Most have no idea. 20 quick fixes every homeowner should know
Holly Owens
Contributing Writer
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Owning a home is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From minor inconveniences to potential hazards, small issues can quickly escalate if not addressed promptly. Quick fixes are essential for maintaining the safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of your home. They save time, reduce stress, and can prevent costly repairs in the future. By equipping yourself with a few simple tricks, you can tackle common household problems with confidence and ease.
Understanding the Basics: Why Quick Fixes Matter
Quick fixes are not just about convenience; they are about empowerment and efficiency. Understanding the basics of home maintenance allows homeowners to address issues immediately, preventing them from becoming larger problems. This proactive approach not only extends the life of your home’s components but also enhances your living environment. Moreover, knowing how to perform quick fixes can save money on professional services and give you peace of mind knowing that you can handle minor emergencies.
1. Unclog Drains with Baking Soda and Vinegar
A clogged drain can be a nuisance, but before reaching for harsh chemicals, try a natural solution. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug and let the mixture fizz for about 15 minutes. Finish by flushing the drain with hot water. This method is effective for breaking down build-up and is safe for your pipes.
2. Quiet Squeaky Doors with Olive Oil
Squeaky doors can be annoying, but you don’t need specialized products to fix them. Simply apply a small amount of olive oil to the hinges using a cloth or a cotton swab. Move the door back and forth to work the oil into the hinges. This natural lubricant will silence the squeak and is a great alternative to commercial lubricants.
3. Remove Wall Scuffs with a Tennis Ball
Scuff marks on walls can be unsightly, but they’re easy to remove with a tennis ball. Simply rub the tennis ball over the scuff mark with gentle pressure. The texture of the ball helps lift the mark without damaging the paint. This quick fix is perfect for keeping your walls looking clean and fresh.
4. Patch Small Wall Holes with Toothpaste
Small holes in walls, such as those left by nails, can be easily patched with toothpaste. Choose a white, non-gel toothpaste and apply it to the hole, smoothing it out with a putty knife or your finger. Once dry, the toothpaste will harden and blend with the wall, making the hole less noticeable.
5. Fix Jammed Garbage Disposal with an Allen Wrench
A jammed garbage disposal can be frustrating, but you can often fix it yourself. Most disposals have a manual reset option at the bottom. Insert an Allen wrench into the hex-shaped hole and turn it back and forth to free the jam. This simple tool can save you from calling a plumber.
6. Stop a Running Toilet with a Simple Adjustment
A running toilet can waste water and increase your bill. Often, the issue is with the flapper or the float. Open the tank and check if the flapper is sealing properly. Adjust the float arm to ensure it stops the water at the correct level. These small adjustments can stop the toilet from running continuously.
7. Tighten Loose Cabinet Handles with a Screwdriver
Loose cabinet handles are a common issue that can be fixed in seconds. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws on the handle. If the screw holes are stripped, use a toothpick or matchstick coated in wood glue to fill the hole, then reinsert the screw for a secure fit.
8. Remove Carpet Dents with Ice Cubes
Furniture can leave unsightly dents in carpets, but ice cubes can help. Place an ice cube on the dent and let it melt. The moisture will help the carpet fibers swell back to their original shape. Blot excess water and fluff the area with a fork or your fingers.
9. Clean Showerheads with Vinegar Soak
Mineral deposits can clog showerheads, reducing water flow. Remove the showerhead and soak it in a bowl of vinegar for a few hours. The acidity of the vinegar will dissolve the deposits. Rinse with water and reattach for improved water pressure.
10. Fix a Leaky Faucet with a New Washer
A dripping faucet is not only annoying but also wasteful. Often, the cause is a worn-out washer. Turn off the water supply, disassemble the faucet, and replace the old washer with a new one. This simple fix can stop the leak and save water.
11. Silence a Noisy Floorboard with Baby Powder
Creaky floorboards can be silenced with baby powder. Sprinkle the powder between the boards and sweep it into the cracks. The powder acts as a lubricant, reducing friction and silencing the noise.
12. Clean Grout with Baking Soda Paste
Grout can become dirty and discolored over time. Make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the grout, and scrub with a toothbrush. Rinse with water to reveal cleaner, brighter grout lines.
13. Remove Stubborn Stickers with Peanut Butter
Stickers and their residue can be difficult to remove. Apply a layer of peanut butter to the sticker and let it sit for a few minutes. The oils in the peanut butter help break down the adhesive, making it easier to peel off.
14. Deodorize Carpets with Baking Soda
Carpets can trap odors, but baking soda can help freshen them. Sprinkle baking soda over the carpet, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum. The baking soda absorbs odors, leaving your carpet smelling clean.
15. Fix a Stuck Window with Candle Wax
If a window is difficult to open, candle wax can help. Rub a candle along the window tracks to lubricate them. The wax reduces friction, making it easier to open and close the window.
