Tool Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Being your own handyman is great for your pocket. Every time something needs to be fixed, you will not need to call someone, and it saves you a lot of time and money. Add to that, there is something therapeutic in making or fixing things on your own. But in addition to that, you will have to get and invest in your own tools. They are not cheap at times especially if you are looking for something of high quality and will be with you for years. You can always start with something simple and go on from there. It will be worth it in the end.

Having tools means they need to be organized and stored. It will be a lot trickier if you have a small space, but not impossible. You will just have to be wise and creative when it comes to this. Here are some ideas for that:

1. Portable Workbench

A workbench is a place where all the work is done. It functions as a desk in offices or for your work. As it is portable, you can keep it somewhere to save space. You can also have storage under the work surface where you can keep some of your smaller tools like hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, etc. Even some of the smaller power tools like drills or even a portable air compressor.

2. Racks

You can set up racks anywhere you want to be space-saving. It could be on a wall or behind a door. You can have it permanently in one place by attaching or you can have something with wheels, so you can bring it in whatever space you want.

3. Pegboard

A pegboard is where you usually hang your smaller tools. It is handy because it is organized and within reach. It is also easy to find the things you will need. You can also have it customized and have it in another structure like having it as cabinet storage or using the door of a cabinet as a pegboard.

4. Wall Cabinet

One of the best storage solutions is having your cabinet at the wall. This makes the ground more spacious. With a wall cabinet, you can also accommodate your bigger tools. You can even have a toolbox in there that will be handy if you need something prepared for on the go.

5. Pullout Storage Case and Shelves

By adding pullouts on your walls, you will be having your walls for good use and the room will be more spacious and maximized for your workbench or any other activity for crafting. It will also be easier access for you.

6. Recycled Materials

Do you have jars lying around your house? Instead of throwing them away, you can use them to store nails or screws or any other smaller equipment. You can keep them in your cabinets or workbench. You can even attach them by screwing the lids. This way, you can save money and recycle. It is also a good way to save space.

Cath

How to Clean Patio Furniture Cushions

Having your own home requires a lot of duties and responsibilities. First to the list will be the bills and budgeting you do within your home. Then it does not end there, you will also have to maintain it. You have to look for the things that need to be fixed and repaired. You also need to watch out for the things that need to be replaced. And of course, the best way to maintain your stuff is by cleaning them.

Cleaning your home involves both indoors and outdoors. You may have some similar furniture for both. But of course, the cleaning will be done in different ways and approaches. The furniture outside may have more dirt because of the air. An example of this is the cushions. You will certainly have those inside your house. But there will be also for your patio, and it is cleaned differently. Here are the steps:

1. Mix the Solution

The first thing that is needed to be done is to prepare the solution. You will need to mix one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon of borax into a quart of warm water if your pillow has mildew. If they do not, you will not need the borax. The liquid dishwashing detergent will be just enough. You can place it in a spray bottle if you want to, but you can just pour it in them if you do not have one.

2. Remove Excess Dirt

If the pillows have covers, remove them. Before applying the solution, you will have to remove the excess dirt and debris from them. You can either clap them together or dust them with cloths or even vacuuming them. 

3. Soak and Hand Wash the Cushions

Pillows should be hand washed and the first step to this is soaking the pillows with the solution and then waiting for 15 minutes before proceeding. Keep doing it until you are satisfied. You may even use a brush to remove some spots and stains that are hard to remove.

4. Rinse

Then after washing them, it is time to rinse. Use a garden hose for this. It is discouraged to use a power washer because it can damage the pillows or even break them. You can still do it though as long as the pressure is very low, and you are very careful.

5. Machine Wash the Covers

As for the covers that were removed, you can have them washed in a washing machine. Just be sure you know and follow the instructions for it.

6. Dry

Before leaving them to air dry, towel dry them first as thoroughly as possible. The cushion should be standing up while drying. To avoid mildews, make sure to have them completely dry and have no moisture.

7. Add Fabric Protector

For protection, have a fabric protector and spray it all over them. This will make them resist some dirt and avoid stains. It will also make it a lot easier for them to be cleaned in the future.

Cath

How To Decorate a Small House

Decorating your home could be one of the crucial moments in having your own. It is therapeutic and fulfilling, but it is not easy. You will have to decide what your style will be and then shopping for your needs while thinking about the budget you have. Then after all of that, you will have to incorporate them together.

