Home repairs can be expensive, time-consuming, and frustrating. But what if you could fix common household issues using things you already have at home? It turns out, some of the most bizarre-sounding fixes actually work wonders. From mayonnaise polishing furniture to using a bar of soap to fix a squeaky door, unconventional home repair hacks can save you money and stress. Here are 25 weird but effective home repair tricks that sound crazy at first but actually work!
Fix Scratches on Wood with a Walnut
Rub a walnut (without the shell) over scratches on wooden furniture to diminish their appearance. The natural oils and brown color of the walnut seep into the wood, making scratches less visible. Buff the area lightly with a soft cloth afterward. This method works particularly well on light and medium-toned wood. For deeper scratches, repeat the process a few times. It’s an easy and natural alternative to chemical-based furniture markers. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to extend the life of your wooden surfaces. No one will believe a simple nut can do such a great job!
Mayonnaise to Remove Water Rings
Forget expensive wood refinishing products—mayonnaise can save your furniture! The oils in mayo help penetrate the wood and lift water stains left by sweaty glasses. Simply apply a small amount over the ring, let it sit for an hour or overnight, then wipe it away with a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, add a bit of baking soda to the mayo before applying. The natural fats help restore the wood’s moisture balance, making the mark disappear. It’s a safe and effective way to bring wood surfaces back to life. Just be sure to clean up any excess to avoid a greasy residue. Your coffee table will thank you!
Bread to Pick Up Broken Glass
Cleaning up shattered glass can be tricky, but a slice of bread makes it much easier. Press a soft piece of bread onto the tiny shards that are hard to see. The bread’s soft texture grabs even the smallest fragments, keeping your hands safe. Afterward, carefully dispose of the slice in a sealed bag. This method is especially useful on tile or hardwood floors, where glass tends to scatter. It’s a simple and effective way to ensure you don’t miss any dangerous slivers. Who would have thought bread could double as a cleaning tool?
Baby Powder to Stop Creaky Floors
Wooden floors that creak can be frustrating, especially at night. Sprinkle baby powder over the creaky boards and sweep it into the cracks using a soft brush. The powder works by reducing friction between the floorboards, eliminating the noise. This hack is especially helpful for older hardwood floors. If the creaking returns over time, simply repeat the process. It’s an inexpensive and easy solution that won’t damage the wood. Plus, your home will smell fresh afterward!
Clear Nail Polish to Stop Fraying Fabric
If your favorite fabric starts to fray, clear nail polish can stop it in its tracks. Apply a thin layer along the edges of the fraying area and let it dry. The polish acts as a sealant, preventing further unraveling. This trick works great on clothing, curtains, and even shoelaces. It’s a temporary but effective fix for small fabric issues. Best of all, it dries quickly and is practically invisible. Keep a bottle handy for any fabric emergencies!
Vinegar to Remove Hard Water Stains
Hard water stains on faucets and showerheads can be stubborn. Soak a cloth or paper towel in vinegar and wrap it around the affected area. Let it sit for an hour before wiping clean. The acidity in vinegar breaks down mineral deposits, restoring the surface’s shine. This trick also works for coffee makers and dishwashers. It’s a chemical-free and cost-effective way to tackle hard water stains. Say goodbye to dull, spotty fixtures!
Olive Oil to Polish Stainless Steel
Forget expensive stainless steel cleaners—olive oil can work just as well! Apply a few drops of olive oil onto a microfiber cloth and rub it into your stainless steel appliances. The oil helps break down fingerprints, smudges, and water stains while leaving a shiny finish. Buff with a dry cloth for a streak-free look. This method is natural, chemical-free, and leaves no strong odors behind. Plus, it helps prevent future smudges by creating a light protective layer. Your kitchen appliances will look sleek and spotless in no time!
Aspirin to Remove Sweat Stains
Stubborn sweat stains on white shirts can make them look old and dingy. Instead of tossing them out, try dissolving a few aspirin tablets in warm water and soaking the stained area. The salicylic acid in aspirin helps break down the sweat residue, restoring the fabric’s brightness. Let the garment soak for at least an hour before washing as usual. This trick works especially well on yellow underarm stains. It’s a surprising but effective laundry hack that saves your favorite shirts. Plus, it gives expired aspirin tablets a second use instead of throwing them away.
