Quick and Easy Fixes: Handy Hints to Solve Common Home Problems

You'll need baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water. Pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by 1 cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes as the mixture fizzes and works on breaking up the clog, then pour a kettle of boiling water down the drain to flush away the loosened debris, repeating if necessary.

A leaking faucet is often because the rubber washer or O-ring inside has worn out. Turn off the water supply under the sink, use an adjustable wrench to remove the faucet handle, and replace the worn washer or O-ring you find inside. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on.

Apply a small amount of WD-40 or petroleum jelly directly onto the hinge pins, then open and close the door several times to work the lubricant into the hinge and wipe away any excess. If the squeak persists, remove the hinge pins and coat them thoroughly before reinserting.

Rub the meat of a walnut directly into the scratch, the natural oils will help fill in and disguise it. For a more severe scratch, use a wood stain marker in a matching shade, color over the scratch, let it dry, and buff lightly.

Cut weather-stripping foam or rubber to fit around the edges of your window frame, and apply it where the window sash meets the frame to cushion the window and stop the rattling. This also helps with energy efficiency by keeping drafts out.

Blot up as much liquid as possible with a clean cloth, then sprinkle baking soda over the stain. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, spray over the baking soda, and let it fizz for a few minutes. Blot again, let the area dry, and vacuum up any remaining residue.

Simply tighten the screw on the back of the knob or pull using a screwdriver. If it keeps coming loose, apply a small dab of thread-locking adhesive to the screw before tightening to prevent it from loosening over time.

Use a putty knife to apply spackle over the hole, smooth it out, and allow it to dry completely. Once dry, sand it down so it's flush with the wall, then paint over the repaired area.

Apply graphite powder to the key and insert it into the lock a few times to spread the lubricant. If you don't have graphite powder, rub the key with the tip of a pencil to coat it with graphite instead.

Place ice cubes over the dents in the carpet, usually caused by furniture legs, and let the ice melt overnight. In the morning, use a stiff brush to fluff the carpet fibers back up, helping it look fresher without replacing it.

Ants won't cross a chalk line, so draw one at entry points like doorways or windowsills. You can also sprinkle baby powder in these areas, since the powder interferes with their scent trails and discourages them from entering your home.

Start by vacuuming the tracks to remove dust and debris, then clean them with soapy water and a brush. Once dry, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks to help the window or door slide smoothly.

Install a door sweep at the bottom of the door to block drafts, or use a draft stopper, a fabric tube filled with stuffing or sand, placed along the bottom of the door.

Keeping your home in tip-top shape doesn't have to be daunting or costly. With these easy handy hints, a few simple tools and a little know-how can go a long way in maintaining your home's comfort and appearance.