HEALTHY HOME
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Indoor air quality. We’ve all heard the term, and most of us think we know what it means. However, much of the inform...
Highlights A whole-house air purifier typically costs between $456 and $4,557, with a national average cost of $2,44...
Pool skimmers are one of those tools no pool owner can do without. Even if the pool is regularly serviced by a mainte...
Some folks need a little extra help when it comes to catching those ever-precious Z's. While many people don’t have a...
Freeze-dried foods are a favorite among homesteaders, survivalists, and serious hikers as well as for cooks who like ...
About 81 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies each year, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation ...
We all know you’re supposed to drink eight glasses of water a day, but that’s easier said than done. Luckily, there’s...
Discovering a tick in one’s hair or stuck to another place on the body is distressing. Unfortunately, there are sever...
Air fryer grill combos are a kitchen countertop powerhouse. These small appliances combine the cooking and crisping c...
Gravity water filters are typically stand-alone filtration systems that use gravity to filter water for drinking. Wat...
Breathing fresh air in the home shouldn’t cost a fortune, yet some of the most popular air purifiers on the market to...
As consumers become more aware of the airborne pollutants that lurk in their homes, the demand for quality air purifi...
Using sunscreen daily provides an array of benefits, protecting skin from sunburn, sun damage, and, most important of...
Combination air humidifiers and purifiers add moisture to the air and filter out pollutants at the same time. For hom...
Ionic air purifiers use ionizers to clean the air. These ionizers charge airborne particles, which causes them to be ...
Heightened awareness of allergens and toxins in the air we breathe has boosted the popularity of air purifiers for ho...
Highlights Lead paint removal typically costs between $1,445 and $5,412, with homeowners paying an average of $3,428...
Household dust is unavoidable, but it’s easier to keep on top of banishing these dirty fine particles with an air pur...
Bug sprays are a convenient way to keep biting insects at bay. A quick application can last for hours, and make it a ...
Bob Vila readers were busy in 2022, tackling DIY projects and finding ways to make their life simpler and their home ...
Do you know if radon gas is present in your home? Radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas that is naturally...
Essential oil diffusers can help set the right mood at home, depending on the scents you choose. If you enjoy diffusi...
While donning a pair of gloves before cleaning or starting a DIY project might not be the quickest way to get started...
December is all about friends, family, and food (there, we said it!), which is why this month's tasks focus on keepin...
Indoor air pollution is at the heart of the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s proposal to ban gas stoves nat...
COVID and flu aren’t the only viruses to worry about this winter. You may have heard on the news that cases of RSV (r...
Health at HomeNovember is National Family Caregivers Month. It’s a time to celebrate caregivers, bring attention to c...
While filters can help reduce the amount of contaminants in your drinking water, the only way to ensure pure H2O is t...
No matter how hard we try to keep our homes tidy and organized, clutter inevitably creeps in over time. Not only is i...
Q: I’m looking to put in grab bars in my bathroom to provide extra support for my parents and grandparents when they ...
Keeping the water clean, clear, and ready for swimmers is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a swimming...
Read any gardening book and you’ll be advised to test your soil. Whether you use a simple over-the-counter DIY kit fr...
If you typically buy a bunch of fruit and vegetables and throw them all in a bowl on the countertop or one bin in the...
There are many jobs around the home or on the jobsite that experienced DIYers can tackle without hiring a specialist....
Sitting for hours on an uncomfortable chair is quite literally a pain in the rear. For those who work long days at a ...
Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores, eating almost anything they get their paws on. However, like many animals, they...
Portable saunas provide a spa-like sauna experience right in your living room or backyard. More affordable and easier...
In the past few decades, manufacturers have developed products to help people with impairments live active, varied li...
Whether you already have an above-ground pool in your backyard or are looking to set one up soon, it’s important to k...
Mosquitoes are an undeniable nuisance, and mosquito bites also can be dangerous by spreading diseases like malaria, y...
A worldwide pandemic has made everyone more aware of what they touch. Many bacteria and viruses, including Covid-19, ...
One of the key ingredients of an efficient, comfortable home sauna is the choice of heater. There are a number of dif...
Owning a swimming pool can be awesome. It’s also an awesome responsibility, as open standing water of any kind is a p...
Bed bugs are an unpleasant home pest that can contaminate mattresses, sheets, couches, and chairs and cause itchy and...
Portable air purifiers filter out pollutants and allergens like their larger counterparts. However, they’re so small ...
With a rise in consumer preference toward health and wellness, outdoor saunas are becoming increasingly popular. Beyo...
Opening your home and your heart to a special pet—be your buddy of the feline or canine persuasion, or an animal more...
You can enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy year-round by planting a garden that enhances your mood, relieves stress, ...