It will also depend on the space you have. A smaller house may sound and less intimidating than that of the larger ones, but it is not that easy. How will you arrange and decorate it without getting or looking cramped? How will you incorporate decors and furniture in such a small space? Do you need to make your space look bigger? These are just some of the questions that will be answered by the following tips:

Light

If your house has a lot of access to natural light, have them in your home as much as possible. Light not only makes your space look bigger, but it also makes your space look more open and airy. If there is none, you can make it up by adding lighting fixtures and lamps around your house that will also add decor. This will also work during night time. 

Color

When it comes to color, you can just keep it simple. If you want to make your space look larger, choose light colors. This also includes the color of your furniture. They should always complement the wall colors, so your room will look cozy and not blinding.

Furniture

Furniture will certainly add coziness to your room but if done wrong, it will look awkward and unpleasant. For a small space, you will have to choose the right size. For example, in your living room, if you have one big sofa, it will be enough because adding more may cause your room to look cramped. You can also have smaller seats around. This idea will also be relevant to your other rooms.

Rug

Rugs add color to your room. In a small space, a big rug is a must. Smaller rugs tend to make your room smaller, so have one that will be large enough with your furniture. 

Multi-Purpose Items

Having a small space means needing to have less stuff or else your house will be cramped or they might not even fit. The solution to this is to purchase items that have multipurpose. An example is an ottoman. You can use it as a seat, footstool, or a table. Some of them can serve as storage too. You can also have the most comfortable futon for your guests. It is a seat that can be turned into a bed, so you will not need airbeds or extra mattresses that will fill up your space. 

Mirror

Mirrors are one of those decors that are classy yet modern. But it is not only for making your room look good, but it can also be functional and not just for personal use. Mirrors can help your space look bigger. It also helps with the light, whether it be natural or artificial, by reflecting them all around the room.

Cath

How To Make Your Living Room Look Bigger

In almost every home, the living room is the first room to be seen. It is also the place where you entertain your guests. It is quite difficult when your living room is not that big and might look cramped. 

There are solutions for it to look bigger though. This way, even if you have a small space for your living room, it will not look confined that it is hard to breathe. 

Color

If you really want your space to look bigger, you will have to paint your walls white. But of course, you may not want to leave it bare and add some color. The solution would be using light colors for darker colors that absorb the light which makes the room look smaller. 

Furniture

To make your room look bigger, you will have to scale the other things down, and this includes your furniture. If you will have big couches and chairs, your room will look cramped and small. It might also take up too much space and barely give the room to breathe. You may also choose to have only one couch in your living room to make if feel bigger. You can always have additional seats if visitors come around.

Lighting

A well-lit room will look larger. At day time, give your room natural lighting as much as possible. If you cannot do that, you can do it with artificial lightings. You can put lamps and other fixtures around the room to lighten it up.

Mirrors

Place a mirror in your living room so that it will make the room look larger. It is said before that light makes the room look bigger, and the mirror reflects light whether it is natural or artificial, so it works on both day and night. It also creates an illusion. 

Focal Point

A focal point is where it will draw your eye tend to focus. It is usually something big and of course, easy to see. It could be a large decoration of some sort, but the usual focal point people tend to use is a fireplace because not only it is big, it is really eye-catching especially if it is lit. If your house does not have one, you can easily purchase artificial ones. You can have a wall mount electric fireplace to be space-saving.

Shelves and Storage

One of the keys to making your room look bigger is to declutter. It could be your stuff like phone, papers, etc. but it is not only that. Clutter also involves unnecessary furniture or decor, so avoid them. If you have items that you always use, you can have storage for them when not in use, so that they will not just lie around your room. There is a variety of furniture that doubles as storage, and you can look out for those. Shelves will not only help with your storage and decor but will also make your room look like it is put together and neat.

Cath

How To Inflate Pool Toys

With the summer’s heat, we find ways to cool down. It could be treating ourselves and eating ice cream or milkshakes. You could also hang out in cooler places like a library or a cafe or even a mall. But the best way to fight off the heat is dipping in a pool. You can either go to a resort or your local public pool. Some even have in their own backyards, and it could be you or a friend. You do not even need a real pool. You can set an inflated pool in your backyard. It does not have to be only enjoyed by kids. If it is big enough, why not join? To add to the fun, you can have some inflated toys with you. It could part of an activity or just have it around to play with. 

