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And easy fixes for a comfy, damage-free space.
Unintentional damage can take a toll on your home, leading to costly repairs and unnecessary stress. Even small, seemingly insignificant habits (hello, wet bathroom floors) can contribute to wear and tear over time. Fortunately, there are tons of simple solutions that can prevent accidental damage and limit the need for expensive fixes down the road. I've rounded up 50 items that can improve your home’s functionality while making it the comfy living space you deserve.
1
Mistake: Scuffing Up Floors
Solution: These Flexible Chair Leg Covers That Can Prevent Scratches
These floor protectors are made of flexible silicone, so they can stretch to fit a variety of chair legs, and the felted bottom moves smoothly across surfaces. Their one-piece design is a breeze to install, and they come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can get the right match for your space. Plus, they don’t require any adhesives or hardware.
2
Mistake: Letting Your Fridge Get Dirty & Stained
Solution: These Food-Safe Liners That Are A Breeze To Wash
These low-profile waterproof fridge mats can protect your appliance from spills and stains and keep things looking tidy. The EVA material can be cut to size and is ideal to use on shelving, or anywhere you need a surface that’s easy to wipe clean. It’s also designed to be used with food and can stand up to even the chilliest fridge temperatures.
3
Mistake: Smushing Cords To Fit Behind Furniture
Solution: This Outlet Concealer That Lets You Hide Cords Behind Furniture
This outlet concealer is a great way to prevent cords and wires from getting smushed behind furniture. It works with all standard duplex outlets and features a slim 8-foot cord that can be secured to the wall. The three outlets at the end of the extension cord give you even more options for charging.
4
Mistake: Staining Your Counters Around Your Coffee Maker
Solution: This Absorbent Mat That Hides Spills & Muffles Noise From Appliances
Keep your countertop looking good (no matter how many times you spill coffee) with this absorbent coffee station mat. It’s made from an absorbent diatomite material that soaks up moisture, dries quickly, and can even muffle coffee pot sounds. It features a nonslip rubber backing to keep things stable, and the nine color options are great at hiding stains and spills.
5
Mistake: Not Cleaning Your Dryer Vents
Solution: This Easy Vent-Cleaning Kit That Pops Right Onto Your Vacuum
This easy-to-use dryer vent cleaning kit is designed to remove buildup and make your appliance run more efficiently — all with the vacuum you already have. The vacuum hose attachment is designed to fit into tight crevices, and the hose adapter works with almost all types of vacuums. The kit can also be used for cleaning out spaces like behind the fridge or underneath furniture.
6
Mistake: Letting Water Collect, Causing Mold Around The Sink
Solution: The Silicone Drip Catcher That Drains Easily
This silicone mat helps to prevent water from collecting around the sink and causing damage (or gross mold). The mat features a sloped design that allows water to drain and a soft, durable surface that won’t scratch surfaces. The mat also has plenty of space to store your sponges and soaps.
7
Mistake: Not Cleaning Up Water On The Bathroom Floor
Solution: These Magnetic Shower Curtain Weights That Keep Things In Place
These silicone magnets are a good way to avoid water puddles and keep your shower curtain in place. The strong magnets grip both sides of the curtain to prevent it from billowing or allowing water to escape. And they’re completely enclosed in silicone, so they won’t rust or get gross. Plus, you can also use the magnets to keep things like tablecloths and flags from flapping around.
8
Mistake: Not Protecting Upholstery & Furniture From Stains
Solution: This Water Shield Spray That Extends The Life Of Fabrics
Furniture can be ruined by constant spills, but this water-repellant spray offers up protection. It’s simple to use and dries clear and odorless. Once applied, the fabric becomes waterproof — helping it to repel spills and stains. In addition to furniture, you can spritz it on items such as clothing, shoes, and linens.
9
Mistake: Letting Mold Stains Accumulate
Solution: This Fast-Acting Gel That Eliminates Mold & Mildew
Mold and mildew stains can cause unpleasant smells and make your space look worn, but this stain remover can remove mold from tiles, grout, and tight spaces (like the inside of washing machines). The concentrated gel formula won’t drip down surfaces, and it doesn’t have an overwhelming chemical scent. And it’s easy to use — just apply it to stains and wipe off a few hours later.
