DIY projects have taken the country by storm, but many of them turn out to be undertakings that are difficult to do by yourself. Sometimes it seems like the people who make the tutorials are actually experts pretending to be amateurs, especially if you found the project idea on a site like Pinterest. If you’re interested in sprucing up the old homestead but worry about how much you’ll be able to do, start with some of these simple products to improve the sight – and smell – of your home.
Fix Smelly Appliances
Washing machines and dishwashers are the two appliances most susceptible to mold and mildew because they are constantly wet, warm, and serve as a source of food for unpleasant growths. To counteract this these growths and eliminate bad odors, the appliances need a thorough cleaning and time to air out. Now, this doesn’t mean that you don’t clean your appliances – most people do, after all. However, learning the proper way to scrub a washing machine or dishwasher is not something done in schools and even most parents don’t know what to do. So, read on and sample this DIY project for a better smelling home.
Cleaning out a washing machine is easy since manufacturers make mold-killing tablets that can be thrown in the appliance and run on a cycle of hot water. You then just need to leave the door open to let the interior dry. To clean a dishwasher, people need to get down and dirty. The three areas that need to be cleaned are: the strainer screen at the bottom, the underside of the dishwasher arms, and the lip underneath the front panel. Once old food is removed, you can throw a manufactured cleaner in through one empty cycle on hot water and prevent future odors!
Turn Scrap Metal Into Art
Many professionals begin as weekend welders who do a few home DIY projects to learn their trade. One of the simplest projects someone can do at home to boost skills and also improve the appearance of the home is to take scrap metal objects and turn it into art. Many welders begin with tables, but others start their welding careers by crafting sculptures and birdhouses. All you have to do is find the right tool. A stick welder is the most favored, and this is a must-have tool for anyone who wants to build their skills and start making permanent home improvements.
So, what can be made by welding? Besides tables, some popular and practical experiments are creating birdhouses, spice racks, new shelves for the garage, and other creative projects. The real test is using your imagination and not getting frustrated if you mess up. Welding, like any other skill, takes patience and practice.
Remove Hard Water Buildup
Hard water buildup is a common problem in homes in the United States. While some people use water softeners, it doesn’t always eliminate mineral and scuzz buildup around faucets, bathtubs, and sinks. Lime is the most common mineral to leave residue. It often appears as a dry white powder stuck around the rims of sinks and bathtubs. To eliminate the buildup quickly and easily, spray lemon juice on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours. It can be rinsed away using regular water.
Clean Fabric Upholstery
Upholstery can be a pain to clean because it can’t be removed easily from furniture and liquids can soak into the cushions, causing mold and mildew. Getting it done professionally is also expensive since most well done cleaning takes months of training to master. To capture odors and disintegrate tough to clean stains at home without the fuss, simply sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda over the fabric and let it sit for twenty minutes. It can then be vacuumed up and take with it odors and stains!
Conclusion
These projects are great for sprucing up the place without causing lasting damage to appliances, the structure, or yourself. Welding is wonderful for decorating and a valuable skill to have, while basic endeavors to clean normally unwashed places eliminates odors and the potential for sickness. Make sure your DIY project is truly something you can do on your own by starting simple and working your way up.