Toothpaste to Remove Scuffs from Shoes
Scuffed-up shoes can look worn out, but toothpaste can bring them back to life. Apply a small amount of white, non-gel toothpaste to the scuffed area and rub it in with a soft cloth. The mild abrasives in the toothpaste gently lift dirt and scuffs from leather and rubber surfaces. Wipe off the paste with a damp cloth and let the shoes dry. This works especially well on white sneakers, making them look brand new. It’s an easy and affordable alternative to specialized shoe cleaners. Your kicks will be looking fresh in no time!
Ice Cubes to Lift Carpet Dents
Heavy furniture can leave unsightly dents in carpets, but ice cubes can help restore the fibers. Place an ice cube in each dent and let it melt naturally. As the water is absorbed, the carpet fibers begin to expand and return to their original shape. Once the ice has fully melted, blot up any excess water with a towel. Use a spoon or fork to gently fluff up the fibers for a finishing touch. This trick works especially well on synthetic carpets. Your carpet will look refreshed without needing professional treatment!
Rubber Band to Remove Stripped Screws
Dealing with a stripped screw that won’t budge? A simple rubber band can help! Place a wide rubber band over the stripped screw head, then press your screwdriver firmly into it. The rubber band fills in the worn gaps, providing extra grip and making it easier to turn the screw. This method works well for both manual screwdrivers and power drills. It’s a quick and inexpensive solution that saves frustration. No more struggling with stripped screws or resorting to drastic measures!
WD-40 to Remove Crayon Marks from Walls
If your little artist has left crayon marks on the walls, WD-40 can come to the rescue! Spray a small amount onto a clean cloth and gently rub over the marks. The lubricating properties break down the waxy crayon residue, making it easy to wipe away. This trick works on most painted surfaces without causing damage, though it’s best to test on a small area first. Once the crayon is gone, clean the area with soapy water to remove any leftover residue. It’s a quick, hassle-free way to restore your walls. Parents will love this simple fix for a common household problem!
Hair Dryer to Remove Stickers and Labels
Struggling to peel off a stubborn sticker or price tag? A hair dryer can make the job easier! Aim the warm air at the sticker for 30-60 seconds to loosen the adhesive. Once heated, gently peel off the sticker with your fingers or a plastic scraper. If any residue remains, rub it with a little oil or rubbing alcohol to remove the sticky bits. This trick works on jars, electronics, furniture, and even car bumpers. No more endless scraping—just a little heat does the trick!
Aluminum Foil to Improve Radiator Efficiency
If your home has radiators, you can increase their efficiency by placing a sheet of aluminum foil behind them. The foil reflects heat back into the room instead of letting it get absorbed by the wall. This simple trick helps distribute warmth more evenly, making your heating system more effective. For best results, use heavy-duty aluminum foil or wrap a thin piece of cardboard in foil and position it behind the radiator. This method works especially well in older homes with inefficient heating. It’s a cheap and easy way to keep your space warmer in winter. Plus, it helps reduce heating costs!
Car Wax to Prevent Bathroom Mirrors from Fogging
Tired of foggy bathroom mirrors after a hot shower? A little car wax can keep them clear! Apply a thin layer of car wax to the mirror, let it dry, and then buff it off with a clean cloth. The wax creates a protective barrier that prevents steam from condensing on the surface. This trick also works on glass shower doors and even eyeglasses! It lasts for several weeks before needing reapplication. Say goodbye to wiping down foggy mirrors every morning!
Vinegar and Newspaper to Clean Windows Streak-Free
Forget expensive glass cleaners—vinegar and newspaper do the job just as well! Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray onto windows. Instead of using paper towels, wipe the glass with crumpled newspaper for a streak-free shine. The slight abrasiveness of newspaper helps lift grime, while vinegar cuts through dirt and grease. This method is eco-friendly, cheap, and leaves windows sparkling clean. It’s also a great way to repurpose old newspapers instead of throwing them away. Your windows will look professionally cleaned with minimal effort!
