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CLEANING
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Take a look at your clothing tags before your next load of laundry. If you're lucky, they'll include a set of fine-pr...
Convenience incarnate: That's one way to describe your washing machine. This hardworking appliance launders clothes, ...
Q: I never gave much thought to cleaning my cherry wood floor until I noticed how dingy it had become! What's the bes...
You already know the value of spices for giving the dishes you love that perfect savory or sweet taste, but you may not know that many of the spices found in your...
Though often overlooked, HVAC air filters are responsible for a mighty important job: keeping dust, dirt, and other d...
Stained grout ages your home and makes your kitchen and bathroom tile look dirty, even when not. If your previous att...
Yellowing on your favorite dress shirt or old tee typically suggests that it's time to add it to your rag collection....
Did you know that tartar sauce makes a brilliant copper cleaner? Or that a slice of the bread is your secret weapon w...
In some homes, it seems like a thin layer of dust has settled over your tables, shelves, and other surfaces almost as...
You know the saying "out of sight, out of mind. " Well, when it comes to your oven's interior, it's "out of sight, an...
If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the sink is the heart of the kitchen. From meal prep to clean up, you spend a good amount of time near your kitchen ...
Find yourself in a stinky situation? If a skunk strikes close to home (or in your home!), take action against the unp...
While more and more households are going chemical-free, no one wants to sacrifice cleanliness, especially in the kitc...
The naturally distressed patina of brick adds to its desirability indoors and out, but too much dirt accumulation can...
Your sleeping bag is your bed away from bed during warm weather, whether during full-on camping or nights of backyard...
Many people reach for a bottle of brew to refresh themselves on a hot day. Fewer will crack open a cold one to clean ...
What's that smell? If you're sniffing around a damp bathroom, musty basement, or dewy screened porch, you may have ca...
Some homeowners are under the impression that the only wrong way to clean is to not clean at all. Not so. There are s...
Q: I’ve noticed an unpleasant odor coming from my dishwasher, and my usual dishwashing detergent clearly isn’t strong...
“Leftover wine” may seem like a freak of nature, a mythical beast along the lines of fairies and unicorns. But sometimes, even the most dedicated oenophiles simpl...
When life gives you lemons, don't make lemonade—clean house, instead! This versatile fruit can freshen every corner o...
Beloved for their economy and durability, vinyl and laminate flooring are two of the most popular flooring types avai...
To wake up rested and refreshed each morning, you need a good night’s sleep, and nothing affects quality of sleep more than a mattress. If you’re spending your ni...
Available in a wide array of materials from vinyl to wood, mini blinds make an attractive feature in any interior. Bu...
While before-and-afters of painting projects are often breathtaking, there tends to be a <i>little</i> bit of ugly at the end—specifically, the time-consuming cle...
Q. We’ve just moved into our new home, and the previous owners have left behind a wallpaper print in the bathroom tha...
For homeowners who appreciate all natural ingredients and saving money on household necessities, baking soda and vine...
In any home, no matter its age or design, the kitchen always seem to serve as the hub of daily activity—a gathering s...
When is the last time you cracked open an ice-cold Coke? If you're like two-thirds of Americans, it's probably been a...
The world can be quite the grimy place, with bacteria and viruses lurking everywhere you turn. So how to protect yourself from a world teaming with germs? Practic...
Nothing is quite as aggravating as discovering that the delivery guy’s van leaked oil on your driveway, or that the d...
Wood floors add beauty and warmth to any home, but they do demand special care. Though there are plenty of commercial...
Whether you promptly take care of all household chores or (like the rest of us!) tend to let certain tasks slide, you probably dread particular duties that requir...
You’ve got your home care routine down—but a few of your go-tos might be doing more harm than good, losing you money and even damaging your possessions. Here are ...
Just like the fabric in clothing, upholstery gets assaulted daily by skin oils, hair, dust, food crumbs, and spills. ...
Nothing spoils a lazy Saturday like a list full of chores. The only way to avoid a weekend cleaning spree is to space out the work and tidy up throughout the week...
Nobody enjoys dragging a heavy vacuum across all carpeted floors of the house and repeating the job only a week later...
As a naturally occurring and pervasive substance in our world, mold exists in a variety of different forms—many of wh...
Whether you’re caramelizing onions, simmering a sugary fruit jam, or baking homemade biscuits, your culinary masterpi...
It's an integral part of every meal, but ordinary table salt can do a lot more than add flavor to your food. From cleaning to winter maintenance, salt can do a wh...
If your kitchen or bathroom remodel wish list includes natural stone countertops, consider eco-sensitive soapstone. T...
Bugs, like all creatures, have their rightful place on this earth. But nobody wants that place to be in their home. Like it or not, insects and all manner of cree...
Whether your daily drink of choice is a frothy latte, creamy hot cocoa, or an old-fashioned cup of Joe, the Keurig ca...
From fluffy dogs to colorful parrots, animals bring a dose of happiness into our homes. But owning a pet has its challenges, and many time-constrained homeowners ...
Untreated dampness on carpet—whether caused by a persistent leak, overzealously watered plants, or a not-quite-houset...
We all aspire to a tidy home, but sticking to a regular cleaning routine can be challenging. While some areas demand constant attention--think kitchen counters-- ...
Nothing beats crawling under a cozy comforter after a long day, but did you know the bulky piece of bedding likely ha...
The world’s most abundant metal, aluminum, contributes to many products homeowners use every day: pots, pans, utensil...
Give your kitchen a fresh start this New Year’s by rebooting your pantry. Purging old food and getting rid of items you either don't need or no longer want will h...
