8June 2025
Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, having a few handyman tricks up your sleeve can make life a lot easier. The best part? Many of these tips use everyday household items, save you money, and can even turn a frustrating fix into a fun little project. Here are ten handyman tips that are not only useful but also enjoyable to try out!
1. Find Lost Small Items with a Vacuum and Pantyhose
We’ve all dropped a tiny screw, earring, or battery and watched it disappear into the abyss of the carpet. Here’s a simple trick: stretch a piece of pantyhose over the end of your vacuum hose and secure it with a rubber band. When you vacuum the area, the suction will pull up the lost item, but the pantyhose will keep it from getting sucked into the vacuum. It’s a quick, satisfying way to recover those pesky small parts.
2. Fix Furniture Scratches with a Walnut
Have you noticed scratches or dings in your wooden furniture? Before you reach for expensive repair kits, try using a walnut. Rub the meat of the nut directly over the scratch. The natural oils and color from the walnut help fill in and disguise the mark. Buff with a soft cloth and watch the scratch fade away, no chemicals required!
3. Freshen Up Your Garbage Disposal with Citrus Cubes
Garbage disposals can get smelly fast. To freshen things up, freeze lemon or orange peels in ice cube trays with a bit of vinegar or water. Drop a few cubes into the disposal and run it with cold water. The ice sharpens the blades, while the citrus and vinegar clean and deodorize. It’s a double win for your kitchen!
4. Remove Pet Hair with a Rubber Glove
If you have pets, you know how stubborn their hair can be on furniture. Slip on a slightly damp rubber dish glove and run your hand over the fabric. The static electricity pulls the hair right off and forms it into easy-to-remove clumps. It’s oddly satisfying and works better than most lint rollers.
5. Unstick a Shower Curtain with Wax Paper
Is your shower curtain getting stuck and refusing to slide? Rub a piece of wax paper along the shower rod. The wax creates a slick surface, letting the curtain glide smoothly. No more tug-of-war with your shower curtain every morning!
6. Loosen Rusted Screws with a Rubber Band
Rusted or stripped screws can be a nightmare. Place a wide rubber band over the screw head before inserting your screwdriver. The rubber fills the gaps and provides extra grip, making it much easier to turn the screw and remove it.
7. Lubricate Stuck Doors and Windows with Soap
If you have doors or windows that stick, rub a dry bar of soap or a candle along the edges where they’re sticking. The wax or soap acts as a lubricant, helping them open and close with ease. It’s a simple, mess-free solution.
8. Organize Tools with a Shoe Organizer
Hang a clear shoe organizer on the back of a closet or basement door to store tools, cleaning supplies, or hardware. Each pocket is perfect for small items, and you’ll always know where everything is—no more digging through messy drawers.
9. Keep Kitchen Cabinets Clean with Wax Paper
Dust and grease love to build up on top of kitchen cabinets. Lay sheets of wax paper on top of the cabinets. Every few months, just swap out the paper for a fresh sheet. It’s much easier than scrubbing away sticky grime!
10. Remove Paint or Grease from Hands with Cooking Spray
After a messy project, spray a little cooking spray (like Pam) on your hands, rub them together, and wipe with a paper towel. The oil helps break down paint or grease, making it easier to wash away with soap and water.
Final Thoughts
Being handy around the house doesn’t require a garage full of expensive tools or years of experience. Sometimes, a little creativity and a few household items are all you need. Try these tips the next time you’re faced with a minor home repair or cleaning challenge, you might just impress yourself (and your friends) with your newfound handyman skills! Happy fixing!