Following recent trends toward wellness and healthy living, infrared saunas are becoming more popular. Infrared sauna...
Q: Something is moving around in my attic, and I think it may be a raccoon. How do I get rid of a raccoon in the atti...
Finding cockroaches in the kitchen can be a nightmare—especially when they’ve made it into your cabinets and pantry. ...
Mold removal is an important household task—especially if the mold spreads to a large area. Leaving mold to flourish ...
Medicine cabinets can easily become a hindrance when they’re filled with expired medications, empty tubes of ointment...
When you exercise on a yoga mat, you leave behind sweat, skin, and hair. If left unchecked, this organic residue can ...
Although some houseplants reportedly help clean the air, others can trigger allergy symptoms by adding extra baggage—...
As a devotee of the Fitbit tracker and app, it only made sense for me to purchase a scale that would meld into the Fi...
Warm weather days are not the only ones that call for an open window. There are plenty of good reasons to crack open ...
Your air filter is an essential part of your home’s HVAC system, but replacing air filters regularly can be a nuisanc...
Saunas have long been recognized as a way to relax and reduce stress. They can alleviate muscle and joint pain, provi...
Highlights The typical range for termite inspection costs is $0 to $400, with a national average of $133. The most ...
Humidifiers help increase the moisture content in a room. For many people, using a humidifier is a terrific way to to...
After two years with one of the more affordable stationary bikes on the market, a price drop on the Peloton prompted ...
Q: I’m shopping for a new air purifier for my home and have noticed that many models list a CADR rating. What is CADR...
Water coolers provide fresh filtered drinking water at the press of a button. Since they’re a common fixture in offic...
Q: I live in an older home, and I’m concerned about the presence of asbestos, particularly in my insulation. What doe...
Q: I’ve recently come across small, brown bugs that look like cockroaches in my home. What do roaches look like? Coul...
Q: I recently noticed bugs that look like bed bugs in my home, and I’m concerned about an infestation. What do bed bu...
Q. I think this rash on my skin might be bed bug bites. I have an exterminator coming, but I’m worried about any bed ...
Making breakfast and prepping lunches are a breeze with the help of these handy kitchen gadgets.
Q: Help—I found lots of small red bugs in my home! How can I get rid of them and keep my home free of these mysteriou...
Q: While my family and I were on vacation, our living room security camera caught a mouse scurrying over the couch. N...
Highlights Homeowners will typically pay between $268 and $490 for air duct cleaning; the national average cost is $...
Q: Lately, I’ve noticed mold on my window sills. I wipe it away, but it still keeps coming back. Is this a big deal? ...
Typical Range: $771 to $1,185 National Average: $978Radon is an odorless and colorless radioactive gas. According ...
Q: I found mold in my home and I’m hiring a professional to remove it. Does my homeowners insurance cover mold proble...
House mice or deer mice can quickly infest a home, particularly during fall or winter when they’re looking for a warm...
Q: I have a bed bug infestation, and I’d like to take care of it quickly at home. Does bleach kill bed bugs?A: For ho...
Q: A neighbor told me they found mold containing mold mites in their home. What are mold mites, and are they dangerou...
A humidifier adds moisture to a home’s dry air. While a small humidifier is ideal for bedrooms and nurseries, big roo...
Q: I think I’ve found mold in my home. What’s the best product to kill mold once it’s identified?A: When a homeowner ...
Well and city water can contain a range of contaminants. Though there are a number of water filter options to treat i...
Single room humidifiers are designed to replace lost moisture in small spaces, but they aren’t able to affect the ent...
Mold is a problem that can crop up seemingly out of nowhere, though there are common areas where mold tends to recur,...
A portable water filter provides water purification on the go. Useful for traveling, camping, or survival situations,...
While many usually celebrate Memorial Day with a barbecue or parade, it’s also one of the best times to find deals on...
Termite infestations can be a real problem for homeowners, with some causing significant, lasting damage. These pests...
Typical Range: $1,123 to $2,872 National Average: $1,994Asbestos is a known carcinogen that was used in constructi...
Hand sanitizer helps kill germs when water and soap are not readily available. However, when using a product over and...
There are various types of mold in nature, many non-hazardous, but mold is not something anyone wants to see inside t...
A water softener can work miracles on well water by turning rusty water clear, removing sulfur odors, and eliminating...
Choosing the best well water filtration system for clean drinking water doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s easier whe...
Highlights The typical cost range for mold remediation is $1,125 to $3,439, and the national average cost is $2,254....
Typical Range: $295 to $1,010 National Average: $648Any source of moisture in a home can lead to mold growth. Bath...
Q: As a potential home buyer, I’ve heard that I need to be cautious about radon gas. What is radon gas, and how can I...
