Common Household Glitch Fixes

Sometimes it seems there’s always something around the house that needs fixing – and the longer you put off doing the fixing, the more the glitches seem to multiply.

Real Simple Magazine suggests quick fixes to help keep your living space looking tip-top without tearing chunks out of your weekend:

Squeaky wood floor. The fix isn’t permanent, but for temporary relief from that annoying squeak, sprinkle a little talcum powder over the noisy area, then sweep it into the cracks between floorboards and wipe off the excess.  

Stained tub. Combine equal amounts of cream of tartar and baking soda with enough lemon juice to make a paste. Rub the mixture into the stain with your fingers or a soft cloth. Let sit for a half hour, then rinse well with water.

Stubborn sliding windows. If they’re not sliding easily, a little silicone spray lubricant (sold at hardware stores) will grease the skids. Spray it onto a rag, then wipe along the tracks.

Worn, dry cutting board. Gently warm a bottle of pure mineral oil (available at drugstores) in a bowl of hot water, then wipe the oil onto the surface with a soft cloth. Wipe off the excess four to six hours later.

Scuffed linoleum. Rubbing an eraser over it may be all you need. If not, try rubbing the spot with a little white toothpaste on a clean rag.

Water rings on wood. Someone forgot to use a coaster? Make that ring go away with an equal mix of white toothpaste and mayonnaise. Apply, then wipe off with a soft cloth. You may have to rub it for a bit for the ring to lighten considerably.

Scratched glass tabletop. Mix a small amount of water with a little white toothpaste and baking soda to make a paste. Using a clean, slightly damp cloth, rub the paste into the scratch using a tiny, circular motion. Wash it off with a clean, soft cloth.