Projects and tips to help you in your home and garden.
Finding Plumbing Repair Assistance for...This is a page about finding plumbing repair assistance for low income homeowners. Having working plumbing is a necessity. However, some families can not afford the cost of hiring a tradesperson to make the necessary repairs.
Roof Repair for Low Income Homeowners?Low income homeowners often can not afford the cost of roof repairs. Searching for agencies or organizations that might help with the costs may be their only solution. This is a page about roof repair for low income homeowners.
Finding Roof Repair Assistance for Seniors?Many senior citizens are living on fixed incomes that often are insufficient to meet the maintenance needs of their homes. This is a page about finding roof repair assistance for seniors.
Turn Baby Wipes Into Sanitizing WipesThis is a page about turning baby wipes into sanitizing wipes. Normal baby wipes do not have sanitizing ingredients. Adding alcohol to your container of baby wipes, turns them into sanitizing wipes.
Getting Rid of Tiny Biting Black BugsMany types of bugs are small and black, if they are biting bugs they can be annoying and a health hazard. This is a page about getting rid of tiny biting black bugs.
Identifying Household Bugs?This is a page about identifying household bugs. It can be challenge to combat bugs in your home, when you don't know what kind they are.
Getting Rid of Tiny White Biting Bugs?If you have small white biting bugs in your home, it would be best to exterminate them as soon as possible. This is a page about getting rid of tiny white biting bugs.
Tiny Black Bugs in the KitchenThe key to getting rid of tiny black bugs on kitchen floor is first identifying what they are. Check out what has worked for others in this page.
Finding Plumbing Repair Help for Low Income Homeowners?This is a page about finding plumbing repair help for low income homeowners. Plumbing repairs may be too expensive for many low income homeowners. However they are quite necessary for health and even safety. Finding a source of assistance to reduce the costs can help.
Leaning a Ladder Against a Roof...This is a page about leaning a ladder against a roof without crushing gutters. When you need to make repairs or clean gutters, your ladder needs to lean on the house often against the gutters.
Homemade Aphid Spray RecipesAphids thrive in temperate regions and feast on plants. They are one of the most pesky and destructive pests that gardeners have to deal with. This page contains homemade aphid spray recipes.
Keeping Mold from Growing on House Siding?Humid climates and natural disasters can lead to mold growth on the siding of your home. This is a page about keeping mold from growing on house siding.
Identifying Small Black BugsHaving unidentified insects infesting your home can be annoying. It helps to know what kind they are when determining the best way to be rid of them. This is a page about identifying small black bugs.
Keeping Bees Out of a Hummingbird FeederBees and hummingbirds are often found in the same places in your garden. However, if you are putting out food for the hummingbirds it can attract an unwanted amount of bees. This is a page about keeping bees out of your hummingbird feeder.
Identifying Little Black Biting Bugs?Identifying biting bugs is the first step in trying to eliminate them from your home or to repel them when outdoors. This is a page about identifying little black biting bugs.
How to Fix Damaged Surfaces of Wood FurnitureWood furniture can get damaged in a number of ways. This is a page about how to fix damaged surfaces of wood furniture.
Homemade "Clorox Cleanup" RecipesThis page contains homemade "Clorox Cleanup" recipes. Although convenient, Clorox general purpose cleaner can seem expensive. To save money, but still have the convenience of an easy to use spray or premoistened wipe, make your own.
Selling Trees on Your Land for LumberIf you own acres or even a larger residential lot you may have trees that you would like to have removed and be able to sell for the lumber. This is a page about selling trees on your land for lumber.
Tiny Flying Insects in Your House?There is nothing more frustrating than having tiny flying insects in your house. Identifying what type of insect they are will help you get rid of them. This page contains tips for getting rid of tiny flying bugs in your house.
Painting Over Varnish Without SandingIt is often recommend that you sand any surface thoroughly prior to painting it. Painting over varnish without sanding is not a best practice but it can be done.
