Projects and tips to help you in your home and garden.
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 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.
Finding Home Repair Help for Low Income FamiliesThere are times when household repairs just can not wait until you have the money to complete the project. This page is about finding home repair help for low income families.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dressing up a Chain Link FenceThis is a page about dressing up a chain link fence. Although not considered attractive, chain link fences are very durable and are often found on older properties.
Dawn and Peroxide Homemade Stain RemoverThese two ingredients combine to make a very effective stain remover. This is a page about Dawn and peroxide homemade stain remover.
What Are Hedge Apples Good For?This is a page about what hedge apples are good for. The hedge apple or Osage orange may look like an orange but it is actually a member of the mulberry family. While many people claim that they are a good natural pest repellent, it is only in concentrated amounts that it is effective. It is generally not eaten by people or wildlife.
Cleaning Pet Urine Odors on FloorsThe are several ways to remove pet urine odors from your tile, laminate, hardwood, and resilient floors. This is a page about cleaning pet urine odors on floors.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Starting a Hibiscus from a CuttingHibiscus plants are relatively easy to start from cuttings, if you follow a few simple steps. This is a page about starting a hibiscus from a cutting.
Growing Miniature Iris (Dwarf Iris)This page is about growing miniature iris. Miniature iris are relatively easy to grow, but are not as hardy as the standard varieties.
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.
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.
Cleaning a Wedding DressWhen a dry cleaning service is not available for you, cleaning a formal dress can be difficult. This page is about cleaning a wedding dress.
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.
Cutting Back Perennials in the FallThis is a page about cutting back perennials in the fall. Deciding whether to cut or not to cut back your perennials in the fall can be perplexing. There are pros and cons to either option.
Removing Smoke Odor After a House FireSmoke damage can be very difficult to remove even from a small house or kitchen fire. This is a page about removing smoke odors after a house fire.
Duggar's Homemade Laundry Detergent RecipeMany ThriftyFun members have asked for or shared the recipe that the Duggar Family uses to wash the laundry for their famously large family. This page features homemade homemade laundry detergent recipes like the one that the Duggar's use.
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.
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.
Removing Rust from Baking PansHave your favorite baking pans started to develop rusty spots? This happens to older, well used pans. Rather than throw it away you may want to try cleaning it. This is a page about removing rust from baking pans.
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 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.
Getting Rid of a Sweetgum Tree?This is a page about getting rid of a sweetgum tree. Removing a tree from your garden may require special tools or professional assistance.
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.
Peace Lily Leaves Are Curling?Peace lilies are typically very easy to grow and quite tolerant of diverse growing conditions. However, too much bright light and temperatures over 90F can cause leaf curl. This is a page about a peace lily that has leaves curling.
Removing Cloudy Film on GlassMineral deposits and detergents can build up on glass and result in an ugly white film. This is a page about removing cloudy film on glass.
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.
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.
Natural Repellents for LizardsLizards are harmless creatures, but can be unsettling in your home or garden. This page contains natural repellents for lizards.
Cleaning Greasy Fast Food Employee's Clothes?The fast food work environment can easily result in grease stained clothing than can be tough to clean. This is a page about cleaning greasy fast food employee's clothes.
Bissell Carpet Shampooer Isn't...The possible causes for the malfunction of your shampooer may be solved by a simple home fix rather than an expensive professional. This page offers suggestions for troubleshooting a Bissell Carpet Shampooer.
Keeping Animals From Going Under a Mobile Home?This page is about keeping animals from going under a mobile home. Mobile home skirting sometimes isn't enough to keep critters from going underneath your home.
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.
Can I Use Yeast in My Septic Tanks?The bacteria in yeast is considered a good additive for septic systems. This is a page about, "Can I use yeast in my septic tanks?.
Cleaning a Fiberglass TubWhen cleaning your fiberglass tub, it is important to not scratch the surface. Finding the right cleaning methods will help you keep your tub looking nice. This is a page about cleaning a fiberglass tub.
Removing Labels from New Windows?Removing the labels from new windows can be surprisingly difficult. This is a page about removing labels from new windows.
Ice Maker Only Dispensing Crushed IceIt is bewildering when your refrigerator ice maker begins to dispense only crushed ice, even when you select cubes. This is a page about ice maker only dispensing crushed ice.
Using Rubbing Alcohol as Roach SprayThis is a page about using rubbing alcohol as roach spray. Try rubbing alcohol for killing roaches rather than a commercial pesticide.
Installing a ToiletThis is a page about installing a toilet. We often have to install a new toilet, maybe the old one can't be repaired, or you want to upgrade to a more water efficient model.
Bathroom Sink Backs Up into Tub?Some plumbing clogs result in one fixture or drain backing up into another one. This is usually indicative of a main line clog.
This is a page about bathroom sink backs up into the tub.
Getting Rid of Asian BeetlesThis is a page about getting rid of Asian beetles. Often confused with Ladybugs, Asian beetles can invade your home in vast numbers.
Removing Odors from a CouchMany different thing can cause your sofa to smell. This is a page about removing odors from a couch.
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.
