Read the latest articles from Bob Vila

A person cleaning house windows from outside using a homemade window cleaner recipe.
DIY

How to Make Homemade Window Cleaner

It's easier and less expensive than you think to achieve streak-free windows: Mix three common ingredients in a spray bottle, and get cleaning! Get the recipe here.

11 Air Conditioning Mistakes That Spike Your Bills
Interior

11 Air Conditioning Mistakes That Spike Your Bills

Nowadays, more than 90 percent of homes and virtually all businesses in America use air conditioning to beat the summertime heat. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioners use about 6 percent of all the electricity produced in the country. Given the overwhelming prevalence of AC, most people think they know how to maintain their system properly, whether it’s central air, a window unit, or ductless mini-splits. But, surprisingly, many homeowners fall victim to common mistakes that waste energy, shorten the working lifespan of their air conditioner, and cost money. Here are 11 common air-conditioning mistakes, and how to properly address each one.

Modern kitchen interior with avocado-colored cabinets
Interior

25 Kitchen Trends You Might Regret

Starting a kitchen remodel or refresh soon? Judges from this year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show talk 2024 kitchen trends—and how to keep your space from looking dated.

Woman holding laundry detergent surrounded by laundry
Interior

19 Laundry Mistakes You’re Probably Making

Do your clothes have oily stains on them when they come out of the dryer? Are your clothes stinky after you launder them? Here's where you're going wrong.

DeWalt Prime Day Deals for Amazon Prime Day 2025
Reviews

Amazon is Clearing Out DeWalt Power Tools During Prime Day With Prices as Low as $10

I test and track tool prices year-round, and these DeWalt Prime Day deals on impact drivers, saws, and more are actually worth it.

Woman caulks edge of bathtub edged in painter's tape.
DIY

25 Home Maintenance Problems That Only Take a Minute to Fix

Your home will work better, look better—even smell better—when you address the little tasks and to-dos you've been meaning to deal with.

A man with a mustache pokes the ashes of a charcoal grill.
DIY

This Is the Proper Way to Clean Your Charcoal Grill

Keeping a charcoal grill clean will improve its performance, extend its lifespan, and help you prepare flavorful meals.

Group shot of Best Backsaws
Reviews

We Put Them to the Test: The Best Back Saws for Your Toolbox

Sometimes overlooked, back saws are versatile tools that offer control and precision that just isn’t possible with powered saws.

Makita Prime Day Deals for Amazon Prime Day 2025
Reviews

Amazon is Slashing the Prices on Makita Power Tool by 50% During Prime Day Deals

Amazon’s Prime Day 2025 hub is loaded with can’t-miss Makita bargains — from the versatile 12V MAX CXT Multi-Cutter Kit to heavy-duty polishers and combo kits.

Weekly Deals July 2025
Reviews

This Week’s Best Deals Include Free Tools, Discounted Cooling Solutions, and Prime Day Deals

Each week, we bring you the hottest deals in Bob Vila-favorite categories like power tools, hand tools, home essentials, and more.

A person shopping for energy efficient appliances and washing machines.
Interior

Energy Star Is On the Chopping Block—How You Can Still Prioritize Efficiency (and Savings) With Your Next Appliance Purchase

Experts explain some alternatives to help you make the best decisions for your home.

Tan colored Craftsman Style Bungalow house
Exterior

5 Craftsman-Style Curb Appeal Ideas That Aren’t Just for Bungalows

This is your sign to plant another flowering shrub in the front yard.

A family of three enjoying the best above-ground pool option
Reviews

The Best Above-Ground Pools for Beating the Heat

Ready to swim, splash, and lounge poolside? This shopping guide helps you choose the best above-ground pool for your family, yard size, and maintenance needs to make water play fun for the family.

A group of the best infrared thermometers on a counter awaiting hands-on testing.
Reviews

Temperature Check: The Best No-Contact Thermometers for Cooking

These infrared thermometers will level up your barbecue and grilling game instantly.

A group of the best floor scrubbers leaned against a wall before testing.
Reviews

Floor Scrubbers That Actually Work on the Worst Messes

Looking to upgrade the old mop and bucket? These powerful floor scrubbers tackle stuck-on grime and other tough messes for squeaky-clean floors.

Colorful corners of the best shade sails on a lawn before testing.
Reviews

Our Favorite Shade Sails for Beating the Heat in Style

Simple, elegant, and effective, shade sails offer an easy and affordable way to shade a deck or patio. We tested some of the best options on the market.

Group shot of welders
Reviews

The Best Welders for Beginners: We Tested the Top Models for First-Time Users

Learning to weld opens up a world of both creative and career opportunities. We’ve taken a close look at the best equipment to get started.

A group of the Best Robot Vacuums for Hardwood Floors together on a wood floor before testing.
Reviews

The Best Robot Vacuums for Keeping Hardwood Floors Spotless, Tested

Keep hardwood floors effortlessly clean with the right robot vacuum.

Expandable Hose Deal One-Off
Reviews

I Found the Best Expandable Garden Hose for Small Spaces—And It’s $30 Off

This 25-foot hose scrunches into a drawer when empty, then stretches full length when you turn on the tap—and it’s $39.99 today (43% off $69.99).

A woman wearing white paints a white deck with a gazebo while on a ladder.
DIY

How to Paint a Deck 

Painting a deck doesn't just make the space look sharp—doing so protects the wood from UV rays and moisture. Here's what to know about choosing the right paint and preparing the wood for a professional finish.