Plants That Like Coffee GroundsMany plants thrive in soil rich in nitrogen. As they decompose, coffee grounds release nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and other minerals. This is a page about plants that like coffee grounds.
Not Getting Power But Circuit Breaker Was Not TrippedElectrical problems can be difficult to diagnose, especially when it isn't a simple case of resetting the breaker. This is a page to troubleshoot the issue of not getting power but the circuit breaker was not tripped.
Solutions for Grass Growing in Pavement...This is a page about solutions for grass growing in pavement cracks. Grass growing in the cracks of your drive or walkway can mar the appearance of your home and landscaping.
Keeping Copperhead Snakes Out of Your YardThis is a page about keeping Copperhead snakes out of your yard. Finding venomous snakes in your yard can be very scary.
Repairing a Sofa Bed FrameThis is a page about repairing a sofa bed frame. The frame on a sofa bed can become damaged from use.
Tiny Black Bugs Making Head Itch?Fleas like humans almost as much as dogs, and can be the cause of your itchy head. This is a page about tiny black bugs making head itch.
Hypertufa Craft ProjectsThis is a page about hypertufa craft projects. This simple mixture of Portland cement with substances like perlite and peat moss makes porous artificial stone pots, planters, or garden art in any shape or size you can imagine.
Getting Financial Assistance for Roof...When your roof is starting to fail it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible. This page is about getting financial assistance for roof repairs.
Ice Maker Arm is StuckThis is a page about fixing am ice maker arm that is stuck. Automatic ice makers in your freezer are a great convenience. However, if they get stuck releasing ice cubes it can be difficult to fix.
Removing Mop and Glo From Flooring?This is a page about removing Mop and Glo from flooring. Unfortunately some floor care products can build up on your flooring and be difficult to remove.
Use Dawn and Baking Soda to Clean a Smooth Top RangeA simple mix of Dawn dish soap and some baking soda can make an effective cleaner for many surfaces, even your smooth glass top range. This is a page about use dawn and baking soda to clean a smooth top range.
Identifying Small White Biting Bugs?If you are being bitten by small bugs, identifying them is the first step to getting rid of them. This page is full of tips for getting rid of tiny biting bugs.
Keeping Lizards Off Your Porch?Lizards love to sun themselves during the day. Your porch may very well be a nearly ideal place for them to catch some sun and warm up. If you live in an area with many lizards, keeping lizards off your porch might be an issue you have to deal with.
Swiffer WetJet Isn't WorkingThis is a page about when Swiffer WetJet isn't working. The main reason your probably purchased your WetJet was the spray feature. So when it stops working it is very frustrating.
Cleaning of Footprints on Laminate FloorThis is a page about cleaning footprints on laminate floor. Hard surface floors such as wood, tile, and laminate can show water spots, foot prints, and the like on your flooring. Using the right cleaner will remove footprints and other smudges on your flooring.
Removing Moss from a RoofCleaning moss off your roof not only improves it's appearance but also increases the life span of your roof. It is important to not only remove moss but to prevent further growth. This is a page about removing moss from a roof.
Removing Urine Odors from a CouchRemoving urine odors from upholstered furniture can be difficult. This is a page about removing urine odors from a couch.
Buying Shower Power Cleaner?This is a page about buying Shower Power cleaner. Shower Power cleaner is a popular cleaner for removing soap scum in your shower. Find where to buy Shower Power near you.
Cleaning Permanent (Sharpie) Marker...Unfortunately it is not uncommon to get Sharpie marks on your leather couch. This is a page about cleaning permanent (Sharpie) marker from a leather couch.
Removing Floor Wax From Laminate FlooringFloor wax and some floor cleaning products leave a waxy residue on laminate flooring. This is a page about removing wax from laminate flooring.
Fixing Wood Furniture Damaged by Household...Using the wrong cleaner on your wood furniture may result in damage to the finish and the wood below. This is a page about fixing wood furniture damaged by household cleaners.
Getting Rid of Fleas in Human HairSometimes in the case of a bad flea infestation, fleas will also get into the hair of the pet's owners. This is a page about getting rid of fleas in human hair.
