Five Secret Weapons for DIY Projects

 

Photo by Precious Plastic Melbourne on Unsplash

Is there a home maintenance project that’s been lingering on your to-do list because you’re dreading that trip to the hardware store? There are some projects you can tackle with items that are probably already in your home.

1. Vinegar: Most likely there’s a jug of vinegar in your pantry right now. You can soak items in vinegar to remove mineral deposits, like in a clogged showerhead, and you can boil vinegar in your microwave to remove odors, making it easier to clean.

2. Cola: A can of Coke or Pepsi can be used to clean many surfaces, including your glass windows, porcelain toilet, or chrome fixtures. Just do some research before using it on metal surfaces, as it can be corrosive.

3. Baking Soda: This item may actually be more useful for applications other than baking. A baking soda/vinegar paste is great for cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. Baking soda can also be used to absorb odors.

4. Butter Knife: Screwdrivers are easy to misplace. If you can't find a screwdriver when you need one, a butter knife, preferably an older one that you no longer need for table setting, is pretty effective for both Phillips and flat-head screws.

5. Toothpaste: Is there an unsightly scratch on your car or bike? The grit in tarter-control toothpaste makes for an effective scratch remover. Clean the scratch, apply some toothpaste, let it sit for a few minutes, and then buff it out with a paper towel.