What Cars Are Recalled?

According to theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration‘s report on this recall, dated Nov. 27, the following eight Stellantis truck models are part of this recall:

• 2017 RAM 2500
• 2018 RAM 2500
• 2017 RAM 3500
• 2018 RAM 3500
• 2017 RAM 4500
• 2018 RAM 4500
• 2017 RAM 5500
• 2018 RAM 5500

In total, 317,630 trucks are part of this recall, and Stellantis will send notification letters informing owners in early January 2025.

Why Are These Trucks Being Recalled?

The NHTSA report details that some of these RAM trucks “may have been built with a brake [hydraulic control unit (HCU)]that is susceptible to failure or malfunction, which may result in a reduction or change of ABS/ESC/Traction Control performance.” To decode those acronyms, the ABS is the anti-lock braking system, while the electronic stability control.

Though Stellantis did not report any injuries related to this recall, they did note that leaving it unaddressed could lead to intermittent and, eventually, permanent loss of the anti-lock braking system and traction control, which would cause a sudden loss of control and the vehicle to crash.

What To Do If My Truck Is Recalled

Stellantis will fix any impacted RAM truck free of charge. When owners receive their recall letter, they should call their local dealer as soon as possible to set up an appointment to have their car inspected. Stellantis will replace defective HCUs with a new one.

If you do not receive an ownership letter or have questions about this recall, owners can call Stellantis’s customer service at 1-800-853-1403 with inquiries about the recall (the recall number is C4B).

Sources

• NHTSA.gov: Loss of ABS/Traction Control from Module Failurerces
• NHTSA.gov: Recall Report

The post Over 300,000 RAM Trucks Recalled Over Dangerous Brake Defect appeared first on Family Handyman.

Required Tools for these Walkway Ideas

Have the necessary tools for thisDIY projectlined up before you startyoull save time and frustration.

• Bucket
• Drywall saw
• Garden rake
• Spade
• Wheelbarrow/Dolly
• Tamper
• Garden trowel

Mulch and Gravel Garden Paths

This windinggravel pathreflects the informality and ease ofmaintenance of the garden. Mulch and gravel are the cheapest pathway materials you can buy for rock walkways, and they make construction simple, too, making them two of our favorite walkway ideas. All you have to do is remove the sod, roll out landscape fabric and spread the mulch or gravel.

Mulch and gravel paths can be meandering, wood chipcovered trails or carefully planned designs, and they range from casual to formal depending on the design and edging material. You can choose from a wide variety of loose materials including coarse bark, decorative mulch, washed stones and crushed gravel or shells.

Mulch garden path

As stated above, the three commontypes of mulchsuitable for garden paths are wood chips, cocoa bean and cypress bark. Since these path materials are lighter than stone, theyre easier to haul and spread. Mulch is also a bit cheaper than gravel or stone pebbles. Remember, though, that organic paths decompose over time, so youll have to rejuvenate them every two to five years with new material. Also, dont use bark, wood chips or mulch for paths that run through areas with poor drainage or that are wet. Itll lead to a soggy path.

Youll find bags of mulch at home centers, but for the best selection of organic materials for a path, check your local nursery or landscape supplier. Depending on how big your path is, it may be cheaper to have bulk material delivered than to buy bags. Plan on a 3-in.-deep layer of mulch about 3 ft. wide as an alternative to grass. Call the public works department at your city hall or check with localtree trimmingservices. They often have piles of wood chips or mulch that are free for the hauling.

Gravel walkways

Several types of inexpensive landscaping gravel are available for paths. Common types are: crushed gravel, crushed limestone and pea rock. For a path thats more formal or longer lasting than a mulch path, consider washed gravel, crushed stone or crushed shells. These materials last indefinitely and only need occasional weeding to look their best. If you want to run a wheelbarrow or lawn mower along the path, choose crushed stone rather than smooth pebbles. The jagged edges of crushed stone lock together to form a firm surface. Crushed stone is also less likely to get kicked out into the yard.

Gravel for paths is sold by type and size. Smaller stones, averaging under 1/2 in., are best for paths because they offer more comfort underfoot and pack together better. Visit your local nursery or landscape supply specialist to see whats available in your area. Gravel is usually sold by the ton. Measure the length and width of the path. Take these measurements to the supplier and ask for help to figure out the quantity of gravel you need. Unless your path is very short, it usually makes sense to have the material delivered. Gravel for a path 3 in. deep and 3 ft. wide will cost about the same as mulch.

Gravel paths do have a few limitations, though. The stones can get tracked into the house, so dont use them near entries. And gravel paths are a bad choice in areas where you have to shovel snow off them. The gravel can end up in your lawn orflower beds.

Tips for making mulch and gravel garden paths

• Rent a gas-poweredsod cuttertoremove grassif the path is long. For short paths, use a garden spade to slice off the sod.
• Set edging so it ends up about an inch above the fill material.
• Use a spacer stick cut to the width of the garden path as a guide when you set the edging or border. You wont have to keep pulling out the tape measure to make sure the edges run parallel.
• Cover the soil with landscape fabric todeter weedsand prevent the fill material from mixing with the soil. Dont use plastic. Itll catch water and create a soggy path.
• Have gravel delivered, especially if you need more than a half ton.
• If you want a path thats firm enough to roll a wheelbarrow on, use crushed stone and tamp it after leveling it. (Pea rock or other rounded stone wont compact.) Use a hand tamper for short paths. Rent a vibrating-plate tamper for long paths.

Garden Path Borders and Edging Ideas

Gravel or mulch paths require some type of edging to keep the material from spreading out onto your lawn or flower bed. You can also add a border or an edge as a design element. Here are some common types of edging you can use for walkway landscaping:

• Plasticlandscape edgingis cheap. And its fast and easy to install. If you object to the look of the rounded top edge, hide it with a border of plants.
• Steel or aluminum edging forms a crisp edge that gives the path a neat appearance. It costs more than plastic, though, and is less forgiving on sloped terrain. It also keeps gravel or mulch from overflowing into the yard or garden.
• Brick, stone or paver borders are attractive and versatile, but theyre more expensive and a lot more work to install.
• Concrete edging is less expensive than brick or stone but has the same advantages. Newer types that look like random pieces of tumbled stone are a great lower-cost alternative to a real stone border.
• Landscape timbers are an economical alternative to stone or brick borders. Theyre especially useful for building shallow steps on gradually sloping terrain.

Stone Paths

Stepping-stonesare the fastest, easiest way to build a path, and another one of our favorite walkway ideas. Theres very little digging involved. And although the stone is heavy, a little goes a long way. Since theres distance between the stones, you dont have to worry about leveling them with one another. Stepping-stone paths also cost less because youll cover more distance with less stone. Stones that are flat and about 18 in. across and 2 in. thick are ideal. Check your local landscape supplier or quarry to see whats available. If youre building a short stepping-stone path, you can usually pick the stones you want from the pallet or pile of stones on hand at the supplier. For longer paths, ask for help to figure out the quantity and have the stone delivered. If youre lucky enough to live in an area with naturally occurring outcroppings of stone, you may find stepping-stones free for the hauling.

You can also make attractive stepping-stone paths using 12-in. square or round concrete patio blocks. These are available in a wide selection of colors and textures from home centers, landscape suppliers and masonry dealers. Search online for patio blocks to see the variety.

How to build a stone path

• Arrange stones so the distance from the center of one to the center of the next one is 20 to 24 in.
• Set the stones in place and cut around them with a spade or rock saw. Then lift the stone and dig out the grass and a little soil.
• Spread a 1/2- to 1-in.-thick layer of sand under the stone if you want to make leveling the stones easier. Sand is easier to work with than soil. A 60-lb. bag of sand is enough for about four to six stones.
• Set the top of the stepping-stones about 1 in. above the soil level. This will give you a dry place to step while still allowing you to run alawn mowerover the path.

Using Ground Cover Plants with Stone Paths

Ground cover attractively fills the space around and between pieces of yard stones such as flagstone. Includingground cover plantsin your garden path makes a stone walkway easier in two ways: First, you can skip the thick, compacted gravel base underneath. That eliminates the backbreaking digging, plus the hauling and compacting of gravel. Without the solid base, the stones will shift and become uneven, but the plants will hide that. The second advantage is that you dont have to spend extra time laying the stones perfectly. The plants will hide wide gaps.

There are quite a fewperennial plantsthat can withstand foot traffic and will grow between stones. Check with your local nursery to see whats available that will grow in your area. Here are some ground cover plants that can tolerate some foot traffic: Creeping Thyme, Blue Star Creeper, Brass Buttons, Creeping Mazus and Sedum.

The post Garden Path Ideas That Are Easy, Cheap and Low-Maintenance appeared first on Family Handyman.

Manual/Wind-up Windows

Winding a window up and down was a chore, especially while driving (and can you imagine doing that today while holding a cellphone which you shouldn’t be doing while driving!) or having to reach across the seat to “crank up” the window if it starts raining, or stopping to pay at a toll booth? With power windows, pushing a button easily raises or lowers the windows in seconds. As power windows became more popular, manufacturers found it more efficient and cost-effective to make them a standard feature. While this change has been mostly welcomed, we still miss that manual windows allowed us to roll up our windows if the battery was dead, or down to the exact position we wanted. However, power windows offer convenience and comfort.

The post 13 Retro Car Features We’re Nostalgic For appeared first on Family Handyman.

Plant a Drought-Tolerant Grass

One effective way to drought-proof your lawn is by choosing drought-tolerant grass varieties. In warm climates, grasses like Zoysia, Bermuda, and Buffalo thrive on minimal water. For cooler regions, Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue are resilient to both drought and cold. These grasses are perfect for dry spells and require less water than other varieties.

