool you need to combat it. Roberson suggests combining six cups of warm water and a quarter cup of bleach to create a mold-busting cleaner.
For those stubborn mold and mildew stains that your dish brush and bleach solution won’t touch, try applying a paste of baking soda and water. “Cover the stain with the paste and allow it to stay on the stain for three to four hours,” following up with a thorough rinse, suggests Roberson.
If your drain is emitting some unpleasant odors, a simple mixture of baking soda and vinegar can fix that in no time.
“The combination of vinegar and baking soda begins to fizz and can help break up any congealed grease in your drain,” explains Joshua Miller, VP of Technical Training at Rainbow International Restoration. Miller recommends pouring one cup of baking soda and two cups of white vinegar down the drain, then flush it with hot water after half an hour.
Some parts of your sink are simply too small for the average cleaning tool to reach.
Luckily, there’s a solution right inside your medicine cabinet: “Dental floss is a great way to remove buildup in the nooks and crannies of the faucet and handles,” says Kim Burckhardt, owner of Office Pride Commercial Cleaning Services of Westminster-Eldersburg.
Can’t seem to get rid of that soap scum on your shower or tub? Instead of a sponge, reach for a dryer sheet.
“Add a few drops of water to a dryer sheet and gently rub the area. Rinse the residue off and the majority of the scum should be gone,” suggests James Conner, VP of operations at Molly Maid.
Not in the mood to scrub your toilet? Then let a denture tablet do the hard work for you. “Drop one in, let it do its job, and then flush to get rid of toilet bowl stains and rust,” suggests Conner.
Finding that your usual glass cleaner isn’t cutting it when it comes to getting your bathroom window clean? Using a squeegee instead can help keep those panes clear and free of water spots.
Though water sports are unavoidable in places where water is constantly running (like the shower and the sink), it’s surprisingly simple and cheap to get rid of them. All you have to do is rub lemon over your stained chrome fixtures and the pesky spots should disappear instantly. Plus, using this citrus-as-cleanser will mask any unpleasant smells.
Young happy black man cleaning the bathroom mirror. You want your bathroom mirror to be spotless so that you know what you actually look like before leaving the house—but all too often, it’s fogged up with water stains, dust, and other debris.
The solution? Black tea! All you have to do is combine a cup of boiling water with a few bags of black tea, let it cool, and use the resulting solution to clean your cloudy mirror. The tannic acid in the tea will dissolve any dirt, leaving you with a spotless surface that tells no lies.
It’s easy to let your toothbrush holders become disgustingly dirty. But washing the accessory is barely a chore: all you have to do is throw it in the dishwasher. Really, that’s it!
There’s no need to waste time scrubbing your entire bathtub with a sponge. Instead, cover it in soap, then sweep and scrub with a clean broom and rinse until all of the suds are gone. The broom will clean as effectively as a sponge would, but using the large long-handled brush will require half as much effort.
The corners of the tub are always the hardest to clean. Luckily, there’s a simple solution for this, and it’s probably already sitting in your medicine cabinet. Just soak some cotton balls in the tub cleaner of your choice and let them sit on the edges of your tub overnight. By morning, those tub edges will be clean as a whistle!
Grout – the stuff used to fill the gaps between tiles-looks good when it’s clean, but dirt easily sneaks into those small crevices, making the walls look dirty in an otherwise spotless bathroom. To restore your tiles (and the spaces between them) to their original color, apply a paste made out of 3/4 cup baking soda and 1/4 cup bleach to the grout, let it sit for 30 minutes, and remove with a scrub brush or cloth to reveal sparkling clean walls. This is an awesome bathroom cleaning tip.
At times, taking care of a home can be pretty overwhelming, especially if you have a baby. So that, household hacks are very necessary to us. There are plenty of awesome household tips and tricks below to help you in your daily life.
This is one of the great household hacks that I know. So instead of keeping them in ugly containers, you can easily store the liquids in easily accessible mason jars. Then you won’t have to lug out the heavy containers every time you do the laundry.