Of course, inflated pool toys will need air, and here are some ways to inflate them:

Manually

This will require you to inflate them using your own breath. You will need to blow through the valve stem like blowing air in a balloon. It is not easy but can be done especially if the toy is only small. It is not advisable for bigger ones though because there is a risk you might run of air, but can still be done. 

Air Pump

An air pump could either be done by hand or foot. It is tiresome but less so than blowing it with your own breath. There are also air pumps that are operated with electricity or battery. It might be more expensive but certainly less tiring for you.

Air Compressor

An air compressor has many uses. It is used for powering up your power tools and inflating tires of your car or bicycle. It also can be a tool for inflating household items such as airbeds, air furniture, pools, floats, and toys. Air compressors also come in different sizes. You can have a pancake air compressor that is suitable for your personal needs and home.

Shop-Vac

A shop vac is a type of vacuum usually used for picking up dirt, debris, and even liquid and is usually used for construction or woodworking. It can also be used as an inflator. You will just need an inflator nozzle. 

Hair Dryer

Another way is by using a hairdryer. You will have to use it on a cool setting. But of course, the downside of this is that it does not have a nozzle. So, you will have to accommodate something or just hold it in place. It is a lot easier than blowing it manually.

Garbage Bag

Apparently, garbage bags can also be used for inflating. If you do not have any of the above around and doing it manually is tiring and out of the question, you can use a garbage bag. You will just need to have air in the bag then squeeze it in the inflatable toy until it is full of air.

Additional Tips:

  1. Be sure to not over inflate it or it might blow up.
  2. To know the air is enough, push it on with your hands, and it should be completely firm.
  3. Be sure to place the cap of the valve properly to seal it.

Cath

How To Clean Mesh Patio Furniture

Getting out and being with nature is one of the solutions to clear our minds and destress. The problem at times is that you do not have the time to go out or would just like to have your free time and rest at home. It will be no problem if you have a patio. You can just sit around and look at your garden or the nearby trees. No traveling needed.

But of course, a patio will require cleaning up or else your experience will be not so pleasant because of all the dirt. A patio also has different kinds of furniture made with different kinds of materials and one of those is the mesh

What is a mesh?

Like a web or a net, it is a material made of connected strands. It can be from strands of metal, fiber, or any other materials that are flexible.

What are the types and how Should you clean them?

It is mentioned above that mesh can be made from different types of materials. Patio furniture has only two different kinds though, and they are cleaned in different ways. Some may ask if they can just use an electric pressure washer to make things easier and faster. But the pressure will be too harsh to the materials that may cause them to break. Here are some ways instead per type:

Fabric

The solution you will use for fabric consists of one tablespoon of detergent and one cup of warm water. Before cleaning the mesh with it, remove the excess dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush. Then use a dry, clean cloth and wet it with the solution then use it to wipe the mesh. Then rinse it with warm water. After rinsing, wipe it with a soft cloth and let it dry.

Plastic

As with the fabric mesh, the plastic mesh also needs to be dry-brushed to remove excess dirt and debris. The plastic mesh’s solution uses oxygen bleach. With half a cup of it mixed in with one cup detergent to a gallon of warm water. Apply it to the mesh with a clean cloth. Then rinse it with warm water and use a clean cloth to dry.

What about the arms and legs?

Your furniture also involves arms and legs that are usually made of metal. Of course, you will have to clean them up too. You will just need the solution of one tablespoon of detergent and one cup of warm water then wipe the metal with it. After that, rinse it with warm water then use a soft cloth to dry. To add or restore the shine, use a furniture paste wax.

What about mildews?

Mildews are quite common and not new but are bothersome. For you to get rid of them, you will just need half a cup of white vinegar mixed with one cup of ammonia and quarter a cup of baking soda in a gallon of water. Use a brush to apply. You can also use the vinegar to keep the mildews from fast-growing. Just mix in two cups of white vinegar and two tablespoons of a liquid dishwasher to a bucket of hot water then apply and let it dry with the sun.

Cath

How To Make A Small Apartment Homey

Having your own space is one of the great accomplishments we can have as an adult even if it is just renting an apartment. It may be not your own, but it is a start and the feeling is awesome. 