The post 8 Must-Know Tips to Drought-Proof Your Lawn appeared first on Family Handyman.

@warped.yt Gopro Inside a Dishwasher P.2 #fyp #dishwasher #how #howitworks #whatsinside original sound – Warped

Initial Rinse

The cycle starts with filling and rinsing. The dishwasher has several spigots that shoot water up. These spigots are on multiple arms that rotate to ensure that the water doesn’t miss any portion of the dishwasher. This initial rinse helps spray the dishes from multiple angles, ensuring no food gets left behind. The first rinse is similar to what you might do if you were handwashing. It scrapes off the large chunks of food and gives a quick first rinse so that the soap can reach down to the sauce and oils and break them down properly.

Soap Dispenser

Once the dishes are decently rinsed, the dishwasher dispenses the soap. Then, it continues to rinse with water, but with much more water and more intense water pressure. The footage looks similar to what you might see during a heavy rainstorm. As you watch the video, this is perhaps the most satisfying part: you can see the bulk of the mess come off the plates. Everything that the first rinse loosened but didn’t remove is fair game for the soap rinse.

Draining

The dishwasher drains a few times during the cycle. Doing this at multiple points instead of just at the end ensures that miscellaneous food bits and oils aren’t spread to other dishes. It also does a final drain at the end of the cycle. This way, you don’t flood your kitchen when you go to put the clean dishes away.

Final Takeaways

Watching footage of the inside of a dishwasher during its cycle also illuminates why there is a correct way to load the appliance. If you’ve packed your dishes too close together, the water can’t get to them, and food will stay caked on instead. So, if you’ve been noticing that your silverware is coming out dirty or your bowls still have residue on them, reconsider how you load them in and how tightly you cram dishes in.

The post Watch What Happens Inside Your Dishwasher When You Run It appeared first on Family Handyman.

What Cars Are Recalled?

According to the recall report provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Nov. 27, the following car models are part of this recall:

• 2023 Honda Pilot
• 2023 Honda Passport
• 2024 Honda Pilot
• 2024 Honda Passport
• 2025 Honda Pilot

Honda will send notification letters to owners of the recalled vehicles in early January 2025. The recall affects 205,760 cars in total.

Why Are These Honda SUVs Being Recalled?

The NHTSA report explains that these models are being recalled because of a defect in the fuel system. “Some vehicles may have an incomplete connection between the fuel filler neck tube and fuel filler pipe,” the report reads. In the event of a crash, the filler neck tube could potentially separate from the filler pipe, causing a fuel leak, and if the leak happens near an ignition source, a fire could break out. In other words, this defect increases the risk of a fire.

What To Do If My Honda SUV Is Recalled

Honda will fix the impacted Honda Pilot and Passport SUVs free of charge. When owners receive their recall letter, they should call their local Honda dealer as soon as possible to set up an appointment to have their car inspected. If necassary, they will properly connect the fuel filler neck tube to the fuel filler pipe for you at no cost to you.

If you do not receive an ownership letter or have questions about this recall, owners can call Honda’s customer service at 1-888-234-2138 with inquiries about the recall (the recall number is OKM).

Sources

NHTSA.gov: “Fuel Leak from Fuel Filler Pipe Separation” Recall Report

The post Honda Recalls Over 200,000 SUVs Over Defect That Could Cause Fires appeared first on Family Handyman.

Keeping excess humidity at bay is critical to home maintenance. Thats why we spend a lot of time reviewing dehumidifiers and other small household appliances at Family Handyman. In 2024 alone, we performed hundreds of tests, collected thousands of data points and tried dozens of brands. From small dehumidifiers to space heaters and air purifiers, we spent countless hours ensuring the best home products are worth the money.

At the top of our list is the Gocheer dehumidifierwhich were officially declaring the best home product of 2024. Heres what you need to know about this little appliance.

What’s so special about the Gocheer dehumidifier?

The Gocheer dehumidifier is a compact dehumidifier with a 68-ounce tank that can extract moisture in spaces up to 800 square feet. Its small and lightweight enough to fit on a nightstand, and its quiet operation wont keep you up at night.

Theres also a drain hosea rare find in many small dehumidifier modelsfor those who wish to run it continuously, so theres no need to drain the tank every few hours. The Gocheer dehumidifier has a seven-color night light for added ambiance. While you can hear it operating on high-speed mode, sleep mode drops the noise below 15 decibels, comparable to a cat purring.

How We Tested It

As a relatively new Southerner trying to get used to how humid North Carolina can be, especially during the summer, product tester Anthony OReilly has spent years researching different dehumidifiers for his roughly 600-square-foot apartment.

While searching for the best, Anthony looked for small dehumidifiers that made his living space noticeably less humid in a short amount of time. He wanted a quiet dehumidifier with an auto shut-off feature and a small profile that could be easily stored on a nightstand.

For the first test, I started the dehumidifier and started a stopwatch, and I hit the time when I noticed that my studio felt more comfortable than before, Anthony says. As a studio owner, I dont have the space for large appliances. Thats why I prefer small dehumidifiers that weigh 5 pounds or less and could fit easily on a bookshelf, countertop or nightstand.

To test the noise level, Anthony turned on the Goocheer dehumidifier and walked to the other side of the room. He was impressed to find he couldnt hear it. The auto shut-off also impressed him, as it can prevent leaks and damage to your space. If you live in an extremely humid area like Florida, look for a dehumidifier with a valve to add a continuous drain hose.

Of the seven small dehumidifiers Anthony tested, the Gocheer was the quickest at dehumidifying his 600-square-foot studio apartment.

Where to Buy the Gocheer Dehumidifier

VIA MERCHANT

$89.99 at Amazon

Best Home Product

Gocheer Dehumidifier

This mini-yet-mighty appliance quickly impressed our product tester. We love that its small size doesn't impact performance!

$89.99 at Amazon

You can buy the Gocheer dehumidifier at Amazon for about $100. For the price, this handy gadget certainly packs a lot of power!

The post The Gocheer Dehumidifier Is the Best Home Product We Tested in 2024 appeared first on Family Handyman.

EMIKO FRANZEN FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$160.36 at Amazon

When it comes to the safest space heater, it doesn’t get much better than the Dreo Solaris 718. This tower heater comes in three colors and is loaded with safety features. A child lock, cool-touch housing, tip-over protection and overheat protection make it safe for use in a house with little ones. Plus it’s made of flame retardant materials. In addition to its many safety features, this space heater boasts a powerful fan and precise temperature control.

“The Dreo Solaris comes with not only five heat settings but also specific temperature control,” says associate product tester Dylan Fischer. “It’s very convenient for fine-tuning a specific heat level for your room.” And once it’s finished heating, you don’t have to worry about getting scalded if you accidentally bump into it. Dylan points out that while the heating grates themselves took a few minutes to completely cool off after operating in high-heat mode, most of the model was cool to the touch after heating.

While Dylan didn’t particularly care for the conical shape of this heater, he was impressed by its overall performance, noting that its fan was noticeably more powerful than its pricey competitors. “The fan is much more powerful, and I could actually feel the difference even in the far corners,” he explains. “During the high-mode test, there was a 10-degree difference by the end (in the center of the room).” And in spite of its power, this space heater is incredibly quiet. In fact, Dylan points out that it makes virtually no noise when on low.

Another callout feature is the unit’s convenient cord management system. “Always gotta call out nice cord management when we see it. Any unused cord can easily be wrapped around the bottom of the base,” raves Dylan.

The post The 7 Safest Space Heaters: Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

Since cleaning is an integral part of home maintenance, we spend much of our time reviewing cleaning products at Family Handyman. In 2024 alone, we performed hundreds of tests, collected thousands of data points and tried dozens of brands. From vacuums for pet hair and stain removers to stick vacuums and steam cleaners, we spent countless hours ensuring the top cleaning tools were worth the money.

At the top of our list is the Bissell Little Green Machinewhich were officially declaring the best cleaning product of 2024. Heres what you need to know about this little machine.

What’s so special about the Bissell Little Green Machine?

The Bissell Little Green is a portable carpet and upholstery cleaner that weighs less than ten pounds. It can be carried around to tackle any mess in any corner of the house, and its footprint is compact, too. Its a little over 17 inches wide and 12.5 inches tall, and it has a depth of about eight inches, so it easily slips into a cabinet or hall closet when not in use.

Similar to a wet vacuum, this handy machine has a 48-ounce tank to hold cleaning solutions and a dirty water receptacle; the machine sucks up the liquid as you clean. The handle has a trigger-activated spray nozzle that releases the cleaning solution and a soft brush tool that rubs away tough stains. Much like an upholstery brush, the soft bristles are gentle on fabrics.

Bissells Little Green Machine has a 15-foot power cord and a 4-foot hose that accommodates a variety of detachable cleaning tools. Youll also get a 32-ounce bottle of Bissell Pet & Stain cleaner and an 8-ounce trial bottle of Spot & Stain cleaner with Febreze, so you can use the machine immediately after opening it. Simply add the Bissell formula to the formula fill line, then add water to the water line, and youre set.

How We Tested It

Product Tester Sheri Kaz used the machine to treat virtually every stain in her house for her in-depth Bissell Little Green Machine review. From a coffee stain on her new, cream-color sofa to set-in stains on her carpet, the Little Green Machine faced all of Sheris messes.

The results? Fresh spills and stains were no match for the Little Green Machine; even hot coffee on a cream sofa was quickly lifted. However, long-standing stains were tougher to remove.