Using strongly brewed black tea is an awesome hack to clean your mirrors. Who would have thought?
If you plan on retouching a room, try this great no-drip paint trick with a large rubber band. Now that’s easy.
If you want a safe place to keep your phone charged and out of the way, try this tutorial which will show you how to create a phone charging holder out of a lotion bottle.
Routers are pretty darn ugly, but an awesome way to keep them out of the way and in disguise is to hide them in a fake book.
With the help of the citric acid from the lemon and the scrubbing action of the salt, you can kill stains in your sinks and showers instantly.
Ever notice how the dust on ceiling fans builds up fast and just looks plain gross? Well, an easy way to clean it is to use a pillowcase to take it off. The Dust will fall into the pillowcase and you won’t have to deal with it floating in the air after wiping it off.
Do you know how shower curtains can get filmy and nasty? Well an easy way to clean them is to just pop them in the washer and let it do all the work!
Just soaking your shower head in some vinegar for 20 minutes can get all of the grime build-ups off easily.
Sometimes we need just the right hacks to help make our lives just a bit easier. Especially with a home. It can get cluttered or disorganized so easily that it can be a bit overwhelming or discouraging. But with the right tips and tricks, we can make things so much simpler.
If you have any household hacks yourself, let the comments down below! I’d love to hear about them!
Discovering innovative ways to streamline our daily tasks is a common quest for those leading busy lives. One intriguing suggestion that frequently circulates is using the dishwasher to clean dirty sneakers. However, before tossing your beloved kicks into the dishwasher, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks to ensure both the cleanliness of your sneakers and the longevity of your household appliance.
Washing sneakers in the dishwasher can seem like a shortcut to pristine footwear. After all, the dishwasher is a powerhouse when it comes to cleaning, right? Before you hit that start button, let’s consider a few crucial factors.
The dishwasher’s intense water pressure and heat could damage certain shoe materials, adhesives, or embellishments. While the dishwasher can handle dishes like a champ, sneakers pose a different challenge. The high water pressure, temperature, and detergent may be too harsh for delicate shoe materials. From rubber soles to glued seams, there’s a risk of damage that could leave your sneakers worse for wear.
Effect on Shoe Structure: The dishwasher’s cycle may alter the shape or structure of some sneakers, especially those with delicate components
Material Matters:
Not all sneakers are created equal. Different materials require different care. Leather, mesh, or suede sneakers might react differently to the dishwasher environment. It’s essential to know the materials of your shoes and their tolerance to water and heat.
Sole Searching for Alternatives:
Instead of relying solely on the dishwasher, consider alternative cleaning methods. A gentle hand wash with a mild detergent, a soft brush, and some elbow grease can often be a safer bet. This approach allows you to target specific areas without subjecting your entire pair to a dishwasher’s intensity.
Preserving Sneaker Longevity:
Sneakers are an investment in both comfort and style. Preserving their longevity means adopting cleaning practices that enhance rather than compromise. Regular maintenance, spot cleaning, and storing them properly contribute to a healthier shoe life.In the dishwasher dilemma, the verdict isn’t one-size-fits-all. While some may have successfully cleaned their sneakers this way, the risks involved make it a less-than-ideal solution for many. Knowing your sneakers, their materials, and opting for gentler cleaning methods can ensure your footwear stays as fabulous as you are.
In the quest for efficiency, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons. Your sneakers deserve the best care to keep striding alongside you through every adventure. Whether you choose the dishwasher or a more tailored approach, here’s to stepping out with confidence and clean kick.
If you decide to proceed with washing your sneakers in the dishwasher, here are some guidelines to minimize risks:
In the quest for a better and easier life, experimenting with time-saving hacks is natural. Washing dirty sneakers in the dishwasher can be a convenient solution if approached with caution and consideration. Ultimately, the key lies in understanding the materials of your sneakers, using the right settings, and embracing this hack as an occasional quick fix rather than a routine cleaning method.