You can also still have it as your home and make it good as your own. You will just have your personality and interests within your apartment. It is not just about yourself but also to your friends and family that will come over. It should feel welcoming and homey to them. Can you do that even if your space is small? It can be, and here are some tips:

Decor

You can hang around some of your favorite artworks or your personal pictures. There could also be items that are sentimental to you, you can have that on display. On the shelves could be another set of framed pictures or any other personal pieces like trophies or certificates or any other prizes and awards. You can also put some plants to add life and color. And because apartments usually do not have much enough sunlight, you can get plants that do not them and they usually require little watering like a potted cactus. Another thing to consider is giving your home a signature scent, and you can do this by a scented candle or incense or air freshener. 

Furniture

Because you are just renting, you might be thinking to just get ones that are plastic. It would be fine, but it is not as homey as having real furniture. It will definitely not cost much, because you do not have to buy something brand new. Instead, you can go to thrift shops and look for something that fits you and your lifestyle. There will certainly be stylish options such as leather or velvet couches. If you always have visitors over or simply loves taking naps, you can have a futon or a daybed. Pretty coffee tables will also certainly be available, and why not add some side tables to mix?

Lighting

Lighting is almost always overlooked, but it is one of the elements that are important in making your apartment homier. It will do wonders if you have natural light and if so, let it in as much as you can. But it is not always the case for some apartment tough and if it is for you, you can always have the artificial ones. Just be sure you have enough. 

Clean Up

One of the things that stress people is a clutter. It will be a lot easier to clean for it is small, but it is also the reason your space will easily look tight. In addition to that, having a clean apartment will be good for your health, so have a schedule that will focus on cleaning your apartment.

Storage

Small spaces mean less storage. And as said before, clutter is one of the causes of stress. If you have stuff that you do not really need, just throw it away or give it to somebody who needs it. Be creative with storing your stuff. If your apartment does not have enough space, buy furniture that doubles as one.

Cath

How To Make Your Living Room Cozy

In having a home, it is not just about having a place to live in that you could eat your meals or sleeping at night. It is also a place where you can relax and clear your mind after a stressful day or even a day. It is a place you can enjoy and can do things you want. It is not only for you or your companions in your home, but it is also for your friends or family that will visit you. Your home should be welcoming that they themselves will feel at home.

You can definitely add your personal touches, but some things can help your home be warmer and here are some:

Plants

It is said that being with nature will be good for our health and will help to take away our stress. If you cannot go out every time, why not bring some in your home. You can have your garden, and can also add to your own living room. They can help with spaces and also for adding color and life to your room.

Rugs

With different colors and textures, rugs can easily make your living room cozy. You also do not need enough space for it. You can just have it under your sitting area, and you are good. Add to that, rugs also feel good and comfortable for your feet, so it might help you to be relaxed while watching television or reading or just sitting around.

Textures

Having different textures in your living room will also help it to be cozy. Rugs are already mentioned, but you can also add other things like throw pillows that are in different shapes and sizes and also some blanket that will help you keep warm on cold lazy days and nights.

Fireplace

Having a fireplace will help your mood to be set especially with the earthy smell of the burning wood. It will also help you a place to keep warm. But not all houses have the privilege to have one. You can still have an alternative like a gas fireplace. You can also look for electric fireplaces, and they can still work. If you do not have that much space, lighting candles are a good way to add coziness to your room.

Seating

There are a variety of seatings that comes in different shapes, sizes, and even textures available. Why just stick to one couch? As long as they complement each other and the whole room, you can add more like a big couch with smaller love seats or comfortable chairs. You can even add a rocking chair if you want to. Some ottomans are so versatile. There many available that can also double as storage. Then you can use them as a table or an extra seat. If you are having a lazy day, you can also use it as a footstool to rest your foot on.

Tables

Of course, you will need something to put on your food or drinks especially if you have visitors over. A coffee table is enough, but having side tables will add more room and delight.

Cath

How To Inflate Car Tires At Home

Nowadays, especially if you are not living in a city, having a car or any type of vehicle is a necessity. It will be less hassle compared to taking public transports or going to carpools. But of course, it does not mean it would be less expensive. Like us, vehicles need to be checked up, so you would know it is safe to use. If you fail to this, it might cause an accident. 

Car maintenance is not cheap. But if you can do it yourself, you might save a lot more. One of the most common things you will need to check in your car is the tires. It is necessary to guarantee your safety. With these simple steps, you can do it by yourself and do not need to go to an auto repair shop.

