40 Home Cleaning Hacks Guaranteed to Save You Time and Money

From baking soda to toothpaste, you have lots of great cleaning tools to use.
Michael Michael (140)
Feb 6, 2021
0

Let’s face it. No one has the time they need right now to devote to a thorough cleaning of their house. Just cleaning the bathroom can take up half the day! Let alone cleaning the living room, kitchen, windows, floors…. Just listing them all is making us tired!

That’s why we made this list of 40 of the best DIY house-cleaning hacks we could find. You’ll find that these home cleaning hacks will save you loads of time and show you new ways to clean the parts of your house that are hardest to clean. (We’re looking at you blinds!)

If you find that cleaning the house takes you way too much time, then you’ll appreciate many of the household cleaning tips and tricks you’ll find below.

White VinegarWhite Vinegar ×1

Howchoo is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you.

aluminum foil scrubberaluminum foil scrubber
Pinterest

If you have some seriously stuck-on mess on a glass baking dish, then you know that you have a problem. No matter how long you soak it, it’s going to be difficult to remove that stuff. No need to go out and spend money on expensive steel wool scrubbers when you have a roll of aluminum foil handy!

How to make a DIY aluminum foil scrubber

  • Pull a sheet of aluminum foil from the roll.
  • Crinkle the foil sheet up into a ball.
  • Add a little bit of soap to it.
  • And use it to clean your glass baking dish.
air vents whiteair vents white
Pinterest

Changing your air filters regularly is a must to ensure that you’re breathing the cleanest air possible in your house and to prevent fires from backed-up air vents. And while you are at it, why not get rid of all that dust that’s collected between the air vents? It’s just going to restrict your home’s airflow.

To clean air vents

  • Soak a rag in some warm water.
  • Wrap the rag around a butter knife.
  • Push the knife through each vent, back and forth, until clean.
freshen garbage disposal with lemonsfreshen garbage disposal with lemons

If your garbage disposal is beginning to smell, there’s a simple way to clean it up! Just run a few wedges of lemons or limes through the garbage disposal to both detoxify it and freshen its smell.

Soap scum on shower doorSoap scum on shower door
Pinterest

One of the most frustrating things to clean when cleaning your bathroom is that impossible-to-remove soap scum on the glass door of the shower.

DIY glass shower door cleaner

diy glass shower door cleanerdiy glass shower door cleaner

Combine in a spray bottle:

  • 1/2 bottle of dishwashing soap
  • 1/2 bottle of white vinegar

Spray the mixture onto the glass shower door and let sit for about 10 minutes. Then simply scrub off the soap scum with a cleaning brush.

DIY daily shower cleaner

daily shower cleanerdaily shower cleaner

If you’re the kind of person who prefers to prevent the soap scum from even building up, then a daily shower cleaner can do just that! Cutting back on the soap and adding some essential oil will make a great daily shower cleaner.

Combine in a spray bottle:

  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons of dish soap
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • A few drops of peroxide and isopropyl alcohol (optional)
  • 20-25 drops of essential oil (try lemon)
microwave dirty spongemicrowave dirty sponge
Pinterest

Sponge’s do just what their name implies: they soak up everything! That includes bacteria. And while making sure to wring out your sponge of water each time you’re done with it is great, a sponge still will be the most bacteria-ridden thing in your entire house.

To clean the sponge and disinfect it, microwave it for 30 seconds on high. Is that it? Yup!

ceiling fans paint rollerceiling fans paint roller
Pinterest

Don’t keep standing on that rickety old chair to dust the top of your ceiling fans, which—trust us—definitely could use a good dusting.

Instead, grab that paint roller that’s been sitting in your garage or closet, and just roll it back and forth across the top of the ceiling fan’s blades.

Magic Eraser Cleaning hackMagic Eraser Cleaning hack

I can’t tell you how many times someone has told me something amazing about the Magic Eraser. “It actually removed those crayon stains right off of the wall!” or “It single-handedly renovated my bathroom!” We get it. It’s amazing.