According to a recent industry survey, 67 percent of American households have a pet. That's 85 million families who h...
While some people feel that water with a slightly higher pH level is healthier to consume, there’s still research to ...
Certain volatile organic compounds in water can wreak havoc on one’s health and home appliances if they aren’t detect...
Q. There’s a strange musty odor in my basement. I’ve opened the windows, but the smell won’t go away. Is it mold? Wha...
Q. I am a homeowner, and I found some strange white fibers in the walls during a renovation. Is it asbestos? What doe...
Q. There are some odd black stains that suddenly appeared on a wall in my basement. Should I be worried that it’s mol...
If you're in the market for a new water bottle, stainless steel models are a solid option. Stainless steel water bott...
Baby boomers, that massive segment of the U. S. population born between 1946 and 1964, have consistently changed the ...
It can be frustrating and uncomfortable when your living space experiences a decrease in the humidity level. But, a f...
Essential oils, which are natural extracts that effectively capture the “essence” of a plant’s flavor or fragrance, o...
Since the average person spends about a third of his or her life in bed, it’s crucial to sleep on quality linens that...
Common tap water may contain contaminants due to the pipes it travels through and chemicals used in the municipal fil...
Practiced for thousands of years, meditation is the act of taking the time to quietly muse or contemplate—or to simpl...
Wildfire smoke consists of harmful gases and fine particles from burning plants and other materials. These extremely ...
Stinky gym clothes, beloved pets, and home cooking can all contribute to household odors. Products like air freshener...
Muscle soreness after a workout in the home gym, hours sitting at a desk, and just plain old stress can all leave us ...
If you’re looking to get in shape and would rather exercise at home than join a neighborhood gym, establishing a home...
Many workers today spend eight hours a day sitting at a computer desk, which can lead to discomfort and even long-ter...
Dyson vacuums have taken the cleaning world by storm since 1993. These vacuums exert centrifugal force to separate la...
Why hang onto those “safer at home” pounds when you can get in shape and lose weight in your own home gym?
Q: I want to purchase a new mattress, but there are so many choices, including these new “hybrid” mattresses. But wha...
Dehumidifiers eliminate excess moisture from the air, drying damp or excessively moist environments to prevent bacter...
About 60 percent of Americans use a home water treatment unit of some sort, according to the Water Quality Associatio...
Whether working from home or from a place of business, sitting at a desk all day can take its toll on one’s health. A...
Not getting a good night's sleep? These bedroom accessories will help you fall asleep—and stay asleep–so you wake up feeling fresh and rested.
There’s no need to run to the local juice bar when you crave your favorite freshly squeezed juice. With a variety of ...
Your nose is your body’s air filter; and the tiny hairs in your sinus passages, called cilia, provide the first line ...
Keeping kids active when they’re stuck inside can be challenging, but an indoor trampoline (also known as a rebounder...
From dumbbells to rowing machines, there is a seemingly endless list of options for building strength from a home gym...
Rainy days and cold weather can make it a challenge to keep kids physically active. An indoor playground provides a c...
Between trying to maintain the proper humidity in your great room, monitoring the temperature in your greenhouse, or ...
If you’re into fitness, you may reach for a towel while exercising at the gym, competing in an intense tennis match, ...
Although the city water in your home may be safe to drink, it could contain harmful chemicals that are unpleasant-tas...
A knee sleeve is designed to provide relief from knee pain caused by weight lifting, running, arthritis, and a variet...
Many of us have eaten foods that should have been used long before. While this is sometimes a case of daring in the f...
Allergies, respiratory infections, dry skin, and uncomfortable colds may all be relieved with the soothing power of m...
From funky kitchen odors to rank bathroom smells, our homes can get pretty musty, especially in the fall and winter m...
Popular with crew teams worldwide, rowing machines simulate the rowing motion to provide a low-impact, full-body work...
Workplaces everywhere are encouraging employees to explore ergonomic solutions to health issues. From ergonomic chair...
Since the mid-1960s, hand sanitizer has been a reliable method for preventing germs, especially when access to soap a...
Most people appreciate and want a good night’s sleep. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CD...
Many people who work out at home typically have go-to equipment that functions well for a specific form of fitness—li...
Using a bathroom scale helps you track your weight and monitor other health indicators, but you need one for your spe...
Breathing easy at home should be simple enough. Unfortunately, some gases, such as radon and carbon monoxide, are col...
Whether sore or tired feet are caused by an underlying condition or as the result of a long and busy day, there’s not...
With more screen time in our lives than ever before, we owe it to ourselves to reduce the risks associated with technology.
Slouching issues, a bad back, and trouble sitting for long periods can be caused by the chair you use (unless it’s an...
A quality vacuum cleaner keeps your house clean by removing dirt and debris from floors, furniture, and stairs. The l...