10
Mistake: Letting Drafts & Bugs Into Your Space
Solution: This Slide-On Draft Stopper That Seals Up Doorways
Stop energy loss and seal out noise with this simple slide-on door draft stopper. It’s easy to cut to size and doesn’t require any special tools or adhesives to stick it under a door. The draft stopper includes insulation that has soundproofing properties and is ideal for keeping heated or cooled air from escaping.
11
Mistake: Not Treating Stains Immediately
Solution: This Stain Treating Spray That’s A Popular Pick For Household Fabrics
Use this convenient (and super popular) stain-treating spray to keep all of the fabrics around your house looking new. It’s designed to work on all sorts of messes, including food, grease, coffee, and more, and it’s made from a biodegradable formula, so it can be less likely to irritate skin. In addition to a spray bottle, it also comes in convenient individually wrapped wipes.
12
Mistake: Dragging Appliances Like Toasters & Air Fryers
Solution: These Stick-On Siders That Make It Easy To Pull Out Appliances
Stick these sliders to the bottom of kitchen appliances to keep your counters from getting scratched when you move items around. They have an easy-to-use adhesive that can be used on a number of appliances, and they won’t leave marks on countertops. Plus, the sliders elevate appliances, keeping them away from any potential spills.
13
Mistake: Not Monitoring For Water Leaks
Solution: A Wireless Water Detector That Alerts You To Leaks & Drips
This leak detector can alert you to excess water before it can cause costly damage. It features probes that monitor for both drips and puddles and since it’s wireless — it’s a breeze to set up anywhere. The alarm has an adjustable volume, depending on your preferences, and features a low battery alert, so you’re always prepared for leaks.
14
Mistake: Letting Doors Hit Your Walls
Solution: These Magnetic Door Stoppers That Are A Breeze To Install
These magnetic door stoppers can prevent knobs from creating indents and scratches on walls. The stopper features strong magnets that attach to the baseboard (or floor) and the door. You can install it onto most surfaces, including wood, tile, and marble, with either the included adhesive or hardware.
15
Mistake: Dripping Water On Your Bathroom Floors
Solutions: An Impressive Stone Bath Mat That Absorbs Water In Seconds
Keep your bathroom floor perfectly dry with this impressive stone bath mat that’s chic and shockingly absorbent. It’s made from a diatomaceous earth material that can evaporate water in seconds. It only needs a quick rinse to clean it off, and in addition to the bathroom, the mat can also soak up spills from under plants or pet food.
16
Mistake: Not Protecting Drains From Hair & Bugs
Solution: These Drain Stickers That Can Prevent Clogs & Insects
Add these disposable drain protectors to your tub, and they can guard against hair clogs and bug infestations. They feature a waterproof adhesive that stays in place for weeks, while the mesh material catches hair and jewelry before it washes down the drain. Bonus — they can also prevent pipe-dwelling critters from crawling into your bathroom.
17
Mistake: Damaging Kitchen Counters With Hot Dishes
Solution: These Stylish Trivets That Can Protect Surfaces (& Go In The Dishwasher)
Hot dishes can damage surfaces, but these stackable silicone trivets are a stylish way to prevent marks on countertops. They’re heat-resistant and made from a food-grade material that will look stylish under all of your go-to recipes. And if they get dirty, wipe the trivets clean or toss them in the dishwasher.
18
Mistake: Letting Cleaning Bottles Spill Under The Sink
Solution: This Mat That Elevates Items & Protects Cabinets From Spills
This under-sink mat features a ridged design that keeps items elevated and away from any potential spills. The mats feature a flexible, waterproof design that can hold over 3 gallons of liquid to protect the inside of your cabinets. They’re easy to rinse clean after spills and come in a bunch of sizes and configurations, so there’s an option for almost every space.
19
Mistake: Not Cleaning Mold & Grime Around The House
Solution: An Electric Spin Brush That Makes Cleaning *Way* Speedier
This electric scrubbing brush makes it a breeze to clean surfaces covered with mold, mildew, and other types of grime (without touching it). Once charged, the long-handled brush can work for up to two hours, and the cordless design makes it easy to take from room to room, including damp areas like the shower.