When whipping up a home-cooked meal, most people don’t give a second thought to their cookware, even though properly using and cleaning these hardworking necessit...
Enter any supermarket and it’s obvious that detergent is big business. Yet while the choices seem endless, today’s co...
Let’s face it: Nobody strives to win a gold medal in household chores. But examining your approach to these tasks may reveal that you’ve been relying on the wrong...
Natural stone, with its rich colorations and wonderful feel, is Mother Nature’s gift to our homes. But this beautiful...
It’s entirely possible to remove paint from tile, whether you’re simply hoping to banish some accidental splatters or...
No one wants to spend Sunday afternoon scrubbing the tub or toilet—but everyone still wants a clean bathroom. Don't worry! Dealing with a dirty bathroom doesn't h...
Dirty window tracks can spoil even the sunniest views. Whether you leave your windows open or closed, the tracks inev...
Curling up in front of a fire is a thoroughly delightful aspect of fall and winter. But fires can be a messy business...
You may think you keep a clean kitchen, but all of those nooks, crannies, and corners are perfect hiding places for bacteria and other nasty bugs. Even some seemi...
Your hardworking cutting board constantly plays host to meats, veggies, and herbs. Over time, however, such unsavory ...
Thanks to a harvest time of as little as five years, bamboo is an environmentally sustainable, increasingly popular f...
The dishwasher is truly a miracle worker in the kitchen. Instead of having to wash plates, pots, and cutlery by hand, homeowners can give them a thorough cleaning...
We’ve all seen the bottles of glass cleaner vying for our dollars on supermarket shelves. But there’s an economical a...
Our carpets suffer the collateral damage of our busy, active lives. The daily foot traffic and those inevitable spill...
It’s common to ignore oven spills and splatters until you can’t avoid seeing—or smelling—them on the walls, racks, an...
Shag rugs are enjoying a resurgence, thanks to their groovy textured looks and comfy feel underfoot. The potential bu...
The next time you're making a grocery list, be sure to add cleaners to your must-buys. Only on this trip to the store, you'll never have to set foot in the commer...
Nothing interferes with a refreshing shower like a slow-draining bathtub. And that inch or two of water that sneaks u...
As temperatures chill, who can resist a piping-hot cup of tea? But beware! If you fall into the tea habit, over time ...
Before you make your next shopping list, shop your home for some of these ingenious household supplies. From the garden to the bathtub, these zero-dollar solution...
Cast iron is so strong and durable, it can serve for a lifetime and beyond. Yet rugged as the material is, it only ta...
Glue is an essential product for home repair mavens, DIY enthusiasts, and recreational crafters alike. But when the s...
Socks seem to just disappear in the dryer, leaving you with an ever-growing supply of unmatched socks. But there’s no need to despair when you're left with a sock...
Battling bacteria and treating wounds are all in a day's work for rubbing alcohol, but it might surprise you to learn that the hardworking antiseptic is as handy ...
Everyone loves a clean home, but our obsession with sanitation may come at a cost to our health. Some people, especia...
It’s bound to happen. You’re just going to do a bit of touch-up or you accidentally brush up against a still-wet proj...
The beauty, shade, and privacy offered by trees make them a popular environmental feature for any property. But many ...
During the hottest days of the year, it’s likely that you rely heavily on an air conditioning unit—be it targeting yo...
Quartz. Quartzite. The names sound alike. Yet, although both of these popular countertop materials are derived from t...
At its best, a kitchen furnished with shiny stainless steel appliances and surfaces is practically the picture of pri...
Natural texture, super strength, stain resistance, and blend of vibrant hues are all reasons that slate tile—the thin...
When his wife started her new job as an attorney, Mark Evitt took on a different role, too: househusband. Since he w...
By adding a cap of liquid fabric softener to certain loads of laundry, you condition the clothing fibers and textiles...
Your goal: To keep a clean house. But it may surprise you to discover that there are certain items and spaces in your home that actually don’t require as much was...
It’s hard to beat ceramic tile for beauty, versatility, and durability. Perfect for bathroom, kitchen, even entryway ...
Whether you’re planning a road trip or gearing up for an outdoor DIY project, the task ahead starts with checking and...
Blood happens. Not often, hopefully, but when a kid skins a knee and lays wailing on the living room rug, or the dog ...
Your deck gets a lot of traffic. Muddy shoes, spilled food, and wet dogs can leave it dirty, stained, and smelly. Eve...
Our hyper-caffeinated culture has resulted in a glut of coffee grounds choking our garbage pails. But before you toss out the stale remnants of yesterday’s bean b...
Nothing says summer like a refreshing swim in the backyard pool. But your swimming pool does need care—and doses of t...
Humans have long harnessed the power of machines to help us work better, faster, and smarter. Many of these technologies work in the background of our home, heati...
It’s tough to get excited about outdoor cleaning projects when you’d rather be at the lake or on the golf course. For...
Does it only take strangers a quick glance to know there's a Fluffy or Fido in your life? Indeed, the loose strands o...
Nothing says “clean” like a great pressure washing! Everything from decks and driveways to patio furniture and window...
Q: I just went to clean our rental property after the tenant moved out, and I found black mold in the bathroom. Yuck!...
Walls framed by baseboards and crown molding exude unmistakable character and polish, most notably in historical home...
Are you sick of your littered living room, overcrowded cabinet, or too-cramped-for-comfort closet? Cure clutter around the home with one of these 23 unexpectedly ...
