Secret Weapons for DIY Projects in Your Home

Is there a home maintenance project that’s been lingering on your to-do list for too long because you’re dreading a trip to the hardware or craft store? There are some projects you can tackle with items that are almost certainly already in your home.

Vinegar: There’s probably a jug of vinegar in your pantry right now. You can soak items in vinegar to remove mineral deposits (like in a clogged showerhead). You can also boil vinegar in your microwave to remove odors and make it easier to clean.
Cola: A can of Coke or Pepsi can be used to clean many surfaces, including your glass windows, porcelain toilet, or chrome fixtures. Just do some research before using it on metal surfaces, as it can be corrosive.
Baking soda: This item may actually be more useful for applications other than baking. A baking soda-vinegar paste is great for cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. Baking soda can also be used to absorb odors.
Butter knife: Screwdrivers are easy to misplace. If you can’t find a screwdriver when you need one, a butter knife—preferably an older one that you no longer need for table setting—is pretty effective for both Phillips- and flat-head screws.
Toothpaste: Is there an unsightly scratch on your car or bike? The grit in tartar-control toothpaste makes for an effective scratch remover. Clean the scratch, apply some toothpaste, let it sit for a few minutes, and then buff it out with a paper towel.
Bleach Pen: Do you have nasty grout lines in your bathroom or kitchen? Use a bleach pen to clean them out fast!
Ice Cubes: Throw some ice cubes into your garbage disposal to sharpen those blades. Want a fresh scent too? Slice a lemon and an orange for your disposal for a nice, citrusy scent in your kitchen.
Clear Nail Polish: Use it for tiny tears in your window screens or to fill small chips in your windows.

Next time you have a home maintenance issue, don’t panic!

Use these quick-fix secret weapons to get projects in your home without spending tons of money at a hardware store!