After testing the Little Green Machine on five-year-old shag carpet stains, Sheri noticed that the rug was brightened, but the stains were stubborn and did not come out completely. On other light-colored hallway runners, Sheri spot-treated several mystery stains that were six months old or less. With patience, all stains were lifted except for a few tar-like marks.

Our advice? Get close to the stain, and dont overspray. A little goes a long way. Its best to deep clean spills on fibers when theyre fresh.

Where to Buy It

SHERI KAZ/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop on Walmart

Shop on Bissell

$81.49 at Amazon

$123.59 at Wayfair North America

Best Cleaning Product

Bissell Little Green Machine

Shop on Walmart

Shop on Bissell

$81.49 at Amazon

$123.59 at Wayfair North America

With the Bissell Little Green Machine, you can clean messes before the stains set in. Shop our favorite little cleaning machine atWalmart, Bissell, Wayfairand Amazon. It retails for about $120, but you can often score it on sale.

And for more tested recommendations, don’t miss our release of the best home products of 2024.

The post The Bissell Little Green Machine Is the Best Cleaning Appliance of 2024 appeared first on Family Handyman.

SHERI KAZ/FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop on Walmart

Shop on Bissell

$81.49 at Amazon

$123.59 at Wayfair North America

This handy, portable carpet and upholstery cleaner can tackle everything from new spills on furniture to set-in carpet stains. Like a wet vacuum, the Bissell Little Green Machine has a 48-ounce tank to hold cleaning solutions and a dirty water receptacle. The machine sucks up the liquid as you clean.

This cleaning machine’s footprint is compact, and it weighs just under 10 pounds when the tanks are empty, so its easy to move around the house. Plus, it accommodates a variety of detachable cleaning tools to help you treat any mess. Product Tester Sheri Kaz tested the cleaner for her Bissell Little Green review. Spoiler alert: Freshly spilled coffee on Sheris cream-colored sofa was no match for the green machine.

The post The Best Products We Tested in 2024, According to <i>Family Handyman</i> Editors appeared first on Family Handyman.

“Dealers will install advanced diagnostic software as the final remedy, anticipated to be available in the second quarter of 2025,” says the NHTSA. “Volkswagen will monitor available online vehicle data and contact owners as necessary to advise them not to charge the vehicle until the battery can be replaced.”

All repairs will be made free of charge. The NHTSA expects letters notifying impacted owners of the safety risk to be sent out by January 2025.

This recall follows another, much larger Volkswagen recall. In early November, the NHTSA announced that over 100,000 Volkswagen vehicles were being recalled over concerns that faulty airbag inflators may cause exploding airbags. That recall affected Beetle and Passat models from 2006 to 2019.

Sources:

• NHTSA, “2022 AUDI AUDI Q5” (2024)
• Reuters, “Volkswagen recalls more than 4,600 vehicles in US over battery overheating concerns” (2024)
• Newsweek, “Volkswagen Recalls Over 114,000 Vehicles in US Over Airbag Explosion Risk” (2024)

The post Volkswagen Hybrids Recalled Over Fire Risk — Is Yours On the List? appeared first on Family Handyman.

When you discover mold in your home, fast and thorough removal is essential to prevent its rapid spread and related health issues. “Proper mold remediation involves removing the active colony, roots, and dead particles,” mold and air quality expert Michael Rubino explains. “This is particularly challenging on porous surfaces like untreated wood, where mold roots and particles embed deep within the surface.”

We spoke with three experts to get their tips on how to clean mold off wood and keep it from coming back.

How to Clean Mold Off Unfinished Wood

Mold removal requires a more methodical approach when it grows on unfinished wood. “Mold grows roots called hyphae, which can penetrate the surface,” Rubino explains. “Like weeds, to fully eliminate mold, you must remove it at the root.

Follow the steps below to clean mold off unfinished wood. (However, if the problem is large or severe or you have concerns about handling things safely, hire a mold remediation professional instead.)

Prep to remove the mold

“During sanding or other abrasive methods, mold particles can become airborne,” Rubino says. “Set up containment, use protective equipment, and deep clean afterwards to prevent spreading particles throughout your home.”

Mold removal expert Darren Hudema recommends wearing gloves, a P100 mask and goggles or a full-face respirator to minimize exposure to mold spores. “Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and using fans,” he says. “Before cleaning, dry the wood using a fan or dehumidifier, as mold thrives in moisture, and it’s essential to eliminate the source of dampness.”

The post How To Get Rid of Mold on Unfinished Wood appeared first on Family Handyman.

That’s not all a security system can do, of course. A fully tricked-out subscription service can monitor all parts of a property and alert authorities in case of an intruder, a fire or some other emergency. But not everyone needs that level of protection or wants to pay the monthly fee to get it. Besides that, a professionally monitored system can send false alarms, which can get you in trouble with first responders and neighbors.

We spoke with Hooman Shahidi of SimpliSafe to get an idea of the benefits and drawbacks of a no subscription home security system. If you’re considering installing a new security system and aren’t sure whether to go with the subscription package or monitor the system yourself, this post is for you.

Why Do Most Home Security Systems Have Subscription Services?

The subscription service brings your security hardware to the next level, says Shahidi. If one of your sensors trips whether a smoke alarm or burglary sensor a professional monitoring service will jump into action and ensure appropriate help is sent to mitigate any damage. Without a subscription, you’re on your own, “which can be challenging during a scary situation or impossible if you’re away from your phone and don’t see the alarm notification on your home security app.”

Most subscription services include cloud storage of video footage, which is an additional feature that helps investigators determine the causes of damage and identify intruders.

According to Ackerman Security Systems of Atlanta, you should expect to pay between $30 to $60 monthly for a subscription, although some companies offer plans for as little as $20 while other plans can cost as much as $100 per month.

Are There Home Security Systems Without Subscriptions?

“Professional monitoring subscriptions are often optional when purchasing a home security system,” says Shahidi.

When you buy security hardware, such as doorbells, cameras and sensors, you can usually download a free app that allows you to self-monitor without a subscription. Shahidi affirms this is true for SimpliSafe, and my friend is now happily monitoring her Ring system from her mobile device.

Besides SimpliSafe and Ring, the following brands offer free apps that allow you to use their equipment without a subscription:

• Safewise
• Vivint
• Cove
• Brinks Home
• ADT

No-Subcription Home Security System Benefits

Shahidi says he always recommends subscribing to a professional monitoring plan, but that doesn’t mean going it alone is without benefits. Here are some of them:

• No fees: This may be the only motivation budget-conscious homeowners need.
• No false alarm penalties: False alarms waste emergency response resources and can lead to fines in some communities.
• Put equipment where you want it: You can move cameras and sensors around at will in response to changing security needs.
• Portability: Moving to another property? Pack up your security equipment and take it with you.

No-Subscription Home Security System Drawbacks

Without a subscription, you won’t get the full protection a security company offers, and you’ll miss out on many available perks. Skipping the subscription means:

• No help with equipment or installation: If you don’t understand how a piece of equipment works or where to put it, well… you’re on your own. Maybe you can find help on YouTube.
• No backup protection and more stress: Without professional monitoring, you have to check your device to find out if something is happening that you need to know about. Who needs more device time?
• Limited connection to emergency services: If something does happen that calls for a response, it’s up to you to make the appropriate calls. “Professional support,” says Shahidi, “ensures that the right emergency help will be sent to the home quickly to address the problem at hand.”

Is a Subscription or No-Subscription Home Security System Right for Me?

This depends on several factors, including your ability to set up a security system yourself and your willingness to commit to a monthly payment. Not the least important factor is the level of protection you want, based on the neighborhood in which you live.

You don’t need professional monitoring if, like the friend for whom I just set up a system, you live in a safe neighborhood, and you just want to know who’s at the door. While you do need some skill to install security hardware for such minimal protection, you don’t need much, and you can probably do it yourself. What’s more, self-monitoring software is free and easy to use.

If, on the other hand, you live in a neighborhood where crime is a concern, professional monitoring can make the difference between suffering major damage or having responders arrive in time to prevent the worst from happening. Case in point: My brother-in-law used to live in a dangerous neighborhood, and he was asleep when arsonists set fire to his garage. Even though camera footage helped police catch the perpetrators, significant damage was done, and remote monitoring could have prevented it.

FAQ

Is no-subcription home security system equipment cheaper?

No-subscription security system equipment is not necessarily cheaper, says Shahidi. “Today, a wide variety of home security systems are available depending on your specific budget and home security needs.” The main difference between a subscription and no-subscription home security system is the monthly cost of professional monitoring.

About the Expert

• Hooman Shahidi is the Chief Product Officer at SimpliSafe.

Source

• Ackerman Security Systems: How Much Do Home Security Systems Cost Per Month?; 2024.

The post Why a No-Subscription Home Security System Might Be Perfect for You appeared first on Family Handyman.

Here’s a look at some of the reported troubles impacting Cybertruck performance and why snow can pose such a problem for the tech-focused truck.

Clogged lights

Cybertrucks have a slick, minimalist design meant to evoke a futuristic look. Unfortunately, that design creates areas where snow can build up and get trapped, leading to obstruction of the lights.

“The lights get clogged with snowfall,” reads a Nov. 29 post on the CyberStuck subreddit from a Cybertruck owner in Vermont. “Then, the bits that melt freeze and create a sort of ice wall blocking the lights.”

When you’re driving in the winter, your lights are essential for safety. Any obstruction to your lights should be immediately removed.

