Owning a home doesn’t always have to mean endless chores and big projects. Sometimes, the best tricks are the little ones that make life easier (and maybe even a little more fun). Here are seven clever homeowner hacks you’ll wish you knew sooner:
1. The Rubber Band Trick
Got a stubborn screw that’s stripped? Place a wide rubber band over it before using your screwdriver. The band gives extra grip and makes it way easier to twist out.
2. Shine Your Faucets with… Lemons
Skip the harsh cleaners! Cut a lemon in half and rub it on water-stained faucets. The natural acidity makes everything sparkle — plus, it smells amazing.
3. Dryer Sheets for Dusting
Out of dusting cloths? Grab an old dryer sheet! They not only clean surfaces but also help repel dust thanks to their anti-static qualities.
4. Tennis Ball Garage Guide
Cut a slit in an old tennis ball and tie it to a string. Hang it in your garage so when it touches your windshield, you know you’ve pulled in the perfect distance every time.
5. Squeaky Door Fix with Cooking Spray
No WD-40? No problem. A light spritz of cooking spray on hinges works like magic to stop those squeaks.
6. Pool Noodles = Bumper Guards
Cut a pool noodle in half lengthwise and stick it to the garage wall where your car door swings open. No more door dings — plus, it looks a little more cheerful than a blank wall.
7. DIY Air Freshener
Fill a small jar with baking soda, add a few drops of essential oil, poke holes in the lid, and place it in any room. It’s natural, effective, and you can customize the scent.
Being a homeowner doesn’t always have to feel like work — sometimes it’s just about learning little shortcuts that make your space easier to manage (and more fun to live in)