Working out at home may sound good in theory, but many would-be exercisers haven’t got room for cumbersome, unattract...
Interested in setting up a treadmill in your home so you can keep yourself moving without having to deal with the cro...
The motivation to get in a yoga session can elude many, thanks to distractions such as TV, movies, and work. However,...
Sources of smoke—from wood-burning fireplaces to cooking accidents—can irritate the eyes, sinuses, and throat. This m...
Access to clean drinking water is a basic necessity. Although most of the water that flows through the taps in homes ...
The pull-up is the embodiment of superior upper body strength and conditioning. Pull-ups work the shoulders, the arms...
When you’re committed to a fitness program to shed unwanted pounds, use a scale that accurately measures and stores y...
Anyone who dislikes being jolted from sleep by the blare of a traditional alarm clock or smartphone may dream of an e...
Dumbbells are a staple of the at-home fitness gym. The right set can make a difference in your ability to maximize re...
A mouse’s ability to fit through a hole the diameter of a pen (approximately 6 millimeters) allows it to get into nea...
Although jumping rope is a classic for fitness conditioning and weight loss, it might be the most underrated workout ...
Staying on top of the humidity in a home can be important. Humidity—the amount of water vapor in the air—can impact n...
Essential oil diffusers are popping up in homes, cars, and offices alike, more prevalent in North America than anywhe...
Find out what's triggering your allergies in the fall—and how you can put a stop to the sneezing and coughing.
To avoid paying a monthly membership fee, consider creating a workout space in your home. With little cost after the ...
Can houseplants clean the air inside your home? Learn about the research behind this health benefit and see the low-maintenance plants that will give your home a ...
Indoor cycling has been around for many years—in fact, one of the first stationary bikes, the Gymnasticon, was invent...
Set up an at-home school zone that will ensure your child has the best remote learning experience possible.
Keep yourself and everyone else safe by following airline rules and taking extra precautions when flying during a pandemic.
Protect your health while buying DIY project materials with these no-contact shopping strategies. Whether or not you live in an area that’s been hit hard by Covid...
Banish viruses and bacteria while keeping your home and family safe from exposure to chemical hazards.
Stay healthy as you scout out great buys at yard sales, thrift shops, and more. Nothing beats the blues like finding a bargain, which is why so many folks opt to...
Moisture meters can test the moisture content of many different materials, including drywall, paneling, and wood stud...
Consider this important info as you make decisions about entertaining this summer and beyond.
The Covid-19 pandemic will eventually come to an end, but that doesn’t mean you should give up on healthy habits you adopted during these trying times.
Silence is golden for so many of us: DIYers who use loud power tools, night-shift workers who must reduce unwanted no...
Radon gas is a naturally occurring byproduct produced by the deterioration of uranium in igneous rock and soil. It en...
Stop tearing your hair out and breathe a sigh of relief, thanks to these easy sound-blocking strategies.
Heating and air conditioning strip your home’s air of its natural humidity. The result of uncomfortable dryness leave...
Most people know when fruits and veggies have gone bad or when leftovers start looking like a science experiment and should be thrown away, but there are numerous...
Going “all-natural” to protect your family while cleaning your home is a noble goal—one that’s not always easy to ach...
Stop the sneezing! With these smart tips and tricks you can maintain a dust-free house.
Garden plants need nutrients to grow and remain healthy. Adequate soil fertility is as important to plants as a healt...
If you have a natural gas line running into your home, you need to know where your gas shut-off valves are. A gas lea...
These household items and gadgets offer practicality without sticker shock.
Whether you cut yourself while opening the mail at home or while scrambling over rocks on a forest hike, you’ll want ...
Try a few of these great alternatives to harsh, potentially toxic cleaning agents.
Even though you try to keep a clean house, you might be spreading germs around without even realizing it. Prevent germs from proliferating throughout your home by...
Don't let the great indoors get you down! Maintain your mental and physical health while you're confined to your home with these handy tips.
There’s the potential for structural and surface-level damage if a bathroom isn’t properly ventilated. Excess humidit...
Planning ahead is essential for weathering a stay-at-home order or a period of self-isolation, but for many, not being able to run to the store every day or dine ...
When cold and flu season arrives, it’s nearly inevitable that germs will invade your home. Once the siege is over, don't forget to disinfect these important germ-...
Get motivated and get moving with household tasks that burn calories, tone muscles, and boost mental health.
Scrubbing your hands with soap and water is the first line of defense against pathogens. But what about all the other surfaces in your home?
Amidst the current Coronavirus pandemic, many people throughout the world are taking steps to protect against infecti...
Our homes are loaded with dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other indoor air pollutants. Poor ventilation and the u...
