Quick Fix

Quick household fixes and handy gadgets that save you time and money.

Home

Unclog a slow sink drain without harsh chemicals

Most slow sinks clear with hot water and a plunger. Skip the caustic drain cleaner: it can corrode some pipes and often doesn't remove the actual clog.

  1. Run very hot (not boiling) tap or kettle water down the drain. Boiling water can damage PVC pipes.
  2. Use a flat-bottomed sink plunger (not the toilet one). Leave an inch or so of water in the basin, cover the overflow hole or plug the second basin with a wet rag, then pump 5 to 10 times.
  3. Still slow? Pour about 1 cup of baking soda, then 1 cup of white vinegar, cover the drain for 15 to 60 minutes, and flush with hot water.
  4. For hair or deeper clogs, use a handheld drain snake, or clean out the P-trap with a bucket underneath.

If none of that works, the clog is deeper than household tools can reach. Time to call a plumber.

Sources: WaterSafe: how to unblock a sink, Roto-Rooter: kitchen drain clogs

Kitchen

Get rid of fridge odors for good

The USDA's fix for a smelly fridge uses things you already have in the kitchen.

  1. Toss spoiled food. Make a weekly habit of it: cooked leftovers keep about 4 days.
  2. Wipe the inside with equal parts vinegar and water, then wash with a baking soda and water solution. Scrub the shelves, sides, door and gaskets.
  3. Skip solvents and abrasive cleansers. They can leave a chemical taste or damage the finish.
  4. Leave an opened box of baking soda (or a container of fresh coffee grounds) on a shelf to keep it fresh.
  5. Check that the fridge holds 40 °F or below. An appliance thermometer helps.

For stubborn smells after a power outage, the USDA also suggests stuffing it with rolled newspaper for a few days. Follow your fridge maker's cleaning instructions.

Source: USDA FSIS: Refrigeration & Food Safety

Pets

Keep your dog's bowls and food safe

Pet food can carry germs like Salmonella and Listeria, for pets and people. The FDA's routine is quick.

  1. Wash food bowls and scoops with soap and hot water after each use.
  2. Use a dedicated scoop or cup for food, not the pet's bowl.
  3. Wash your hands for 20 seconds before and after handling pet food and treats.
  4. Keep dry food in its original bag with the top folded down, somewhere cool and dry (under 80 °F).
  5. Cover leftover canned food and refrigerate it promptly at 40 °F or below, or throw it out.

Bonus: keeping the bag sealed and stored out of reach stops a determined dog from eating the whole supply.

Source: FDA: Tips for Safe Handling of Pet Food and Treats

General tips, not professional advice. Check your appliance or product manual first, and call a pro for anything beyond a simple fix.