Fix Spotty Wi-fi, and More

9 Tricks to Improve Your Life*

1 Give Broth to Your Thirsty Pet

Some dogs and cats are too stubborn for their own good. If yours won’t stay hydrated, coax her to the water bowl by adding a teaspoon of low-sodium chicken or bone broth. Just be sure it’s free of onions and garlic, and change the water daily.

2 Best Bleach Practices home

Many of us recently rediscovered the versatility of this old-time disinfectant but might need a refresher on some basic dos and don’ts. Do dilute bleach with water before cleaning with it, but don’t keep your solution in a plastic bottle for more than a few days. The bleach can degrade some containers, and it can lose its potency when exposed to light. If your solution has no bleach “smell,” it’s time to toss it.

3 Clean Bugs Off Your Car

auto In the heat of summer, dead bugs can get stuck to a car’s paint job. Wax such as Rain-x will help keep those little pests from sticking. For those that hold on, try wiping them off with a fabric softener sheet dipped in water.

4 Where Else Cleanliness Can Pay

You can save the cost of replacing a burned-out hair dryer by vacuuming the dust regularly from the back vent. Over time, dust collects there and clogs it, which in turn makes the motor work harder. That can cause the blow-dryer to burn out faster.

5 Fix Spotty Wi-Fi Signals

Electronic devices such as radios, televisions, and even computer monitors emit frequencies that can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. If you're having recurring connection issues, try moving some of the lesser-used devices from your home or office (or unplugging them) before you try anything else. It's a simple fix that often works.