Maintenance and home security
Your home's maintenance and security is extremely important, which is why we show you the best tips and tricks in informative articles so that your home is perfectly clean and safe.
83 articles
![Where Do Mosquitoes Hide in a Room?](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/1/6/where_do_mosquitoes_hide_in_a_room_13610_300_150.jpg)
New
New
Mosquitoes have various preferences when finding somewhere to hide in our room. They most prefer dark corners, behind furniture and in the folds of curtains. To avoid them, use mosquito nets, insecticides and keep the room clean and free of stagnant water. Mosquitoes have a developed sense of smell to identify...
![How to Clean a Fan Without Taking It Apart](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/0/6/how_to_clean_a_fan_without_taking_it_apart_13607_300_150.jpg)
New
New
Most fans can be taken apart without breaking them, but doing so is often difficult. Whether it is an old fan with rusted screws or simply a fan that has been assembled in a way it is difficult to open, we might want to find a way to remove all the dirt while keeping it intact. Cleaning a fan is important...
![How to Prevent & Fix Air Conditioner Ice](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/0/6/how_to_prevent_fix_air_conditioner_ice_13606_300_150.jpg)
New
New
Air conditioners are lifesavers during scorching summers, but ice buildup can hinder their performance, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the unit. This is why, understanding how to prevent and address these problems is crucial for ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your air conditioning...
![How to Choose the Right Storage Facility for Your Collection and Delivery Needs](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/9/5/how_to_choose_the_right_storage_facility_for_your_collection_and_delivery_needs_13592_300_150.jpg)
It is a mistake to think of all storage facilities as the same. While they essentially fulfil the same function of storing your belongings, the approach, security and services each facility offers can vary considerably. At oneHOWTO, we look at the factors you need to consider when choosing the right...
![How to Move House Without Stress](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/6/5/how_to_move_house_without_stress_13568_300_150.jpg)
Moving house is a notoriously stressful period for many of us. We invariably underestimate how much stuff we have accumulated over the years. Even after getting rid of what we don’t need, the task of moving all our belongings seems gargantuan. Add to this any personal dramas that complicate the emotional...
![Types of Mosquito Nets for Doors and Windows](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/2/5/types_of_mosquito_nets_for_doors_and_windows_13529_300_150.jpg)
The different types of mosquito nets all have the same purpose. They prevent mosquitoes from entering the home. However, different homes have different needs, so there are variations in type which will suit people differently. Mosquito nets are designed so that they stop small insects such as the mosquito...
![Types of Air Conditioning System - Best Options](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/2/5/types_of_air_conditioning_system_best_options_13528_300_150.jpg)
The best type of air conditioning system for you is the one which best suits the needs of your space. Whether an office or residence, we can help reduce the effects of hot weather with various types of air conditioning systems. Budget is another major factor when choosing air conditioning. Although there...
![How to Deep Clean an Air Fryer](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/0/5/how_to_deep_clean_an_air_fryer_13505_300_150.jpg)
Air fryers have been growing in popularity to the point they seem to have sprung up everywhere. Not since the microwave has a kitchen appliance been so widely accepted and enjoyed. Comparing air fryers and microwaves is also appropriate because they provide similar benefits. Specifically, they make cooking...
![How to Save Water at Home](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/3/4/how_to_save_water_at_home_13435_300_150.jpg)
Water is a vital liquid, indispensable for life itself and for maintaining health. However, water is also a scarce resource, and in many places around the world it is not easy to have. More than 2,000 million people live in countries with water scarcity, and climate change means the outlook for water resources...
![Does the Dryer Really Shrink Clothes?](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/6/3/does_the_dryer_really_shrink_clothes_13366_300_150.jpg)
Although clothes dryers are becoming more common, many people still have questions about how to use them properly. Clothes dryers are especially beneficial in humid regions and in winter when it rains frequently and clothes cannot be dried outside. However, even though dryers are very convenient, some clothes...
![Four Improvements Your Landlord Won't Let You Make](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/5/2/four_improvements_your_landlord_won_t_let_you_make_13259_300_150.jpg)
Nothing's more frustrating than finding the apartment of your dreams only to discover that you can't paint over the nasty lime green walls or swap the avocado carpet for something a little more current. If your lease won't let you paint, update or even hammer in a nail, have no fear. With our quick-fix...
![How to Clean a Washing Machine With Baking Soda](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/4/2/how_to_clean_a_washing_machine_with_baking_soda_13249_300_150.jpg)
While it may be obvious to some, many people don't think of the importance of cleaning their washing machine. As it is a machine which cleans clothes, they think that it is essentially self-cleaning. However, a washing machine can collect dirt and grime easily. Even if such dirt is not obviously visible...