20
Mistake: Letting Water Seep Into Cracks Around The House
Solution: This Easy Stick-On Caulk Strip That Seals Out Moisture
This stick-on caulk strip can prevent water from seeping into cracks and causing damage (without applying messy caulk). The waterproof design is flexible and easy to use — simply cut the length you need and firmly press it onto a clean surface. And the caulk strip can be bent to a 90-degree angle so it’s ideal for sealing tight spaces.
21
Mistake: Scratching Leather Furniture
Solution: This Super Speedy Conditioner That Softens & Protects
Instead of replacing worn-out leather furniture, revive it with this quick-to-use conditioner. It’s designed to add moisture and soften the leather while creating a water-repellant barrier. The non-sticky and silicone-free formula is formulated to be safe for all colors of leather (as well as items like shoes and luggage).
22
Mistake: Letting Your Pet Scratch Your Upholstery
Solution: These Low-Profile Sofa Protectors To Keep Furniture Looking Like New
Protect your furniture from claw marks with these low-profile and completely transparent upholstery shields. Their strong design can protect most types of fabric and may eventually deter your pet from even attempting to scratch the surface. These clever shields can be cut to size, and the included adhesive and twist pins make installation easy.
23
Mistake: Leaving Spills & Burnt Food In The Oven
Solution: These Heat-Safe Liners That Catch Drips & Are Easy To Wash
These heat-safe liners make it easy to keep your oven free of dripping cheese and burned ingredients. They’re designed to fit most standard electric or gas ovens but can be trimmed for a custom fit. The liners are easy to install, simple to wash in the dishwasher, and won’t add any weird smells or flavors to food. And they’re resistant to temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
24
Mistake: Ignoring Clogged Gutters
Solution: A Super Compact Tool That Removes Leaves Without A Ladder
This gutter cleaning tool is an efficient way to remove dead leaves and debris from your home’s roofline. It’s designed to clean gutters from the ground (AKA — no need to pull out a ladder). The durable tool features an angled cleaning head and six interlocking pole pieces, which can be disassembled for storage.
25
Mistake: Clogging Shower Drains With Hair
Solutions: This Barely Noticeable Drain Protector That Catches Hair
This drain protector catches hair before it can go into pipes and cause clogs. The TubShroom fits any standard drain and the design ensures water can still flow through unobstructed. Plus, the drain protector keeps the caught hair out of sight until you’re ready to dispose of it.
26
Mistake: Not Repairing Broken Screens Immediately
Solution: This Durable Tape That Can Seamlessly Repair Window Screens
Mosquitoes and flies can enter through broken screens, but this repair tape offers a simple and inexpensive fix. It features a strong adhesive that’s built for durability and will keep working in all sorts of weather. The tape can easily be cut to size and installs in just seconds over your screens — no tools required.
27
Mistake: Letting The Freezer Frost Over
Solution: These Slim Mats Designed To Prevent Ice Buildup
If your freezer is constantly frosting over, these anti-frost mats can keep things clear. The mats come in a pack of two and are made from a material that’s designed to cleverly eliminate ice buildup. When used regularly, the slim mats may help freezers run more efficiently and create more space for food.
28
Mistake: Scuffing Your Shelves
Solution: This Adorable Cabinet Liner That’s Waterproof & Easy To Clean
These non-adhesive shelf liners are an easy way to elevate your cabinet shelves and protect surfaces from scratches and moisture. The flexible waterproof material can be cut to size and is ideal for inside drawers, on shelves, or even as a stand-alone placemat. Plus, the adorable textured surface helps to keep items in place.
29
Mistake: Drilling Holes All Over The House
Solution: This Magnetic Paper Towel Holder That Won’t Leave Marks
This magnetic paper towel holder helps to avoid unnecessary drilling and holes in your walls while also keeping your space tidy. Instead, it features powerful rubber-coated magnets that stick to metal surfaces without causing scratches. And it’s adjustable, so it can accommodate rolls of different sizes and lengths.
30
Mistake: Not Protecting Your Floors From An Uneven Washing Machine
Solution: These Nonslip Pads That Keep The Machine Level
These anti-vibration pads feature a steel plate encased in rubber for the perfect combination of durability and function. The pads are intended to go over the feet of the machine — limiting vibrations that could be damaging the floor or throwing the appliance out of whack. The pads also have a universal fit and can be installed without tools.