Getting stuck in snow

Since its release, there have been many online reports of Cybertrucks getting stuck in the snow. However, there isn’t really anything specific about the Cybertruck’s design that makes it particularly susceptible to getting stuck in a snowdrift. Getting stuck in snow often comes down to tire quality, so as long as you swap the stock tires on your Cybertruck for some snow tires.

Corrosion from salt

With their gleaming stainless steel surfaces, preventing rust is an obvious priority when it comes to Cybertruck maintenance. That might be harder in areas with more frequent snow. The road salt used in these areas can build up on the stainless steel surface and cause rust. Cybertruck owners should regularly wash their vehicles in the winter to ensure that road salt does not harm any protective coating and leave the steel vulnerable.

Sources:

• Reddit, “‘The light gets clogged with snowfall‘” (2024)
• Yahoo Finance, “Cybertrucks Are A Disaster Now, But Winter Will Be A Nightmare” 2024
• Jalopnik, “Cybertrucks Keep Getting Stuck In Snow” 2024
• Business Insider, “Tesla’s ‘apocalypse-proof’ Cybertruck thwarted by sand, snow, and regulator recalls.” 2024
• Business Insider, “The Cybertruck’s steel exterior could need extra protection from winter road salt” 2024

The post Why Tesla Cybertrucks Struggle In Snowy Conditions appeared first on Family Handyman.

Our tester used the Avocado mattress topper on his 16-year-old mattress and was seriously impressed by the comfort and support it provided. Read on for everything you need to know about the Avocado mattress topper.

What is the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper?

The Avocado mattress topper is a latex mattress topper available in a two-inch, medium-comfort option and 3-inch plush option. The medium topper is made of Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic latex, and the plush topper is made with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified Pure Talalay latex. It has a Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified organic cotton cover with a hidden underside zipper for easy removal. The topper and cover are Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Made Safe certified. This Avocado mattress topper is also vegan-certified, as its made without wool. And if you happen to prefer wool, Avocado also makes a luxurious Alpaca wool mattress topper.

VIA MERCHANT

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We Tried It

Avocado Eco Organic Mattress Topper

The Avocado mattress topper is made with organic latex and cotton and is offered in medium and plush feels.

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Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper Features

Eco-Friendly

Depending on the model you choose, the Avocado mattress topper is made with either GOLS and FSC-certified organic Dunlop latex or FSC-certified Pure Talalay latex. Unlike polyurethane foam or memory foam toppers, which are made from fossil fuels, the latex is natural and renewable. This means it’s better for the planet and, most importantly, better for you.

Non-Toxic

The Avocado mattress topper has been granted multiple certifications. It’s Made Safe Certified, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified, Greenguard Gold Certified and Formaldehyde-Free Claim Verified by UL Environment. This means that every topper has undergone rigorous testing and isproven to be free from toxic ingredients and pollutants. You can sleep soundly knowing that your topper is free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, phthalates and other harmful chemicals.

Removable Cover

This topper has a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover with a hidden underside zipper. It can be removed, though the brand recommends spot cleaning only. If your cover starts looking shabby, you can purchase a replacement.

Flippable

Avocado recommends rotating and fluffing the mattress topper on a regular basis to help retain its loft. It can also be flipped.

How We Tested It

Our tester,Spencer Kildare, is a side sleeper who appreciates extra support and pressure relief. Especially since he’s been sleeping on the same spring mattress for 16 years. My mattress is very old and worn in. Its probably not the best to sleep on, but I have gotten accustomed to it, he explains. My sleep quality isnt the best, and I sometimes feel like Im 60% to 90% rested.

In hopes of improving his sleep quality, Spencer ordered the 3-inch Talalay latex topper. It costs between $45 and $72 more depending on the size, but it is softer and more plush than the Dunlop latex used in the 2-inch topper. The plush Talalay topper is designed to contour and alleviate shoulder and hip pain, making it ideal for side and combination sleepers like Spencer.

TheAvocado mattress topper arrived in a single box that Kildare could lift and move on his own. The topper itself was folded and wrapped in plastic. According to Kildare, it took a grand total of three minutes to get this mattress topper out of the box and centered on his bed. He did notice a factory smell, which he said was reminiscent of vanilla cake. He notes that the smell isnt bad, but the topper needs a week or more to completely off-gas.

Spencer tested a handful of mattress toppers over the course of several weeks. The Avocado mattress topper was the final topper he tested and it stood out among the rest. “It was the most different, in terms of construction, that I slept on,” he says. “It really has a cakey sort of feel and it mushes when pressure is applied. It provided excellent support to my sides without applying excess pressure.”

After sleeping on this mattress topper for five nights and a handful of mid-day naps, Spencer found that he loved the overall quality and spongey nature of the foam filling. His sleep quality drastically improved and he found himself waking up fully rested more often than not.

Though Spencer gave this topper five stars for comfort and support, he wishes it had corner straps to keep it from moving around on his bed. Straps! Somebody get this mattress topper some straps, he quips. This is a great topper, but those straps are important. Rather than corner straps, this topper relies on well-fitted sheets to keep it in place. Treat yourself to a set of Boll & Branch sheets to keep this topper in place.

Overall, Kildare recommends the Avocado mattress topper to anyone who tends to wake up feeling stiff or sore. It starts at just $199, and given its comfort and quality, your only regret will be that you didn’t buy it sooner.

Pros

• Comfortable and supportive
• Made of more than 95% certified organic material
• Oeko-Tex standard 100 and Made Safe certified
• Available in medium and plush
• Available in six sizes and two heights
• Organic cotton cover can be removed and replaced
• Vegan certified

Cons

• Doesnt have corner straps to hold it in place
• Seems to run slightly large for the stated mattress size

Why You Should Trust Us

AtFamily Handyman, we especially value products that enhance the quality of our sleep. We’ve spent countless hours testing some of the best mattresses on the market from brands like Helix, Saatva and Purple. We’ve also tested the best mattress protectors, sheets and toppers. After thoroughly researching the best mattress toppers, we sent the Avocado mattress topper to Spencer Kildare for testing. He put this topper on his 16-year-old mattress and slept on it for five consecutive nights along with a handful of afternoon naps.

During that time, he focused on its overall comfort and performance. He also considered how easy it was to unpack and place on the bed, whether or not it had any odors and its overall value. This is a mattress topper of excellent quality, he concludes. The soft cover of the topper adds to the spongey nature of the foam filling, and the covering is the most cloth-like of the bunch.

FAQ

Which side up should I put my Avocado Mattress topper?

You can sleep on either side of the Avocado mattress topper.

How do I clean my Avocado Mattress topper?

The Avocado mattress topper and cover are spot clean only. The organic cotton cover is removable but must be spot cleaned and laid flat or hung to dry. If it becomes too soiled, you can purchase a replacement cover.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

The majority of reviewers give the Avocado mattress topper five stars. Most say its incredibly supportive yet soft and comfortable. Several reviewers were pleased to find that this topper instantly improved the feeling of their existing mattress, and others give high marks for the products overall quality and effectiveness. Moreover, many reviewers say they did not notice any off-gassing scents whatsoever.

Negative reviews tended to focus on personal preferences. Several users found the topper to be too firm while a few deemed it too soft.

Avocado Mattress Topper vs. Silk and Snow Organic Mattress Topper

If you’re looking for the best organic mattress topper, Avocado and Silk and Snow are your top two contenders. We know because we tested both of them. Both toppers are made with Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)-certified organic latex and have a GOTS certified organic cotton cover. Neither mattress topper has corner straps to keep it in place, and we found that both of them tend to slide around on the bed.

The Silk and Snow mattress topper starts at $175 and is machine washable. It comes in one thickness and two firmness levels. The Avocado mattress topper, on the other hand, starts at $199 and must be spot cleaned. You can also choose from a 2- or 3-inch thickness in addition to two firmness levels.

Final Verdict

The Avocado mattress topper is an excellent value. It’s well-constructed using non-toxic, eco-friendly materials and offers plenty of support while you sleep. It even improved the overall feel of a 16-year-old spring mattress. If this sounds like heaven, consider pairing this topper with the Avocado Green mattress.

Where to Buy the Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper

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We Tried It

Avocado Eco Organic Mattress Topper

Our tester noticed improved sleep quality and support while sleeping on the Avocado mattress topper despite using it on top of an old, broken-in mattress.

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You can shop theAvocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper ($199-$629) directly fromAvocado, where all toppers ship free and come with a 1-year limited warranty against workmanship defects.

The post The Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper Is the Non-Toxic Stuff Dreams Are Made Of appeared first on Family Handyman.

WENDY ROSE GOULD FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

$199 at The Company Store

If you love the feel of your bed but wish it was a smidge cooler at night, The Company Store’s cooling gel memory foam mattress pad is the cooling mattress topper you’ve been dreaming of. That’s because it keeps you cool without completely changing the feel of your bed.

This topper is made of pressure-relieving memory foam that molds to the shape of your body for ultimate comfort and support. It features a breathable knit top that’s infused with cooling gel to regulate your body temperature all night long. It also has panels that cover the entire mattress and tuck under the corners easily so you can rest assured that it won’t move during the night.

“This mattress topper had a nice cooling effect but it is quite thin,” says our tester Wendy Rose Gould. “It feels more like light pad that you’re sleeping on versus a dense topper. That said, I personally love my mattress so I appreciated that this one didn’t add a lot of excess.”

Gould also appreciated how easy it was to unpack this cooling mattress topper and put it on her bed. The whole process took her about five minutes. She also noted that there were no odors or off-gassing. All she had to do was put it on her bed, add her linen sheets and she was ready to hop in.“You can tell that a lot of technology and thought went into the design,” raves Gould. “It’s comfortable and it effectively cools you at night while providing a thin layer over your mattress.”