![How to Defrost the Freezer](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/3/1/how_to_defrost_the_freezer_13132_300_150.jpg)
The freezer is one of the most useful appliances in the home. It allows us to keep food in good condition for months and even more than a year. However, this will only be the case if the freezer works properly. This requires regular maintenance and general care. If not, the freezer will accumulate ice and...
![My Fridge Won't Cool, What Should I Do?](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/1/1/my_fridge_won_t_cool_what_should_i_do_13115_300_150.jpg)
The refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in a home. Preserving food depends fundamentally on its proper functioning, since if you do not carry out the refrigeration process correctly, many products will be spoiled. For this reason, it is very important to carry out basic actions for the...
![How to Save Money on Heating](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/0/1/how_to_save_money_on_heating_13102_300_150.jpg)
Enduring the winter without being cold and saving on heating can be tricky, but thankfully it's not impossible. In this oneHOWTO article we're going to explain how to save money on heating, especially during winter.
Keep reading this article to learn effective methods to help you save on your heating...
![How Do I Clean the Dust Out of My Radiator?](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/9/0/how_do_i_clean_the_dust_out_of_my_radiator_13092_300_150.jpg)
Having radiators ready for the winter requires maintenance throughout the year, this implies certain adjustments and cleaning. In this oneHOWTO article we're going to explain how to clean the dust out of your radiator. We'll go step by step so you can clean your radiator completely, inside and out. Keep...
![How to Make Money Last Until Payday](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/2/8/how_to_make_money_last_until_payday_12827_300_150.jpg)
high difficulty
high difficulty
All of us are afraid of that last week of the month when we are left with a pocketful of cash and start counting those pennies. Is this a time when you reconsider if your budgeting skills are as good as you may have previously thought? This is a common problem which a lot of people experience, so you are...
![How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes With Vinegar](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/1/8/how_to_get_rid_of_mosquitoes_with_vinegar_12816_300_150.jpg)
Did you know that vinegar is one of the best products used to repel mosquitoes? That’s right, mosquitoes hate the smell of vinegar, and therefore, by using it correctly, you can deter mosquitoes from infesting your home and biting you at night. In this oneHOWTO article, we aim to show you different natural...
![How Long Do Mosquito Bites Last](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/7/5/how_long_do_mosquito_bites_last_12570_300_150.jpg)
Mosquitoes are perhaps the most irritating insects on this earth. They are ectoparasites which means they feed on the outside of a host (unlike tapeworms which do their work inside). Only the female mosquitoes bite, the males preferring to feed on nectar and water. The females search for blood so that they...
![How long to Wait to Plug in a Refrigerator](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/3/9/how_long_to_wait_to_plug_in_a_refrigerator_4934_300_150.jpg)
The arrival of a new home appliance usually gets us excited, but it is very important to be clear on how to perform the first installation and use in order to ensure its correct operation and maximum duration over time. With refrigerators, it is important to let them rest a while before turning them on...
![How to Check the Humidity Level in Your House](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/3/2/how_to_check_the_humidity_level_in_your_house_12239_300_150.jpg)
Air humidity is very important for reasons we can both see and not see. Most of them, however, we can feel. If you have too high humidity in your house, then you will see condensation against the windows. A little bit of wetness around your frames might not seem like a bother, but it will mean your home...
![How to Choose the Right LED Light Bulb](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/8/1/how_to_choose_the_right_led_light_bulb_12189_300_150.jpg)
The market of light bulbs has gone through a drastic change over the last few years. The age old incandescent bulbs have been completely removed from the market, and they have been replaced by the energy-saving, more luminescent LED bulbs. These bulbs not only consume less energy and give out more light,...
![10 Ways to Save Electricity at Home](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/8/1/10_ways_to_save_electricity_at_home_12188_300_150.jpg)
medium difficulty
In addition to lights, electronics and air conditioners, most appliances in our household run on electricity. As our use of electrical appliances increases, so do our utility bills. Besides that, just as there is increased awareness about saving water, electricity is a non-renewable source of energy too,...
![Does Neem Oil Repel Mosquitoes - How to Use Neem Oil as Mosquito Repellent](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/8/0/does_neem_oil_repel_mosquitoes_how_to_use_neem_oil_as_mosquito_repellent_12084_300_150.jpg)
Neem oil repels mosquitoes because of its azadirachtin content, whose smell and taste deters mosquitoes from biting. Neem oil can be either applied on skin or used in a neem oil lamp for mosquitoes.
If you are looking for natural ways to prevent mosquitoes bites, neem oil might be your best ally. According...
![How to Make a Dehumidifier with Rock Salt](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/3/0/how_to_make_a_dehumidifier_with_rock_salt_12035_300_150.jpg)
Humidity at its most simple is the amount of moisture in the air. The humidity inside your home should be somewhere between 30% and 50%. As humidity increases, it starts getting uncomfortable for humans. High humidity is the best condition for mites and mold to grow and survive, and they are significant...
