55 weird things you didn't know are damaging your home — & what to do instead

Protect pricey appliances with this central AC cover. Its mesh material allows for airflow while providing protection, and its adjustable bungee cords give it a universal fit. Leaves and grass will stay out of your unit to help promote longevity. Plus, it’s earned itself an overall score of 4.7 stars from thousands of happy reviewers.

Is that a mouse? No, it’s just your garage tracks — but this three-in-one garage door lubricant can help. It lubricates and protects the moving parts of your garage doors, preventing rust and corrosion. Spray it on with the built-in straw nozzle, and it dries fast. You can use it on hinges, tracks, chains, and more.

In snow, rain, and other cold weather, these outdoor faucet covers are a must. Their Oxford fabric is waterproof, while their triple-layered insulation traps warmth inside. Reflective hook-and-loop straps hold them in place while visually alerting you to each faucet's location.

Secure wobbly fixtures (think: towel racks, floating shelves, curtain rods) with these wall plug discs. Just dip them in water, shake off the excess, place them in your desired area, and insert the plug or screw into the wall. They work on masonry, wood, ceramics, and other materials. Since they set in just three minutes, they let you go about your day.

Fill in cracks and crevices with this liquid cement. It dries gray to match your concrete for seamless results. In just 30 to 45 minutes, it can handle car and truck tires. Each bottle comes with 32 fluid ounces of sealant. You can also paint over it with a latex or oil-based paint for a more precise color match.

These silicone rubber mats create a sturdy base for baskets, detergents, and more. Its durable material efficiently protects your appliances from wear and tear. A heavy-duty solution, its raised edges stop spills while the nonslip texture offers extra traction and a barrier against scratches.

Keep your dryer working at full capacity with this vent cleaning kit. Its hose reaches into narrow filters and tight corners for a deeper clean. Just hook it up to your vacuum hose, then turn on the vacuum. Cleaning your dryer vents can keep your machine running smoothly, as well as help reduce the risk of fires.

Keep your floors scratch free with these leg protectors. Made of silicone with felt bases, they stretch to fit your chair legs and maintain a secure hold. The soft bottoms glide across floors to prevent scratches and scuffs. You won't need any tools to apply them; just stretch and snap them into place.

This silicone stove mat creates a strong barrier against dust and damage. Compatible with electric and glass ranges, it resists heat up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, with ridges to support hot pots and pans, so you can use it as a trivet. Wipe it down for a quick and easy clean. If it needs a little more TLC, you can toss it in the dishwasher, too.

The air fryer is a top-tier kitchen device, and this heat-resistant mat takes it to the next level. It protects counters and surfaces from damage, as it resists heat up to 570 degrees Fahrenheit. Pull it out by its built-in handle to move it around. Make sure you lay it felt-side down, so it'll slide across your countertops. Each pack comes with two.

Instead of spending hundreds on a plumber, invest in this drain protector. Made of sturdy stainless steel, it lasts through years and years of consistent use. Its universal size fits most drains, collecting hair before it clogs your pipes while still allowing for water flow. When you buy, you'll also receive a drain stopper for bath time.

Bright sunlight can fade furniture — but not with this UV privacy film. It blocks up to 97% of UV rays, protecting your furniture, rugs, and pictures from damage. Its static cling holds it in place and makes it easy to peel off. It also helps insulate your space against changing temperatures, saving you money on your energy bill.

Seal out leaks and prevent water damage with this paintable putty. It fills in gaps, cracks, and holes to create a strong, waterproof barrier. In fact, it's so waterproof that you can apply it underwater, and it'll still dry. It helps prevent rust and corrosion, as well as resisting UV rays. Once it's cured, you can paint it any color for a perfect match.

Clogged pipes are no match for these drain snakes. Their sharp barbs hook onto hair and debris, getting rid of clogs that might otherwise call for a plumber. These also tend to be gentler than harsh liquid drain cleaners. Bendable and flexible, they'll reach into curved pipes with the utmost ease.

Any pet parent would appreciate this couch cover. With a soft, plush surface, it’s cozy for pets and their people. It’s also scratch resistant, making it practical for rowdy dogs and cats. Available in multiple colors, it won't fade or pill over time, lasting as long as your favorite furniture. Oh, and it protects against human spills, too.