The post 5 Best Cooling Mattress Toppers, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

It is easy to overlook the engine air filter located beneath the hood, but it is critical to the life and performance of your engine. Changing the air filter in your vehicle is a simple and straightforward automotive maintenance task that typically requires no tools other than maybe a screwdriver. Follow along as we walk through the process.

What Does a Car Air Filter Do?

An air filter is constructed from treated pulp paper folded into pleats to trap harmful airborne contaminants from reaching your engine. According to automotive expert Bob Lacivita, a clean engine air filter provides better fuel economy by maintaining the optimum air-to-fuel ratio. It Improves the acceleration and performance by allowing the maximum amount of air to enter the combustion chamber. It also increases mass airflow (MAF) sensor accuracy, reduces vehicle emissions, and prolongs engine life by keeping the smallest grit out of the engine.

How Often Should You Change Your Car Air Filter

You should replace your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but it might need to be replaced more often depending on your driving environment. If you drive in a dusty environment often, you will want to change your air filter sooner than 12,000 miles. I live in the suburbs of the Midwest, so I like to change my air filter once a year.

Purchase a replacement engine air filter

Not all cars require the same size air filter. You can find the size your car needs in the owner’s manual or online. Most auto parts stores allow you to input your vehicle’s year, make, and model on their website or on a kiosk at the store to determine which air filter is compatible with your car.

The post Changing Your Car’s Air Filter: How and When To Do It appeared first on Family Handyman.

Imagine if that button wasnt there. The latch plate would just slide all the way down to the base of the seat belt, making it a pain to grab when youre ready to buckle up. Thanks to this simple button, the latch plate stays in an easy-to-reach spot, saving you time and frustration.

Where is the Stop Button Located?

Most seat belts actually have two of these buttons. One is near the latch plate to keep it from sliding down toward the floor, and the other is closer to the top, preventing the metal piece from slipping too far up toward the shoulder strap. Together, they make sure the seat belt stays in the right position for when you need it.

What Happens if Your Stop Button Breaks?

Over time, these buttons can wear out or even break off, but theyre easy to replace. You can find replacement buttons online or at auto stores, and theyre pretty simple to install with basic tools.

Its one of those little things you dont really think about until its gone. But once you realize how much hassle that button saves youand how it helps keep the seat belt working as it shouldyoull definitely appreciate its small but mighty job.

The post Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Why Is GM Recalling Some of Its Vehicles?

According to the NHTSA brief, some GM vehicles are experiencing malfunctions with the tailgate’s electronic gate-release switch. This switch “may short circuit due to water intrusion,” causing the tailgate to unlatch while in park. This is dangerous because “an unlatched tailgate may open and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.”

Which GM Vehicles Have These Tailgate Issues?

Over 130,000 GM vehicles have been recalled due to this tailgate issue, including the:

• 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500
• 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 3500
• GMC Sierra HD 2500
• GMC Sierra HD 3500

GM will mail letters to the affected owners in mid-January 2025. So, if you own one of the vehicles on this list, keep an eye on your mailbox. The owner’s letter will have more information.

What To Do If You Have a Recalled GM Truck

Per the NHTSA brief, GM “dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge.” So don’t delay; get this remedied as soon as you can. If you don’t want to wait for your letter, or if you have further questions, you can contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. Be sure to clarify that you’re calling about recall number N242469160; it’s an expansion of NHTSA Recall 24V-060.

In the meantime, if you have one of the affected GM vehicles, be sure to double-check your tailgate every time you get into the car until the issue has been remedied. Limit your use of the car as much as possible until then. You don’t want to be the reason for a pileup on the highway or a crash on the way home from the hardware store.

Source

The post GM Recalls Thousands of Trucks to Fix Tailgate Safety Risk appeared first on Family Handyman.

@illustriousandy changing all my ornaments without spending a bunch of money! #christmasdecor #diy #christmasdiy #christmas #ornaments #christmashack #christmastree Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms

Change Ornaments with Balloons

I love exploring new trends and color schemes every Christmas, but buying all new ornaments every year is not budget-friendly. This hack from @illustriousandy allows you to change the color of every tree ornament for just a couple of bucks! Buy a bag of balloons in the colors you want, snip off the end of each one, then insert the ornaments inside. The best part is that, unlike paint, the balloon covers aren’t permanent, so you can switch colors as much as you want.

The post 10 Hacks To Make Holiday Decorating Cheaper and Easier appeared first on Family Handyman.

What Might Cause a Fireplace to Burn Low?

Fire needs ample fuel and oxygen to thrive. So if your fireplace is burning low, it’s not receiving enough of at least one of those. Common factors causing that are wet wood, a clogged chimney or vents that are closed too far.

“If a fireplace burns low occasionally and you didn’t experiment with woods, the cause is most likely a clogged chimney or flue that restricts airflow,” says Jon Gilbertson, president of Chris Heating & Cooling. “If your fireplace started burning low after you switched to another wood, then the new wood is likely wet or unseasoned, and too much moisture doesn’t allow the fire to reach optimal heat levels.”

The post Ways To Increase the Heat From Your Wood-Burning Fireplace appeared first on Family Handyman.

What Is a Space Heater?

A space heater is a portable heating device commonly used to warm smaller, otherwise unheated spaces in a home. Most are electric, but fuel-burning models that use kerosene, propane or natural gas are also available. Space heaters can also serve as supplementary heat sources to warm a specific room without raising the entire home’s temperature.

Are Space Heaters Safe?

Space heaters are a great option for that stubborn corner of your home that just won’t get warm, and “as long as they’re properly used, shouldn’t pose a safety issue,” Moore says. However, space heater safety is a serious business, and if not used correctly, space heaters can be very dangerous.

Dangers Associated With Space Heaters

• Fire hazard: Space heaters placed near flammable materials like curtains or bedding can easily ignite and cause a fire. If a space heater is unattended and tips over, it can also quickly lead to a fire.
• Electric shock risk: Damaged or exposed wires can cause electric shock.
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Fuel-burning heaters release carbon monoxide, an odorless, poisonous gas and must be used in well-ventilated spaces.
• Burn risk: Space heater surfaces can become extremely hot and cause serious burns if not handled properly.

Tips for Using Space Heaters Safely

Always practice these tips for optimum space heater safety.

Follow the instructions

Your space heater should have a label that shows it was tested in a recognized laboratory. Before using the heater, read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels.

Use for supplemental heat only

A space heater is meant to provide supplemental heat only. They should never be used to warm linens, cook food or dry clothing. While they may work to warm up smaller rooms in your home, they are not very energy-efficient appliances.

Make sure your smoke alarms work

“Always check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are operating,” Moore says. This is essential whether you’re using a space heater or not, but given the risk of fire associated with portable, plug-in heaters, it’s an especially critical task.

Check the cord

Check the space heater’s cord for cracks and make sure the plug isn’t broken. When plugging in, make sure the connection is secure. Loose connections are inherently dangerous and can be a fire hazard.

Don’t leave a space heater unattended

When leaving a room, turn the space heater off. Also, turn the heater off when sleeping. “Running a space heater while you’re asleep is the same as leaving it unattended,” Moore says, “I don’t recommend it.” Never let pets or children play too close to the heater to avoid burns and prevent them from accidentally tipping it over.

Keep it out of the way

Keep your space heater in a corner or an area of the room where people aren’t walking so that nobody trips on it. Not only is it dangerous for the person walking, it could result in the heater getting too close to flammable materials.

Plug directly into an outlet

Space heaters draw considerable electric current, which can shock you and overheat extension cords and power strips. “Always plug your space heater directly into an outlet, never an extension cord,” Moore says.

Keep space heaters away from flammable material

Space heaters should be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including rugs, clothing, bedding and paper. They’re best used on a flat, uncovered floor without carpeting. Don’t run the cord under a rug, either.

Look for safety features

An easy way to increase space heater safety is to look for a space heater with built-in safety features like a tip-over switch, overheat sensor and touch sensor. These features can help prevent overheating, which can result in a fire.

FAQ

Can you run a space heater all night?

Unless you are awake all night and in the same room as the space heater, you cannot run it all night. “Nothing happens when you’re watching the heater; it’s always when it’s unattended that bad things happen,” Moore says.

How long can you run a space heater?

Moore recommends reading the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how long you can run a particular space heater, as each one is different.

What is the safest spot for a space heater?

The safest spot for a space heater is at least three feet away from any flammable materials in any direction, preferably on an uncarpeted floor in the corner of a room.

About the Expert

• Ryan Moore is Fire Chief for the District No. 2 Fire Department in South Hadley, Massachusetts, where he has served for 18 years.

The post A Guide to Space Heater Safety appeared first on Family Handyman.

Overall Desires

According to the NAHB survey,there are two overarching trends regarding the features that new home buyers look for most. First, buyers are opting for smaller homes than in previous years. Smaller doesn’t necessarily mean small, however. The survey reports that “home buyers are looking for homes around 2,070 square feet.”

The second thing buyers are looking for is “personalization and authenticity.” Gone are the days of cookie-cutter homes being the big draw. People want to be able to put their own stamp on their home rather than living in a pre-set template.

The post These Features Are What New Home Buyers Wants Most In a House appeared first on Family Handyman.

Classic Elegance

Classic elegance is the first of the interior design trends for 2025 that Fishburne identifies. “This timeless trend emphasizes high-quality, classic decor that feels like a lasting investment and will transcend time,” Fishburne begins. She explains that classic elegance focuses on personal style rather than rapidly changing trends. Homeowners who embrace this often opt for “pieces that reflect their taste by modernizing artisanal and handcrafted pieces with a new color or finish.”