Sodium hypochlorite—more commonly known as “chlorine bleach” or just “bleach”—is often used as a laundry additive for...
Water that contains any of the following contaminants could pose a risk to your family’s health and the lifespan of your home’s plumbing and fixtures. Learn what ...
If you have to quarantine yourself at home, here are five things you will need—for instance, pantry essentials—and five things you shouldn't sweat, including stoc...
Mold is a vital part of the earth’s natural recycling process, and because it’s so prevalent in the environment, it’s...
All may seem safe and quiet at home, but lurking beneath the surfaces could be harmful secrets. Keep a vigilant eye out for warning signs of these home hazards.
Worried about the coronavirus? We're here to help. The following 7 products, drawn from a recently released list from the EPA, are guaranteed to combat SARS-CoV-2...
Q: I suffer from seasonal allergies, and a friend suggested I buy an air purifier for my home. What does an air purif...
Anyone looking to reduce dust, pet dander, and other indoor allergens will want to consider using a vacuum equipped w...
You can’t always control the noise that surrounds your bedroom, especially if it's coming from the street or your neighbor's house. But you can mitigate it with t...
Transform both your home and your health with smart home improvements, large and small.
The potential negative effects of dry indoor air extend far beyond itchy, flaky skin. Left unchecked, dry air can also cause structural harm to your home and coul...
Keep your household healthy during flu season by incorporating these tips these best practices at home.
Sitting all day while working can get uncomfortable and it isn’t ideal for your health. For fitness—or even just for ...
Thanks to its smaller motor, a stick vacuum is thinner and far more lightweight than its upright and canister cousins...
Instead of buying more, shop smart and cut down on waste this year – and every year. These 12 products will reduce waste and spending, and boost your quality of l...
Stop for a moment and consider the number of appliances in the home that run on gas. These days, many stoves, furnac...
Once the holidays are over, it’s time to rev up and start fresh. Why make sticking to your resolutions a chore? Here are a few stellar products that will super-ch...
Cut down the cost of your weekly grocery run with these 10 easy tips and tricks you can put to work in the store as well as the kitchen.
In some cities across America, children and adults are exposed to a dangerous contaminant with every glass of water t...
A hardworking room humidifier is a lifesaver during the dry, cold months of winter. Its dedicated function—adding moi...
Are you always covered with mosquito bites while your friends seem blissfully unaffected? It's annoying to be a mosquito magnet, but it's also potentially hazardo...
The right preparation is key before you head out into the sunshine. Just rubbing in some sunscreen isn’t enough to protect you from ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays...
Nothing refreshes a room and improves its ambience quite like a new coat of paint. If you’re like most DIYers, you ha...
Summer is here at last, along with all the fun and pleasurable outdoor activities that come with it. But as we spend these longer, warmer days outside, gardening,...
Prepare yourself for seasonally elevated pollen counts as well as all-year-long allergy triggers like dust and mold by taking care of a few home maintenance tasks...
Like any other holiday, Earth Day is part celebration, part appreciation: We rejoice in the beauty and bounty of our ...
Bad-tasting drinking water and dingy clothes are just two indications that your home could benefit from a water filtration system. Here are some other signs to lo...
Few things are as important as the air we breathe. One of the most popular products available in the ongoing quest fo...
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...
Purchasing a new home can be as stressful as it is exciting. In addition to choosing a house that suits your budget a...
With temperatures low across the country, heating systems on full blast, and houses buttoned up against the cold, the air in your home can pretty dry this time of...
Just when you think you’re done raking leaves, one gust of wind can scatter your piles, shake your trees, and make mo...
There’s nothing like the feeling of a fresh, tidy house. But how clean is your home, really? Your bad cleaning habits may be preventing you from achieving a real ...
Heavy-duty dirt, grime, mildew, and mold accumulations call for powerful household cleaners. And chances are you have...
More things trouble homeowners than what goes “bump in the night.” Here are eight dangerous problems you'll want to avoid—or swiftly remedy.
Rake, rake, repeat! That activity seems to sum up many homeowners’ autumn weekends, and just when you think you’re of...
Summertime is packed with fun activities: barbecues, beach vacations, afternoon swims, and backyard games. But the warm weather also summons pesky bugs and creepy...
Basements were once used solely as utility rooms that housed furnaces, laundry areas, and overflow storage for seasonal items, tools, and sometimes even root vege...
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...
If you live in a home that was built in a previous century, or if you undertook a DIY renovation without acquiring a permit, there's a good chance that you're not...
Q: As I was cleaning my bathroom the other day, I saw that there was pink mold in shower grout that I had never seen...
Asbestos, a heat-resistant fibrous silicate mineral, was a common element in construction materials due to its resili...
Basement flooding easily ranks among the top ten homeowner nightmares. Though recovering from a flood certainly isn't...