Although metal patio furniture is elegant and durable, it can over time become a rust-coated symbol of neglect. Inste...
It's one of the most loved rituals of summer—friends and family gathering together in the backyard to enjoy some hot-...
Warmer temperatures invite us to throw up the blinds and open a window. But good weather isn't the only reason to let the fresh air in. Even the cleanest homes ca...
Day after day, year after year, exterior siding protects your home from the elements. It's the first line of defense ...
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 ...
Thanks to its ability to resist corrosion, withstand heat, and handle all sorts of chemicals, stainless steel is a co...
Cleaning—it’s a thankless task. All told, the average person spends approximately five years just repeating the same cleaning chores over and over. We know you ha...
The pungent odor of mothballs is the very smell of storage. Made from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, thes...
There’s nothing better than a nice cup of coffee to kickstart your morning. What’s not quite as energizing? An accomp...
April showers keep many DIYers indoors working on home maintenance projects large and small, from pepping up interior...
Like most home cooks, you probably love whipping up meals but hate cleaning up afterwards. If you neglect tidying up ...
Let's be honest here: No matter the touted health benefits of its massaging hydrotherapy, a jetted tub can be only as...
Blinds often go ignored during our day-to-day cleaning routines. But when we don't give them proper care or cleaning,...
Use well-seasoned cast-iron cookware once, and chances are that you’re hooked for life. More than simply a nontoxic, ...
Taking out the trash is a routine we’re all too well acquainted with. But believe it or not, you can actually make trash day easier—perhaps even pleasurable —with...
Are you ready to shake the cold-weather blues and spruce up your home for the warmer months ahead? Before you overhaul your living space with cleaning projects ga...
If you've recently noticed that your clothes are taking longer to dry than they used to, you may need to look no furt...
Shiny new faucets, showers, and toilets add as much polish and sophistication to the bathroom as they do utility. But...
Spring cleaning is upon us. If you’re not ready to commit several days to the task of sprucing up, take a few of these shortcuts to make quick work of some chores.
Commonly used to construct everyday items from shower enclosures to tabletops, plexiglass (also known as acrylic) off...
Though far from pleasant to think about, there’s a good chance your home is ridden with dust mites—microscopic organi...
When faced with the conundrum of how to unclog a garbage disposal, most people would agree the easiest solution is to...
Cooking oil appears in many forms—olive, vegetable, canola, etc. —and is a necessary ingredient for almost anything y...
Rub-a-dub-dub, soap is great for a scrub! But bar soap is handy to have around for many reasons that go far beyond the bathtub. It can serve as a lubricant, fresh...
Wool rugs in a home appeal to several senses: Their vibrant colors and patterns improve the look of any space, while ...
When you think about what dust really is—a conglomeration of dead skin particles, insect parts, mold spores, ash, pollen, and more—you become more determined than...
Linoleum has been a practical flooring option for more than 100 years. While it fell out of fashion in the late 1940s...
Household staples like detergents and cleaners are always on the grocery list. But they don’t have to be. You can make those essentials at home—and effectively, n...
No matter their placement—on the mantel, beside the bathtub, or on the dining table—lit candles instantly create an a...
No matter how hard you work to keep your kitchen and bathroom clean, they'll always look dingy if they're plagued by ...
The more you entertain, the more likely it is that you'll have to deal with stains. A spilled glass of wine, a smudge...
One of life’s simplest pleasures is plopping down in front of the TV to watch your favorite show. But sometimes when ...
If you bathe your body at all, you’ll inevitably encounter soap scum. It's a sad irony of housekeeping that a substan...
Drawer dividers are often touted as an easy way to compartmentalize and corral all those loose knickknacks you hide d...
Q: Lately, every time I open my washing machine door, I detect a foul-smelling odor—not the fresh scent of clean clot...
It may seem like all that dish soap's good for is getting your plates and cups sparkling again, but this soapy solution can do so much more. Here are 10 ways you ...
Even if you’re not a gum chewer, you can still fall victim to the sticky substance if a wad on the concrete sneaks it...
DIYers usually welcome a sudden burst of artistic creativity—except when it means their pen goes awry, leaving a splo...
When it comes to organization, there are some rules that are meant to be broken. While certain tips and tricks may sound promising at first, they aren't necessari...
Many of us have the same mantra for our home: Keep every room as clean and clutter-free as possible. But sometimes everyday routines and outdated solutions can ho...
We bet you didn't know that you have an incredibly versatile tool—cleverly disguised as a common hair-styling essential—hiding just under the bathroom sink. Learn...
There’s nothing more frustrating than discovering that your iron is soiling your favorite clothes while you're trying...
It's been a long day, but it's not you who needs a hot bath—it's your towels. When wet towels dry in open air, they ...
It’s a new year, which means it's time to get started on your home resolutions for 2016. The best place to start? Out with the old! While it can be difficult to l...
If your toilet’s overflowing or your sink’s stopped up, it’s time to take the plunge! About 90 percent of the time, a...
You may not realize it, but it is possible to load your dishwasher incorrectly—and doing so could result in broken, corroded, and continuously dirty dishes. Get t...
Is there anything worse than the sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, and overall misery of the flu? Well, get ready, because the beginning of winter marks the ...
While a snowy winter can be a beautiful thing to witness, the slush, salt, and mud it leaves behind are not quite as appealing. Keep grime contained and protect y...
It’s often said that we tend to neglect those nearest to us, and this is especially true of our closest cleaning conf...
Carpets get dirty—it's a fact of life. But if you just let the problems pile up, those snags, spills, and everyday accidents can make your carpets look old and di...