She also notes that “formal dining rooms are making a comeback, aligning with the rise of broken floor plans and the desire for spaces dedicated to family connection.”

If you want to embrace this in your home, Fishburne recommends opting for “warmer, bolder colors that balance the minimalism of the 2010s, or try color drenching a monochromatic approach.” She also suggests “rich textures, tactile fabrics and durable materials like warm or dark complex stones mixed with wood finishes complete the look, growing more beautiful with time.”

The post Design Forward: 4 Must-Know Interior Trends for 2025 appeared first on Family Handyman.

Why Are Hyundai Vehicles Being Recalled?

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hyundai is recalling vehicles due to “a damaged printed circuit board.” This damage prevents the backup cam footage from displaying, which limits visibility. Parallel parking, three-point turns, and even just basic safety checks are harder to do without the backup cam footage.

The NHTSA brief explains that this failure means that the impacted vehicles do not “comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, ‘Rear Visibility.'” As such, these vehicles are not as safe to drive as they should be. “A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver’s visibility and increases the risk of a crash,” the brief warns.

Which Hyundai Vehicles Are Recalled?

The faulty backup cams have affected over 226,000 Hyundai vehicles so far. If you own any of the following Hyundai vehicles, yours may be one of them:

• 2021 Santa Fe
• 2021 Santa Fe HEV
• 2021 Elantra
• 2021 Elantra HEV
• 2022 Santa Fe
• 2022 Santa Fe HEV
• 2022 Elantra
• 2022 Elantra HEV
• 2022 Elantra N
• 2022 Santa Fe PHEV

Hyundai will send letters to the affected owners in mid-January 2025, so keep an eye on your mailbox just to be safe. If you already know that you have one of the Hyundai vehicles with a faulty backup cam, exercise extra caution when driving it. The limited visibility may have a larger impact than you think.

What’s the Solution?

Hyundai dealers will replace the faulty backup cams free of charge. Once you’ve gotten your letter and know for sure that your vehicle is impacted, you can schedule an appointment for your car to be serviced. If you don’t want to wait for the letter, or still have questions after reading over it, you can call Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. The number for this recall is 271. You can also call the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236; this recall is NHTSA campaign number 24V879000.

Source

Rearview Image May Not Display/ FMVSS 111, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2024.

The post 225,000+ Hyundai Cars Recalled Over Backup Cam Defect appeared first on Family Handyman.

Christmas Tree Safety

Having a real Christmas tree is an exciting part of the holiday season. It makes your home smell like fresh pine, and there’s a magic to picking out and bringing home your perfect tree. But live trees can also pose some safety risks. The best way to keep your tree fresh is to water it regularly. This slows down the drying-out process and helps to reduce the chances of the tree catching fire.

The problem is that the tree’s water bowl is at the bottom of the tree, buried underneath branches, lights, ornaments, and presents. Trying to water it can be a mess at best and potentially dangerous at worst. And the fuller the tree is at the bottom, the harder this process can be. On

Christmas Tree Watering Hack

In order to simplify the watering process, Richards suggests finding an old cardboard tube that is long enough to reach the bowl in which your tree is mounted. Try to find a thick one, ideally from old wrapping paper. If it’s thin, like the kind that comes inside paper towel rolls, you’ll only be able to use it a couple of times before it gets too soggy and loses all structural integrity. You’ll also want one that’s on the longer side, so you don’t have to bend down. If you can find one long enough to stand upright while it’s in the bowl, that’s the best option.

Once you’ve got your tube, simply stick it between the branches and into the water bowl. Then, you can pour water down the tube and into the bowl. This way, you don’t have to get down on your hands and knees under the tree and risk knocking it over. Nor do you have to risk spilling water on presents, ornaments or even worse, lights. Be sure to keep tabs on the amount of water in the tree bowl, and also check to see how dry your tree is feeling so that you can stay on top of the watering schedule.

The post Struggling to Water Your Christmas Tree? Try This Simple Trick appeared first on Family Handyman.

Any hose that’s just lying on the ground probably hasn’t been drained properly. When the water inside turns to ice, it expands the casing, which turns brittle in the cold. The result is pinhole leaks or actual ruptures. In my experience as a landscaper, I’ve found expandable hoses to be the most vulnerable to winter damage, because their rubber casings are particularly thin (which is what makes them expandable). But ice and freezing temperatures can damage any kind of hose.

Who wants to start the growing season repairing a hose or having to buy a new one? Winterizing your hose is simple and takes just a few minutes. Here’s how.

Shut Off the Water

This seems obvious, but you might forget. Many hoses especially expandable ones have a lever-style valve that allows you to shut off water to the nozzle without actually turning off the spigot. If that valve is closed, and there’s pressure in the hose, you’re in for a soaking when you unscrew the hose from the spigot.

If you have a main water shutoff for the lawn and garden in the house, turn that off. If not, just make sure to fully close all the outdoor spigots by turning the handles clockwise.

• Pro tip: Besides damaging the hose, leaving the hose outside with the spigot open in freezing temperatures can also damage the spigot, and that’s harder to fix.

Disconnect the Hose

Start by squeezing the trigger on the spray nozzle to release the water pressure. When no more water flows, unscrew the nozzle and store it where you’ll find it next spring.

Now, you can disconnect the hose from the spigot. You may need pliers for this, especially if it’s been a while since you disconnected the hose. Some of those connectors can be really difficult to turn with your fingers. Always separate multiple hoses.

If the cold weather has already arrived, the hose might already be frozen. If so, connect the two ends, bring the hose inside to thaw and drain and coil it later.

Drain the Hose

If you have a slope or a flight of stairs on your property, the easiest way to drain a hose is to leave one end at the bottom, carry the other end to the top and let gravity do the work. On flat ground, leave one end near a place where water can safely drain, stretch the hose out, and lift the other end to shoulder height. Start walking while you keep a high loop that forces water out of the end that’s draining.

• Pro tip: Expandable hoses automatically expel water on their own, but it’s still a good idea to drain them this way to get all the water out.

Coil the Hose

Don’t just dump your hose in a pile in the basement or garage. That will produce kinks, and depending on the material from which the hose is made, some of these kinks could become permanent. Coil the hose instead.

To get a good coil, stretch the hose out straight. Make a circle on the ground about two or three feet in diameter at one end while you pull the hose toward you. Continue making more circles on top of the original one until you reach the other end. Finally, tie the hose with a piece of twine to prevent it from unraveling and to make it easier to transport and store.

Store the Hose Indoors

Bring the hose indoors to prevent it from getting brittle and cracking in the freezing temperatures. If you make a loop in the twine you wrapped around it, you can use that to hang the hose from a nail.

• Pro tip: A hose hanger, which you can purchase at any hardware store, makes coiling and storing the hose much easier. If you have one, you don’t need to coil the hose outdoors. Just bring it inside, coil it on the hanger, and leave it there for the winter.

The post Tips for Storing Your Garden Hose During the Winter appeared first on Family Handyman.

If you own your own home, you’ve probably reset a “tripped” breaker at one point or another. I’m a licensed electrician, and when I was in the field, I certainly saw my fair share. Others, like recent graduates moving out on their own or your kid’s sitter, may not have seen a breaker before, tripped or otherwise. This guide’s handy whether you’re looking at a circuit breaker for the first time or an electrical veteran looking for a better way to explain what to do if the breaker trips.

Why Do Breakers Trip?

Circuit breakers trip when there’s too much current (aka “overcurrent“) on the circuit, and it always seems to happen at the worst time: when we’re getting ready in the morning or cooking dinner with no time to spare. Here are three reasons circuit breakers trip.

• Overloads. Overloads happen when too many things running at the same time. Let’s say you have a 20-amp circuit in your garage. It’s winter, so you plug in and turn on a 12-amp space heater, then fire up your 15-amp miter saw. Your breaker trips because that’s 27 amps on a 20-amp breaker (how quickly it trips depends on the “inverse time” characteristics of the breaker). Overloads are solved by unplugging appliances and electrical devices and moving them to different circuits.
• Short circuits. Short circuits happen when the current takes a shortcut back to your electrical panel instead of going to the appliance, lamp, power tool or device (called “loads”). This happens when a hot wire touches the neutral or another hot wire, due to worn insulation, poor connections or other problems. Because there’s no resistance from the load, the current spikes extremely high, and the circuit breaker opens the circuit almost instantaneously.
• Ground faults. Ground faults are a type of short circuit, but they happen when a hot wire touches a part of the circuit that’s not supposed to be energized, like a metal appliance housing. Ground faults are extremely dangerous because electricity always wants to return to its source (the transformer outside, by way of your electrical panel). To get there, it could go through you and the ground you’re standing on. To prevent this, electricians install a deliberate fault path back to the panel, called an equipment grounding conductor.

How To Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker

Resetting the occasional tripped breaker is no big deal, and ahead, I’ll walk you through it. But, if your breaker trips frequently, or you smell burning, see sparks or are just not sure why the breaker keeps tripping, call a licensed electrician for help. Overloads are much easier to solve than short circuits and ground faults, which may be buried in an unknown electrical box or even inside a wall. If redistributing the loads doesn’t help, you likely have a problem with your wiring.

Find the tripped breaker

Go to your electrical panel and open the front cover only. If you’re (very) lucky, the breakers will be nicely labeled, but in my experience, that’s almost never the case. Even if electrical panels start out nice and neat, it’s likely somewhere along the way that other homeowners or electricians have moved things around but not bothered to update the labels.