Controlling Algae in a PondIt is frustrating when your beautiful garden pond become a murky green from algae. This is a page about controlling algae in a pond.
Removing Urine Odors from a BathroomThis page is about removing urine odors from a bathroom. Although the lavatory looks clean, it doesn't always smell fresh.
Other Uses for Chlorine Pool Tablets?This is a page about other uses for chlorine pool tablets. At the end of summer, some pool owners may want to find alternative uses for left over chlorine pool tablets.
Caring for Potted Easter LiliesIf you purchased or received a potted Easter lily as a gift, you may be wondering how to care for it now. This is a page about caring for potted Easter lilies.
Value of an Antique Singer Sewing Machine?Sewing machines have been around for over 100 years and there are many old-fashioned ones that can be still found for sale. This is a page about the value of an antique Singer sewing machine.
John Deere Riding Mower Won't StartYou can almost hear the grass growing as you sit there trying to start up your uncooperative riding mower. This is a page about John Deere riding mower won't start.
Fixing a Toilet Clogged By Paper Towels?One or two paper towels might easily flush down the toilet, however if someone puts a larger number down it will probably clog the plumbing. This is a page about fixing a toilet clogged by paper towels.
Using Pool Bleach Tablets for Laundry?I have been given a bucket of chlorine tablets for my above ground pool. I am thrilled that I don't have to purchase these this year, in fact I may have enough for a couple of years. Anyway, I was wondering, can I put one of these tablets in a bucket of water and make bleach for my laundry?
Getting Rid of Invisible Biting BugsWhen you are having trouble identifying what insect is biting you, they can be difficult to get rid of. This is a page about getting rid of invisible biting bugs.
Removing Furniture Polish Stain on Carpet?Sometimes when we are cleaning and polishing we can have a mishap and create a new cleaning challenge. This page is about removing furniture polish stain on carpet.
Electric Blanket Error Codes?This is a page about electric blanket error codes. An electric blanket is an easy way to stay warm during the winter months. If your blanket is not working, checking the error code can help you troubleshoot the problem.
Sanitizing with Vinegar and Hydrogen PeroxideThis is a page about sanitizing with vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are both very useful in sanitizing both produce and surfaces around your home.
Repairing a Toilet Scratched by a Plumber's SnakeThe use of a plumber's snake is common for removing clogs in a toilet. Unfortunately, the metal snake can leave unsightly marks in the bowl. This is a page about repairing a toilet scratched by a plumber's snake.
Finishing Raw Carpet EdgesCarpet remnants can be used to make throw rugs. Finishing the edges can be done at a carpet shop or you can try some of the suggestions in this page to do it yourself. This is a page about finishing raw carpet edges.
Repairing a Kenmore Sewing MachineThis is a page about repairing a Kenmore sewing machine. Kenmore sewing machines, made for Sears, are found in numerous households. When your machine begins to preform badly or stops sewing altogether it is time for repairs. Some can be done by the owner and others may require the services of a professional repair person.
Removing Anti-Reflective Coating from Glasses?When the reflective coating on your eye glasses is damaged you may need to remove it. This is a page about removing anti-reflective coating from glasses.
Tinting Deck Stain a Darker Color?I bought a gallon of stain. After having it for a few months I went to use it. I then realized it was lightener than I wanted for my deck. Is there any way to darken this?
Restoring the Shine on a Formica CountertopOver time with normal usage and constant cleaning, your Formica countertops can look dull and worn. This is a page about restoring the shine on a Formica countertop.
Growing Sunflowers in ContainersThis page is about growing sunflowers in containers. Sunflowers are a wonderful addition to any garden space for their beautiful colors and visiting birds.
Getting Seeds From Pine ConesGrow your own pine tree from seed and make the world a greener place. This page is about how to harvest pine seeds (also known as pine nuts) from the pine cone for planting.
Removing Moss Growing on BricksMoss can make brick paths and driveways very slippery. They need to be cleaned for safety. This is a page about removing moss growing on bricks.