Many homeowners invest in glass cooktops because their modern, flat surface makes them both easy on the eye and easy ...
Your bathroom may be the smallest room in your house, but it’s probably also the grimiest. To keep this oh-so-essential space sparkling and tidy with a minimum of...
You've just grabbed the mop to clear up a spill or wipe away the day-to-day dirt, but will you actually make your flo...
When your sink or shower drain gets clogged, it's pretty easy to figure out the cause. The perp is usually a disgusti...
You know the story: After cooking a big meal—especially after doing so several times a week, for months—splattered gr...
There’s no place for tarnished silver on the holiday table, especially not when company is due for dinner. But if rem...
Time is a precious commodity that you can’t buy, rent, borrow, store, or save. So it makes sense that most homeowners would prefer to spend less time on everyday ...
Your holiday spirits may be high when the champagne and the conversation is overflowing, but after the guests leave, ...
Inevitably, there’s at least one unwelcome guest at every holiday party: the red wine stain. Sure enough, just as eve...
Who says you can't still be a kid if you're paying down a mortgage? Whether you're just starting out on your own, or ...
You set out a drop cloth and meticulously lined the wall trim with painter’s tape, but you still ended up with a litt...
Don’t let lingering dust, dirt, and clutter set your last minute entertaining plans awash. Use these 15 cleaning shortcuts to turn the grimiest estate into a prim...
A hardworking humidifier is a lifesaver during the dry, cold months of winter. Its dedicated function—adding moisture...
This crisp fall forecast calls for bundling up—that means some rummaging through your closet to unearth options for l...
Looking to add a sense of warmth and history to your home? For your next project, eschew stock lumber in favor of sal...
The holidays are full of food, family, fun—and the occasional freak-out over a stain-threatening mishap. When the turkey grease splatters or a glass of red wine s...
Right up there with other factors like style and cleanliness, your home's scent makes a huge first impression to guests. While the smell of freshly baked bread or...
Streaky mirrors are common problems for even the most conscientious housekeeper. Sometimes, no matter how carefully y...
Not all that long ago, clotheslines were the household norm. Today, however, while plenty of people like to air their...
It’s never an ideal situation: A quick trip to the bathroom followed by a single flush and, boom, you’re dealing with a clogged drain or—much worse—a nearly overf...
All major appliances are subject to general wear and tear, and that means they will eventually break down and need to be replaced. But we don’t have to help them ...
Few things are more unsightly than a sudden smattering of rust spots plaguing your smooth metal surfaces. Whether on ...
We all have those "What was I thinking?" moments, and when it comes to decorating, those mistakes often take the form...
Every year at least 1 billion used toothbrushes end up in landfills, adding to the more than 50 million tons of trash...
The trash can doesn't have a lot of positive imagery associated with it, especially when it comes to the smell. But a...
Cleaning your clothes iron probably isn’t at the top of your priority list, but you’ll wish it had been the minute yo...
If you're the proud companion of a four-legged friend, you understand the pain of finding pet hair everywhere—clothes...
Few things are more relaxing than curling up with a nice cup of steaming hot tea. In fact, next to water, tea is the world’s most popular beverage. But all those ...
You use your toaster almost daily, but when was the last time you cleaned this receptacle for burnt crumbs? We have s...
Too far out of reach (and often out of sight during normal cleaning routines), ceiling fans collect plenty of dust wh...
So, you’re not a neat freak? You can still keep your house from spinning into chaos if you just follow one simple rule: Make it easy to put items away, and you’ll...
Everybody seems to have a different recommendation for how to clean each surface in the house… but not all of these cleaning habits do what their proponents claim...
No matter whether you prefer heart-warming classics or heart-pounding thrillers, your personal library of paperbacks ...
You probably have a sizable stack of folded dryer sheets stored in your laundry room for the next afternoon of chores, but you might not realize the potential the...
Hopping into a hot and steamy shower only to notice that the water is pooling around your feet makes for a rough way ...
Known for its impressive strength and ultra-quick dry time, superglue plays a vital role in many household fixes. But...
While your vacuum cleaner is designed to do most of the work for you, understanding how to use it properly can make a huge difference in the cleanliness of your f...
A microfiber suede sofa is a cozy centerpiece for any room. Known for being soft and stylish, this popular seating ch...
Admit it: You invest a great deal of time and energy in keeping your stainless steel appliances fingerprint-free, shi...
There’s nothing more refreshing than a cool drink on the rocks—but a cup of ice cubes can do a lot more than quench y...
That familiar refrain, “plop, plop, fizz, fizz, oh, what a relief it is,” can be applied to many problems that go beyond heartburn or indigestion. Alka-Seltzer, s...
Whether we're maintaining our most-used appliances or performing crisis control after an everyday accident, when it comes to cleaning we can all agree: the faster...
The cat's out of the bag! Even households without furry feline friends should add kitty litter to the weekly shopping list. This inexpensive and readily availabl...
It’s the stuff of nightmares for any do-it-yourselfer who takes on a weekend painting project. Even though you carefu...
Flexible, durable, moisture-proof, and grease-proof, aluminum foil is most often used in the kitchen. But foil can do so much more! Keep this multitasking treasur...
There’s no way around it. Whether you’ve got hardwood, tile, or carpet, all floors must be cleaned of dirt and debris tracked in from outside. But this traditiona...
Has it been a while since your last home improvement project? If your do-it-yourself skills are a little rusty, chanc...
Dusting used to mean lazily moving about the house with an old T-shirt and furniture polish in hand, loathing the amo...
