A to Z hacks for every Barrhaven homeowner
Today we feature a nice collection of homeowner hacks that are sure to please Barrhaven residents. The information comes courtesy of News Canada and Royal Lepage.
A. Ammonia: Spray on garbage cans to repel raccoons and other varmints.
B. Baby oil: Use to remove fingerprints and surface stains from stainless steel appliances.
C. Candle: Rub on a sticky sliding door or window.
D. Dishwashing detergent: Mix with baking soda and vinegar to remove pet stains.
E. Electric beater: Attach to a variable speed drill to quickly mix paint.
F. Fruit scraps, citrus: Keep cats from digging up plants.
G. Garlic: Place in plant soil to repel insects indoors.
H. Hair conditioner: Can be used to often paint brushes.
I. Insulation, foam: Fill gaps around an outdoor faucet or gaps in siding.
J. Jars, glass: Store nails, screws and assorted hardware neatly.
K. Knife holder, magnetic: Use to organize tools in a workshop.
L. Lip balm: Can replace masking tape when painting windows.
M. Mirror, tile: Mount on a closet ceiling to see what’s on the top shelf.
N. Nail polish, clear: Can repair small holes or tears in screens.
O. Onion: Put chopped onion in a container of water to reduce the odour of new paint.
P. Pennies: Attach to the blades of a ceiling fan to rebalance
Q. Quart, distilled water: Add to your humidifier daily during the winter months. Empty, clean and refill each day to avoid bacteria buildup.
R. Rubber boots: Use on a ladder for skid-free traction.
S. Scouring powder: Improves the holding power of a screwdriver.
T. Toothpaste: Remove crayon marks on a wall before painting.
U. Umbrella: Catch drips when cleaning a crystal chandelier.
V. Vinegar, white: Freshen a foul-smelling dishwasher.
W. Wire hanger: Use to dislodge a blockage in a sink pipe.
X. X-acto knife: Remove old silicone caulking from bathtubs and sinks.
Y. Yoga mat: Cut a piece to place under your knee while gardening or doing chores.
Z. Zest, lemon: To deter ants from crossing thresholds and windowsills.
More information on maintaining your home or preparing it for sale is available at www.royallepage.ca.
www.newscanada.com