]]>From tools to toys and even vegetables, the dishwasher can handle more than you might think. Join us in discovering the unexpected versatility of this kitchen companion.
Explore a variety of household items that can be safely washed in the dishwasher, such as sponges, showerheads, and air vent covers.
Learn the proper preparation and placement of these items to avoid damage and ensure thorough cleaning.
Sponges
Showerheads
Air vent covers
Dish brushes
Vacuum cleaner attachments
Light fixture covers
Range hood filters
Outlet covers
Glass light shades
Cabinet knobs and pulls
Find out how the dishwasher can assist in sanitizing children’s toys, pacifiers, and even pet toys, making it a valuable tool for parents and pet owners.
Learn essential tips for safety and hygiene when cleaning items for your little ones or furry friends.
Plastic toys (Lego bricks, action figures)
Small plastic playsets
Stuffed animals with removable parts
Baby pacifiers
Teething toys
Rubber bath toys
Plastic building blocks
Toy kitchen utensils
Plastic pet toys
Plastic toy trucks and cars
Discover the unconventional but effective use of the dishwasher for cleaning vegetables, potatoes, and garden produce.
Understand the recommended settings and precautions for ensuring food safety and cleanliness.
Potatoes (for cleaning dirt)
Root vegetables (carrots, beets)
Garden produce (tomatoes, cucumbers)
Glass jars (to remove labels)
Fruit and vegetable scrub brushes
Salad spinner parts
Oven thermometer
Kitchen sponges
Microwave turntable tray
Plastic cutting boards
Explore how the dishwasher can help clean outdoor and garden items like gardening tools, grill grates, and even gardening gloves.
Learn about the benefits of using the dishwasher for these items, especially during seasonal transitions.
Gardening tools (trowels, pruners)
Garden gloves
Grill grates and utensils
Plastic plant pots
Plastic outdoor light fixtures
Bird feeders
Patio furniture cushions
Plastic outdoor dishes and tableware
Yard tools (rakes, shovels)
Small outdoor decor items
Baseball caps
Flip-flops and sandals
Hubcaps
Small automotive parts
Sports equipment (knee and elbow pads)
Plastic hairbrushes and combs
Dog bowls and pet feeding dishes
Pet collars and leashes
Ventilation grilles
Flip-top trash cans
These are just a few examples of surprising items you can wash in the dishwasher. Keep in mind that while the dishwasher is versatile, always check manufacturer recommendations and consider the specific materials and components of the items you intend to clean for safety and effectiveness.
It’s time to take full advantage of this multifunctional appliance to simplify your daily chores and keep your home sparkling clean. So, are you ready to give it a try and uncover the surprising items you can actually wash in the dishwasher?
]]>Discover how adding vinegar to your laundry routine can transform your linens, making them softer and more luxurious than you ever imagined. Say goodbye to the hassle of expensive fabric softeners and hello to a simple, eco-friendly solution that really works. Let’s dive into the secrets of using vinegar to soften your linens right at home.
Residues from detergents and minerals can accumulate on your towels and bed sheets over time, causing them to lose their softness and freshness. Here’s how vinegar effectively tackles these residues:
Here’s a step-by-step process to ensure you get the best results without compromising the color or quality of your linens:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have the following:
White distilled vinegar: It’s best to use white vinegar, as it won’t leave any color or residue on your linens.
Your laundry load: Collect the towels and bed sheets you intend to wash.
Step 2: Measure the Vinegar
Determine the size of your load. For smaller loads, you’ll need approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of vinegar. For larger loads, you can use 1/2 to 1 cup of vinegar. Adjust the quantity accordingly to suit the load size.
Step 3: Add the Vinegar
Open your washing machine and place your linens inside.
Next, pour the measured vinegar directly into the detergent compartment or add it to the drum before starting the wash cycle.
Step 4: Adjust the Settings
Select a regular or gentle cycle with cold or warm water, depending on the care instructions for your linens. Avoid using hot water, as it may diminish the effectiveness of the vinegar.