Any number of events in our day-to-day can trigger a red alert—or perhaps a "code tissue"—as to when germs are nearby...
Grass stains are souvenirs of outdoor sports and other messy fun—as well as battle scars from labor-intensive rounds ...
Of all the housekeeping chores that people tend to dread, there may be none more widely reviled than cleaning the toi...
Air conditioners are our saving grace during sticky summers—there’s nothing quite like the relief of walking into a r...
Your microwave is amazing for many reasons: It speeds up cooking, it reheats your favorite leftovers—and let’s not forget about all that instant popcorn! But this...
According to the Beer Institute, a group that represents 2,800 U.S. brewers and suppliers, the making and selling of Americans’ favorite alcoholic drink is a $264...
With the kickoff of summer comes sunshine, warm temperatures, backyard games—and sweat, lots of sweat, from head to t...
If you think your hose is the ultimate outdoor cleaning tool… think again! Some areas are just too tricky, too high or too grungy for your hose to tackle all by i...
Americans may not agree on political issues, reality television, or eating their vegetables, but we do share one sent...
Your handiest helper in cleaning up life's greatest messes is located right in the laundry room. But did you know it can handle so much more than just clothes? Re...
It's a great feeling to have all of your tried-and-true tools in one handy toolbox, but that feeling can quickly be e...
Think your wood siding needs a fresh coat of paint? Maybe. Or it could be that your wood clapboard, lap, or shingle s...
Looking forward to a staycation, or a blissfully commitment-free Sunday? The backyard hammock or patio lounger may be calling your name. But if you want to add a ...
The kitchen is everyone’s favorite room, and no doubt that's the reason it’s ground zero for major messes. Maybe you already rely on vinegar and water for wiping ...
It’s one of those little ironies: The laundry room often gets next to no TLC, even though we rely on it for the care ...
Gone are the days of loud, inefficient dishwashers that leave your dishes only partially clean. The new generation of...
Painting a room can be quite the process: choosing your paint color, covering all of your furniture, prepping every s...
The garage is the final frontier of spring cleaning. Part carport, part catchall storage facility, the garage, if well-organized, can be a tremendous asset. If le...
"Just paint it!" That's the motto for many DIYers when they're unhappy with the lamp, dresser, doors, hardware. . . y...
Come summertime, the deck practically becomes an extension of your house. In fact, when decorated according to typica...
Lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits are already staples of the fruit bin, but this juicy produce can also be pressed into service for myriad cleaning chores a...
Good things come to those who wait: That may be sound advice for life in general, but if you're a car owner, it's bes...
A fixture of backyard barbecues and poolside parties, patio furniture must withstand not only the elements, but also ...
Grilling season is back, and not a minute too soon! To avoid any unpleasant surprises on your inaugural cookout, give...
Chlorine bleach isn’t just for washing machines anymore. This staple of the laundry room—while well known for getting stains out of clothing—has a multitude of po...
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of plastic shopping bags you’re harboring underneath your kitche...
While there are plenty of products on the market that promise a fresher-smelling home, just looking at the long list ...
Here's what the real estate agent doesn't say: Owning a home near the ocean is rarely a day at the beach. Salt air pu...
Bleary-eyed fumbling for that first cup of joe can lead to spills, yet despite this repeated abuse during the morning...
This time of year, we all rely on the garden hose for any number of chores around the yard. But useful though it may ...
If you spy some ugly stains on your walls, don’t despair. Chances are there’s a way to either remove those walls stai...
If you’re a cook—or just a person who likes to eat—you already know how herbs can make any dish taste better. But you may not know that herbs can also work outsid...
When it comes time to spiff up your porch or patio for spring, cleaning your furniture cushions ranks high on the to-...
While we're all comfortably accustomed to the concept of spring cleaning, most of us view the effort as taking place solely indoors. It's time to reevaluate. Afte...
Fear not: Cleaning blackened, burned cookware doesn't have to mean an arm-wearying afternoon of intensive scouring. I...
You know the feeling: At the first sign of warm weather, the desire to clean house is at an all time high. However, for today's time-starved homeowners, sometimes...
Sugary drinks aren't allowed in some households these days, but even the most health-conscious of folks can find a few reasons to keep a can of Coke around the ho...
You may think that permanent marker is, well, permanent. But we'll let you in on a special secret: With a little elbo...
All batteries—particularly the alkaline variety—leak over time, whether drawing a current or not. So even if you heed...
In every home, stuff always seems to pile up in one particular area, be it a kitchen drawer, an entryway surface, or ...
It's not what you feared. Spilling coffee on the carpet doesn't have to mean living with an eyesore until you replace...
It’s almost hard to believe: By combining two seemingly mild pantry staples, you can handle most of the tougher messe...
Dirty windows or a streaky glass door are easy to notice and are easy to clean. Yet, cleaning windows and doors alway...
<p>Struggling to find the time—nay, the motivation—to get all your chores done? Well, you might want to sit down for this news: You can get it all done hardly usi...
You know that familiar blue window cleanser that we all grew up using? Well, it can do lot more than just clean windows. Whether you're looking to bust stains or ...
Though your shower curtain performs a valuable service, preventing water from cascading across your bathroom floor, y...
Few chores herald the season as much as an annual spring cleaning. But you need not break your back in the process of cleaning the house from top to bottom. That'...
In most homes, the under-the-sink cabinet doesn’t get much respect. It often hides a trash can and the cleaning potions—but it also can become a dumping ground fo...
Are there always white spots on your bathroom fixtures? Does a cloudy film coat the carafe of your coffeemaker? If so...