Magic Eraser before and afterMagic Eraser before and after

Things you didn’t know a Magic Eraser could remove

  • coffee stains
  • scuff marks
  • soap scum
  • mold
  • dry erase boards
  • hair coloring
  • windshield bugs
  • even permanent marker
magic eraser on kitchen stovemagic eraser on kitchen stove

And because the magic eraser costs less than a dollar per sponge, it’s a really great cleaning tool to have handy for just about…well…everything!

Steam clean microwaveSteam clean microwave
Pinterest

If it’s been a while since you’ve last cleaned your microwave, you might find that some of that stuck-on food is hard to remove. To loosen the good and grime:

  • Place a bowl of water in the microwave.
  • Run the microwave on high for about 3 minutes.

The steam will loosen up the debris inside, making it much easier to clean. All you’ll need to do is wipe it down with a paper towel.

olive oil buff woodolive oil buff wood
Pinterest

Everyone is using olive oil nowadays because of its healthy fat properties in terms of food. But did you know that olive oil makes a great buffing oil for just about every surface in your home? Not only does it give it a nice shine, but it also protects it from certain kinds of damage.

Put some olive oil onto a paper towel and rub it on the surface you want to buff.

You can also use coconut oil and other oils.

DIY Wood Surface Polisher

diy wooden furniture polishdiy wooden furniture polish

For wood surfaces, add 1-part lemon juice to 2-parts olive oil for a great wooden furniture polish!

baking soda and vinegar for cleaningbaking soda and vinegar for cleaning

There are lots of reasons to want a DIY non-toxic all-purpose cleaner to have handy. Maybe you don’t want the chemicals from commercial cleaners? Or maybe you have a newborn in the house and need something safe with which to clean your surfaces. Either way, we’ll show you how to make a great all-purpose cleaner with only baking soda and white vinegar.

How to make your own DIY all-purpose cleaner

In a spray bottle, add:

  • 1 part vinegar
  • 1 part water
  • 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda

Shake it to mix it. And enjoy your non-toxic cleaner!

Uses for baking soda and vinegar cleaner

  • unclogs drains
  • removes soap scum from shower/tub
  • disinfects surfaces in kitchen and bathroom
  • cleans glass
  • cleans the oven (cuts grease)

Avoid using any kind of vinegar on wood surfaces, which can corrode them.

alcohol on carpet stainsalcohol on carpet stains
Pinterest

Who would have thought that old bottle of vodka sitting in your cupboard would have a secondary life?! Alcohol is a great disinfectant, but did you know it’s also great at getting stains out of fabrics and carpets?

Vodka carpet cleaner

  • If you’re using vodka on the carpet, put some in a spray bottle and spray it onto the area of the carpet that’s stained. Be generous with how much you spray.
  • Let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the stain starts to clear.
  • Blot off the excess vodka from the carpet. Don’t rub!

Using vodka on clothing or fabric stains

  • Drench the end of a cloth or rag in the vodka.
  • Apply a generous amount to the stain.
  • Let it soak for a few minutes.
  • Carefully blot off the stain. Do not rub!
dryer sheetsdryer sheets

To add a refreshing smell to the rooms in your house, place a dryer sheet or two in the air vent, right on top of the filter. You can also tape a dryer sheet to just about any air conditioning or heating vent in the house. Just make sure to choose a dryer sheet with a scent that you really love. It creates a very nice, mild aroma that lasts about 1 month.

grated potatoesgrated potatoes
Pinterest

If you have some stuck-on stuff and/or stains on your grater, just grate a raw potato to remove them. It works great.

And when you’ve thrown away the initial potato used to remove the gunk, why not continue grating some potatoes to make some hash browns?!

Rust stains on clothesRust stains on clothes

Salt is a natural osmotic—meaning that it draws water toward it to the surface. So when you put salt on a stain in a piece of fabric or clothing, it draws whatever’s causing the stain towards the surface, so it can be wiped away clean. This even works on tough stains like rust stains.