Plagued by excess moisture and lack of ventilation, bathrooms are especially susceptible to mildew. The fungus typically appears on walls, tile, or grout, and it ...
Q: Recently, I’ve noticed a vague sulfur smell in my house. It comes and goes, and I’m not sure where it’s coming fro...
One of the most common living organisms in the world may have taken up residence in your home, and you may not even know it. Mold—the common name for thousands of...
Have you ever walked into a bathroom and wrinkled your nose because the space was so musty? It’s not news that damp q...
As any pet-loving homeowner can attest, playful dogs and fluffy felines liven up the house and enrich our lives. But did you know that many people unwittingly exp...
Q: I’m a stickler for hygiene and never snack in bed, so I don’t imagine my sheets ever get that dirty. How often sho...
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “the United States enjoys one of the world's most reliable and safest supplies of drinking water.” Occasionally,...
Sugar truly deserves its place of honor in pantries around the world. It's indispensable for sweetening up beverages like coffee and tea, and it adds delicious fl...
The world is full of germs—we encounter them every day on our way to work, at school, or as we prepare dinner in the ...
It's winter, so get ready for several months of that hot, dry air that your HVAC system pumps out. Even worse, while the heat is on your house will be buttoned up...
Americans enjoy easy, take-it-for-granted access to some of the cleanest, clearest water in the world. Still, even wa...
This article has been brought to you by Mirum. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Eating ice cream for...
How healthy and safe is your bedroom? The answer may surprise you. If you're keeping some of these seemingly innocuou...
A healthy houseplant can bring vibrant color and fresh fragrance to any room. But some indoor greenery collects dust or releases pollen, both of which can trigger...
Heating and cooling doesn't come cheap—especially if your HVAC system has to work harder to overcome heat loss due to...
Your bathroom may be your spot to relax in the tub after a long day, but with all that plumbing, humidity, and other business going on in there, the location’s fu...
What’s the best way of storing gasoline so that it's not only safe, but ready for use the next time you need it? Here...
For a century, the naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral asbestos was a mainstay of the building industry, use...
Did you know that in the United States fires kill more people than all non-fire natural disasters combined? Perhaps e...
Stop your sniffling and your shivering this winter, and invest in a happier, healthier you. With a few well-chosen purchases, you can turn your home into a warm, ...
Walk into any home on any street in any town and you are likely to see the same fire safety features that you have in...
Can an armchair cure your allergies? Could an office chair help you stay in shape? Believe it or not, your furniture could play a role in your overall health. Whi...
Before modern pharmaceuticals, people turned to nature to find cures for what ailed them. The efficacy of those medicinal plants is still revered today, although ...
Do you hear suspicious scrabbling behind your walls? Are you finding questionable black pellets in the basement? Does your pantry have a sharp, musky odor? Chance...
Q: I just went to clean our rental property after the tenant moved out, and I found black mold in the bathroom. Yuck!...
A clean and tidy home is a safe home, at least that's how it seems. Unfortunately, there are many hidden dangers hiding in seemingly innocuous substances found in...
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...
While a fixer-upper can be a lot cheaper than a home that's move-in ready, some fixer-uppers just aren't worth the headache. If the home you have your eye is plag...
There’s nothing quite like the joy of living in a home with character, craftsmanship, and history within its walls. Y...
This season, as temperatures drive lower and lower, it's only natural for people to retreat into the safety and comfo...
If radon tests have found unacceptably high readings in your home, there are at least a few effective ways to address...
No doubt the best way to manage mold is to prevent it. But if your basement floods and mold gets a head start, there'...
Spring allergies may not be devastating, but they certainly are a nuisance. If you suffer, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans are affected by spring allergie...
In the United States, we are fortunate not to have to think much about water quality. Most of us simply turn on the t...
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that most people spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors. Could your living space be making you sick?
In a busy home and even busier life, your bedroom is often the one space you can turn to for a little bit of respite. So why clutter up a would-be zen zone with i...
Everyone has at some point pulled something questionable from the fridge, sniffed it, then handed it to someone else asking, “Is this still good?” But sometimes, ...
When I talk to homeowners about safety, the discussion often centers around using tools and ladders and so forth. But...
Air quality can suffer in myriad ways. Excess humidity ranks among the least desirable effects. Left unchecked, mois...
Homeowners know too well that not all greenery contributes to the beauty of a garden. Weeds, for instance, are a chie...
The air in your home may not be as fresh as you think it is. If you're not careful, indoor air can harbor not only be...
Home has traditionally been viewed as a sanctuary, a place of refuge from the dangers and uncertainties lurking in the outside world. As safe and secure as we try...
If you ask most people where they feel the safest, chances are the answer will be in their own home. But home safety depends on a variety of factors, and potentia...