Routines we use to clean the home become second nature. We may never stop to think if we’re doing it right or if we could be doing it better. Believe it or not, t...
Everyone dreads at least one household chore. Many people's least favorite is cleaning the windows. Too important to ...
WD-40 is a utility shelf staple. You probably know it as your go-to solution for squeaky hinges and rust prevention, but it's so much more! Inside the familiar bl...
Did you hear? The dishwasher isn’t just for dishes anymore. As a matter of fact, you can wash a whole host of things you may never have considered putting in your...
You know and loathe the traditional way to clean a carpet. But however laborious it may be, there's no doubt that blo...
Spring will be here soon enough. It's the perfect time to tidy up—both indoors and out—and take stock of your home. Whether you're planning your garden, growing a...
Concrete floors are no longer found only in garages and basements. With elegant finishes now available—like stencilin...
Wood, which naturally soaks up and retains water, makes an ideal environment for mold and mildew. If you're dealing w...
As the only home appliance to host a rotating population of mess-making foods, it's no wonder the refrigerator ranks ...
Could your house be making you sick? According to the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that most people spend more than 90% of their time indoors. Indoor...
[bobsays_inset] Time has a way of proving the old adage "out of sight, out of mind. " Case in point: Whether your ce...
[bobsays_inset] There are plenty of housekeeping jobs that people put off. And as opposed to a task like clearing the...
Few chores are as perennial as cleaning the bathroom. The loo probably gets more use per square foot than any other space in the house. As a result, it has to be ...
Think you know how to use a sponge? Well, think again! These colorful little squares of cellulose can be used for a lot more household tasks than just wiping down...
Nothing brightens up a room like a fresh coat of paint—but the unfortunate side effects of many painting projects are spills and splatters. Even the most careful ...
No matter the size of the chore—whether it's spot cleaning or wiping down all the kitchen countertops—the solution you need may very well be something you have on...
Decisions, decisions: Buying a new vacuum cleaner used to be a fairly straightforward and simple process, but today’s proliferation of purchasing options may leav...
Sweeping dirt under the rug: Tempting, sure, but it's no long-term solution. Different rooms in different houses requ...
[bobsays_inset]Before hauling your rug outside on a cold day after a snowstorm, first vacuum its front and back. Alte...
Just about every down comforter has a tag with care instructions that read, "Dry Clean Only. " But if you're on a bud...
Consider the environment within the average in-sink garbage disposal: It's cool, dark, and moist, and there's a near ...
When our hands get dry and the skin cracks a bit, we quickly reach for the lotion. The same logic applies to leather ...
You may not know this, but mayonnaise isn’t just for sandwiches and salad dressings. There are a host of household uses for this tasty spread. From cleaning gunky...
Many people enjoy a hot caffeinated beverage in the morning or a cold, bubbly cola in the afternoon, not just for the taste, but for the caffeine pick-me-up. But ...
Kitchens can be pretty filthy places: dirty dishes in the sink, spilled food on the counters, cooking oils and grease on the stovetop, and even pet food on the fl...
Your hardworking home deserves just as much of a fresh start as you do, doesn't it? Why not make this the year? Inspired by January's spirit of renewal, use these...
If you're like many homeowners, you make good on a regular cleaning schedule. So maybe you skip dusting once in a while, but your house is pretty clean, right? Bu...
There are many questions to grapple with before settling on any particular rug: How big should it be? Is it durable enough? What do I need to know to clean it? Fo...
We've all been there: It's the end of a long day, and rather than wipe up the splatters on the range, you decide the ...
Does home improvement leave you scratching your head? We compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions at BobVila.com—along with the answers. Click through...
When I talk to homeowners about safety, the discussion often centers around using tools and ladders and so forth. But...
Some homeowners are so drawn to the fireplace that they ignore the mess and hassle that accompany its operation and m...
A dreaded household chore, cleaning the toilet is the definition of dirty work. Mostly it's a matter of hygiene, but ...
Like their closet-lurking cousins, pantry moths are destructive pests. Act fast before they eat through (and lay eggs...
When holiday guests gather in your home to enjoy festive food and drink, there are bound to be a few accidental slops and splatters that could make your carpets a...
Wash and dry your sheets and pillowcases once a week—that's all it takes to sleep in clean comfort, right? Wrong. You...
Though they lost visibility to other heavily marketed cleaners in the last several decades, most of the classic cleaning products your mom and grandma used are st...
Once you've put your garden to bed for the winter, why not clean your garden tools before storing them away? TLC star...
There's no such thing as a truly refreshing bathing experience in a shower that looks—or even feels—dirty. To keep th...
When's the best time to remove paint spots from wooden floors? Right after the paint hits the floor, of course! But w...
Nothing kills the mood of a refreshing bath after a long day (or for that matter, an energizing shower to start one) faster than the sight of mold. Or a delay in ...
If you wound up with more tricks than treats this Halloween, you're likely to have your hands full with a mess: toilet paper in the trees, eggs dripping on your h...
Among household odors, mildew undoubtedly ranks among the worst. And unfortunately, it's all too common, lurking in t...
Tineola bisselliella, the common clothes moth, wreaks havoc on wardrobes, destroying shirts and socks, pants and swea...
Kitchen cabinets are opened and closed more often than the front door is. Such frequent use—along with leakage, spill...
Sorting, loading, folding—doing laundry is a tiring chore not only for you, but also for your appliances. What drags ...
It wasn't so long ago that trisodium phosphate (TSP) was a go-to choice for tough cleaning jobs. In recent years, how...
