Reviving Household Items: Simple Fixes to Save You Money
Throwing away household items is often a knee-jerk reaction, especially when they are broken or malfunctioning. However, many common items can be fixed relatively inexpensively, or even for free, with a bit of DIY skill and effort. This guide explores some easy repairs that can save you money and keep your belongings in working condition.
Clothes and Bedding: Reuse and Repurpose
Fabric-based household items, such as clothes and bedding, often harbor small issues that can be fixed with a basic sewing kit. Buttons, for example, can be resewn or replaced. A broken seam can be easily resewn, and a loose hem can also be fixed with a few simple stitches. The same goes for bedding. A restuffed pillow can breathe new life into an outdated one. Small tears can be sewn or patched, making it easier to fix these items at home.
Repairs That Transform Broken Items
It's not uncommon to find items that can be combined to create a working unit. For instance, a TV with no sound can be paired with another TV that has no picture. By connecting both to a set-top box, you can achieve a functioning entertainment setup despite the individual components being broken. Similarly, a large glass bowl with a broken lid can be fixed by using a slightly smaller lid. This replacement solution creates a new functionality, allowing steam to escape during cooking without releasing excess pressure.
Mixing and Matching Parts for Electronics
Repairs for electronic items can range from straightforward to complex. For minor issues, such as a broken power cord on a fan, the repair is quick and inexpensive. However, more intricate parts, like the motor of a fan, may require replacement parts that could cost more than a new fan. While electronic devices with circuit boards can be challenging for the average person to fix, lamps and other less complex items can be repaired by someone with a bit of knowledge in electronics. Restoring a functional television or radio, especially when they use tubes, can be achieved by watching repair tutorials on YouTube and ordering the necessary parts.
DIY Computer Repairs: Saving on Technology
Computer power supplies often are the source of issues, and they can be addressed with a few steps. In many cases, thrift store computers can be resurrected by simply swapping out the broken power supply. A few years ago, I purchased a computer that was two years old for just $1500. After installing a larger power supply, it was restored to its working condition. The entire process would have cost significantly less than purchasing a new computer, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. Additionally, desktop or tower power supplies can often be salvaged from old broken computers to serve as replacement parts.
Appliances and Major Fixes
The world of home appliances is fraught with opportunities for DIY repairs. Leaky or malfunctioning appliances, such as microwaves, ovens, and washing machines, often require new components to function correctly. However, with perseverance and the right YouTube tutorials, many of these tasks can be accomplished.
Living in a condominium building, I've stumbled upon numerous items discarded at the waste disposal area that could easily be revived. Broken appliances, often due to minor issues like a damaged power cord or a simple malfunction, can often be repaired with minimal effort and a few euros. A notable discovery was a Bosch vacuum cleaner, a professional series product made in Germany, with just a clogged dust bag and a loose power cord to fix. With about 30 minutes of work, it was restored to an excellent condition, one that lasted for many years.
Such repairs not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing waste and extending the life of household items. By embracing these DIY solutions, households can save money while maintaining their belongings in good condition.