For those who live in a damp climate—or in a poorly ventilated home—mold can be a cause for concern. That's not only ...
I am moving into a new home. The previous owners had a dog. I am wondering if cleaning the air ducts is worthwhile. A...
For most people, dust is a housecleaning nuisance. But for those with respiratory ailments or allergies, dust can be ...
The harmful effects of VOCs on indoor air quality have received a lot of attention in recent years. In response, pain...
VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are chemicals that evaporate easily, releasing potentially harmful compounds int...
Scratchy throats, frequent nosebleeds, dry skin, and static electricity can be common occurrences in winter—particula...
Because today's new houses are built to allow less air infiltration than older homes, mold growth has become a conce...
How do I get rid of a cigarette smoke smell in my house?The smell of cigarette smoke can affect virtually every part ...
Today’s weather-tight homes are great for energy efficiency, but they’re not so good for indoor air quality. The grea...
An exhaust fan is a must in a bathroom, because it whisks away the humidity that can allow mold and mildew to grow. N...
Did you know that radon gas, a byproduct of decaying uranium in the soil, is the second leading cause of lung cancer ...
Hot and muggy summer weather outside can mean excess moisture inside. Mold and mildew, musty odors, condensation, war...
Where to StartToday’s HVAC is more than just the equipment that heats, ventilates, and cools our home. It is the inte...
Obviously there’s some green stuff in your kitchen, like lettuce and broccoli. But beyond buying organic food, it’s e...
Research by the American Home Furnishings Alliance out of High Point, NC, reveals three interesting points about cons...
Cabinetry is commonplace in kitchens, bathrooms, and often home offices and family rooms. But while durability, style...
Looking to turn your bedroom into a healthy and peaceful sanctuary designed with sustainability in mind? Start here. ...
From water conservation to efficient lighting and green cleaning, the bathroom is an ideal room to make eco-friendly....
We can live for weeks without food but only days without water. Since water is such an essential part of our health a...
According to the American Lung Association, lung disease and breathing problems are the number one cause of death in ...
One in four Americans suffer from allergies or asthma, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immun...
Mold is more prevalent today because the focus on improving energy efficiency resulted in more airtight homes that do...
Paying attention to what’s underneath your floors can have a profound effect on noise reduction and sound control in ...
We spend a large part of our lives indoors yet the idea of indoor air pollution can be easy to dismiss, especially if...
Many older houses incorporate construction materials that contain asbestos. Usually its presence is uncovered during ...
Carbon monoxide (CO) is the number one cause of poisoning deaths in the U. S. A colorless and odorless gas, CO is a ...
Before you tear down a wall, rip off old woodwork, or strip old paint, ask yourself when it was installed. If it was ...
The health benefits of low-VOC paints for people with chemical sensitivities and respiratory conditions are well docu...
As the days are getting colder, the air is getting drier. While lotion coupons are at the forefront of the Sunday pap...
The EPA ranks poor indoor air quality as our fourth largest environmental threat. Some of the worst polluters of the ...
Cleaning green is becoming more important to many people, especially those with allergies, sensitive pets, or childre...
Four out of ten American homes have a mold problem. If you’ve got an area less than 10 square feet and your household...
With its new eco-minded Emerald paints and ColorCast Eco Toners, Sherwin-Williams gives homeowners more high-performi...
Recycling is more than sorting out plastic bottles and composting leftovers. Proper disposal of household objects is ...
There’s more to that “new paint smell” than you might think. What you’re smelling are volatile organic compounds, or ...
Late summer’s when you see ‘em, but now’s not actually the best time to mess with a bee or wasp nest. The queen esta...
I’ve been lucky with basements. Having purchased five houses in my life, not one has had serious basement moisture is...
It’s estimated that 40 percent of American homes have a mold problem. LISTENListen to BOB VILA ON MOLD PROBLEMS, or ...
The Danger of VOCs There’s more to that new paint smell than you might think. There are already federal restrictions ...
You want to know the water in your home is safe, but depending on what’s in it, you may not need a whole-house filtra...
Bob Vila recently contacted me because he had a bee infestation in his attic. I've made several visits to his house s...
Noise is an occupational hazard in any shop where power tools are used. Strategies must be employed to minimize the d...
For 125 years, this hardworking household cleanser has been keeping America’s kitchens and baths sparkly clean—withou...
Poor Air Quality Threatens HealthThe American Lung Association reports that the death rate from lung disease has rise...
While ensuring quality drinking water in the home is a good start, that’s only the beginning. Water quality affects y...
The roof of the new addition is being insulated – in an environmentally conscious way – to retain the heat from the radiant heating system. Moisture- and mold-res...
