Introduction
Whenever a minor home repair crosses your mind, do you think, “I should probably call someone”? This post gives you the green light to give it a shot yourself. You’re more capable than you think.
There’s no shame in not being the DIY type. Most of us weren’t born knowing how to silence a squeaky hinge or patch a hole in the wall. But you’d be surprised how many fixes are way easier than they look—and cheaper when you don’t bring in a pro. By doing it yourself, you’re not just fixing things, you’re saving money.
These easy home fixes require basic tools (or sometimes stuff you already have in a drawer). You don’t need to be a professional to do these. Ready to save time, money, and possibly your sanity? Let’s go.
Quiet a Squeaky Door with Petroleum Jelly
Is the door hinge squeaking like it’s auditioning for a haunted house?
Instead of calling in maintenance, rub some petroleum jelly into the hinge. It works as a lubricant and quiets the creak without messing with spray lubricants.
Patch Small Wall Holes with Spackle or Toothpaste
Tiny nail holes or dents from bumped furniture don’t need a drywall team.
Apply a spackle dab (or white toothpaste in a pinch) with a putty knife or finger. Let it dry, then lightly sand and paint. This is easy, quick, and landlord-friendly if you’re renting.
Fix a Loose Doorknob with a Screwdriver
A wiggly doorknob might seem like a big deal, but it’s almost always tiny.
Tighten the visible screws on the base plate with a screwdriver. If the screws are hidden, look for a set screw under the knob and give it a gentle tighten. Door drama: resolved.
Re-Caulk a Leaky Sink or Tub
Water creeping where it shouldn’t? You don’t need a plumber just yet.
Peel away the old caulk (use a utility knife if needed), clean the area, and apply new waterproof caulk using a caulking gun or squeeze tube. Smooth it with a wet finger or a caulk tool—boom—sealed and splash-proof.
Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker Like a Pro
Lights flickering or appliances suddenly cut out?
Go to your breaker box (usually in the garage or basement). Look for the switch slightly out of line—it’s probably your culprit. Flip it OFF, then back ON. That’s it. You just fixed your power outage.
Stop a Wobbly Table with a Coin or Felt Pad
Sick of the “shimmy and shake” at dinner?
You can stick a felt pad, rubber furniture gripper, or even a penny under the shorter leg. This will level the table without tools and prevent the dreaded drink spill when someone leans on it.
Replace a Worn Toilet Flapper
Is your toilet running nonstop (and not in a cardio way)?
Pop off the tank lid, flush, and watch the flapper. If it doesn’t seal properly, it’s probably time to swap it out. A new flapper costs under $10 and takes about 5 minutes to install—no plumber needed.
Reattach Loose Trim with Wood Glue and Painter’s Tape
Trim popping off the wall or doorway?
Add a thin layer of wood glue to the back, press it in place, and use painter’s tape to hold it while it dries. There is no need for nails or clamps; it’ll look as new by morning.
Replace a Drippy Showerhead
A leaky, sad stream of water every time you shower? Not necessary.
Unscrew the old showerhead (use a wrench if needed), wrap the threads with plumber’s tape, and screw on a new one. Total upgrade in 5 minutes flat—and your water bill will thank you.
Silence a Loud Cabinet Door with Bumpers
SLAM. Every. Time.
Stick soft rubber or felt bumpers (sold at any hardware store) inside cabinet doors and drawers. They muffle the sound and make your kitchen or bathroom feel more peaceful.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
You don’t need a workshop or a tool belt to care for your home. These fixes are simple, satisfying, and perfect for beginners who want to feel capable without feeling overwhelmed.
Try one this weekend. You might surprise yourself—and save a nice chunk of change in the process.
Call to Action
Do you have a go-to fix-it trick or a home hack you love? Please share it with me! I’d love to highlight reader ideas in future posts. Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, or Facebook for easier everyday living upgrades.
