Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 196)

a large white bottle pouring a stream of clear bleach with a blue background
Interior

Chlorine bleach isn’t just for whitening clothing. This laundry room staple has myriad uses, from making bouquets last longer to emergency water purification and disaster cleanup.

Spraying window with windex
DIY

Windex is not just for cleaning windows: The iconic blue spray (and its other formulations) can be used in the kitchen, laundry room, and more.

A person using the best vacuum for thick carpets option on a carpeted floor
Cleaning Supplies

The best vacuums for thick carpets go deep to dislodge dirt and remove grime from plush fibers without doing damage to the carpet.

Laundry Room Remodel Cost
Interior

Remodeling the laundry room can make a dreaded chore seem less daunting. Laundry room remodel costs range from $1,300 to $15,000, with the national average at $8,100.

woman in striped pants loading her dishwasher in narrow kitchen
Interior

Simply timing your cleaning cycles right can benefit both your wallet and the environment.

monstera plant care 101 - how to grow monstera indoors
House Plants

Growing lush, tropical Monstera plants indoors is easy when you get its growing conditions right. Learn about soil, light, and fertilizer requirements, and other key aspects of Monstera care.

Close view of hand wiping a TV screen with a microfiber cloth
DIY

Discover the best tools and techniques for cleaning a TV screen without scratching or otherwise damaging the surface.

Stamped concrete patio installed to look like stone pavers on a porch with a black front door
Exterior

Learn all about stamped concrete, including the high-end materials it can mimic, its durability, and cost, before you have it installed around your home.

calathea plant care 101 - how to grow calathea plant indoors
House Plants

While prayer plant is considered fussy by some green thumbs, it’s not all that difficult to create an optimal growing environment for it.

Rear View Of Senior Couple Pointing Finger In Front Of House
DIY

Wondering how to paint a house exterior so you can decide whether to take the project on yourself? These steps can help DIYers see the project through.

A close up photo of red sneezeweed flowers.
Lawn & Garden

Your yard doesn't have to look drab just because summer is waning. Plant these flowers and shrubs to give your landscape color through the cooler months.

Herbs air drying
Gardening

If you want to enjoy herbs from your summer garden all year long, you can do so by drying herbs and storing them for use after your plants have fallen to the frost.

Mom cleaning with mask on
Interior

Cold and flu season is upon us, and it’s all but inevitable that germs will invade your home. If someone in your family falls ill, be sure to keep these high-touch areas of your home clean.

Covered Patio Cost
Exterior

A covered patio provides shelter and privacy in a homeowner’s backyard. Installing a covered patio costs between $8,243 and $26,255, or an average of about $17,154.

House exterior on a stormy evening
Exterior

Learn how to find the right generator for home backup or emergency power.

firehouse in rough and ready california
Design

They may be underpopulated, unremarkable, or remote, but these oddly named American communities are places to see and be seen.

man using a portable generator on a camp ground
Lawn & Garden

Master the art of fuel efficiency with these tips and tricks for your gas-powered equipment.

Is My Dishwasher Making a Loud Noise
Interior

The source of loud noises coming from a dishwasher could be a minor matter or a huge headache. Find out how to diagnose dishwasher sounds and what to do about them.

bathroom shelf with towels, loofah, brush, and tooth brushes
Interior

It’s no secret that our bathrooms harbor billions of bacteria, viruses, and other unsavory elements, but are you replacing these items as often as you ought to?

Man holding ashes from a fire pit
DIY

Don’t let the remnants from last night’s fire go to waste! Repurposing ashes in these surprising ways can help you save money and lead a more sustainable lifestyle.