Opt for an extra rinse cycle if available, as this can help ensure all the vinegar is thoroughly rinsed out.
Step 5: Start the Wash
Initiate the washing machine, and let it complete the cycle as usual.
Step 6: Enjoy Softer Linens
Once the cycle is finished, transfer your linens to the dryer or hang them to air dry. You’ll notice a remarkable difference in the softness of your towels and bed sheets.
By following this step-by-step guide and implementing these tips, you can effectively use vinegar to soften your towels and bed sheets while maintaining their color and quality. Say “goodnight” to rough sheets and “hello” to a cozier and more restful sleep experience. Give it a try, and you’ll never go back to your old laundry routine.
]]>Mosquitoes are attracted to various factors, and understanding what makes you a target can help you take measures to reduce your attractiveness to them. Here are some details about what mosquitoes are most attracted to:
Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Mosquitoes are highly attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale when we breathe. They use CO2 as a primary cue to locate potential hosts. So, when you’re breathing, you’re essentially sending out an invitation to mosquitoes.
Body Heat: Mosquitoes are also drawn to body heat. Warmer bodies indicate the presence of a potential host. This is why they are often more active during warm summer evenings when people are outdoors.
Scent: Mosquitoes have a keen sense of smell and can detect scents from a considerable distance. Certain scents, such as those produced by perfumes, scented lotions, and even sweat, can attract mosquitoes. Floral or fruity scents can be particularly appealing to them.
Dark Clothing: Dark-colored clothing, especially black and navy, can absorb and retain heat, making you more visible to mosquitoes. Light-colored and loose-fitting clothing is less likely to attract them.
Lactic Acid: When we exercise or become active, we produce lactic acid, which is another attractant for mosquitoes. This is why physical activity can increase your risk of getting bitten.
Blood Type: Research suggests that mosquitoes may be more attracted to certain blood types. People with Type O blood may be more prone to mosquito bites compared to those with Type A or Type B blood.
Skin Microbes: The specific microbes and bacteria on your skin can influence your attractiveness to mosquitoes. Some skin bacteria produce scents that are more attractive to these insects.
Pregnancy: Pregnant women tend to exhale more carbon dioxide and have slightly higher body temperatures, making them more attractive to mosquitoes.
Alcohol Consumption: Consuming alcohol can increase your body temperature and cause your blood vessels to dilate, making you more appealing to mosquitoes.
Genetics: Your genetic makeup may also play a role in how attractive you are to mosquitoes. Some people are naturally more prone to mosquito bites due to their genetics.
It’s important to note that not all mosquitoes are equally attracted to these factors, and there is some variation among mosquito species. Additionally, individual preferences can vary. To reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes…
1. Citronella Magic:
Citronella is your new best friend in the fight against mosquitoes. Whether in the form of candles or essential oils, its pleasant scent not only keeps these pests at bay but also adds a delightful ambiance to your outdoor gatherings.
2. Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Power:
This essential oil packs a double punch – it repels mosquitoes and has a refreshing, lemony scent. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil, apply it to exposed skin, and watch the mosquitoes stay away.
3. A Garlic Barrier:
Yes, garlic may ward off more than just vampires! Consuming garlic regularly can make your body emit a subtle scent that mosquitoes find repulsive. A natural deterrent from the inside out.
4. Mosquito-Repelling Plants:
Keep pots of lavender, basil, or marigolds on your patio or in your garden. These plants naturally repel mosquitoes, and they look lovely as well.
5. Wear Light-Colored Clothing:
Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. Opt for light-colored clothing to keep them from landing on you in the first place.
6. Cooling Peppermint Spray:
Combine peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle. The cooling sensation will relieve itchy bites, and the scent will keep mosquitoes away.
7. DIY Mosquito Traps:
Create your own mosquito trap by filling a container with a mixture of water, sugar, and yeast. The carbon dioxide produced will attract mosquitoes, and they’ll get trapped in the solution.