These days, a lot of folks are feeling the chill in the air and are beginning to button up their homes for the winter...
Butcher block counters are a perennial favorite in the kitchen, though many homeowners worry about the care and maint...
Everyone knows that toothpaste cleans your teeth and brightens your smile, but did you know it can do the same for many products around your house? Non-gel toothp...
Don’t wait until temperatures plummet: Now is the absolute best time to perform basic furnace cleaning and maintenanc...
No matter what you're painting—your home's exterior, the living room, or the dresser you recently bought secondhand—e...
Homemade dish soap. OK, sure. But why? For one thing, why not? But more seriously, homemade dish soap, which requires...
Whether tucked under our heads while sleeping or behind our backs while lounging in the living room, pillows are an o...
Of all kitchen appliances, the dishwasher must rank as one of the greatest, don't you think? It's a true time-saver. ...
Used in everything from caskets to kitchen utensils, pewter remains popular with artisans and crafters in part becaus...
More and more people are steering away from commercial cleaners with their harsh chemicals and opting for more natural choices to get their homes spotless. While ...
What a huge job it is to clean up a flooded basement! But the job can be a lot less of a headache if you keep some ke...
On those busy nights when you're lucky to have found just 20 minutes to put toward preparing a one-pot meal, cleanup ...
<p>Say goodbye to Stuart Little! A mouse infestation can be enough to make anyone skittish. Those pesky critters can carry a plethora of dangerous diseases and ca...
When you throw a load of laundry into the washing machine, your clothes emerge stain- and sweat-free, and that's a wo...
Oil spots on asphalt driveways certainly don't add to a home's curb appeal. Ask ten people what remedies they recomme...
The stench of a skunk attack—it's unmistakable, even when you're in the passenger seat of a car, with the windows clo...
Springtime and summer are lovely times of year, but they do usher in a host of seasonal hazards, perhaps none more fe...
When it's clean, chrome glimmers—there's no other word for it. The downside? Chrome succumbs fairly easily to surface...
These days, each and every time you buy something new, the product seems to come with a sticker on it. Usually, that ...
For those who live in a damp climate—or in a poorly ventilated home—mold can be a cause for concern, not only because...
True or false: Everyone loves to clean. False! But like so many other pursuits, practice makes perfect when it comes to cleaning. Test your knowledge of 12 lesser...
With its rich color and supple feel, leather furniture invites an element of luxury into your room decor. Fortunatel...
Concrete is porous, which means that it readily absorbs liquids like paint. With this ease of penetration, paint can ...
Over time, kitchen countertops can get cluttered with junk, which not only makes the kitchen look sloppy but also dis...
There's no denying the convenience of the garbage disposal: It simplifies so many of the activities that take place i...
Bathroom ventilation fans whisk away odors, but their more important job is to draw moisture out of the room. Moistur...
You can spend hours washing the floor, dusting the furniture, and vacuuming the nooks and crannies in any given room,...
In many people's minds, granite means strength and resilience. But if you want to know how to clean granite counterto...
Copper can be a finicky material; it tarnishes easily even when subject to normal wear. Fortunately, using only commo...
It's the perfect accompaniment for an exquisite meal and close friends, but drink too much of it, and you may find yourself slipping and stumbling into a heap of ...
A durable material if there ever was one, cast iron occasionally requires cleaning, particularly where food preparati...
Laminate floors are so beautiful when first installed, but over time they can start to look a little worse for wear. ...
Unquestionably, marble ranks among the most luxurious and beautiful countertop and flooring materials. Equally beyond...
The best way to keep your microwave clean is to wipe it down after every use. But that doesn’t always happen—you’re i...
The idea of cleaning a dishwasher may seem a bit strange at first, but think of it this way: You regularly maintain y...
<p>There are few homeowner problems more terrifying than mold. While thousands of molds are part of the natural environment, ghastly examples of it can be lurking...
Homeowners have long relished the beauty, versatility, and toughness of wood furniture—and above all, they've appreci...
By design, our floors will see some of the most wear and tear of any of the fixtures in our home. Even if you’re normally careful with your floors, life happens. ...
Second only to a new mother’s instinct to nest is the desire to clean house at the first signs of winter thaw. Debra ...
Candles enhance the atmosphere of any space. The gentle glow from their lit wicks fosters a feeling of calm and relax...
Window screens really take a beating. They're constantly exposed to the sun, wind, rain and snow, and pollen and inse...
So, you think your house is clean? Well… you might have to think again! If you’re like most people, there are areas that you never even think about cleaning, unli...
No matter how clean your home may be, it's probably still a little dusty. It's a pervasive problem that everyone has to deal with every day. It's more than an ann...
Is your shower head failing to perform as well as it once did? If so, then chances are good that it's time to clean t...
I am moving into a new home. The previous owners had a dog. I am wondering if cleaning the air ducts is worthwhile. ...
For most people, dust is a housecleaning nuisance. But for those with respiratory ailments or allergies, dust can be ...
There's no better time than spring to give your home some serious deep cleaning. It's finally warm enough to wash your windows without freezing them shut, and now...
Learning how to remove rust isn't rocket science, and in homeowners' ongoing fight to maintain outdoor tools and pati...
Remember Rosie, the congenial (and often hysterical) robot that flitted around the Jetsons' apartment in the sky, keeping things neat and tidy? When the cartoon f...
You know it's time to clean your microwave when obnoxious smells fill the kitchen every time you open the appliance d...
Steel wool, now commonplace in the modern home, came about somewhat by accident. It is believed that 19th-century mechanics used to gather up the metal waste shav...
