Keeping a home in top shape doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive task. The trick lies in knowing a few underrated yet incredibly effective maintenance hacks that can save you time, effort, and money. While everyone talks about deep cleaning and seasonal repairs, some lesser-known tricks can make a huge difference in keeping your home running smoothly. Here are some of the best-kept secrets of home maintenance that you’ll wish you had known sooner.

1. Use Cooking Spray to Prevent Rust

Rust can be a persistent enemy in any home, especially in humid areas. A simple yet effective hack is to use cooking spray on metal surfaces, such as garden tools, hinges, and bathroom fixtures. Just spray a light coat, wipe off any excess, and enjoy a rust-free surface for longer.

If you have recently shifted to a new home, like Joyville Hadapsar in Pune, small maintenance tips like this can help keep your space looking fresh and well-kept. With a little effort, you can prevent common issues like rust from affecting your fixtures and appliances, ensuring your home remains in top condition for years to come.

2. Clear Clogged Drains with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Instead of reaching for harsh chemical drain cleaners, try a natural and budget-friendly alternative. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then flush it out with hot water. This fizzing reaction breaks down buildup and leaves your pipes fresh and clean.

3. Fix Squeaky Doors with Petroleum Jelly

Tired of creaky doors and hinges? Instead of using commercial lubricants, apply a dab of petroleum jelly on the hinges. It works just as well as oil, without the messy drips, and keeps your doors whisper-quiet for months. If you've recently moved into a new home, like Joyville Gurugram by Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate, small maintenance tricks like this can help keep your space in top shape with minimal effort.

4. Revive Dull Wooden Furniture with Olive Oil and Lemon Juice

Furniture polish can be expensive and full of chemicals. Instead, mix equal parts of olive oil and lemon juice and use a soft cloth to buff your wooden furniture. This natural polish restores shine, removes minor scratches, and leaves behind a refreshing citrus scent.

5. Prevent Bathroom Mirrors from Fogging Up

Stepping out of a hot shower to a fogged-up mirror can be frustrating. A simple fix? Apply a thin layer of shaving cream to your mirror and wipe it off with a clean cloth. This trick creates an invisible barrier that prevents condensation for weeks.

6. Use a Rubber Glove to Remove Pet Hair

If you have pets, you know how stubborn pet hair can be. Instead of struggling with vacuuming, put on a damp rubber glove and run your hand over furniture and carpets. The hair will cling to the glove, making cleanup much easier.

7. Keep Your Showerhead Clean with Vinegar

Mineral buildup can reduce water pressure and make your shower less enjoyable. To clean your showerhead effortlessly, fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, secure it around the showerhead with a rubber band, and leave it overnight. By morning, the buildup will dissolve, restoring water flow.

8. Use Ice Cubes to Freshen Up Your Garbage Disposal

Over time, garbage disposals can develop unpleasant odours. A simple way to freshen them up is to toss in a few ice cubes made of vinegar and lemon juice. The ice helps sharpen the blades, while the vinegar and lemon combat odours and bacteria.

9. Patch Small Wall Holes with Toothpaste

If you have tiny nail holes in your walls, there’s no need to buy expensive filler. White toothpaste works surprisingly well. Just dab some into the hole, smooth it out, and let it dry. Once painted over, it blends in seamlessly.

10. Keep Your Fridge Smelling Fresh with Coffee Grounds

Forget about artificial fridge deodorisers—used coffee grounds work wonders in absorbing odours. Just place a small bowl of dried coffee grounds in your fridge, and it will neutralise smells while leaving behind a subtle coffee aroma.

Home maintenance doesn’t have to be a burden when you have clever, time-saving tricks up your sleeve. These underrated hacks are simple, cost-effective, and incredibly useful for keeping your home in top condition with minimal effort. Give them a try, and you might just discover a new favourite way to make home care easier and more efficient!