Owning your own home is undoubtedly a rewarding experience. Not only does it provide a sense of financial security for the future, but it also offers a space to call your own, where you have the freedom to make it truly yours by painting walls, changing carpets, and more. However, with homeownership comes a host of responsibilities that were previously handled by landlords. Don’t worry, though – the internet is your best friend when it comes to learning how to tackle these tasks. Here’s a list of ten practical solutions and hacks that every homeowner should master, along with step-by-step instructions.
Fix a Loose Toilet Flush Handle
Is your toilet’s flush handle wobbly and causing flushing problems? This common issue can be easily fixed. Begin by turning off the water supply. Then, open the toilet tank and flush to drain the water. You’ll notice the chain connected to the flusher with a clip. Remove the clip and adjust the chain by adding or removing links until it’s taut. Reattach the clip to the flusher and turn the water supply back on. Problem solved!
Conceal Cord Clutter
Tangled cords can make your home look messy. Fortunately, there’s a simple way to hide those unsightly cables whether they’re near your computer, TV stand, or bedside. Start by obtaining a sturdy cardboard packaging tube. Cut a slit down the length of the tube and secure the edges with duct tape. Give it a coat of spray paint and let it dry. Attach the tube to the back of your furniture and slide your power strip inside, ensuring the outlets face the opening. Finally, plug in your devices and neatly tuck the cords into the tube.
Magnetic Screwdriver
If you’ve dabbled in home improvement projects, you know the frustration of dropping screws or placing them at awkward angles. Try this clever hack to make your screwdriver magnetic. Simply acquire a strong magnet, like a rare earth magnet, and place it along the length of the screwdriver. This will magnetize the screwdriver, causing screws to cling to it instead of falling off.
Scratch-Free Hammer
Removing nails from walls can be tricky business. Not only do you need to fill in the hole, but an errant hammer swing can leave unsightly scratches. Use this trick: wrap a rubber band around the head of the hammer in an “X” shape. This provides a cushioning effect when you’re using the hammer, reducing the risk of scratching surfaces.
Hands-Free Marking
This handy trick is a lifesaver when you’re hanging shelves or marking measurements for various projects. Grab a pencil and a large binder clip. Insert the pencil into the binder clip and clip it onto the back of your tape measure. You now have an easy way to make precise marks as you measure along the wall, wood, or any surface.
Save Excess Paint
Painting projects often seem straightforward, but they can quickly consume more paint and money than anticipated. It’s also wise to keep extra paint for future touch-ups. To save every last drop, make three or four small holes around the rim of the paint can to allow excess paint to drain back in. Then, replace the lid and gently tap it in place.
Clean a Dirty Sink
Keeping your sink clean is essential for any homeowner. This cleaning method relies on the potent combination of baking soda and vinegar. Start by rinsing the sink, then sprinkle a layer of baking soda. Scrub with a sponge. For stubborn stains, use a paper towel soaked in white vinegar. Follow this with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, which will bubble as it clears the drain. Rinse off the baking soda and vinegar, then pour hot water down the sink. If you have a garbage disposal, add citrus peels (lemon or orange) to eliminate vinegar odors. Wipe the sink, and it will sparkle like new!
Mastering these home hacks will not only save you time and money but also make you feel more confident in your homeowner skills. With the power of the internet, you can tackle these tasks like a pro and enjoy the benefits of homeownership to the fullest.
SOURCE : realsimple.com
