Want to buff out minor scratches and marks on your smartphone? Many online tech sites swear by toothpaste. Any light abrasive paste can work, including creamy toothpaste (not gel) or creams used to buff out car scratches. Just seal the ports and buttons with a little tape, and use a tiny bit of the cream on the scratched area, buffing with a soft cloth. Take your time, and be gentle with the cleaning. Over time, you may see a scratch-free screen thanks to this DIY solution.

It can be really frustrating when appliances like washing machines, refrigerators or stoves just stop working. Before you head to the store to buy a new one or hire a repairman, look for simple solutions. Over time, appliances can slowly shift and move, eventually unplugging themselves. Circuit breakers can also be tripped, so check to make sure you don't need to reset yours. And if the flooring has warped or moved (and the appliance isn't level), some appliances will automatically turn themselves off as a safety precaution.

The strong artificial fragrances used on dryer sheets may not be a healthy choice to use in your laundry, but a few sheets can actually deter mice from entering your home. By simply placing a few sheets in areas where you've seen a mouse, the strong scent can keep the rodent far away. You can also use a dryer sheet to plug cracks they might squeeze into; it blocks the crack and the strong scent encourages them to find shelter elsewhere.