Ugh, is there anything worse than a dirty oven? If you use the appliance at all, chances are that baked-on grease, st...
Don't fear the cleanup! Once the last guest has left, make the most of your time with these helpful tips and cleaning tricks, all of which involve common househol...
Before you repaint your house, you have to remove all loose and peeling paint. A pressure washer makes the job go fas...
Porcelain tile consistently ranks as a preferred flooring choice among homeowners, partly due to its beauty—the mater...
In recent years, microfiber furniture has risen in popularity with homeowners because the fabric is not only appealin...
If you have kids, you know that crayons can cause some serious damage to any paint job. Here's how to tackle tough cr...
Nature’s supreme source of sour is capable of far more than making tea tangy and pies tart. Slice up a few lemons and give these practical household solutions a go.
Tired of spending hundreds of dollars on fancy cleaning products? The solution to many household cleaning and freshening problems is probably sitting in your cupb...
How do I get rid of a cigarette smoke smell in my house?The smell of cigarette smoke can affect virtually every part ...
If you think vinegar is just for salads, think again. Here are 10 practical and easy ways to improve your household with vinegar—from cleaning tiles to repelling ...
Consider this: In Canada, about 40% of homes are equipped with central vacuum systems. In the U. S. , the figure is l...
Pull the clothespin off your nose and instead try these 10 common household items to deodorize every nook and cranny of your abode.
A walk down any big-box store’s cleaning products aisle will tell the story: It’s evident by the noticeable increase ...
Searching for a cleaning product nowadays can be a complicated matter. All sorts of different specialized cleaners li...
Unlimited storage space would be great. But sufficient space is possible if laundry, basement, and garage storage is ...
With just 15 minutes a day, a smart plan, and some pro tips, you can start to control the clutter that, up until now, has been controlling you.
Ceiling fans are a wonderful addition to any room, offering a cool breeze and providing a pleasant decorative accent....
There is nothing like a long, leisurely soak in a luxurious hot bath to soothe away the stresses of the day—that is, ...
There’s nothing like a freshly tiled floor or backsplash—but there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing those beaut...
Household cleaning is a never-ending chore. And while it may not be our favorite pastime, it's absolutely necessary. With cleaning being such a large part of home...
The sleek look of stainless steel lends sophistication to any kitchen. But keeping those surfaces gleaming takes care...
It's spring, the season for cleaning. Washing windows is at the top of our list. Many commercial window-cleaning prod...
Vinyl siding is a durable, versatile, and resilient building material, but it does require some routine care and clea...
From shower doors to stainless steel, concrete, and slate, we've collected our best scrub-and-polish advice to aid in your spring cleaning.
Window blinds are an extremely popular decorating option. But for blinds to look their best, they require regular car...
Brass brings a warm, burnished glow to household items, ranging from switch plates, door knockers, and lamps to bathr...
It's always a challenge to clean shower doors, but that doesn’t mean you have to use powerful cleansers made with amm...
Vinyl tile and laminate flooring is attractive, durable, and long-lasting, even under a home's highest-traffic condit...
For many of us, area rugs are a significant investment in decor. They warm up and add color to our rooms. They provid...
When it comes time to learn how to clean concrete, realize you don't need to be delicate; after all, it's a very hard...
Tile is beautiful, durable, and generally easy to clean, but cleaning grout? That's a different story. Because of its...
I have a slate fireplace surround that makes my living room feel really warm and earthy, even if the fire is not lit....
Special problems need special solutions—and that's particularly true of wood flooring. When accidents happen, first ...
If your oven had a busy holiday season, January is a great time to do some oven cleaning before it makes a smoky mess...
Gleaming and shiny, stainless steel brings a bright and polished air to any kitchen. Keeping that brilliant sheen, ho...
Entertaining at home has become one of our favorite pastimes: houses are increasingly designed around our passion for...
One of the wonders of the modern age, vacuum cleaners range in price from $60 to almost $2,000. What’s different abou...
Cleaning green is becoming more important to many people, especially those with allergies, sensitive pets, or childre...
Cleaning your painted walls may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple (if somewhat time-consuming...
While spring is generally considered the month for cleaning windows, airing out the house, reorganizing the cupboards...
Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing)...
Even if you’re diligent about cleaning year-round, when winter’s over there’s always some spring cleaning in order. T...
Like everything with moving parts—your car, your computer, your body—your power tools will last longer and work bette...
When we were weighing options for our home, a new construction, I was almost certain we wouldn’t elect to put in a ce...
An investment in high-quality brushes is wasted if they are not properly cleaned and stored after use. So invest the ...
Safety and convenience are certainly served by keeping the shop clean. You may even find that a broom-cleaned space i...
For 125 years, this hardworking household cleanser has been keeping America’s kitchens and baths sparkly clean—withou...
Bob talks with the installer of a new on-demand tankless water heater that is more energy efficient than tank water heaters.
Bob discusses the chemicals and process used to clean and restore the home's vintage bathtub. And a new finish of synthetic porcelain is applied to the pedestal s...
In the final step of the pool's contruction, the basin is washed and vacuumed before plastering begins. Bob discusses the materials and the mixing ratio used in t...
Bob meets with Bob Ryley and Al Worth to install a pair of Andersen mulled windows with a transom, as well as an interior window seat. Bob discusses the window it...
Painter Kip Wanamaker power-washes the exterior of the Naples project house.
Brick worker Dan Webb explains how the brick façade is power-washed to remove several layers of ugly paint.