8. Mosquito Nets for Bedtime:
For a peaceful night’s sleep, invest in a mosquito net. It’s a classic and effective way to keep the bloodsuckers at bay.
Itchy mosquito bites can be quite annoying, but there are several methods you can use to treat the itch and discomfort. Here are some ideas for treating itchy bites:
Wash the Area: Start by washing the bitten area with mild soap and water to remove any potential irritants and reduce the risk of infection.
Keep the Area Clean and Dry: To prevent infection, keep the bite clean and dry. Avoid excessive moisture, as it can prolong the healing process.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel has soothing properties that can alleviate itching and reduce inflammation. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the bite.
Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A thin layer of honey applied to the bite can help reduce itching and promote healing.
Tea Bags: Apply a used and cooled tea bag (black or green tea) to the bite. The tannins in tea can help relieve itching and reduce inflammation.
Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to the bite for 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce inflammation and temporarily relieve itching.
Anti-itch Creams or Lotions: Over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, calamine, or pramoxine can provide relief from itching. Follow the product’s instructions for application.
Oatmeal Bath: Soaking in an oatmeal bath or applying an oatmeal paste to the bite can provide relief. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe the skin.
Essential Oils: Some essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, and chamomile, can help relieve itching. Dilute a few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil and apply it to the bite, but be cautious, as essential oils can be potent and may cause skin irritation if not properly diluted.
Baking Soda Paste: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste. Apply it to the bite, leave it on for a few minutes, and then rinse it off. Baking soda can help reduce itching.
If the itching persists, becomes severe, or if you experience an allergic reaction to a mosquito bite (which can include symptoms like swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing), it’s important to seek medical attention. In some cases, a healthcare professional may recommend prescription-strength treatments.
No more need for harsh chemicals or sticky lotions! These easy and effective methods will help you reclaim your outdoor and indoor spaces, free from mosquito nuisances.
Try them out, and let us know which one works best for you!
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Life is full of everyday challenges, but with the right tricks and tips, you can simplify your routines and unlock a world of convenience. Our mission is to provide you with the most innovative and effective life hacks that truly make a difference.
Cleanses and Purifies the Air: The combination of lemon and salt is believed to have air-purifying properties. Lemon emits a refreshing citrus scent that can help neutralize odors. While the salt absorbs moisture and airborne impurities, making the air in your room feel cleaner and more pleasant.
Balances Energy: Some proponents of this hack suggest that it can help balance the energy in a room. Lemon is associated with positive energy and a sense of well-being. And placing it in the center of a room is thought to promote positivity and harmony.
Natural Deodorizer: Lemon is a natural deodorizer, and when combined with salt, it can help eliminate unwanted smells in your home. It’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to combat odors from cooking, pets, or other sources.
Aesthetic Appeal: The lemon and salt arrangement can also serve as an attractive centerpiece for your room or table. Its vibrant colors and fresh aroma can enhance the visual and olfactory appeal of your space.
Stress Reduction: Some people find the scent of lemon to be soothing and stress-relieving. Placing this arrangement in your room may contribute to a more relaxing atmosphere. Which can be particularly beneficial after a long, tiring day.
Natural Cleaning: Lemon is known for its natural cleaning properties. If you choose to place the lemon and salt on a plate, you can use the lemon to clean the plate afterward. As the citric acid in lemon can help remove stains and odors from various surfaces.
It’s important to note that while many people find this practice to be beneficial, the effects can vary from person to person. Some consider it a symbolic and spiritual ritual, while others appreciate it for its practical benefits. Regardless of the reasons behind its effectiveness, the lemon and salt hack is an easy. And inexpensive way to create a more pleasant and refreshing atmosphere in your home.
What happens next is truly astonishing. The lemon absorbs negative energy, while the salt purifies the air. This ancient practice is known to bring positivity, clarity, and a sense of refreshment to your space.
Explore our website, where you’ll find a treasure trove of valuable insights to make your life smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable. Each tip is backed by experience and expertise, so you can trust that we’ve got your back.