Use Dawn Detergent to Unclog a DrainCooking grease and the residue from shampoos and conditioners can clog your drains. Many people have success breaking up the clog with Dawn. This is a page about use Dawn detergent to unclog drain.
Roach Control AdviceIn climates where cockroaches thrive, it can be a challenge to keep them under control. You can save money on pest control by using household items or even making your own traps.
Getting Rid of Bugs in the KitchenThis is a page about getting rid of bugs in the kitchen. There are a number of insects that want to live where the human food is. You need a safe way to eliminate them.
Preventing a Sweetgum Tree From Making BallsSweetgum trees are a fall beauty with their variegated colorful leaves. However, for many homeowner's this display does not make up for the deluge of spiny seed pods that litter their yard. This is a page about preventing a sweetgum tree from making balls.
Separating Pots That Are Stuck TogetherThere is nothing more frustrating than trying to separate pots that are stuck together before being able to cook. Check out these tips and tricks for Separating Pots That Are Stuck Together.
Give Coffee to a Christmas CactusThis is a page about giving coffee to a Christmas cactus. Coffee is a trusted secret that many people use to keep their Christmas cactus healthy and blooming each year. Just make sure its plain black coffee.
Septic Safe CleanersThis is a page about septic safe cleaners. Homeowners with septic systems need to take care with the types of household cleaners they use that might enter their septic system.
How to Fix Sterling Silver Tarnished by Bleach?Silver can become tarnished in many different ways, but tarnish resulting from bleach is sure to require some thorough cleaning. Here are some ideas about how to fix sterling silver tarnished by bleach.
Tinting Eyeglasses at Home?Some people try to tint their own eyeglasses at home to save money at the optometrist. However, this can cause eye damage as the dyed glasses will not protect your eyes from the sun.
Repairing a Crack in a Plastic Tub or ShowerWhen you are not able to replace a damaged tub or shower a repair to the cracked area may be a solution. This is a page about repairing a crack in a plastic tub or shower.
Sewing Machine Not StitchingThis is a page about sewing machine not stitching. Sometimes you can troubleshoot and make the needed repairs to your sewing machine.
Getting Rid of Condensation Between Glass WindowsMoisture can build up in-between the two panes of glass in dual pane insulated windows when the seal fails. There is controversy over replacing or repairing the window. Read about other homeowners' advice and experiences here.
Keeping Squirrels from Digging in PlantsSquirrels can cause a lot of damage in plant containers and the garden. This page is about keeping squirrels from digging in plants.
Cub Cadet Riding Lawn Mower Won't StartTroubleshooting the reason your mower won't start is a process that hopefully gets you back to mowing soon. This is a page about Cub Cadet riding lawn mower won't start.
Scunci Steamer Doesn't Steam?A clog or a faulty heating element are the most likely reasons your Scunci steam has stopped steaming. This is a page about Scunci steamer doesn't steam.
Removing Hand Sanitizer Stains on Wood?This is a page about removing hand sanitizer stains on wood. The alcohol content found in hand sanitizers can leave awful spots on your wood furniture. Thankfully, there are solutions to help remove or minimize any damage done.
Weed Killer that Won't Kill GrassOnly certain formulations of weed killers will work to kill weeds but not your lawn. This is a page about weed killer that won't kill grass.
Cleaning Yellow Stains on an Old Porcelain Tub?If your porcelain tub has yellow stains in it, a strong cleaner and some elbow grease may be what is needed to get it cleaned up. Cleaning yellow stains on an old porcelain tub can be a tough job, but it is worth it to have a nice clean tub to use.
Use WD40 to Get Rid of Carpenter BeesSolvents and oils can often be detrimental to the health of insects. WD40 when sprayed on most insects will kill them. This is a page about how to get rid of carpenter bees.
Sewing Machine Needle Not Catching ThreadIt can be very frustrating if your machine is not sewing properly. This page is about sewing machine needle not catching thread.
