Want to work smarter, not harder? These 7 simple shortcuts will help you save time, reduce mistakes, and get cleaner results on your home projects—without needing fancy tools or years of experience.

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The Shortcuts:

1. Use Painter’s Tape as a Caulking Guide

Lay a strip along both sides of the seam, apply caulk, smooth it with your finger, then peel the tape—perfect lines every time.

2. Save Old Toothbrushes for Scrubbing Detail Work

Clean grout lines, hinges, or hard-to-reach trim spots without buying specialty brushes.

3. Pre-Drill for Perfect Screws

A small pilot hole prevents wood from splitting and keeps screws perfectly straight.

4. Score First, Cut Second

Whether you’re trimming drywall or vinyl flooring, score with a utility knife before making your final cut. Cleaner edges, fewer mistakes.

5. Use a Shop Vac While Sanding

Tape your shop vac hose to your sander. It’ll catch most of the dust before it spreads.

6. Label Your Paint Cans

Mark the room, date, and color on each can. Saves future confusion and touch-up chaos.

7. Use Ziplock Bags for Hardware

Label and store screws/hinges during disassembly to make reassembly fast and frustration-free.

Want more no-nonsense DIY tricks and time-savers?