31
Mistake: Not Protecting Countertops & Home Surfaces
Solution: A Spray That Covers Surfaces With A Stain- & Water-Resistant Coating
This simple ceramic coating spray adds a seal to protect almost every surface around the house. It creates a slick, glass-like surface that’s perfect for repelling smudges, fingerprints, and watermarks. It’s a breeze to apply, and it works on everything from tile to stainless steel to glass.
32
Mistake: Tracking In Dirt
Solution: This Doormat That Catches Debris & Is Easy To Clean
Add this universal doormat to your space to prevent dirt and mud from ruining your floors every time you come inside. The nonslip design features a clever mesh top that catches (and hides) debris while also providing cushioning. The mat can be rinsed off with a hose when it needs cleaning, and it’s waterproof, so you can use it indoors or out.
33
Mistake: Letting Cabinet Drawers Get Musty & Scratched
Solution: These Scented Drawer Liners That Keep Things Fresh & Stylish
These damask-patterned paper sheets are a simple way to elevate the inside of drawers and shelves (and they’re scented to eliminate any musty smells). The liners can be cut to size and will fill each drawer with a fresh sandalwood scent. They also don’t have an adhesive, so they’re easy to replace when you need a refresh.
34
Mistake: Improperly Storing Tools
Solution: These Storage Straps That Allow You To Easily Hang Tools
These storage straps are made from weather-resistant polypropylene and feature a reusable hook-and-loop closure. AKA — they’re perfect for corralling items like hoses, cords, and rope and the cushioned handle also doubles as a hanging hook to keep them off of the floor. Each wrap holds up to 100 pounds, so you can organize and transport almost any type of tool.
35
Mistake: Leaving Wet Laundry On Your Floors
Solution: This Ultra-Compact Tiered Rack That Helps Things Dry
Leaving wet laundry on the floor can cause damage, but this two-tier drying rack keeps things elevated. The rack is foldable, so it won’t take up much space when not in use, and it has rotating arms that make quick work of hanging or removing items. The stainless steel pole and four sturdy legs also help the rack hold up to 35 pounds of clothing.
36
Mistake: Letting Pet Hair & Messes Get On Furniture
Solution: This Cozy Blanket With A Waterproof Anti-Accident Layer Inside
This waterproof blanket is designed to protect your furniture from pet accidents and messy fur. One side of the blanket features a soft sherpa material and the other is made of a cozy flannel fleece. Meanwhile, the waterproof liner in the middle keeps accidents from spreading onto the couch. And the blanket comes in a ton of colors and sizes, so you can get the right fit for your pet and your sofa.
37
Mistake: Sliding Your Furniture Around Unprotected
Solution: These Nonslip Pads That Hide Under Furniture & Hold Things In Place
Keep items like sofas, lounge chairs, and ottomans in place and prevent floor damage with these nonslip rubber pads. You can cut to size and protect surfaces without the need for hardware or glue. And they can be used on various floor types including wood, tile, linoleum, concrete, and more.
38
Mistake: Smudging Appliance Doors
Solution: This Stainless Steel Cleaner That Protects From Future Smudges
Revive smudged and dirty appliances (and protect them from now on) with this stainless steel cleaner and microfiber cloth. It’s made from a combination of coconut oil and essential oils and removes streaks and smudges while also leaving behind a protective barrier. The formula works for almost any stainless steel surface, including fridges, ovens, and grills.
39
Mistake: Forgetting To Clean Your Dishwasher
Solution: These Deep Cleaning Tablets That Remove Gunk & Buildup
These dishwashing tablets help to deep clean and descale your appliance so it can function at top capacity (with zero scrubbing on your part). They work with all dishwasher brands and are even safe for septic systems. And they’re easy to use — just add a tablet to the detergent tray and run a normal cycle. Regular use can remove mineral buildup and odor-causing debris.
40
Mistake: Letting Gnats & Flies Infest Your Home
Solution: This Electronic Insect Trap That Keeps Gross Bugs Out Of Sight
This sticky insect trap is a convenient way (that doesn’t look gross) to eliminate flies and gnats in your home. Simply pop it into an outlet, and it will emit a UV light that attracts flying insects. Then, the disposable cartridges keep dead inspects out of sight and can be replaced once they’re full of gross bugs.