Rubber Gloves to Remove Pet Hair from Furniture
Pet hair clinging to your couch? A rubber glove can make cleanup easier! Simply put on a clean rubber glove and run your hand over the surface of the furniture. The static electricity helps attract and lift pet hair, gathering it into clumps for easy disposal. This trick works on couches, chairs, carpets, and even car interiors. If needed, dampen the glove slightly for even better results. It’s a quick, reusable, and chemical-free way to keep your home fur-free. Pet owners will love this easy hack!
Salt to Clean a Burnt Pan
Struggling to scrub off burnt food from a pan? Sprinkle coarse salt over the burnt areas and add a little water to create a paste. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a sponge or paper towel. The abrasive texture of the salt helps lift stubborn residue without damaging the pan’s surface. This trick works particularly well for cast iron skillets, as it cleans without removing seasoning. It’s a natural and chemical-free alternative to harsh scrubbing pads. Your pans will be spotless with minimal effort!
Duct Tape to Remove Splinters
Splinters can be painful and tricky to remove, especially if they’re too small to grip with tweezers. Instead of digging into your skin, try using duct tape as a gentle and effective alternative. Cut a small piece of duct tape and press it firmly over the splintered area. Let it adhere for a few seconds, then quickly pull it off in the opposite direction of the splinter’s entry. This method works best for shallow splinters, such as those from wood, thorns, or fine metal shavings. If the splinter doesn’t come out on the first try, repeat the process with fresh tape. It’s a painless, mess-free trick that’s especially helpful for kids who may be afraid of tweezers. Plus, duct tape is a household staple, making this a convenient first-aid hack in a pinch!
Hairdryer to Fix Dents in Wood Furniture
Got a dent in your wooden table or floor? A hairdryer and some water can help lift it! First, dampen the dented area with a little water. Then, use a hairdryer on medium heat to warm the spot, allowing the wood fibers to expand back into place. If needed, place a damp cloth over the dent and press with a warm iron for extra steam. This trick works best on shallow dents in untreated or lightly finished wood. It’s an easy, no-cost fix to restore wooden surfaces!
Pencil to Fix a Sticking Zipper
If your zipper is stuck and won’t budge, grab a regular pencil. The graphite in the pencil works as a natural lubricant to help the zipper glide smoothly. Simply rub the pencil tip along the teeth of the zipper where it’s stuck, then gently pull the zipper up and down. If necessary, repeat the process until it moves freely. This trick works on jackets, bags, and even boots with stubborn zippers. It’s a quick, mess-free solution that doesn’t require any special products.
Potatoes to Remove Rust
Rusty tools or kitchen utensils? A potato can help! Cut a raw potato in half and dip the exposed side in baking soda or salt. Then, rub it over the rusted area—potatoes contain oxalic acid, which helps break down rust. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a cloth or brush and rinse. This method is great for knives, garden tools, and even old cast iron pans. It’s a natural, non-toxic way to restore metal items without harsh chemicals!
Ice Cubes to Unstick Chewing Gum
If chewing gum is stuck on your carpet, clothes, or even under a table, ice cubes can make removal easier. Place a few ice cubes in a plastic bag and hold them against the gum for about 5-10 minutes. The cold hardens the gum, making it brittle and easier to scrape off with a butter knife or spoon. This trick prevents smearing and avoids using harsh solvents. It works well for gum stuck on fabric, upholstery, and even hair. No more sticky messes to deal with!
Cornstarch to Fix Oily Carpet Stains
Oil and grease stains on carpets can be tough to remove, but cornstarch is a natural solution. Sprinkle cornstarch generously over the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The powder absorbs the oil, making it easier to lift from the carpet fibers. Afterward, vacuum up the cornstarch and blot any remaining stain with warm, soapy water. This method works on food grease, makeup spills, and even car oil stains. It’s a simple and effective way to keep carpets looking fresh!
Rubber Gloves to Open a Stuck Jar Lid
If you’re struggling to open a stubborn jar lid, put on a pair of rubber gloves for extra grip. The textured surface of the gloves helps you get a firmer hold on the lid, making it easier to twist open. If you don’t have rubber gloves, a thick rubber band wrapped around the lid can also improve grip. Another trick is running hot water over the lid to expand the metal slightly, loosening the seal. With these hacks, you’ll never have to fight with a stuck jar again!