How to remove a stain with salt

  • Pour some salt on top of the stain.
  • Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
  • Wash the fabric with soap and water.
  • Repeat if necessary.

Don’t rub the salt into the fabric, or you might tear it.

compressed air cleanercompressed air cleaner
Pinterest

Compressed air (or Air-in-a-can) is typically marketed to be used on electronics, as it safely removes dust from the inside of a keyboard or computer. And it works for great those purposes!

But did you know you could use it to clean those narrow crevices in your car? How about cleaning out the container for your vacuum? There are many narrow crevices in your home that could benefit from an air-clean!

water stains cleanedwater stains cleaned
Pinterest

You’re not going to believe this one, but it works like a charm! If you have some foamy shaving cream in the house, you have an excellent water stain removal system! If not, consider buying a cheap tube of shaving cream the next time you’re at the store, as it’s definitely cheaper than a commercial cleaner for water stains caused by hard water.

How to remove water stains caused by hard water with shaving cream

shaving cream Pinterestshaving cream Pinterest

To remove hard water stains from surfaces like glass shower doors or faucets:

  • Apply foam-based shaving cream to the surface.
  • Let is sit for about 15 minutes.
  • Wipe away.
vinegar bags on shower headvinegar bags on shower head
Pinterest

After a time, your metal shower head will definitely stain, no matter how clean you try to keep it. And, if you have hard water, then the staining will be even worse. But we have a great trick you can do now and then to remove those stains.

  • Fill a medium-sized plastic bag with vinegar.
  • Tie it around your shower head.
  • Let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
  • Remove the bag.
  • Wipe away any remaining stain.
squeegee for clean windowssqueegee for clean windows
Pinterest

The best way to achieve a streak-free shine on your windows is with a good old-fashioned squeegee! And if you get a long-handled squeegee, then you can more easily reach the higher windows in your home and wash the windows from the outside of your house too. It’s seriously a must-have for those who appreciate looking out a window.

How to wash windows with a squeegee

  • Pour a little window cleaner in a small bucket of warm water and mix.
  • Dip the sponge-end into the soapy water.
  • Scrub the window.
  • Scrape the window with the rubber squeegee to remove the soapy water completely.
Rubber glove pet hairRubber glove pet hair
Pinterest

Sometimes when cleaning a dog or cat’s hair, you simply can’t get all of it with a vacuum. Or you’re about to go out and notice that your t-shirt is covered in your dog’s fur. This can be really frustrating (particularly if you have a dog that sheds like crazy)!

Grab a rubber glove, like the kind you’d use for washing dishes, and wipe the area with the glove. It grabs the pet hair really well!

sliced sponge on window trackssliced sponge on window tracks
Pinterest

The dirt that builds up in between the tracks for your window (if you have that kind of window) is pretty incredible. And cleaning between the tracks can be frustrating and nearly impossible. Here’s a hack that uses a basic kitchen sponge to easily clean the window tracks.

How to clean between window tracks

  • Grab a kitchen sponge.
  • Push the kitchen sponge down onto the window tracks.
  • When you lift the sponge, mark the spots where the tracks met the sponge.
  • Slice along those lines.
  • Put the sponge in some soapy water.
  • Glide along the window tracks with the slices around the tracks.
Cast iron panCast iron pan
Pinterest

There are entire blogs dedicated to the benefits of using cast-iron in your cooking routine. But what turns many people off of cast-iron is that you can’t clean it the traditional ways. That’s true. You should never use soap on cast iron.

But you can totally use some sea salt. Just pour some into the pan with a little water and scrub away any mess. Then make sure to rinse and dry completely to avoid any rust.

soft paint brushsoft paint brush
Pinterest

If you have a soft paintbrush laying around, you have the perfect tool to get in-between surfaces like blinds (especially wood blinds) and piano keys. Just make sure the brush is soft enough so that it doesn’t scratch the surfaces you’re trying to dust.

carefully placed runners in housecarefully placed runners in house
Pinterest

If you have kids, you know how important it is to stop spreading dirt and dust to every corner of your house. A well-placed rug can remove the dirt and catch the dust to stop it from going all over the house.