41
Mistake: Not Monitoring For Carbon Monoxide
Solution: This Portable Detector That Can Go In Any Outlet & Room
Keep track of your home’s carbon monoxide levels with this portable detector that’s compact enough to plug into a wall outlet. It also includes a battery backup (in case of a power outage). The detector also features a loud 85-decibel alarm, a test/hush button, and a chirp that lets you know when it’s time for a replacement.
42
Mistake: Cutting Veggies On Countertops
Solution: These Cutting Boards That Have a Convenient Door Mount
Use these easy-to-store chopping boards to prep foods and save your counters from unnecessary scratch marks. They come with a space-saving storage case that sticks right inside a kitchen cabinet or pantry. You get a large and a small board, and they feature nonslip feet and a knife-friendly textured surface.
43
Mistake: Not Protecting Your Closet From Bugs
Solution: This Cleverly-Shaped Cedar Block Kit That Work *Everywhere*
This pack of cedar blocks emits a fresh scent that can deter pests like moths, and it comes with super clever shapes and sizes. You get hanging blocks for closet racks, rings to loop over clothes hangers, balls, and sachets (AKA — you can easily stick them everywhere). Plus, if the scent starts to fade, it can be easily revived with the included sandpaper.
44
Mistake: Leaving Hot Plates On The Dinner Table
Solution: These Chic, Heat-Resistant Placemats That Protect Surfaces
These heat-resistant placemats feature a stylish linen pattern so you can protect surfaces without sacrificing on design. Their waterproof design is easy to wipe clean, and they have nonslip properties, so plates or serving pots stay in place. In addition to the kitchen table, the mats also work well under laptops or anytime you want to protect a surface.
45
Mistake: Letting Gunk Build Up Around The Stove
Solution: These Silicone Gap Covers That Keep Spills On The Counter
Use these silicone gap covers to prevent crumbs and other gunk from falling into the cracks around the stove. The covers are heat-resistant and made from a nonslip material that’s easy to install. The covers have a universal fit, so they’re compatible with all stove brands and they’re easy to wipe clean when dirty.
46
Mistake: Scratching The Stovetop When Cleaning It
Solution: This Cleaning Solution & Sponge That’s Gentle On Kitchen Surfaces
Flat surface stovetops can be tricky to clean, but this sponge and scrubbing formula can help to remove grease and grime — without causing scratches. The cleaning duo is easy to use and safe on most cooktop surfaces, including ceramic, glass, and induction. To use, just get the sponge wet, dip it in the cleaning formula, and gently rub away stains.
47
Mistake: Accidentally Scuffing Furniture
Solution: This Breezy Cleaning Spray That Can Revive Wood
Spritz on this clever wood cleaner and polish to revive and protect furniture. It’s designed to remove dirt and dust while also protecting wood against water stains, cracking, and fading. The spray can be used on most finished wood surfaces and has a pleasing almond scent that’s not overwhelming.
48
Mistake: Scratching Surfaces When You Clean
Solution: A Trending Sponge & Cleaning Cream To Gently Tackle Grime
This gentle cleansing cream and scrub sponge combine to remove grime without scratching surfaces. The cream features clever crystals that work to remove dirt, grease, and stuck-on messes and is safe for almost all surfaces. Meanwhile, the trendy flexible scrub sponge has a different texture based on temperature — it’s firmer when used with cold water and more flexible in warmer temps.
49
Mistake: Letting Water Stain Your Countertops
Solution: An Elevated Drying Mat Made From Absorbent Diatomaceous Earth
This stone dish drying mat absorbs water before it can drip on the counter and cause stains. The mat is made from nontoxic diatomaceous earth and is super fast drying. To clean — wipe it off or use a bit of sandpaper if there are more stubborn stains. The elevated feet on the bottom of the mat help to keep things contained and tidy.
50
Mistake: Accidentally Scratching Up Your Stovetop
Solution: A Dishwasher-Safe Mat That Covers The Stove When Not In Use
Protect your cooking surface from scratches and spills when you’re not cooking with this stovetop cover. The heavy-duty design is made of natural rubber that won’t slip out of place, and the top side is heat-resistant, so it’s perfect for holding hot dishes. If the cover gets dirty, you can wipe it clean or add it to the dishwasher.