Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 108)

A rat sits on the edge of a toilet.
Interior

Yes, Rats Can Absolutely Come Up Toilets—Here’s How, and How to Flush Down the Problem if You See It

A rat in the toilet can come as a terrifying surprise. Knowing what steps to take can keep you safe and calm while dealing with these unexpected intruders.

11 Ways to Make Your House Smell Like Christmas
Design

11 Ways to Make Your House Smell Like Christmas

The aromas of gingerbread, pine, and peppermint are hallmarks of the holiday season. If you’re going tree-free this year and have no intention of baking, however, try one of these traditional ways to infuse your home with delightful, wintry scents.

A group of the best blankets folded on a couch before testing.
Bedrooms

The Best Blankets For Snuggling Anytime: Our Tested Roundup

Snuggle down and cuddle up in front of the fire, on the couch, or in bed with our favorite blankets, from the cute and kitschy to luxurious picks.

How to Close a Summer Home
DIY

How to Close a Summer Home

End-of-summer chores at the shore aren’t much fun, but will prevent leaks, smells, and pests in the long run. Follow our checklist for what needs to be done before you lock up your cottage or cabin.

17 Clever Ways to Use Toothpaste Around the House
DIY

17 Clever Ways to Use Toothpaste Around the House

A multi-use cleaning product is always something to smile about! Here's why you should keep a few extra tubes of toothpaste in your kitchen, laundry room, and cleaning caddy.

17 Clever Household Uses for Rubbing Alcohol
DIY

17 Clever Household Uses for Rubbing Alcohol

The perfect elixir for your next DIY project or cleaning endeavor may already be in your medicine cabinet.

25 Ways to Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space for Almost Nothing
Exterior

25 Ways to Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space for Almost Nothing

Making a lasting impression on your outdoor living doesn't have to make a big dent in your wallet. Here are some of our favorite ways to DIY your own deck decor using materials you may already have around the house.

30 Things in Your House That Are Attracting Bugs and Rodents
Interior

30 Things in Your House That Are Attracting Bugs and Rodents

Behind every pest problem, there's a cause. Learn some of the factors that may be responsible for your infestation, and how to keep pests from parading into your home.

Buy or DIY: 12 Clever Solutions for Storing Pots and Pans
Interior

Buy or DIY: 12 Clever Solutions for Storing Pots and Pans

Keep cookware from taking over your kitchen by upcycling materials you already have on hand, or purchasing a ready-made cabinet organizer.

Beware of These 14 Pests That Only Come Out at Night
DIY

Beware of These 14 Pests That Only Come Out at Night

While you’re sleeping, these nocturnal insects and critters are busy scavenging your property, pillaging your garden, and may even be making their way indoors.

10 Easy, Budget-Friendly Backyard Makeovers
Lawn & Garden

10 Easy, Budget-Friendly Backyard Makeovers

Create the space of your dreams with these easy, inexpensive ideas for upgrading your backyard and outdoor living areas.

11 Mistakes Most People Make with a Power Washer
DIY

11 Mistakes Most People Make with a Power Washer

Power-washing is not a mysterious process, but if it’s done improperly, it can do serious damage. On your next power-washing project, be sure to avoid these common mistakes.

16 Improvements Most Homeowners Get Wrong
DIY

16 Improvements Most Homeowners Get Wrong

Don't do what these homeowners did! Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and design disasters before you begin your next DIY renovation.

14 Types of Windows Every Homeowner Should Know
Exterior

14 Types of Windows Every Homeowner Should Know

Windows are the eyes into (and out of) a home, and can utterly transform a space. Whether you want to ventilate and illuminate your interior or keep prying eyes and foul weather out, there's a perfect window for every room.

15 Products to Buy If You’re Always Cold
Reviews

15 Products to Buy If You’re Always Cold

Rejoice, cold-blooded homeowners! There are a million ways to heat up your home and not all of them require cranking up the furnace. Take a look at some of the most innovative, comforting ways to stay warm this season.

35 Things You Didn’t Know Your Home Appliances Can Do
Interior

35 Things You Didn’t Know Your Home Appliances Can Do

Believe it or not, your appliances can do more than their intended purposes. Check out the surprising ways you can use your big and small appliances around the house.

10 Siding Options to Beautify Your Home
Exterior

10 Siding Options to Beautify Your Home

There are so many ways to clad your home’s exterior. Which is the most durable? Least expensive? Learn more about them so you can choose the best option for your home.

The 26 Best Plants for Bathroom Decor
Lawn & Garden

The 26 Best Plants for Bathroom Decor

Some prefer bright light and others like low light, but all of these indoor plants thrive in bathrooms’ high humidity and will add a spa-like quality to your space.

The 13 Painting Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes
DIY

The 13 Painting Mistakes Almost Everyone Makes

Paint is the easiest way to transform a room, yet it’s surprisingly easy to muck up your project with a few silly mistakes. The next time you pick up a paintbrush, avoid these common painting pitfalls.

15 Things You Should Never, Ever Clean With Vinegar
Interior

15 Things You Should Never, Ever Clean With Vinegar

Vinegar is an eco-friendly, nontoxic choice for many cleaning tasks, but can actually damage many things in the home. Keep vinegar far away from the following surfaces.