Kenmore Elite Icemaker Not Dumping Ice?If your ice maker has stopped dropping ice, it may just be stuck and need some minor repair. This is a page about Kenmore Elite icemaker not dumping ice.
Removing White Heat Stains from a Wood TableWhether it's from a pizza box, a coffee cup or some other hot item, heat stains on a wood table can be difficult to remove. This is a page about removing heat stains from a wood table.
Nothing is Working to Get Rid FleasFinding the most effective product and diligence on followup treatments are absolutely needed to eradicate a flea problem. This is a page about nothing is working to get rid of the fleas.
Troubleshooting a Riding Lawn Mower That Won't StartMowing the grass is one of the rites of summer, but now your mower won't start. There are many things that can cause a riding mower to refuse to fire up. This is a page about troubleshooting a riding lawn mower that won't start.
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.
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.
Hanging Curtains Over Vertical BlindsWhile probably the most practical window treatment solution for large areas such as sliding doors, they are not easy to cover with curtains because of the depth of their valances. This is a page about hanging curtains over vertical blinds.
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.
Green Oranges Splitting Before They Ripen?Why are my green oranges splitting?
Removing Super Glue from EyeglassesThis page is about removing super glue from eyeglasses. Finding a way to clean this glue off your glasses can be a challenge.
Identifying and Eliminating Pantry PestsPantry pests can be a disgusting problem in your home. This article looks at some of the most common pantry pests and how to eliminate them.
Removing Dye Transfers from ClothingOne of the more frustrating and difficult clothing stains you can encounter is dye transfer. This is a page about removing dye transfer stains from clothing.
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.
Use Ammonia to Kill FleasAmmonia applied to carpets where your dogs and cats sleep can be effective in killing fleas. Be sure to let animals out while you do this. This is a page about using ammonia to kill fleas.
Dishwasher Tripping a Circuit Breaker?This is a page about dishwasher tripping a circuit breaker. It is frustrating when trying to run your dishwasher repeatedly trips the breaker. Troubleshooting the cause can be daunting.
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.
Insulating Walls?I would like to further insulate my walls from noise and cold. I live in my own condo so I can't really put anything into the walls. I keep thinking (for the last 4 years) I could cover the walls with fabric or carpet or something.
Using Charcoal to Remove OdorsCharcoal is used to remove odors in many situations. This is a page about using charcoal to remove odors.
Cleaning Candle Wax from Hardwood FloorsTested solutions for removing candle wax from hardwood floors. The key to removing candle wax from most surfaces is heating it up with an hair dryer or clothes iron. Beyond that there are some solvents, like Goo Gone, that have been effective.
Removing Urine Stains and Odor From ClothingThis is a page about removing urine odor from fabrics. Urine odor can be difficult to remove from fabric. With the know how, you can have your clothes smelling fresh again.
Child Safe Remedies for FleasIf you are struggling with fleas when you have young children, be sure to use a product that will not be toxic. This is a page about child safe remedies for fleas.
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.
Kenmore Refrigerator Not CoolingWhen a refrigerator no longer cools it is time for immediate action, either calling a repair person or troubleshooting the problem for a home repair. This is a page about a Kenmore refrigerator not cooling.
Removing Hard Water Spots on WindowsSometimes the water from the sink or a sprinkler can make stubborn water spots on your windows. This page is about removing hard water spots.
Cleaning Yellow Bleach Stains in a Plastic...Sometimes using bleach on plastic can result in yellow stains. If this has happened to your bathtub it can be difficult if not impossible to remove the stains. This is a page about removing yellow bleach stains in a plastic bathtub.
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.
Using Hedge Apples to Repel SpidersThis is a page about using hedge apples to repel spiders. Hedge apples have a long standing reputation as a spider repellent.
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.
Selling BambooThis is a page about selling bamboo. Bamboo is an evergreen tropical or temperate grass that grows easily and spreads quickly making it a good choice to grow as a money making enterprise. There are many products made from bamboo.
Identifying Insect Eggs?Identifying insect eggs, whether in your home or garden, can help you decide whether they are harmful or beneficial. This is a page about identifying insect eggs.
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.
Goldfinch PhotosThis small, bright yellow North American migratory bird is a frequent visitor to many backyard bird feeders. This page contains goldfinch photos.
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.
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.
Refinishing Laminate CabinetsThis is a page about refinishing laminate cabinets. Some special preparation may be needed to refinish your laminate cabinets; but it can be done.
Installing Vinyl Tile Over Old Linoleum?This is a page about installing vinyl tile over old linoleum tile. For many people, it seems easier to lay new vinyl tile down over the existing linoleum flooring.
Repairing Slate StepsThis is a page about repairing slate steps. A building stone that easily splits into smooth, flat pieces. Slate can be brittle, and may sometimes chip, when it's not protected.
Removing Odors from ClothingThis page is about removing odors from clothing. Fabric tends to pick up smells and often they are not pleasant.
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.
When Do you Bring a Poinsettia Inside for the Winter?Poinsettia plants can suffer cold damage once temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a page about, "When do you bring a poinsettia inside for the winter?".