![How To Stop Insects from Entering in Your Home](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/0/0/how_to_stop_insects_from_entering_in_your_home_5001_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
Summer attracts some of the worst household pests: insects. Although some may be beneficial for the garden, they can also be annoying and leave painful bites. So preventing these animals from sneaking into our homes can be important and extremely useful. Note that not all recommendations are the same for...
![Why Does my Dishwasher Smell](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/6/5/why_does_my_dishwasher_smell_6561_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
A dishwasher greatly facilitates housework and saves us time when cleaning the dishes and all kitchen tools we use regularly. However, many find that their dishwasher develops a funky odour and leaves residue on the dishes as well as a horrible pong. If this has also happened to you, and are asking...
![How to Prevent Hard Water Scale](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/0/7/how_to_prevent_hard_water_scale_11705_300_150.jpg)
If you are living in a high sediment area, then you must be aware of one of the most common household pest that just won’t go away, which is hard water scale. Water is ‘hard’ when it has high content of dissolved minerals in it. When this water evaporates, it leaves some mineral deposits behind on the...
![How does a Smart Thermostat Work](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/8/6/how_does_a_smart_thermostat_work_11682_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
Not only have phones become smartphones taking over the way we communicate; but thermostats for the house are often referred as smart thermostats. Smart thermostats are technological savvy systems that enable you to remotely control your home’s central heating system through your phone, tablet or computer....
![How Does an Electric Water Heater Work](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/3/4/how_does_an_electric_water_heater_work_7430_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
No matter what type of home you live in, installing an electric heater is a good idea to ensure that you always have hot water. Quick, convenient and simple. It will help you keep the water hot so that you can use it whenever you want. It is not hard to make an electric water heater work. Hoever, you need...
![Is Coconut Oil a Natural Insect Repellent?](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/8/5/is_coconut_oil_a_natural_insect_repellent_11582_300_150.jpg)
Coconut oil is an awesome natural oil made from the abundantly available coconuts all around the world. Coconut oil is widely used as a deodorant, anti-acne treatment, after-shave lotion and skin ointment, and a fantastic agent to improve skin and hair health. But recently, we found another good use of this...
![How to Prepare for a Tornado or Hurricane](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/7/5/how_to_prepare_for_a_tornado_or_hurricane_11576_300_150.jpg)
medium difficulty
Tornadoes and hurricanes are deadly natural incidents related to extreme weather conditions. Understanding the way to adequately stay prepared for such devastating acts of nature is critical. Staying prepared for a tornado or hurricane can be extremely helpful in preventing loss of life, and sometimes...
![How to Make a Homemade Spider Repellent - Humane Solutions](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/4/6/how_to_make_a_homemade_spider_repellent_humane_solutions_8640_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
If spiders regularly appear in your home, it's time to take steps to prevent the presence of these insects and their feared bites. If you do not want to use a commercial product, you can make your own repellent solution to get rid of them and that will be safe for the family. In spider legs there is...
![When to Use an Oven Fan](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/7/8/when_to_use_an_oven_fan_7871_300_150.jpg)
Have you ever wondered when to use the oven fan? It’s very useful for roasting or baking, helping your dishes turn out perfectly. On most ovens, the fan symbol looks like a black circle with three small fan blades inside it. The oven fan makes your cooking more versatile. You can use it for many tasks, from...
![How to Stop Swallow Nesting](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/3/4/8/how_to_stop_swallow_nesting_9843_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
Ever find yourself sharing your balcony with a family of swallows? While these graceful birds are fascinating to watch, their nesting habits can sometimes create challenges. The good news? You can keep your space swallow-free without harming the birds or their eggs.
This oneHOWTO guide explores humane...
![How to Clean a Smelly Sink](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/6/6/how_to_clean_a_smelly_sink_7666_300_150.jpg)
medium difficulty
medium difficulty
Before filling your house with pleasant scents, you need to neutralize bad odors. Some parts of the house can smell really unpleasant, such as the toilet or the sink. Do you need some help? In that case, don't miss our OneHowTo tips on how to clean a smelly sink.
![How to Test pH Levels in Water](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/4/3/how_to_test_ph_levels_in_water_11348_300_150.jpg)
You may have noticed how in some places tap water tastes sour or bitter and perhaps how you may need more soap to clean your clothes in some countries. An easy pH level test can be employed to test if water is soft or hard. It is important to know the pH level of your drinking water as it isn’t optimal...