Checking Tire Pressures

  1. One of the easiest ways to check is investing in a digital tire gauge. You can keep it within your car, so you can use it anytime and anywhere.
  2. Be sure to check it while the tires are cold. It is said that the best time is during the morning. If you are driving it for a while, you will have to wait for at least 30 minutes to cool down before checking it.
  3. To check the pressure, place the gauge on the valve.
  4. Take note of the pressure and refer to it upon filling.

Inflating Tires

  1. Before anything, remove the valve stem caps. Set them aside in a safe place.
  2. To fill in tires, you will use an air pump or an air compressor.
  3. Like checking the pressure, inflating also should be done when the tires are cold.
  4. Have the air valve to the tire valve and hold it right there. 
  5. After filling all your tires, check it again with your gauge to be sure you have enough. You can add or remove the air. Just be sure to check it again.
  6. Remember to replace the caps after the inflation.

What if needs replacement?

There will be a time that inflation would not be enough. If your tire is completely destroyed by a nail or any other sharp objects, it will need to be brought to an auto repair shop. Age is also another reason. If it is already used in five years, it might need some inspection, but it might need to be replaced if it is already ten years. This is a precaution and your safety. Spare tires are included in this. Then there is also what they called a Lincoln penny test. You will have the penny placed upside down (Lincoln’s head) on the tire tread. If the entire head is seen, it is time to replace your tire. If it is only a small part, it might be a consideration but not totally in need. You can also check in a few areas to be sure. If you want it to be more accurate though, you might need a tread depth gauge or ask a professional. Another thing to check with your tire is damages. If there are enough, it might need some replacing.

Cath

Power Tools That Every Handyman Should Have

Being a handyman requires you to have a lot of skills because it makes you more useful for a variety of tasks and services you can provide. In this line of work, being able to provide more services allows you to request a higher wage. To achieve this, a handyman should constantly evaluate not only the skills they have but also the skills they can develop if they spend a little time to learn. Sure it takes a bit of work and determination, but small efforts add up and eventually you will be able to provide and offer more services as time goes on.

Skills are not the only thing a handyman should bring to the table, though. A good handyman should also have an extensive set of quality tools. Why? Just like having more skills, having more tools also allows you to provide more services. Having the right tools for the job will be very helpful for completing your work easily and effectively. There are two sets of tools that a handyman should know about, namely hand tools and power tools. Both are essential needs for fixing and repairing the kinds of problems a handyman is bound to run into.

As the name suggests, power tools are tools that require power a power source for their operation. They are a great investment especially if a handyman is running their own business. What are some examples of power tools that every handyman should have and ready? Here are a few.

1. Circular Saw

These are essential for carpentry work. It is an absolute must if cutting wood is part of your job on a regular basis. 

2. Cordless Drill

This is one of the most versatile tools of a handyman. It is also arguably the most widely used. You can use them as a screwdriver to tighten up loose screw, a hand drill to drill pilot holes, and even to do more complex jobs like installing drywall. It is definitely at the top of the list for every handyman.

3. Reciprocating Saw

This is a type of saw that is great for cutting through metal, wood, plastic, etc. It can be a help for demolition as well as remodelling projects. It can also useful for cutting down trees.

4. Oscillating Multi-Tool

The most common use of an oscillating multi-tool would be for cutting drywall. They are also used for scarping, wood cutting, detail sanding, and grout removal. A great benefit of this tool is that it cuts with little dust, meaning less hassle with cleaning up.

5. Shop Vac

Fixing and repairing around the house will almost certainly leave a mess. In order to leave your customers more satisfied after you get the job done, making the effort to clean up your mess will surely make them happy. A shop vac is more powerful than an ordinary vacuum, so it is better for getting rid of bigger debris like chunks of drywall and sawdust.

6. Air Compressor

In order to power up some power tools, an air compressor is needed. They can also be used many other types of jobs like inflating tires, blowing out irrigation lines, and more.

The tools you choose to add to your assets are definitely going to depend on your skills. As previously stated, it is important to not only become fairly competent with the skills you already have but also to develop more along the way. Having all of these skills is not only helpful to the handyman alone, but also to the others who rely on their services to keep their homes running at tip-top shape. Having more skills and more tools is definitely a win-win situation for both parties.

Cath