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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 225)

Pest Control

Does Peppermint Oil Repel Bugs? Here’s What Experts Say

Discover whether peppermint oil effectively repels insects and what to keep in mind if you plan to try this natural bug repellent.

Deals

12 Kit Homes You Can Actually Buy on Amazon

Build your own tiny home, backyard office, or stand-alone studio space with one of these kit homes from Amazon.

HVAC

The Best Heat Pump Dryers for Energy Efficiency

Deck, Patio & Porch

The Best Misting Systems to Keep Your Patio Cool and Comfortable

Few things feel better than a fine mist of cool water on a scorching hot day. Get affordable relief from the outdoor heat with a misting system for your patio.

Tools & Materials

Colorado Natives Try a Snow Blower for the First Time: Reviewing the Ego Power+

As a couple of lifetime Colorado natives, we’d never used a snow blower before. Come along with us as we detail our experience with using the Ego Power+ Peak Power snow blower.

Safety & Security

Is Schlage’s Premium Smart Door Lock Worth the Money? We Tested It to Find Out

We spent several weeks testing the Schlage Encode to decide whether it’s worth its steep price.

Tools & Materials

The Best Soundproofing Panels to Control Unwanted Noise

Tackle unpleasant acoustics in any home, office, or commercial space with these easy-to-use panels.

Cleaning & Organizing

30 Spring Cleaning Tasks You Can Tackle With Natural Ingredients

These cleaning solutions are safer for kids, pets, and the environment, and they'll leave your home sparkling and beautiful.

Clothing & Gear

The Best Tool Vests to Make Your Projects Even Easier

Make sure all of your essential tools are within arm’s reach with the right tool vest for the job.

HVAC

The Best Heat Pump Water Heaters to Save Energy And Lower Bills

The latest development in water heaters promises new levels of economy and efficiency. We look at whether they are the right choice for your home.

Reviews

The Best Fire Pit Tongs to Keep Your Fires Roaring (and You Safe)

Tend to your backyard bonfire from a safe distance with this essential fire pit accessory.

Tools

5 Types of Sanders Every DIYer Should Know—Plus 4 You’ve Probably Never Seen Before

Picking the right power sander for your project will save time and result in a high-quality wood finish.

Power Tools

Ryobi vs. DeWalt: Finding the Right Power Tools for Homeowners and Pros

Our head-to-head comparison features two of the world’s most popular tool brands. Find out which one comes out on top.

Repair & Maintenance

How to Repair a Screen Door

What's the best screen material to use, and how do you get the screen door off the track? Here's how to fix a screen door in an afternoon.

Toilets

Does Closing the Toilet Lid Before Flushing Reduce the Spread of Germs?

Learn what science says is the most important thing you should do to keep germs in the toilet from contaminating bathroom surfaces.

Cleaning Supplies

The Best Drain Cleaners for Hair and Grime

Get the lowdown on how to find a drain cleaner that can tackle the toughest drain clogger: hair.

Cleaning & Organizing

How to DIY the Ultimate Cleaning Supply Cabinet

Make home chores a breeze by creating the perfect cleaning supply storage system with these must-have products and organizational tips.

Reviews

The Best Tabletop Fire Pits to Enhance Your Home, Tested

Create a dramatic and elegant centerpiece, indoors or outdoors, with a beautiful tabletop fire pit.

Tools & Materials

The 9 Best Wood-Burning Tools, According to Our Hands-On Tests

If you’re ready to try your hand at a hot new hobby, check out these top pyrography tools.

Cleaning

Yes, Your Vacuum Needs to Be Cleaned Regularly—Here’s How to Do It

Deep-cleaning your vacuum cleaner for like-new suction and performance is as simple as following this step-by-step guide.