Good places to place rugs and runners

  • Entryways and exits
  • Hallways
  • Bedrooms near the bed
  • Bathrooms
toothpaste clean sneakerstoothpaste clean sneakers
Pinterest

If toothpaste works great on your pearly whites, why not on your white sneakers!? It turns out that toothpaste does a great job refreshing those sneakers. If you use a toothbrush, the bristles can actually unclog the dirt from the tiny crevices as well.

cleaning a ceiling fancleaning a ceiling fan
Pinterest

If you’re doing a big house cleaning…you know the kind I’m talking about…the kind of cleaning you do a few times per year where everything gets cleaned—be sure to start your cleaning from the top of the rooms to the bottom of the room. (Hence the phrase: clean from the top down.)

If you clean from the top down, all of that dust and dirt that you wipe off of your ceiling fans or shelves will find their way on the floor. Then when you do the floors, you’ll sweet that all up. If you don’t, you’ll just be adding dust to the floors you just cleaned.

baking soda on couchbaking soda on couch
Pinterest

Baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer. It works to soak up odors and neutralize them naturally. Many companies add some artificial scents to baking soda and brand them as carpet and fabric odor neutralizers. You can make one for yourself for a fraction of the cost!

How to clean your couch with baking soda

  • First, sprinkle baking soda on your couch, lightly over the entire thing.
  • Let it sit for about 30 minutes.
  • Vacuum all of the baking soda off the couch.

Bonus: DIY fabric deodorizer

dried flowers deodorizerdried flowers deodorizer

Why not sprinkle some dried lavender, dried roses, or other dried flower into the baking soda to give your couch a heavenly aroma?!

burnt pan cleaned with vinegarburnt pan cleaned with vinegar
Pinterest

It happens to every home chef once and a while. You left the pan on too high of heat or got caught up watching X-Files in another room. (Don’t judge me.) The burnt oil and other stuff in the pan can be almost impossible to remove with soap alone. Trust me.

How to clean a burnt or scorched pan

  • Pour enough white vinegar into the pan to completely cover the burnt stuff.
  • Bring to a boil.
  • Boil for about 30 seconds.
  • Remove from the stove.
  • Add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda.
  • Let it cool.
  • Scrub off the burnt stuff!
Play-doh on spilt glitterPlay-doh on spilt glitter
Pinterest

Good luck trying to get up all of that spilled glitter! It gets in everything, and even with a wet paper towel, you’ll have a hard time getting it all. The glint off of the glitter will drive you nuts for years.

If you have a kid (and if you’re using glitter, we assume you might), then you likely have some Play-Doh handy. Just take some Play-Doh out and roll it around over the glitter to pick it all up.

cleaning jewelry in dish soapcleaning jewelry in dish soap
Pinterest

No need to buy some expensive jewelry cleaner to clean your wedding rings or precious jewelry. But you also shouldn’t use any harsh chemicals to clean them.

How to clean jewelry with dish soap

  • Make sure any drains are closed to prevent the jewelry from falling in and getting lost.
  • Fill a bowl with some warm water and a bit of mild dish soap.
  • Use a toothbrush to scrub the jewelry in the bowl to clean it.
baking soda in stinky shoesbaking soda in stinky shoes
Pinterest

It happens—particularly with those old sneakers or slippers that you can’t bring yourself to get rid of. They get stinky after a while. And throwing them in the washing machine too many times takes its toll on them.

How to freshen stinky shoes

Method 1 – Baking Soda
  • Add baking soda to the inside of the shoes and leave in for a few hours.
  • Vacuum out the baking soda.
Method 2 – Dryer Sheets
  • Lay a dryer sheet in each shoe.
  • Let sit overnight.