Poulan Pro Riding Mower Won't StartWhy a mower won't start up can sometimes be a mystery. This is a page troubleshooting a Poulan Pro riding mower that won't start.
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.
Finding Free Building MaterialsThis is a page about finding free building materials. One way to cut home repair or remodel costs is to find a source for free building materials.
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.
Privacy Window Using Contact PaperYou can create a sense of privacy without adding shades or curtains to a window. Get a frosted glass look using contact paper. It is an inexpensive way to create a privacy window in a bathroom or any other window you would like some privacy but not loss of light.
Tracking Down a Continuous Beeping Sound in House?Is something beeping in your house but you don't know what it is? The chirping could be coming from a watch, a fire detector or carbon monoxide alarm. This page helps you track down and stop the continuous beeping.
Make Your Own Box Fan Air FilterWith all the wildfires right now air quality has gone down throughout the west coast. Here's an easy way to make a room air filter out of a box fan and a furnace filter.
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.
Circle Plant TrellisDo you have plants that need a trellis? You can make 4 circle trellises for just ~ 25 cents each, versus paying over $10 for one. Here's a quick, easy & inexpensive tutorial on how to make a circle trellis (for my Hoya plant).
Make Your Own Box Fan Air FilterWith all the wildfires right now air quality has gone down throughout the west coast. Here's an easy way to make a room air filter out of a box fan and a furnace filter.
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.
Making an Emergency Bug Out BoxThere's a new guy in my trunk...BOB (Bug Out Box). There is no way to miss what Oregon and Washington is going through right now. I came up with something that will help me, and perhaps you, sleep better at night. A bug out box. Here is why we need one. We may only have two minutes to get out..
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.
White Vinegar for Removing Sticker Residue from ClothingStickers are a fun way to decorate a t-shirt or jacket for a short time but they can leave a sticky residue if they are not quickly removed. Try this white vinegar technique to remove sticker marks from clothing by watching this short video.
Removing Roof Tar from Skin with Olive OilRoof tar and other sticky substances can be gently removed from skin by using regular olive oil from the kitchen. Learn how to do it in this short video.
Refinishing Teak Outdoor FurnitureTeak is a common material for outdoor furniture because it is long lasting if cared for correctly. Learn how to do it in this short video.
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.
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.
An Easy Way to Clean a Burnt SaucepanPlease note that I haven't tried this on a pan with a non stick coating. However, if your pan is so burnt that you'll have to throw it out, then you may decide it's worth a try.
Olive Oil to Keep Gnats Out Of Your FaceIn the late afternoon, when I mow grass or work outside, gnats love to get in my face. I can't stand it. I read that you can put olive oil on your face and it will keep gnats off your face.
Shine Flashlight on Pipe to Check for Drain FliesDo you have a problem with gnats in the house? They could be breeding in your drains. If you have plastic pipes, you can check your drains by shining a flashlight behind the pipe. It lights up the drain.
Sharing A Peony PictureI call the Peony 'The Mother's Day Flower'. That's because most people who grow them hope they are in bloom on Mother's Day and are thrilled when they are.
Upgrading Old FurnitureAfter 47 years of marriage and 22 years in this house, I'd love to be able to buy new furniture, but we just can't afford to right now. Our red floral couch had gotten really worn in spots, so I put a leather-look slipcover on it, but never really liked that look. However, my son and daughter-in-law just bought new furniture, so they gave us their leather couch.
Creative Container GardeningWait until you take a look at the different creative containers used for container gardening on a patio. I used colored bowls and plates, a lamp stand with a plastic container, two wooden crates, a strainer, a scale, a large tea pot, and a pedestal sink.
Identifying Tiny Black Bugs?The last couple of nites we go to bed and find a few tiny black bugs on the bed that look like a crawling eyelash. Does anyone know what it is? Every time I search and use the word "eyelash" to describe it I get back results on eyelash mites. These aren't those. These just look like eyelashes crawling around.
Built Up Soap Scum?What can I use to remove soap scum?
Throw Pillows For These Sofas?Could you please suggest the colour of throw Pillows for my living room sofas?
What Material Is My Coffee Table?I recently purchased this table from a private party and he said it was a unique Goa table from India, but it had this one mark on it already when I bought it. He didn't know what it was then. Since I've had it, all these little spots keep appearing and I'm assuming something I'm putting on the table is rubbing on it. I don't know how to protect it.
It looks like it's made out of snakeskin or some kind of skin or cardboard because the spots I try to scratch them off and they get bigger so it's obviously cardboard or something. I want to know what I can use to protect it, like a polyurethane or something. The outer is wood and the brown layer is like a tile I think and then the middle is like a cardboard or something like that. I'm not sure what I can use to keep it from getting more spots on it. Thank you
Identifying Insect Eggs?Any thoughts on species of these egg pods attached to siding on back porch in North Carolina?
Repairing Air Mattress Seal?My electric air mattress was in the box for a year. It inflated with no issue. About 15 minutes later, air began leaking around where the plastic pieces attached to the fabric of the mattress. Is it possible to restore the seal where the fabric attaches to the hardware? If so, what would I use. Thank you.