How to Overseed Your LawnA thick healthy lawn not only looks good but also helps keep down weeds. When your lawn begins to develop bald spots it is time to oversee. This is a page about how to overseed your lawn.
Removing the Tint from Prescription SunglassesThis page is about removing the tint from prescription sunglasses. Sometimes the tint color of your glasses is not the way you want it.
Removing Cigarette Smoke Residue from Flat Screen...This is a page about removing cigarette smoke residue from flat screen TV. Residue from cigarette smoke can cling to many things in your home.
Generic vs. Name Brand BleachMost generic cleaning products contain the exact same ingredients in the same percentages, making them typically interchangeable. This is a page about generic versus name brand bleach.
Dryer Isn't Drying ClothesThis is a page about dryer isn't drying clothes. There are a few reasons that your dryer isn't drying the clothes.
Keeping Pigeons Off Your BalconyThis is a page about keeping pigeons off your balcony. Pigeons can be very messy visitors to your porch or balcony.
Changing the Batteries on a Swiffer Wet JetYou are not alone if you have been frustrated when trying to change the batteries in your Swiffer Wet Jet. This is a page about changing the batteries on a Swiffer Wet Jet.
Fixing a Swiffer WetJet That is Not SprayingThe Swiffer WetJet spray can be prone to clogging. If you can get the clog clerked out, your Swiffer WetJet will be working as good as new. This is a page about fixing a Swiffer WetJet that is not spraying.
Inexpensive Alternatives to Paving a Driveway?This page is about inexpensive alternatives to paving a driveway. Paving a driveway can cost more than you can afford.
Getting Rid of Ants in the KitchenHave ants taken up residence in your home? The kitchen can be a challenging place to get rid of ants since there are so many sources of food. This is a page about getting rid of ants in your kitchen.
Removing Rust from Well Water?Well water can contain rust. Not only does rust in your water make the water reddish, unappetizing, and possibly bad tasting it can also stain laundry and other items. This is a page about removing rust from well water.
Keeping Rugs From SlippingRoaming area or throw rugs can be annoying. Keeping them from slipping can be tricky depending on the surface they are on. This is a page about keeping rugs from slipping.
Using Sawdust in Your GardenAdding sawdust to your garden can produce some benefits. This page is about using sawdust in your garden.
Electrical Wiring Diagram for John...This is a page about find a electrical wiring diagram for John Deere mower. John Deere mowers are an expensive investments, so being able to repair them can be useful. Having an electrical diagram allows you to work on it yourself.
Paint Color Advice for a Kitchen With Oak CabinetsThe finish on your kitchen cabinets plays a role in the choice of wall paint colors. This is a page about paint color advice for a kitchen with oak cabinets.
Tiny Bugs In My HouseIf you have many tiny bugs in your home, it may be necessary to call an exterminator. This is a page about tiny bugs in my house.
Removing Bleach Stains From ClothingAccidentally getting bleach on clothing will damage the dye and leave a discoloration often referred to as a bleach stain. This is a page about removing bleach stains from clothing.
Killing Grass in Rock Ground CoverLandscaping done with rocks can be quite attractive especially for xeriscape gardens. However, having grass come up in your gravel is not attractive. This is a page about killing grass in rock ground cover.
How to Find the Model Number on a New Home Sewing Machine?It's necessary to locate the model number on sewing machines, for repair parts and other information, but it can be difficult on older models. This is a page about how to find the model number on a New Home sewing machine.
Feng Shui Decorating IdeasFeng shui is an ancient Chinese practice for arranging items in a harmonious way, also called geomancy. Feng shui is directly translated as wind/water. It is believed that properly placed items will increase the chi or qi, which translates into life force energy.
How to Fix Cat Scratches on CouchWe adopted a cat last year and she went to town on our new sofa, scratching it until it looked like a shag carpet. We tried deterrent sprays, laying blankets over the spot, and finally the sticky paper the eventually got her to stop.
Extra Dish DrainerMost of the time, when I cook, I use a lot of pots and pans. Washing them can be a chore.
