32 articles
Stainless steel appliances can instantly refresh a kitchen's look, whether you're doing a full remodel or just swapping in a few new pieces. Despite the name, stainless steel still picks up fingerprints, dust, and streaks. Many commercial cleaners contain harsh chemicals that you may not want in your home. Homemade alternatives let you avoid those toxins while keeping your appliances gleaming.
A cracked or detached handle doesn't mean your beloved mug is destined for the landfill. With a two-part epoxy resin and a bit of patience, you can glue the pieces back together and extend the life of your cup, imperfections and all.
Soot particles from fires, ovens, cigarettes, and fireplaces can spread through a home and settle on glass and crystal, causing a dull film over time. While commercial cleaners may claim to be necessary, common household supplies can effectively remove this buildup.
Creating your own mattress deodorizer is easy with baking soda and optional lavender oil. This guide walks you through mixing and applying it to absorb odors and leave a light, relaxing scent.
Septic systems can be maintained with DIY mixtures containing vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, sugar, and cornmeal. Commercial biological additives are also available in various forms that can be flushed down the toilet.
When it comes to intimate apparel, personal cleanliness and garment care are closely linked. Some cleaning products may irritate the skin or harm the fragile fabrics common in undergarments. Thongs, while attractive and snug, tend to create special laundering challenges.
Candle wax can drip onto clothes while you're moving candles, and it may look like a permanent mess. But getting wax out of fabric is not difficult and can be done in a short amount of time.
Cooktop griddles are usually cast from iron, aluminum or steel, and their finish can deteriorate over time. Through a process of rust removal, thorough cleaning and reseasoning, the cooking surface can be brought back to working condition, provided it is maintained correctly afterward.
Fleas and ticks not only bother pets and humans during warm months—they can carry serious illnesses too. Beyond standard preventive care for animals, homeowners can turn to a handful of safe and effective yard treatments that naturally discourage these pests.
When a suitcase sits unused in a hot, damp spot, mold and mildew can flourish. Mold is a fungal growth, and its airborne spores settle on moist, warm surfaces, developing into a coating called mildew. This produces a stale odor. You can get rid of that smell in a suitcase by using everyday household products to destroy the mold and mildew.
Velvet shoes carry an old-fashioned elegance, yet the plush surface readily picks up stains, so prompt, careful spot treatment helps keep marks from becoming permanent.
Water-based acrylic paint sticks well to fabric and may not come out in a regular wash, especially after it cures into a water-resistant film. Acting fast improves the odds of full removal, and acetone can break down paint that has already dried. Acetone is typically stocked by beauty supply, hardware and home improvement retailers.
Athletic jackets often feature durable, air-permeable, textured materials, and some come with water-repellent layers. They can get soiled just like any other outerwear. While dry cleaning is an option, it can be costly if stains happen often. With a bit of detergent, you can wash your athletic jacket at home using either a washing machine or hand washing.
An uncleaned toilet with scratches looks extremely dirty, and cleaning it can be a frustrating task. Toilet cleaners alone often fail to remove all dirt and grime; getting rid of stain buildup requires additional steps. With a few items from a hardware store and grocery store, you can tackle those unsightly stains and scratches.
Create a welcoming atmosphere with these DIY scent solutions, from dried fruit mixes to coffee-infused candles, and enjoy a spa-like ambiance without harsh chemicals.
Discover how a pressure washer can restore your outdoor cushions without soap or the expense of replacements, saving you money and extending their life.
Sandstone, a porous and long-lasting stone formed from sand and mineral deposits, is known for its smooth surface and varied hues. A hearth made of this material can bring a natural touch to a home, particularly in southwestern-style interiors. Because fireplace masonry accumulates dirt, ash, and soot during use, periodic cleaning helps preserve both its look and hygiene. Hearths that have not been sealed tend to soak up grime faster and may need more frequent attention.
A dishwasher is supposed to take the effort out of washing up, but a load can still come out grimy after a full cycle. Several things, from the wash setting and water heat to detergent choice and clogged components, can determine whether the results are spotless or disappointing.