Fiberglass windows and sliding glass patio doors are installed. A trailer is brought in to remove moist air and bring in dry, clean air to prevent mold growth whi...
The house is insulated for sound control to provide a quiet environment for baby. The installation of the insulation is demonstrated along with the necessary safe...
The new windows in the baby’s nursery are highly insulated for cold and sound and have health and safety features for young children. They can be installed by do-...
Bob continues to talk with Bernadette Upton of EcoDecor about the materials used in an ideal room for baby and safety procedures to put in place when the baby bec...
In West Palm Beach, FL, the American Lung Association has sponsored a designer showhouse that highlights a healthy home. Bob’s house tour focuses on the baby’s ba...
Much cosmetic, insulation, and sound reduction work has transformed a tired-old attic bedroom into a peaceful, pretty, and healthy room for baby.
A Corian tub surround is installed in the master bathroom, custom fit through a digital photo template system. Steps are taken to prevent water seepage and bacter...
Bob reviews child safety gates and organic baby bedding products that will help keep baby safe and healthy.
Sound attenuating insulation is added to the nursery to reduce the echo effect of noise.
Bob is in the guest bedroom across from the nursery reviewing the kind of paints being used and interior painting tips.
Bob visits the South Bronx, NY, where Habitat for Humanity has partnered with private developer Les Bluestone to create a green oasis for low-income families that...
Bob talks with landscape architect Rick Lamb about revisions to the plan. Bob points out the redesigned parking area and the plan for magically melting the snow.
Bob meets with architect Gregory Rochlin and expert carpenter Danny Ruffini to restore old double-hung windows and replace lead sash weights with new spring-loade...
A double window is installed in the kitchen, which will let in a lot of sunlight and give a view of the back yard.
Bob meets with the installer of the new HVAC system to discuss how it filters air and reduces energy costs.
Bob reviews the work done on the existing plumbing in the basement and the replacement of obsolete brass water pipes.
Basement drainage systems are installed to control moisture and humidity and to eliminate rot and mildew.
Bob reviews how keeping water out of the basement is a central concern in any basement remodeling project.
Bob meets with a local real estate broker and with homeowner Sarah Monzon, whose basement will be finished to create additional family space.
Bob discusses the installation of a plastic subfloor to prevent water damage and the selection of a basement dehumidifier.
Bob discusses the installation of a basement half-bathroom, including wiring, plumbing, and radiant heating.
George Saylor from Owens Corning is on location to install, and explain the unique properties of, the insulation being used in this project.
Bob spends a moment with the drywall contractor before speaking with Thad Goodman of Georgia Pacific. Mr. Goodman tells Bob about the unique, mold-resistant prope...
Bob gets a final status update on the restoration of the façade, as the ground-floor commercial storefront undergoes construction and the bluestone steps are laid...
Bob confronts the remodeling challenge of choosing a flooring material that will deaden sound without sacrificing the sleek, clean look of tile or stone. So contr...
Bob meets with Joe Adams and Ralph McGrath in the media room of Elm Court. Adams and McGrath are installing a sound-attenuating grid-ceiling system from Owens-Cor...
Bob checks out one of the recently refinished rooms at the Elm Court.
Howard Brickman shows Bob two ways to measure the moisture content of wood.
Reviewing the architectural floor plans for the Brownstone remodel, salvaging the vintage sink, and removing asbestos tile uncovered at the start of demolition.
Bob talks with Ron Holen from Georgia-Pacific as the finishing touches are completed on the redwood front porch deck. Bob also visits with farmers at Cedar Mounta...
Bob explains how the Kinetico water purification system works and reviews the A.O. Smith ProMax 75 gas-fired water heater.
Bob discusses the SpacePak HVAC system that's being installed to provide heating and cooling in the house and barn. The SpacePak system is well-suited to projects...
Bob joins Joe Sheridan (from Energy Guard) to learn more about the US Greenfiber Cocoon cellulose insulation being used in the barn.
Fred Giuggio (from QuickStep) and his crew are busy installing wood laminate flooring in the barn of the Victorian restoration project house.
Bob joins plumber Ted Moxham and Kinetico representative Dave Krupinski in the basement, where Ted is installing a Kinetico water purification system.
Cole Stanton (from Fiberlock) joins Bob to talk about Child Guard, an encapsulating coating for lead-based paint.
Bob looks on as contractors remove lead paint from the porch columns, then safely dispose of the old paint.
Bob works with the homeowners, who are stripping old paint off an antique cabinet. On top of the chemicals used to loosen the paint, they discuss the several safe...
Bob assists Patty Hettich in stripping paint from decorative woodwork, then making rubber molds to create new details in the Federal-style home.
The wood has arrived for the perimeter benches, so Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin constructing the architect-designed benches for the greenhouse. The wood is ...
