Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 349)

25 of the Best Household Chores for Kids of Every Age
Interior

25 of the Best Household Chores for Kids of Every Age

These age-appropriate tasks will build your kids’ confidence and expand their life skills.

12 Things an Arborist Wishes You Knew
DIY

12 Things an Arborist Wishes You Knew

Most people wait until a tree is leaning precariously or a large branch has fallen off before they seek the help of an arborist. But certified arborists aren't just for emergencies. They're the go-to sources for all kinds of issues with your trees, and they've got plenty of advice for keeping your trees healthy and thriving. Here are just a few things arborists wish homeowners knew about taking care of their trees.

15 Things Never to Put in the Microwave
Interior

15 Things Never to Put in the Microwave

Rush, rush, rush—in today's 24/7 culture, a microwave can be a real boon to busy households and time-strapped cooks. But even though these ubiquitous appliances are fast and convenient, there are certain items that you should never, ever put in them. Among the offenders are foods that can splatter or pop, causing a big mess and a huge cleanup hassle, as well as materials that pose health and safety hazards. While there are plenty of things you should never put in a microwave, the items listed here are some of the most common hazards. Just remember: When in doubt, keep it out!

10 Kitchen Updates You Can Do in a Day
Interior

10 Kitchen Updates You Can Do in a Day

If you're feeling a little stir-crazy in your kitchen, you don't have to take on a complete overhaul to free yourself from its confining style. Instead, try one of these attainable and inexpensive all-in-an-afternoon projects that will make a big change without a steep price tag.

10 Instant Cures for Any Kitchen Odor
Interior

10 Instant Cures for Any Kitchen Odor

In the kitchen, strong cooking smells come with the territory. Some odors are pleasant, while others leave you throwing open windows, turning on fans, or rushing out of the house. If you need to freshen the air fast, try one of these tips for eliminating those foul, stinky, and generally unpleasant aromas that (unfortunately) accompany food prep.

10 Unexpected Uses for Spray Paint
DIY

10 Unexpected Uses for Spray Paint

Looking to make updates around the house? There are so many surprising items to color and revive all with just a can of spray paint.

10 Tips for Surviving a Renovation Mess
Design

10 Tips for Surviving a Renovation Mess

Yes, it's possible to keep life moving forward and make progress on a home renovation project at the same time. Here's how to do it.

12 Painted Walls That Look Like Wallpaper
DIY

12 Painted Walls That Look Like Wallpaper

The walls of your house should be sturdy, but they don’t have to be boring. Amp up the appeal of your interior walls with a little painter’s tape and some bright ideas.

These 30 Places Have the Worst Weather in America
Design

These 30 Places Have the Worst Weather in America

All cities experience extreme weather events every now and again, but some receive far more than their fair share. Get ready to learn which American cities have the most unbearable weather in the country, and find out exactly what kinds of unpleasant conditions earned them a spot on this list.

35 Ways to Use Ordinary Things in Extraordinary Ways
DIY

35 Ways to Use Ordinary Things in Extraordinary Ways

When used imaginatively, ordinary items can have practical magic. Here’s some inspiration for employing everyday household goods in unusual—and helpful—ways.

8 Things You Can Clean With a Pressure Washer
DIY

8 Things You Can Clean With a Pressure Washer

There are few things more satisfying than watching a pressure washer blast away built-up grime and debris from outdoor surfaces—in fact, it can be downright soothing.

7 Pro Tips for Brightening Your Bathroom
Interior

7 Pro Tips for Brightening Your Bathroom

Add light and airiness to even the smallest bathroom space with these easy, affordable tips and tricks.

These Homes Are Time Capsules of Past Trends
Design

These Homes Are Time Capsules of Past Trends

Take a trip to yesteryear by scrolling through a collection of homes that are frozen in time like living monuments to design trends of years past.

12 Common Types of Mold in Homes
Interior

The 12 Most Common Types of Mold in the Home

Even if you haven’t spotted it yet, mold is probably in your home right now. Read on to learn which species are most prevalent, where they grow, and when you have a problem.

The Pros and Cons of Black Stainless Steel Appliances
Interior

The Pros and Cons of Black Stainless Steel

Get the 411 on this trendy appliance finish to see if black stainless steel is the smart choice for your home.

Dishwasher Leaking? Try One of These 5 Fixes
Interior

5 Reasons Your Dishwasher Is Leaking (and How to Repair It)

A faulty part on your hard-working appliance could lead to more headaches if left unchecked. Fortunately, these five fixes could stop water from pooling on your kitchen floor with every dishwasher cycle.

The Best Place to Buy Appliances, Solved
Interior

Solved! The Best Places to Buy Appliances

Purchase home appliances at the outlet that suits your style, budget, installation, and warranty needs.

8 Tips for Safely Disinfecting with Bleach
Interior

8 Safety Tips for Disinfecting with Bleach

Bleach is handy and effective for disinfecting surfaces, but keep a few safety precautions in mind when handling this potent cleaner.

10 Things I Wish I Had Known Before I Bought a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner
Interior

10 Things I Wish I Had Known Before I Bought a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

With our busy lives today, it’s no wonder everyone’s looking for ways to speed up—or eliminate—daily chores. Topping the list of time-saving tools is the robotic vacuum, an appliance that promises to clean the floor on its own without your ever having to lift a finger. We chatted with a number of people who own robot vacuums to learn what they really think about their smart little machines, and what they had to say might surprise you.

Why Are My Succulents Dying? Solved!
Lawn & Garden

Solved! Why Are My Succulents Dying?

Return these notably low-maintenance plants to the peak of health with these tips and treatments.