Prevent pricey damage with this water leak detector, which is backed by a strong overall score of 4.6 stars. It connects to an app, sending you a notification when something's wrong. It also sounds at a volume of up to 110 decibels to ensure you hear it. You can mute it from the app or push its silence button once you've inspected the situation.

Keep your kitchen clean with this absorbent mat. Made of a soft diatomite material, it soaks up spashes and spills in seconds, protecting counters from damage and stains. A nonslip rubber backing holds it in place while stopping coffee and water from seeping through. It also works as a dish drying mat, since it soaks up excess moisture.

Take care of your furniture with this wood polish and conditioner. It protects against heat, UV rays, drying, and other issues that downgrade wood. It also adds a soft luster and shine, enhancing each piece’s appearance. It's made with a unique blend of beeswax, carnauba wax, and orange oil. Use it on antiques and new pieces alike.

This rain gutter extension sends rain in the right direction — away from your foundation where it can cause serious damage. Made of a flexible material, it holds the weight of the water inside without cracking or breaking. Extend it between 21 and 66 inches, and connect multiple pipes to each other if you need a longer setup. It’s also great for diverting rainwater into barrels, so you can collect it.

These cabinet door bumpers are like armor for your furniture. They create a soft cushion that keeps doors and drawers from scratching or slamming. Their self-adhesive backings stick to your desired surfaces and stay there. Use them on glass, wood, metal, and even more materials. Each set includes 128 bumpers, so you'll rarely, if ever, run out.

Remove buildup in your washing machine with these cleaning tablets. Arriving as a pack of 25, they wash away residue from soap, pet hair, hard water, and more to make your machine run more efficiently. When exposed to water, they break down into a scrubbing powder. They’re safe for machines of all brands and models, and they come in a value pack of 25.

Leaves and debris are no match for this gutter cleaning tool which serves as a great way to clear clogs before they cause water damage to your house. It’s lightweight and portable, and has a telescopic design that can help extend your reach. It can be used on all types of gutters, from residential to gazebo gutters, and arrives ready to use.

Hanging pictures, mirrors, or other household decor on drywall suddenly got a lot easier with this four-pack of picture hangers. Crafted from hardened steel, you won’t need a hammer to install them. Instead, they push right into the wall without anchors or studs. Even better, they’re reusable. Each hanger can secure up to 45 pounds of weight.

Not only will these drawer and shelf liners add a little something special to your decor, but they can also help protect your cabinets. Available in 23 different designs, each vinyl liner grips without the use of adhesive, making them easy to move. They’re also thick, washable, and easy to cut if you’re looking to create a custom-sized liner.

This grout sealer spray is a great way to prevent stains and ensure your grout looks good for years to come. Not only does it help protect cementitious grout joints from both water and humidity, but it also makes them easier to clean. It dries fast, is easy to use, and can be used both indoors and outdoors.

Arriving in a convenient pack of 200, these mesh bags fit over your drain to help catch food scraps that can cause clogs. Crafted from stretchy polyester, they have a universal fit for all drains. They’re also disposable for a convenient cleanup process. When each bag fills up, just toss it in the trash.

Keep your walls damage free with these clear gel door stoppers that protect from knobs and handles. The shock-absorbing design reduces noise from slamming doors, while also helping to prevent dents and scratches on your wall. With strong self-adhesive backing, they’re easy to install and blend seamlessly into any space.

Be proactive about protecting your home from costly mold and water damage by using this wall moisture meter. It detects moisture up to 0.75-inch inch deep while the large backlit screen and color-coded LED bar make readings simple. It offers multiple material modes that let you test drywall, brick, hardwood, and softwood with confidence. The meter is an easy first step for spotting hidden moisture from leaks or flooding before bigger problems start.

• Available colors: 5

If you hate dealing with messy caulk ( I mean, who really likes it?), this clear caulk tape is such a win. It gives you a clean, waterproof seal around tubs, sinks, toilets, and countertops, with no tools or curing time needed. Just trim, press, and you’re done — the center crease even makes tackling corners easy.