![Why Are There Fleas in My House?](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/8/5/why_are_there_fleas_in_my_house_10582_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
Fleas are parasites that feed on human and animal blood in order to live. Having fleas at home causes discomfort for the entire family, because fleas bite humans and pets. Fleas bites cause much despair because most people don't know how to get rid of them. You might be wondering 'why are there fleas in...
![How to Keep Fleas Out of your Home](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/3/5/6/how_to_keep_fleas_out_of_your_home_10653_300_150.jpg)
medium difficulty
Fleas are a problem in many households, especially those with gardens and in cases where our pets live with us. We must be cautious and prevent our home from becoming infested with fleas that can attack us with their annoying bites and hidden diseases.
There are several solutions to prevent this from happening...
![How to Make Natural Insecticides](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/0/7/how_to_make_natural_insecticides_10708_300_150.jpg)
Keep insects away from your home by exploiting the properties of some of the products you already have around the house. Whether you want to take care of your garden and prevent plagues of pests on your plants or you want to deter them from coming into the house, the options we show you next will help...
![How to Stop Pigeons from Coming to Your Roof](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/7/6/how_to_stop_pigeons_from_coming_to_your_roof_10670_300_150.jpg)
Tired of pigeons perching on your roof and leaving a mess everywhere? These animals are popularly known as "rats with wings" because they may carry parasites that can infect humans. It is therefore advisable that you keep them away from your home.
There are some tactics that may help prevent these birds...
![How to Repel Lizards from Your House](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/2/7/how_to_repel_lizards_from_your_house_10720_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
low difficulty
If you live in a house in the countryside you may find yourself with the constant presence of lizards on the walls, both inside and outside the house. While they are necessary and useful to eliminate mosquitoes, as they feed on them, they can also cause a lot trouble should their numbers increase and...
![How to Use a Convection Oven](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/8/3/how_to_use_a_convection_oven_10389_300_150.jpg)
medium difficulty
If you have a convection oven but you are not sure how to use it you must know that it has several differences from a traditional oven. For example, the traditional kitchen oven cooks our dishes from bottom to top, as it has heaters located on both the top and bottom and this causes some areas to remain...
![Do Citronella Plants Really Repel Mosquitoes? - Everything You Need to Know](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/5/8/do_citronella_plants_really_repel_mosquitoes_everything_you_need_to_know_10851_300_150.jpg)
No one wants mosquitoes in their surroundings, and there is a plethora of store-bought products that you can use to get rid of mosquitoes. But most of them are chemical based, and are harmful for the environment too. So, instead of using these chemical based mosquito repellents in your house, plant some...
![How to Kill Asian Tiger Mosquitoes](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/7/9/how_to_kill_asian_tiger_mosquitoes_9979_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
The Asian tiger mosquito is an insect that acts as a disease transmitter. They are native to tropical areas of Southeast Asia, but in recent years have spread to parts of southern Europe - especially areas of the Iberian Peninsula since 2004. To prevent their proliferation, it is important that you take...
![What to Do If the Power Goes Out in Your House](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/3/4/1/what_to_do_if_the_power_goes_out_in_your_house_10143_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
Power cuts don't happen on a daily basis but you should feel prepared so you can avoid problems at home in any case. Everyone has endured this temporary inconvenience at home at some point. Are you clear as to how you should deal with a possible power cut? OneHowTo offers you some tips to help you solve...
![How to Prevent Cockroaches from Entering Your House](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/2/7/how_to_prevent_cockroaches_from_entering_your_house_9727_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
One of the most frequent pests to invade the home are cockroaches, insects that slip in through the pipes and tubes and can live in areas such as walls. Although they are hard to kill and control, the truth is that there are some ways to stop them from sneaking into your home and end up in the most unwanted...
![How to Eliminate Ants from the Garden Naturally](https://t1.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/5/7/how_to_eliminate_ants_from_the_garden_naturally_9757_300_150.jpg)
low difficulty
Ants can end up destroying your beautiful garden as they are small insects that have such a high degree of mobility and agility that they can completely destroy your plants. This is done through the constructing of internal tunnels around their roots, which prevents water and nutrients from properly reaching...
![How to Use an Electric Oven](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/7/6/how_to_use_an_electric_oven_8671_300_150.jpg)
medium difficulty
Do you have an electric oven but do not know how to use it? Some advantages of this appliance which is smaller than a traditional oven is that it preheats quickly and can reach a temperature of 260°C (500°F). Also, this oven is cheaper than a conventional one and so will help you save some money. Furthermore,...
![How to Make a Washing Machine Last Longer](https://t2.uc.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/9/5/how_to_make_a_washing_machine_last_longer_9592_300_150.jpg)
A washing machine is a basic appliance in any modern home. Its utility and regularity save us all time thus making it essential to improve our quality of life, so it is convenient to care for this machine. However, we are not always aware of the vulnerability of this device and do not treat it the right...