So, look for a breaker that’s not in the same position as the other ones. Breakers have three switch positions: On, Off and Tripped. Most of your breakers will be On. Tripped will be the middle position. You can also use some deductive reasoning: a light or receptacle circuit that trips will be a 15-amp or 20-amp single-pole breaker, meaning it has a single hot wire and takes up one spot in your panel. Larger appliances like your air conditioner, electric stove or dryer will be double-pole breakers, which are bigger and less common.

Tandem breakers split a single-pole breaker slot into two 15or 20-amp breakers, with two switches each controlling a separate circuit. They free up space in overcrowded electrical panels, but their use is limited, and they’re less common than typical breakers.

Reset the breaker

Find the tripped breaker? To reset it, first flip it to Off. If you try to move it to the On position first, it will just flop back into tripped mode. Turning it Off resets the mechanism that holds the breaker in the On position. Once it’s Off, flip it to On and see if it holds. (I always stand to one side of the panel and turn my face away as I reset a breaker in case of an unlikely arc flash explosion.)

If the breaker trips immediately, you need to investigate. Try unplugging some things on the same circuit, then reset the breaker again. If the breaker holds, you likely had an overload. Move the things you unplugged to a new circuit. If the breaker keeps tripping or you notice it trips after you plug in a certain appliance, it’s likely a wiring issue. Call an electrician and unplug the appliance that’s causing the problem until it can be serviced.

Reset your appliance clocks if needed, and you’re good to go.

FAQ

Can a circuit breaker reset itself?

No, circuit breakers in your home electrical panel cannot reset themselves. They must be manually reset.

Why won’t my circuit breaker reset?

A circuit breaker that will not reset could indicate a short circuit or ground fault due to loose or damaged wiring or an overload on the circuit. Or the breaker itself could be malfunctioning. If it’s an overloaded circuit, redistribute the loads and try again. Call an electrician if you suspect other problems unless you have experience with electrical work.

How long can you leave a circuit breaker off?

If a breaker trips, it’s best to solve the problem ASAP to minimize disruption. Breakers that aren’t in use are safe to leave off until needed.

The post Reset a Tripped Circuit Breaker in Minutes: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Family Handyman.

I’d been hearing a lot about the brand, which broke onto the scene just a few years ago and has since become a large social media presence. As the story goes, founder Eric Girouard set out to create a relatively affordable boot with an easy break-in time and, of course, all of the necessary safety and convenience features.

Brunt makes several styles. I chose the Marin, one of their most popular models. It has a moc-toe (moccasin-reminiscent) design. Boots with this u-shaped seam on top of the toe box are known for being more flexible and lighter than those with a solid-toe design. That makes for a boot that’s easier to wear all day, especially if your job keeps you, literally, on your toes.

Here’s how my testing went and what to expect from these boots.

What are Brunt Work Boots?

Brunt work boots are a line of safety boots made for construction, agriculture and other job site work. They come in various models: moc-toe, traditional toe, pull-on (cowboy boot) and running-shoe styles.

Brunt makes only one women-specific model, the Marin Women’s. It’s available down to size 6.5. Beyond that, most of their models start at size 7 men (8.5 women), which is limiting for those of us with smaller feet. On the plus side, most of their models are available up to size 16, which is fantastic for those with huge trotters.

The model I tested, the Marin Women’s, has an appealing look tough enough to be taken seriously on a job site but also a tad fashionable. I wouldn’t be surprised if some women keep wearing them after the proverbial quittin’-time whistle blows.

However, the boots’ safety features are much more important than aesthetics: they are waterproof and designed specifically to withstand slick and muddy environments, with slip-resistant, oil-resistant and heat-resistant soles.

The women’s model is only available with a soft toe and in a 6-inch height. The men’s version, however, is available in 6 and 8-inch heights and with added toe-box options, including a non-metallic composite safety toe or their “brunt” toe, which includes a durable rubber reinforcement on the front.

Each pair includes an extra insole, which is removable to accommodate wider feet (up to EE), plus a nylon shank for mid-foot support. They are also made from “barnyard-resistant leather,” which the company claims helps protect them from oleic acid, sodium chloride and ammonium hydroxide, which can damage regular leather.

Their leather is also sourced from Texas steers, which the company claims are “the highest quality hides available.” I’m sure Texans agree, though there are likely some ranchers in my Colorado Valley who would beg to differ! (Also, note that while the leather is from the USA, it’s ultimately made into boots in China, Vietnam and India.)

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

Brunt Work Boots Features

Brunt work boots were designed with safety in mind. The Marin models include a waterproof and breathable membrane, and the men’s version also comes with a composite safety toe option. The soles are touted as being slip and oil-resistant, non-marking and heat-resistant to 572 degrees. They also have an ASTM electrical hazard rating of F2413-18.

For comfort, they’re made to break in quickly, like in a matter of hours. An internal nylon shank for mid-foot support helps prevent foot fatigue, and polyurethane midsoles provide extra cushion. The insoles have three layers, again for more precise support and cushion, and include an anti-odor treatment. There’s a second insole insert, which can be removed to accommodate wider feet. They are also lightweight compared with many other brands, coming in at 1 lb. 14 oz. for a single boot.

For durability, they have barnyard-resistant leather, heavy-duty eyelets with pass-through and wrap-around lace hooks and double and triple stitching at the various stress points.

How We Tested It

My first impression of the Brunt Marin boots is a little embarrassing. Instead of admiring their burly nature, I thought, “Wow, these are actually kind of cute.”

But, at least for me, aesthetics don’t carry much weight on the job site. I care about how my feet feel after a long day and how well they are protected when I drop a hammer on my toes. To figure out the answers to those, I slipped them on and got to work framing our garage.

First, the boots have a quality lacing system. Thanks to heavy-duty metal eyelets and upper cuff adjustments, including wrap-around lace hooks, it’s easy to fine-tune their fit. The hooks particularly came in handy since my ankle is a little small for the cuff of these boots, so those helped me crank down on the laces to get ample support.

For the first half hour or so, the boots were dastardly uncomfortable. My heel wouldn’t nestle into the pocket, so the heel cup dug into my Achilles. I ended up pulling out the extra insolea design intended to accommodate extra-wide feetand that did the trick. My heels settled down into a much better position. And even though I have pretty narrow feet, the extra width wasn’t entirely annoying.

After that, the boots broke in quickly. Within an hour they were starting to conform to my feet, and at the end of the day, I didn’t have any sore spots to complain about. The slip-resistant soles worked fine on concrete, even after it rained, though I did not test them in an oily environment (that will have to wait until the garage is done and we’ve been fixing our cars in it!). They also kept my feet at a comfortable temperature on warm days, and then also after a cold front came roaring in and we were working in 40-degree weather.

While we were waiting on a materials delivery one day, I also decided to test the Brunts out in the garden. I normally wouldn’t wear work boots for such an occasion, but it felt like a good chance to see how versatile they are, especially with tasks that require a lot of kneeling.

I was pleasantly surprised at how flexible they were. I was up, down and stretched out all over the place, trying to spread mulch on a few dozen plants to protect them from the impending winter. I didn’t feel like I was being held back in terms of range of motion, and the boots held a nice shape: they didn’t buckle or put undue pressure across my toes.

They also didn’t pick up any thorns, burs or dirty splotches, which was way more than I can say for the seat of my pants. While I was at it, I also let the garden hose run on them for a while. Yep, they’re waterproof! The leather got slightly darker, but only for five minutes or so; then it popped back to its original color.

Finally, I gave the Brunts the hiking test. I know that’s not what they’re meant for. But we went camping, so I figured I’d give that a shot, too. As it turned out, that was not such a great idea. Although they are lightweight, they lack padding and really aren’t comfortable enough to walk long distances in, at least for me. The tread pattern also doesn’t grip well enough for proper scrambling around on rocks. I guess that’s why hiking boots are for hiking and work boots for working.

Sadly, I only ended up wearing the Marins for a week. Ultimately, they were too boxy for my feet, and that clunky feeling caused me to stumble a few times. I prefer a more nimble shoe, which is why I often choose hiking boots over work boots in general, especially on lighter-duty projects (and since Brunt doesn’t make a women’s work boot model with a protective toe box, I wouldn’t choose these for tougher job sites anyway).

Beyond that, the Marins also didn’t fit well overall, which isn’t unusual for me and my footwear. I’ve never been able to stand wearing a pair of Nike’s, either. Unfortunately, that means I didn’t get to test them for longevity and durability.

But I did talk to someone who switched to Brunt Boots a few years ago and has had success with them lasting a long time. “When choosing boots, I consider the price point, durability, weight and overall appearance. Brunt is a great choice as it meets all these criteria,” says Glenn Gracey, President and Founder of Glenn Gracey Plastering in Pennsylvania.

In the end, though, I do like my Brunts enough that I’ll definitely keep them around for those occasions when I have to get particularly mucky or when I need to look like a fashionable handyperson.

Why You Should Trust Us

I’ve been testing and recommending precision footwear for over three decades, starting when I became a professional ski boot fitter at age 16. I have tested everything from leather and hard-shell mountaineering expedition boots to hiking boots, trail-running shoes and even flip-flops. While I have personally gone through a number of work boots during my home construction projects over the years, for this review, I also enlisted the expertise of mountaineer and avalanche forecaster Brian Raffio and construction worker/Brunt boot enthusiast Glenn Gracey.

FAQ

Can you only buy brunt boots online?

No, besides being sold on Brunt’s website and other online shopping sites, Brunt boots are available in several retail stores as well.

Who owns BRUNT Workwear?

Brunt Workwear is a privately held company based in Massachusetts. It was founded by Eric Girouard, who is still the CEO, and financing is made possible by venture capital backers.

