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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 227)

Cleaning & Organizing

How to Remove Rust From Tools

Keeping tools clean and free of rust will keep them in service for years. Learn how easy it is to get tools gleaming again by sanding them or scrubbing them with common household supplies.

Appliances

How to Clean Discolored Enamel Cookware: 6 Surefire Solutions

Get the most from your sturdy enamel cookware by keeping it clean and free of stains.

Gardening

The Best Native Plants to Grow in Soggy Gardens (by Region)

Build your own low-maintenance rain garden with colorful native plants that don’t mind wet roots!

Houseplants

Avocado Plant Care 101

If your attempts to grow avocados from seeds have been the pits, read on for tips on how to start and keep this plant indoors.

Gardening

How to Grow Snapdragons for an Easy Curb Appeal Boost

Add a pop of color to your garden in the spring and fall months with this tender perennial featuring various stunning flowers.

Clothing & Gear

10 Things Every Backyard Bird-Watcher Needs for Their Yard, According to a Seasoned Bird-Watcher

Discover the top bird-watching essentials that will turn your yard into the go-to spot for a diverse array of birds.

Tools & Materials

Field-Tested and Reviewed: Is the White Duck Tarp Worth the Cost?

Looking for a heavy-duty tarp to protect your outdoor items? I tested a top-selling brand’s canvas tarp to find out if it was any good.

Tools & Materials

Clear Driveways and Walkways With the Snow Joe Single-Stage Snow Blower

After testing numerous single-stage snow blowers, the Snow Joe 48V, 18-inch Ionmax proved to be quite capable for clearing what moderate snow storms can dump on a property.

Cabinets

The Great Debate: Plywood vs. Solid Wood Kitchen Cabinets

From appearance to maintenance, the material you choose for kitchen cabinets has a lasting impact on your daily life—not to mention your budget.

Bathroom Design

What Is the Average Bathroom Size, Anyway?

Plan your bathroom remodel by understanding the typical bathroom size for every type of bathroom.

Tubs & Showers

How to Unclog a Bathtub

Do you find yourself ankle-deep in water when you shower? See how to unclog a tub drain without using chemicals that can harm your plumbing.

Building & Installing

The Best Drywall Lifts to Simplify Construction Projects

Anyone who has struggled to hang drywall will be delighted with the speed, ease, and accuracy of these useful machines.

Appliances & Cookware

The Best Mug Warmers to Keep Your Drinks Hot All Day, Tested

Many manufacturers make bold claims about their mug warmers’ capabilities, but not all deliver. We tested some of the best models to see which could stand the heat.

Houseplants

Why Every Plant Parent Needs This Popular Plug-In Fly Trap

Win the war—or at least half the battle—against indoor insects with this effective, easy-to-use plug-in pest control.

Appliances & Cookware

Better Taste, Better Water Flow: A Brita Faucet Water Filter Review

It removes dozens of impurities from tap water without excessively restricting the flow, and it’s surprisingly affordable.

Garden Pests

Mole vs. Vole Damage—3 Key Differences for Identification (and What to Do About Each Pest)

While their names may sound similar, moles and voles are each destructive in their own ways. Here’s what to know about the differences between vole vs. mole damage and how to address it.

Gardening

How to Grow Beets for a Superfood Supply in Your Own Backyard

Once the unwanted wallflower of the vegetable world, the beet now is achieving homecoming queen status due to its many health benefits.

Gardening

How to Use Straw Mulch for Vegetable Gardening

The use of straw mulch for garden beds can keep weeds down, decrease watering needs, and even extend the growing season.

Garages

Does Having an Attached Garage Impact Indoor Air Quality?

An attached garage is convenient, but the shared wall between this space and your living quarters may not be enough to prevent harmful pollutants from entering your home.

Bath Fixtures & Fittings

The American Standard Spectra Plus Duo Shower Head: A 2-in-1 With 4 Settings

This shower head marries luxury, functionality, and versatility. Discover how it performed in our hands-on testing.