Combine both methods for maximum deodorizing effect!

dishwasherdishwasher
Pinterest

You can totally clean certain stovetop parts like the knobs, grates, and drip pans (if you’re cooking with gas). The dishwasher actually does a really great job of getting some of the stuck-on gunk off the stove parts. And it’s a lot easier to clean. That’s why you got a dishwasher, right?!

dryer next to clothesdryer next to clothes
Pinterest

So you wanted to wear that new shirt, but you forgot to throw it in the washer! Even if you dry the piece of clothing by itself, it will likely take 10-15 minutes.

Instead, throw a dry towel in with the clothes when you dry them. The dry towel will soak up the wetness, and the clothes will dry more quickly.

descale coffee makerdescale coffee maker
Pinterest

You know that gunk that’s been building up at the bottom of your coffee carafe and in your coffee maker? You’ve been drinking that! Pretty gross, right?

Well, it’s easy to descale your coffee maker by just running some vinegar through like you would a normal coffee cycle.

How to clean your coffee maker with vinegar

  • Mix half-water and half-vinegar in your carafe.
  • Add it to the coffee maker.
  • Run a brew cycle.
  • Repeat two more times.
  • Run a couple of cycles with just water to get the vinegar out.

We have a guide on cleaning your coffee maker to learn a more comprehensive way to do this.

clean kitchen cabinets with a vacuumclean kitchen cabinets with a vacuum
Pinterest

Good luck trying to reach those top shelves! You’ll find yourself balancing dangerously on top of your kitchen counter as you stick a wet rag into the back of the top shelves—no need to risk all that.

Grab a vacuum and use the attachments to clean out the top-most shelves in your kitchen cabinets. The vacuum will grab dust and any particles that may have collected there. Do this regularly, so the dust doesn’t get sticky (particularly above the stove).

old socks to clean blindsold socks to clean blinds
Pinterest

No one likes to clean vinyl blinds, as It can really test your patience to clean both sides of each panel. But what if we told you that we could cut the amount of time you spend cleaning the blinds in half. With what? An old sock!

Grab an old sock and place it over your hand. Wet the end of the sock and pinch each blind panel as you run your hand across it, cleaning both sides of the blind’s panels.

baby wipesbaby wipes
Pinterest

If you have a baby, then you’ll have lots of baby wipes around—and the messes that leave spots on your clothes and fabrics. Well…the good news is that baby wipes have very gentle soaps that work great for spot-cleaning fabrics without damaging them.

Just dab the baby wipe onto the spot on the fabric until it’s wet. Then, you should be able to dab again with a paper towel to remove the stain.

tennis balls in dryertennis balls in dryer
Pinterest

Most comforters can (and should) be washed occasionally in a machine washer. The issue is (particularly for down comforters) is that the fluff can bunch up on one side of the comforter and not properly dry. It will also leave you with a lumpy mess of comforter after.

To prevent this, place a couple of tennis balls in the dryer when you dry the comforter. The tennis balls will beat the comforter as it dries, spreading around the fluff inside the comforter to ensure that it dries evenly and stays neat.

vacuum drapes and curtainsvacuum drapes and curtains
Pinterest

There’s no need to wash your drapes and curtains in the washing machine to clean them every time.

All you need to do is use your fabric attachment with your vacuum to remove the dust and debris that has collected on your curtains and/or drapes. If you have a wet/dry vac, then you could even go a step further and clean them with that.

kids jumping on a mattresskids jumping on a mattress
Pinterest

As with anything, be careful when doing this.

Do you kids like jumping on the bed? What kid doesn’t! The next time you’re looking to freshen up your mattress a bit, you have the perfect excuse to surprise your kids with an invitation to jump to their heart’s content!

To freshen a mattress

  • Have your kids jump up and down on the mattress (carefully).
  • Use a vacuum when they’re done to remove the dust that’s been fluffed-out.
Baking soda in dishwasher to cleanBaking soda in dishwasher to clean
Pinterest

If your dishwasher is a cleaning tool, do you still have to clean it too? Of course! Just like you have to make sure your sponges are disinfected regularly.