• Available options: 4

These clear fridge liners are such a simple upgrade that makes a huge difference. They catch spills, stop jars from sliding, and make cleanup way easier — just lift and rinse under the faucet. Made from BPA-free materials, they’re sturdy but flexible and easy to cut to fit any shelf, drawer, or cabinet. Plus the clear design keeps your fridge looking neat, organized, and totally uncluttered.

If you’re dealing with damp closets or musty rooms, these moisture absorbers are such an easy fix. They quietly pull excess humidity from the air using calcium chloride — no scent, no plugs, no hassle. You can actually see the water collecting, which is oddly satisfying. They last a long time and work great in closets, bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms.

• Available colors: 6

If your stainless steel cookware has seen better days, Bar Keepers Friend is basically magic. It cuts through grease, baked-on messes, rust, and mineral stains without bleach, so it’s even safe for high-end pots and pans like All-Clad. Use it on cookware, sinks, and even grills — it restores shine fast and makes everything look brand-new again.

If you’ve ever strained your back or gashed a floor trying to move furniture (because, same), these furniture sliders are a better alternative. The set works on both carpet and hard floors thanks to the smooth surface and optional fuzzy socks. They glide smoothly, protect floors from scratches, and make rearranging heavy furniture shockingly easy — no lifting, no damage, no stress.

• Available options: 6

If you’re tired of clogged downspouts, these aluminum gutter guards are such an easy fix. They block leaves, twigs, and debris — plus help keep critters out — without restricting water flow. The expandable design fits most downspouts and installation takes seconds with no tools. They’re durable, weather resistant, and save you from constant clean outs and costly water damage repairs.

If you’ve ever dealt with the nightmare of an under-sink leak, you know what a smart safeguard this silicone cabinet mat is. Thanks to the raised edges, it can hold over 2.5 gallons of liquid, protecting your cabinets from water damage, warping, and stains. The flexible silicone lays flat, wipes clean easily, and keeps everything organized without sliding. It’s total peace of mind for kitchens and bathrooms.

If you love the cozy glow of candles but hate the idea of soot or real flames, these flameless three-wick candles are perfect. Made with real wax in a gorgeous tinted glass jars, they flicker just like the real thing. The remote and timer make them effortless to use, and they’re totally safe around kids and pets.

• Available colors: 4

If you’ve ever had the unfortunate experience of sanding rust (it feels like a losing battle, trust me), this rust converter is such a time saver. It transforms rusty metal into a flat, paintable surface that helps prevent future corrosion. The oil-based formula bonds right to rust, dries quickly, and works in hard-to-reach spots thanks to the any-angle spray nozzle. One reviewer raved, “I painted my outdoor glider and chairs, and they have withstood the intense heat and rain of Ohio without showing any signs of rust so far.”

Keep moisture out of corner joints with this water guard — a simple fix. The soft, flexible silicone creates a subtle barrier for showers, sinks, countertops, and more, all without looking bulky. It’s easy to cut to size, sticks securely to smooth surfaces, and helps prevent leaks and splashes. It’s a small upgrade, but a big difference for keeping spaces dry and tidy.

• Available colors: 4

Gently remind your cat that your couch is not a scratching post with this clear training tape. Cats naturally hate the sticky texture, so it helps redirect scratching without sprays or harsh deterrents. The clear design blends right into your furniture and installs in seconds. Use it on sofas, chairs, and even doorways to protect your space while also instilling better habits in your pet.

• Available sizes: 2

If your grout is stained or crumbling, but you don’t want to pay for a full redo, this premixed grout repair is a great alternative. It squeezes on like caulk but dries into real sanded grout, so it actually repairs and renews — not just covers. It dries fast, resists water and stains, and instantly makes tile look brand-new in kitchens and bathrooms.

For an instant kitchen refresh without having to commit to real tile, these peel-and-stick tiles are a great option. They’re thicker and sturdier than most sticky tiles, with adhesive that actually stays put — even on lightly textured walls. Installation is simple (just peel and stick) and they’ll protect the surface underneath from oil and splatter.