What to look for in a work boot?

Fit is one of the most important considerations when buying a work boot. “Your work boots should feel snug but not too tight,” says Brian Raffio with Climbing Kilimanjaro. “Ensure there’s enough room for your toes to wiggle and that your heel stays in place to prevent blisters and discomfort during long hours.”

He also recommends paying attention to boot height, material (whether leather, synthetic or combo), waterproofing, traction, insoles, toe protection, lacing system, weight, breathability, insulation and price. “Before making a decision, try on several pairs and walk around in them to assess comfort and fit,” he says. “Keep in mind that the right boot for one person may not be the best for another, so select the pair that suits your individual needs and preferences!”

The other vital consideration is safety. “Wearing the right work boots can mean the difference between a safe day on the job and a debilitating injury,” says OSHA spokesperson Danisha Braxton. “Strong, durable footwear not only protects workers’ feet but also supports long-term health and productivity.”

When purchasing work boots, OSHA recommends considering protection, including:

• Metatarsal guards,
• Toe guards,
• Combination foot and shin guards,
• Electrical hazard, safety-toe shoes or boots, and
• More, as detailed in this bulletin, as well as this one about protective footwear requirements.

What Others Had to Say

Reviews of Brunt work boots range from rave reviews about their comfort and price to those who find them a bit uncomfortable and to wear out faster than expected.

Adam Beasley of the blog Lazy Guy DIY was pleased with their quick break-in time. “I had them on for maybe 20 minutes before I felt that comfort level hit while digging holes,” he writes. But ultimately they didn’t fit him well, plus he received a number of comments from readers about their (lack of) durability. “Sometimes it’s hard to pick through jaded ambassadors, legit reviews and review bombers. So I’ll leave it at that,” he writes.

An unidentified writer on Iron Pros was overwhelmingly positive about the boots, writing, “Overall, the BRUNT Marin is a game-changer for me. They’re the most comfortable work boots I’ve ever worn, and they seem built to withstand the daily grind of construction work. If you’re looking for a top-notch boot delivered straight to your door, the Brunt Marin is absolutely worth checking out.”

Glenn Gracey, President of Glenn Gracey Plastering and a consultant on this article, is a “massive fan of the Brunt boots,” which he switched to from Red Wings a few years ago. “Overall, I appreciate the price point,” he says. “Additionally, Brunt boots are lighter than Red Wings, providing protection and comfort without the extra weight. A common misconception is that big name brands are the only quality options. These brands often come with a higher price tag, but Brunt offers the same quality and functionality without the premium price.”

Brunt Work Boots vs. Timberland Pro Boots

Which is better: Brunt or Timberland? It depends since both companies offer a wide variety of options. However, in general, both companies offer models that are price-competitive and which feature composite toes, waterproofing and electrical hazard ASTM ratings. Timberland offers a superior variety of women’s models, while Brunts tend to be lighter weight. In the end, the best boots to buy are those that feel the most comfortable on your foot since everyone’s feet are shaped a bit differently.

Final Verdict

Overall, I found the Brunt Marins to be of decent quality, with plenty of desirable features like waterproof leather, reinforced stitching and safety certifications. On the plus side, they are relatively lightweight and take no time at all to break in. They are also a great price, especially for how stylish they look. But, in the end, they just don’t fit my feet. Because of that, I couldn’t wear them long enough to test their durability.

Where to Buy the Brunt Work Boots

KARUNA EBERL FOR FAMILY HANDYMAN

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

I Tried It

The Marin Women's (Soft Toe)

Shop at Brunt

$145.99 at Amazon

Depending on the model, Brunt work boots range in price from around $140 to $269. The Marin Women’s, which we tested in this article, costs $140. The largest range of choices concerning style, height, color, toe box protection and waterproof options can be found on Brunt’s website (you can also buy Brunt Workwear clothing there). Otherwise, Brunt boots are available online on Amazon and Zappos.

The post Brunt Boots Review: I Built a Garage in Brunt Work Boots, And Here’s What Happened appeared first on Family Handyman.

When I’m not writing for Family Handyman, I’m a nurse with a Master’s in Public Health, so I could go on and on about this topic. The truth that comes as a surprise to many is that disinfectant wipes are mostly a no-go for everyday usage.

Stick with me, and I’ll gently and factually discuss the dangers of disinfectant wipes, when they are actually OK to use and how to use them. I’ve got a fantastic expert source who will offer a clever, budget-friendly, and public health nurse-approved method for cleaning up messes.

What Are Disinfectant Wipes?

Disinfectant wipes are single-use, premoistened, chemical-soaked towels meant for killing pathogens. Most manufacturers will instruct you to wipe them onto a surface and leave them to dry for a specific amount of time. Essentially, they kill the crud on your countertops.

“Disinfectant” is not a dynamic marketing term, but a designation made by the EPA that indicates the extent to which a product applied to a non-living surface can kill bacteria and viruses. Within the disinfectant category, there are more specific list levels, and any bacteria or virus that the disinfectant has proven effective against, according to the EPA’s testing standard, must be listed on their packaging.

Types of Cleaning Products

Here’s a breakdown of some of the terms you’ll see on the packaging of cleaning products and who’s responsible for what in the U.S.

Non-living surfaces (not your body)

1. Cleaners: remove dirt and pathogens, not registered or regulated by the EPA
2. Sanitizers: kill bacteria, not viruses, registered with the EPA
3. Disinfectants: kill bacteria and viruses, registered with the EPA

Living surfaces (your body)

1. Hand sanitizer: meant for hands, not regulated by FDA
2. Antiseptics: considered antimicrobial drugs, regulated by FDA

Downsides of Overusing Disinfectant Wipes

Disinfectant’s Effect on Your Body

Chemicals, chemicals, chemicals! Disinfectants are meant for non-living surfaces; however, contacting them with your living surface is nearly impossible without a whole ridiculous outfit. I’m talking about respirators, gloves, and goggles. Seriously, who’s doing that? Frequent, extended, and/or long-term exposure to these types of chemicals can cause a lot of bad things to your skin, your lungs, your tummies, and your kids. Examples of these are allergies, asthma (particularly in children) and other reproductive issues. Many of these disinfectants also contain chemicals or release byproducts that are associated with certain types of cancers.

Disinfectant’s Effect on The Planet

Waste. Disinfectant wipes come in plastic bags or tubs, and they’re meant to be single-use, which creates more plastic waste.

Resistant pathogens. Resistant pathogens are when germs develop the ability to survive despite exposure to drugs or chemicals designed to kill them. This has long been a concern in the U.S., wherein we are having increasing numbers of cases of resistant pathogens such as MRSA, which is a multi-drug resistant staph infection that can often hospitalize folks – or worse. These resistant pathogens are correlated with the overuse or misuse of products like disinfectants and antibiotics. In the healthcare field, it is becoming more and more difficult to combat these resistant pathogens, so one small thing we can do in our daily lives is to lessen the frequency of disinfectant use.

Disinfectant’s Effect on Your Wallet

Cost: Organic food, farm-fresh eggs, and literally every time you try to avoid plastics, it all adds up. This is one of those win-win situations where the more “responsible” choice is also more budget-friendly and convenient. Reuse a cotton cloth or microfiber, make or buy cleaners instead of disinfectants, and don’t spend your hard-earned money on unnecessary, single-use, toxic chemicals to clean your home.

One might say that disinfectant wipes are like bringing a gun to a knife fight, and those guns get expensive and someone could get hurt.

Alternatives to Disinfectant Wipes

For this question, I reached out to expert John O’Brien, owner of Green Maids Cleaning, a company that prides itself in eco-safe, hypoallergenic cleaning services. “Worried about the chemicals in traditional disinfectant wipes or tired of their single-use waste? Don’t sweat itgo green!

Make your own reusable disinfectant cloths by cutting up cotton fabric into squares (old t-shirts work great!) and soaking them in a super simple, eco-friendly solution: 1 cup of distilled water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 10 drops of lemon essential oil. Pop them in a sealed container, and you’re ready to wipe away messes with a clean, green wipe!”

Is it Ever Okay to Use a Disinfectant Wipe?

For all of the reasons listed above, disinfectant wipes are almost always not the best option. However, there are rare and very specific instances in which I might consider them for my home. One is if I suspect a pathogen has found its way onto a trafficked surface and I have a vulnerable or immunosuppressed visitor scheduled within enough time for the fume to dissipate but not enough time for me to bust out the steamer.

For example, let’s say my son’s friend does a yucky sneeze all over the countertop just before he gets picked up. Great Grandma is coming to visit in 90 minutes, and in the interim, we will have to run an errand. I might consider a quick disinfectant wipe (according to manufacturer’s instructions), run the errand, and then water wipe the counter after we return from the errand and before anyone could touch the counter.

Nearly every other circumstance warrants a non-toxic choice of cleaner like the option John described.

About the Experts

John O’Brien is the owner of Green Maids Cleaning, LLC. Green Maids Cleaning has been serving Southern Maine, the Seacoast of New Hampshire and the North Shore of Massachusetts since 2009.

Sources

• EPA: What’s the difference between products that disinfect, sanitize, and clean surfaces? (2024)
• StatPearls: Disinfectants (2022)
• CDC: Regulatory Framework for Disinfectants and Sterilants (2008)
• CDC: About Antimicrobial Resistance (2024)
• Ecotoxology and Environmental Safety: Exposure to Disinfetion By-products and Risk of Cancer: A Systemic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis (2024)

The post The Dangers of Overusing Disinfectant Wipes (and What to Use Instead) appeared first on Family Handyman.