How to clean a dishwasher

In an empty dishwasher:

  • Spread about 1 cup of baking soda throughout the bottom of the dishwasher.
  • Let it sit overnight.
  • Run white vinegar through the dishwasher on the hottest setting, placing it where you normally put the soap.
  • Make sure you clean out the filter too.
Michael's profile pictureMichael
Joined in 2020 140 guides
A maker at heart, Michael loves all things DIY. Michael is an award-winning poet, writer, and editor. He has published two books of poetry and has writing in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, The New Yorker, and many others. He has taught writing at colleges across the country, and managed many leading literary magazines to national prominence. Now, he’s excited to devote his energies full time to Howchoo. He currently resides in the Tampa-area with his wife and puppy.
Posted in these interests:
cleaning a countertopcleaning a countertop
Explore
h/cleaning 5 guides
homehome
Explore
h/home 28 guides
Home is where the heart is.
Discuss this guide!

Follow @howchoo and learn cool things:

Are you a passionate writer? We’re hiring!

Write for Howchoo

Like what we do?

Donate

Want to support Howchoo? When you buy a tool or material through one of our Amazon links, we earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.

The 30+ Weirdest Video Games of All Time

Things are getting a little strange in here.
Ash Ash (325)
Feb 6, 2021
0

Not all games are created equal. Some are notoriously addictive; some are imaginative and beautiful, others break into your home and smash every remaining shred of understanding you had left, like Link on a quest to destroy every pot in Hyrule. These games aren’t just weird; they’re the weirdest of the weird.

We don’t know why these games are the way they are, but we’re trying to accept it. And you can, too! If you’re tired of playing the same old games, this list is guaranteed to have something new to try out.

We ranked these weird games from weird to weirdest! As with any top-of-list, these games are purely subjective. If you think we missed something, let us know.

Posted in these interests:
h/gaming42 guides
h/retrogaming58 guides
DropsyDropsy
Devolver Digital

Developer: Devolver Digital

Release Date: September 2015

If you’re a fan of point and click games, you might appreciate this strange take on the classic formula. The main star of this game is a really creepy clown who explores a wondrous world of uncertainties and unique characters.

NeverhoodNeverhood
The Neverhood, Inc.

Developer: The Neverhood, Inc.

Release Date: 1996

From the creator of Earthworm Jim, Neverhood follows the adventures of Klaymen: an interesting protagonist made of clay. In fact, this entire game is made of clay and features claymation (clay-based stop motion animation). It’s a point-and-click style game that works great with this art style.

VibribbonVibribbon
NanaOn-Sha

Developer: NanaOn-Sha

Release Date: December 1999

This game has a really bizarre art style accompanied by an even weirder soundtrack. You control a bunny named Vibri who runs along a mobius strip known as the Vib-ribbon. You must jump and avoid obstacles to the beat of the music. This is one game that’s hard to describe. You have to see and hear it for yourself.

I Am BreadI Am Bread
Bossa Studios

Developer: Bossa Studios

Release Date: 2015

I Am Bread is exactly what it sounds like. You are bread, and you must become toast! This bread simulator is an action-adventure title and one of the only food-person adventure games we’ve ever encountered. It was released in 2015 by Bossa Studios.

LSD Dream EmulatorLSD Dream Emulator
Asmik Ace Entertainment

Developer: Asmik Ace Entertainment

Release Date: October 1998

Players don’t really play this game; they experience it. It was first released in 1998. The goal is to wander through in-game environments that change as you move and interact with the world. This game is well-known for its surreal game setting and lack of overall objective.

Among the SleepAmong the Sleep
Krillbite Studio

Developer: Krillbite Studio

Release Date: November 2017

In this game, you play as a child who has woken up in the middle of the night. On a quest for your mother, this game invokes a nightmarish world filled with unexpected horrors. The child’s perspective of this game and immersive world-building are truly unique but one of the most bizarre game experiences we’ve ever had.