Join us on this journey of self-improvement and transformation. Together, we’ll uncover the secrets to a more efficient, satisfying, and fulfilling life. Discover the power of life hacks at Life Hacks Pro and let us help you
]]>From deodorizing to disinfecting, lemons have a multitude of cleaning superpowers that can transform your cleaning routine. Welcome to our guide on how to use lemons for cleaning your home, offering eco-friendly solutions for a sparkling, lemony-fresh abode.
– Create an all-purpose cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of water and lemon juice in a spray bottle. This natural concoction works wonders on countertops, sinks, and even stainless steel appliances.
– Stubborn food splatters in your microwave? Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside, then heat it for a few minutes. The steam will loosen the mess, making it easy to wipe away.
– Sprinkle coarse salt on a cutting board, then scrub it with half a lemon. This not only cleans but also helps to neutralize any lingering food odors.
– Eliminate fridge odors by placing a halved lemon in a small bowl. The lemon absorbs odors, leaving your refrigerator smelling fresh.
– Dip a cloth or sponge in lemon juice and use it to polish faucets, doorknobs, and other metal surfaces. The acidity helps remove tarnish and brings back the shine.
– Bathroom: Scrub grout with a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda for a natural tile cleaner. It works wonders on soap scum and mold.
– Windows: Combine lemon juice with water in a spray bottle for streak-free window cleaning. Say goodbye to smudges and streaks.
– Garbage Disposal: Run a few lemon rinds through your garbage disposal to freshen it up and eliminate odors.
Lemons, with their natural cleaning properties and delightful aroma, are a game-changer when it comes to maintaining a clean and inviting home. By harnessing the power of lemons, you can eliminate harsh chemicals from your cleaning routine while still achieving sparkling results. Whether you’re tackling kitchen messes, bathroom grime, or general household cleaning, lemons offer a natural and eco-friendly solution.
So, the next time you’re faced with a cleaning task, reach for a lemon and put these tips and hacks to good use. Your home will not only be sparkling clean but will also exude the refreshing scent of citrus, making cleaning a more enjoyable experience. Happy cleaning!
Whether it’s a broken radiator or a rusted-out drain outflow, a burst pipe can cause a lot of trouble in a short period of time. If water is gushing, close the valve closest to the link first, then shut off the main water valve into the house. Once you’ve turned off the main water supply, reopen the smaller valve and slowly drain any remaining water into buckets.
During a power outage, the safest course is to disconnect all appliances and electronics. That way, you’ll avoid damage from power surges when the juice returns to your home. Take great care using candles for illumination, exercising proper fire safety, and be sure to stock up on batteries and flashlights.
If your carbon monoxide detector sounds or you simply detect a gas odor, evacuate the house immediately. Once you’ve relocated to a safe location, call the gas company’s 24-hour helpline and ask them to send a technician to check your home for leaks.
Before you charge into a flooded basement to rescue your belongings, be safe. Turn off the circuit breaker to the house (or, if you can’t reach the circuit box, call your utility and ask them to do it for you). Wear thick waterproof boots and gloves to protect against toxic elements in the floodwater.
For patching a roof battered by storm damage, tarps nailed down with wood strips are the quickest and easiest fix. Just be sure to let any weather pass and take all precautions before climbing up—or even better, call a professional to do it for you, then arrange for more permanent patch-ups to happen as quickly as possible.
Somehow, the furnace always seems to give out on the first frigid evening of the year—and Murphy’s law states it will happen on a Saturday night when the repairman charges double his usual rate.
Getting locked out of the house is a little embarrassing, and, if you have to call a locksmith, can be mightily expensive, too. Keeping a hidden key poses security risks. So remove your extra key from inside the hide-a-key garden stone or from under the back porch doormat, and consider leaving it with a trusted friend or neighbor instead.
