Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 213)

winter sowing - starting seeds outdoors in milk jugs
Lawn & Garden

This Age-Old Winter Gardening Hack Will Save You Time (and Money!) Come Spring

Give your garden a “jug-start” by winter sowing seeds of perennial and hardy annual plants in repurposed plastic containers outdoors.

Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop Review
Reviews

Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

Clean and sanitize your floors with this easy-to-use mop. Its three steam levels and low-profile swivel head help it rise above the competition.

The Best Steam Mop Options
Reviews

The Best Steam Mops, Tested

A handy steam mop can make cleaning floors a breeze. Our top picks are sure to make this chore hassle-free.

Makita Cordless Circular Saw Review
Reviews

We Tested the 36-Volt Makita Cordless Circular Saw: Did It Make the Cut?

With 2 lithium-ion batteries, the 7¼-inch Makita cordless circular saw packs a punch. Here's what happened when I tested it.

DaringSnail MD090P Hand-Crank Radio Review
Reviews

DaringSnail MD090P Emergency Radio Review: Is it Worth It?

This inexpensive solar hand crank radio really works and offers an easy way to stay informed when the power goes out.

eTork Digital Torque Wrench Review
Reviews

eTork EC3250 Digital Torque Wrench Review: Is it Worth It?

Learn what you need to know about our top choice for the best digital torque wrench in this in-depth review.

The Best Mattress Options
Reviews

The Best Mattresses

A good night’s sleep starts with a comfortable and supportive mattress. Rest easy with one of the best mattresses ahead.

Screen Door Security
Exterior

6 Steps to Take for Drastically Improved Screen Door Security

Shoring up the strength of the screen or storm door and making the entryway less appealing for burglars can go a long way toward making a home safer.

French Door Security
Exterior

5 Steps for Enhanced French Door Security

French doors add beauty and light to your home, but they can be a threat to your home’s security if they aren’t secured properly. Here’s how to make them safer.

home safety for elderly
Interior

8 Tips for Enhancing Home Safety for Elderly Family Members and Older Adults

A few quick changes can make living at home more comfortable and secure for older adults.

where to place security cameras
Exterior

Here’s Exactly Where to Place Security Cameras Around Your Home for the Best Protection

A security system is only as useful as the placement of its cameras and sensors. Putting careful thought into camera locations will protect your home and property more effectively.

Alexa Intruder Alert
Exterior

Solved! What Is the Alexa Intruder Alert, and How Effective Is It?

You know Alexa can order those cool pens you wanted and play your favorite song, but it can also be a great help in a real emergency.

Keyless Door Lock
Exterior

Solved! What Is a Keyless Door Lock, and Is It a Secure Option for the Home?

Keyless entry door locks are becoming more and more prevalent as integration with smart-home devices expands, and they can be a great option for busy families.

Types of Door Locks
Exterior

Solved! What Are the Two Main Types of Door Locks, and Which One Is Best for Me?

See how new smart keyless locks measure up to more traditional keyed locks to best secure your home entrances.

How Safe Is My Neighborhood
Interior

How Safe Is My Neighborhood? 7 Tools to Find Out

If you’re asking, “How safe is my neighborhood?” you can use these helpful tools to determine just how safe your surroundings are and learn what steps you can take to feel safer in your home.

Does Having a Dog Deter Burglars
Interior

Solved! Does Having a Dog Deter Burglars?

A faithful canine friend can be a great companion as well as a frontline defense of you and your home. Does having a dog deter burglars? We examine how a dog can help keep you safe—but how it’s not a foolproof method.

Package Theft
Exterior

How To Prevent Package Theft: 10 Proven Steps to Keep Deliveries Safe

No one can stay home indefinitely waiting for their packages to arrive, but how can they be sure a thief won’t swipe them off the doorstep? Package theft is a growing problem; here’s how homeowners and renters can protect their purchases.

How to Start a Neighborhood Watch
Exterior

How To Start a Neighborhood Watch

Gather your neighbors together and protect each other with the best tools you have: your eyes.

What to Do if Someone Breaks Into Your House
Interior

Here’s What Experts Say Is Exactly What to Do if Someone Breaks Into Your House

Your first response when you realize someone is in your home is panic and adrenaline. Having a plan in place can help you stay calm and make the best choices to protect your home and family.

iStock-1188400525 how to install led strip lights installation of LED strip warm spectrum
DIY

How to Install LED Light Strips

Add accent lighting, TV backlighting, or custom room lighting by learning how to install LED light strips in your home.