• Available colors: 24

Give some new life to your well-loved but sagging couch with this sofa support. Made with real furniture-grade wood slats (not foam), it restores firm support in seconds without ruining comfort — just slip it under the cushions. It comes in multiple sizes to fit everything from easy chairs to oversized couches

• Available sizes: 33

For those little scratches on your furniture that drive you nuts, these wood touch-up markers are such an easy fix. The set comes with multiple shades that blend right into tables, desks, cabinets, or floors. Just color, wipe, and the scuff practically disappears. The set includes markers and crayons that quickly refinish without calling in a pro (and breaking the bank).

Decking out your walls is a heck of a lot easier with the StudBuddy. It uses powerful magnets to instantly locate the screws in your studs — just slide it along the wall and it sticks when you’ve found one. Perfect for hanging shelves, TVs, or artwork fast, it doesn’t even require batteries to work. It’s a simple, foolproof way to keep yourself from destroying your walls when you’re just trying to decorate them.

For a cluttered and soggy sink area, this sink caddy is a super smart upgrade. The rotating spout drains water straight into the sink, so no puddles on the counter. It’s compact but holds sponges, soap, and brushes without crowding. Made from rust-resistant stainless steel, it looks sleek and keeps everything clean, dry, and organized.

• Available colors: 22

Patching up walls doesn’t have to be a huge chore thanks to this lightweight spackling compound that makes it so much easier. It dries fast, doesn’t shrink or crack, and handles nail holes and dents up to 3 inches with a smooth, professional finish. The primer-enhanced formula hides repairs beautifully and even holds nails and screws afterward.

Tough-to clean hard water stains and grime are enough to drive anyone crazy — but thankfully, CLR spray is a total classic for a reason. It quickly cuts through calcium, lime, and rust on everything from sinks and showers to stainless steel and tile. It’s EPA Safer Choice certified and bleach free, so it’s effective without being harsh.

There’s nothing worse than unwanted guests in your home — especially when they’re creep-crawlies that decimate wood. Get rid of termites and carpenter ants once and for all with this fast-acting spray. It works both indoors and around your home’s foundation, eradicating wood-destroying insects on contact and providing long-lasting control for months. The clear, non-staining formula has no odor, and the spray nozzle makes application super precise.

If your furniture keeps sliding on hardwood floors, these wheel stoppers are an easy way to keep it in place and your floors damage free. You don’t have to lift anything — just slide them around the wheels and they instantly add stability. The durable rubber protects floors from scratches and keeps everything in place.

If your entryway constantly shows every footprint (and paw prints, too), then this absorbent doormat will save your floors. With a modern look, it traps dirt, mud, and water before it spreads throughout your house. The nonslip backing keeps it firmly in place, and the low-profile design won’t catch doors. It’s easy to clean — just shake it out or toss it in the wash.

• Available sizes: 4
• Available prints: 7

These faux leather place mats are such an easy way to protect your table and upgrade your dining setup. They’re heat resistant, waterproof, and stain resistant — perfect for hot plates, spills, and messy meals. Cleanup is effortless with just a quick wipe, and they roll up neatly for storage. The sleek, classic look works for everyday dinners and special occasions alike.

• Available colors: 27

If you’re coffee drinker, be sure you’re taking proper care of your machine by using these machine descaler tablets. One pack lasts an entire year (or more) and works with basically every machine, from Keurig and Nespresso to Breville and Cuisinart. They dissolve hard water buildup, calcium, and oils fast, helping your coffee taste better and your machine last longer.

A grill is a big investment, so make sure you’re properly protecting it with this premium grill cover. Available in eight sizes for a perfect fit, it’s waterproof, UV resistant, and tough enough to protect from rain, snow, and sun all year long. The secure straps keep it in place on windy days, and cleanup is easy — just hose it off and let it dry.

• Available sizes: 8

Stop tripping over your tangled hose and use this wall-mounted hose holder instead. It’s made from thick, rustproof metal, installs in minutes, and keeps your hose neatly coiled without kinks. Simple and sturdy, it makes your yard look instantly more organized, but can also be used in the garage for extension cords.

• Available colors: 8

If cleaning your oven feels like a never-ending task, these oven liners are such a game changer. They catch spills, drips, and burnt-on messes before they hit the oven floor. The nonstick, heavy-duty mats wipe clean in seconds or you can even toss them in the dishwasher. They can double as grill or baking mats, too.