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- Wallpaper adhesive that won’t come off the wall: Mix a solution of hot water and vinegar (80/20) and use a wet sponge to apply it to the wall in circular motions. Leave the solution on the wall for 15 minutes and then use a putty knife to gently scrape off the glue.
- Rough wall textures that make painting a nightmare: Fill in large holes and dents with spackle and then lightly sand down uneven textures and bumps.
- Paint ran through painter’s tape onto moldings and ceilings: Dip a small paint brush or the corner of a rag into paint remover, being careful not to soak the brush or rag, and then press it onto the paint spot for a few seconds before wiping away. Let the spot dry and repeat as necessary.
- Paint that dripped onto the carpet: The first step is to soak up any excess paint, being careful not to spread the stain. Then pour distilled vinegar onto a clean cloth and blot the stain until all or most of the paint has lifted off the carpet. Finally, wash the area with warm water and soap.
- Dry wall dust that seems to get EVERYWHERE after a renovation: After sweeping up as much dust as possible, use a spray bottle to spray water on the area to help any fine dust settle. Next, use a wet rag to wipe down walls, floors, counters, and any other problem areas.
- Scratches in furniture and floors from moving furniture around: To repair light to medium wood, seep black tea until it is the desired color. Use a cotton ball to dab the tea onto the scratch and then wipe away the excess. For darker wood, mix instant coffee with water to form a thick paste and dab in onto the scratch, wiping away the excess when finished.
- A ring of paint from rinsing rollers and brushes that won’t come off the inside of the sink: If scrubbing with soap and hot water a few times doesn’t remove the stubborn stain, a small amount of paint thinner or nail polish remover should take away the stain. Be sure to thoroughly wash the sink with soap afterwards.
- Air bubbles and other problem areas on freshly painted walls: The best way to repair these areas is to scrape off the problem spot and repaint it.
- Old paint color on door hinges, handles, and light fixtures: Instead of investing in all new hardware, simply remove the stained hardware and soak it in a mixture of baking soda and water which will lift off the paint and make your hardware appear brand new.