First, don’t panic. Keep a box of baking soda in a handy spot for dousing flare-ups in a toaster or stovetop pan. Avoid tossing water on the blaze, and don’t try to smother the flames with a dishtowel or anything that could catch fire. The better course of action is to use a pot lid to extinguish the flames. If it’s an oven fire, don’t open the door—close the oven and the fire should extinguish itself. Although some fire extinguishers are rated to extinguish grease fires, those handheld firefighters can spread flames rather than extinguish them when used improperly. Educate yourself on the types of extinguishers and how to use them so you’re always ready in case of a disaster.
Obviously, a plunger is your first line of defense for a clogged commode. If you’ve cleared the clog but flushing troubles persist, open the tank and investigate. The handle may have gotten disconnected, or part of the flush mechanism may need to be replaced.
When backyard wildlife finds their way indoors, they can wreak havoc in a home. If a wild animal gets into your house, keep it contained in one area. Open a window, close all the doors, and it should find its way out. If it doesn’t, call animal control.
]]>Putting off home repairs is a very common—and very risky—mistake. That slow leak or cracked fixture might seem like a minor inconvenience that has little bearing on your daily life but left unattended, that damage could escalate into an emergency situation.
Hiring out services such as pool or yard maintenance, house cleaning, small repairs, or minor home remodeling projects does save you time, but it costs money that might have been better spent (or saved) elsewhere in your budget. Instead of engaging a professional, have your teenage son or daughter handle pool or yard care, and consider tackling small DIY and maintenance tasks yourself.
If you’re buying a new major home appliance, the salesperson will probably pressure you to purchase an extended warranty. Although this may sound like a money-wise choice, the truth is that many consumer advocates advise against them. The exclusions and fine-print rejections in an extended warranty can be lengthy, and chances are, if your appliance does need to be serviced, it will be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Review your manufacturer’s warranty first to help you decide if you need the extra coverage.
If you’re still holding on to your incandescent light bulbs, it’s time to let them go. While CFL and LED bulbs might cost more upfront, they ultimately save you big through longer life and superior efficiency.
Before hiring a contractor to dig that swimming pool or add a new home office, think long and hard about how much you really need that expensive addition, and how much it will cost to maintain after the initial investment. After crunching the numbers, many homeowners find that the actual cost of a home improvement far exceeds their initial expectations.
Nobody can foresee when household emergencies will strike—whether it’s a hole in the roof, a rusted-out water heater, or a doomed central heating system. But these malfunctions are all part of homeownership and it’s best to be prepared when they do occur. If you don’t set aside a portion of your savings for these types of home emergencies, you’ll end up having to pay for repairs on credit and get hit with a double whammy: the cost of the repair and the interest on your credit card.
As a general rule, if you are paying to store your possessions in a pod or storage unit, you are wasting money. Unless you have a firm plan for using your stored items—say, a canoe for this summer’s family vacation, or an artificial tree for Christmas—assume that you’re never going to drag them out. Sell or donate your excess possessions, close your storage account, and save money.
If your water heater is set above 120 degrees, your utility bills are too high. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends a water heater setting of 120 degrees to save money, reduce wasted energy, and lower the risk of scalding your skin.
If you rarely—or even worse, never—change the filters in your HVAC system, you’re lowering its efficiency while raising your energy costs. To keep your air clean and your energy bills low, change your filters seasonally. Switch them out more often if you live in an especially dusty area, smoke, have pets, or suffer from allergies.
While every home’s curb appeal can benefit from attractive landscaping, it’s best to pass up on extravagant or delicate plantings that will require a professional’s expensive care. Instead, choose hardy greenery that will thrive with minimal maintenance, and liven up the yard with attractive and affordable annuals planted in pots and window boxes.
If you went with the insurance company your real estate agent recommended when you bought your home, or if you automatically signed up with the same company that provides your auto insurance, you may be paying too much. Shopping around can save you a considerable amount on your insurance premiums.
Sometimes in order to save money around the house, you have to invest a little into it first. While your instinct might be to cut corners on repairs or to choose cheaper products, there are instances when spending more will save you on costs in the long run.
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