DeKay's SnakeWhen you are digging in your flowers and grassy areas, you may run into this little fellow. It is a DeKay snake and quite harmless and appears to not mind being held, although, I don't want to hold it. I just take pictures.
Crafty Pea TrellisI'm a fan of sugar snap and snow peas. I've seen all sorts of trellises for vining plants like these. Most are some variation of cedar lattice or pipes and wires. I wanted something I could compost with the leaf matter at the end of the season. With a very few durable pieces I could disassemble and reuse. I came up with this design based on what I had in my garage and scrap wood pile.
Dyeing Blue JeansThis is a page about dyeing blue jeans. You can dye jeans to darken the color or perhaps change it a bit.
Stuffed Animal Eye PatchIf you have a beloved stuffed animal that loses an eye, an eye patch might be the best solution. Learn how in this short video.
How to Fix Any GrillI created this video blog on how to fix a BBQ grill. I found this grill on the side of the road and it looked nice enough to be fixed. I use it for camping now.
Removing Burnt Oil From a Frying PanIf you are having a hard time getting burnt oil off a frying pan, try this simple tip. This method will get your pan looking like new in no time!
How to Fix a Tent PoleMany tent poles are attached with elastic, which can break with rough usage. Learn how to fix it in this short video.
Fix Any LawnmowerI created a video blog on fixing a mower. It is a step by step process. It was much simpler than taking a thousand pictures and typing all that I wanted to say.
Fixing a Lawn Mower That Won't StartWe have a Craftsman mower (with a Briggs and Stratton engine) that we have not taken very good care of.
Rooting A Chinese Evergreen StemI have a large Chinese Evergreen with one stem that insists on growing horizontally rather than vertically. I remedied that problem with a sharp knife, a heavy beer mug and water.
Use a Drain Bucket When Washing Vegetables OutsideI use a drain pan in my kitchen quite often and I thought it would be good to have a drain bucket on hand when washing garden vegetables outside. It gets the excess water out.
Start Bell Pepper Plants EarlyTo ensure a good crop of bell peppers, it is important to remember that they require a long growing season. You can start the seed now (2/25)
Picking ButterbeansThis has been a hot, dry summer and the first year we have watered our garden. It has been a pretty one. My grandmother used to say, a dry June means a wet July. It seems that old saying is true because we have had a lot more rain this month.
Protect Paint Label While PaintingI purchased a quart of paint to do a job and used only 1/4 of the paint. I will be using it again soon.
Fresh Basil All Year LongYou can have fresh basil all year long. I grew basil from seed. It was in a pot and I brought it in. I froze and dried most of it and planted this.
Kleenex Left In Washable Item?When a kleenex has been left in a garment, I heard to rinse the item in vinegar water. Has anyone else heard this and does it work?
Cleaning Ash From Porcelain Dolls?I had a house fire in 2018 and my dolls got covered in ash. I sent them to someone to clean but she never did and returned them to me 3 weeks ago. My question is there any way of cleaning the ash off and how please?
Black Sticky Mark Left On Carpet?How do I remove the black sticky rubber from the bottom of the desktop computer that melted on my carpet. Best solutions as how to remove from carpet without hurting the carpet with a bigger stain. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all your help.
Cleaning Caked-On Hair On My Hair Dryer?A while ago, I asked this question and I never received a response. My electric hair dryer has caked on hair on the outside of dryer that I can't remove. I have used bleach, hydrogen peroxide, Mr. Clean eraser, etc. Nothing has penetrated the hair. Can anyone help me? Thank you.
Typewriter Won't Turn On?Not sure why but my Brother AX25 typewriter will not turn on. After plugging it in and turning on the power button, there is nothing at all. I haven't used it for quite a while but would like to get it going again so I can sell it. Any help would be appreciated.
Using Laundry Detergent Bottle To Water Birds?I have washed this laundry detergent bottle so many times, I have lost count. Sadly, it continues to smell like laundry detergent. Is it safe to use as a jug to water the birds?