Cargo Quest for GravityCargo Quest for Gravity
Ice-Pick Lodge

Developer: Ice-Pick Lodge

Release Date: April 2011

Your goal is to use a catalog of building assets to construct abstract machines and vehicles to overcome obstacles in the game. The in-game world is inhabited by these strange, naked creatures called buddies. Your goal is to make them happy and restore gravity to their homeworld.

CradleCradle
Flying Cafe for Semianimals

Developer: Flying Cafe for Semianimals

Release Date: July 2015

Cradle is an interesting creation, to say the least. It’s not the most interactive game, but its story and artwork are definitely unique. The character designs are memorable, as is your main quest to build a robot lady and uncover the mysteries of her unknown past.

BIT.TRIP BEATBIT.TRIP BEAT
Choice Provisions

Developer: Choice Provisions

Release Date: March 2009

Rhythm games are open to a lot of opportunities when it comes to development. BIT.TRIP Beat combined the classic Pong with music for a rainbow, pixelated experience in space with an extra blast of techno. As fun as this game was, it’s still an odd combination of elements that stands out against other games.

The VoidThe Void
Ice-Pick Lodge

Developer: Ice-Pick Lodge

Release Date: April 2008

Some games have weird gameplay, while others are all about building up a weird setting—like The Void by Ice-Pick Lodge. This game is known for its creepy environment and unique, spooky atmosphere. The Void was first published in Russia but later made its way to the US.

A Boy and His Blob: Trouble on BloboloniaA Boy and His Blob: Trouble on Blobolonia
Imagineering

Developer: Imagineering

Release Date: 1989

When researching for our list, one game kept recurring in my research and when asking around for ideas: A Boy and his Blob. This game was first released in 1989 for the NES. Players must feed their blob friend jelly beans to make him change shape. The blob takes the form of different tools that can be used to explore the world and solve problems. The game was later re-released for the Nintendo Wii.

AaAaAA!!! - A Reckless Disregard for GravityAaAaAA!!! - A Reckless Disregard for Gravity
Dejobaan Games

Developer: Dejobaan Games

Release Date: September 2009

The weirder they are, the farther they fall. This game has unique gameplay in which players must carefully guide a falling character to specific landing pads. The entire experience is first-person and one of the strangest mechanisms for gameplay we’ve seen.

0rbitalis0rbitalis
Alan Zucconi

Developer: Alan Zucconi

Release Date: May 2015

Some games take skill; some take chance. 0rbitalis is like playing with a slingshot that can launch objects around a planet. The goal is to keep satellites in orbit as long as possible. It’s a simple game but notably strange in a sea of platformers and RPGs.

Job SimulatorJob Simulator
Owlchemy Labs

Developer: Owlchemy Labs

Release Date: April 2016

Want to know what it’s like to work? You need to check out Job Simulator—a VR experience from the future with a bizarre take on what it was like for people to work in the 21st century. Enjoy all the tedious labor of a cubicle with the delightful narration of a misguided host.

Elite Beat AgentsElite Beat Agents
iNiS Corporation

Developer: iNiS Corporation

Release Date: November 2006

Saving the world never looked so…groovy? In this game, you’re spies. Funky spies. And you’ve got to dance your troubles away. The game features motion comic stories that don’t always make sense as to why they require secret agents to help save the day, but any excuse to play Sk8r Boi again on the DS is good enough for the dev team iNiS Corporation. Overall, Elite Beat Agents is a genuinely fun rhythm game that still holds up in 2021.

Catlateral DamageCatlateral Damage
Chris Chung

Developer: Chris Chung

Release Date: August 2013

In this game, you are a cat, and your mission is to knock everything off the table…and the counter…actually, all of it must go. Knock everything over and get the highest score you possibly can! This might be the most accurate cat simulator we’ll ever experience in our lifetimes and definitely stands up as one of the weirdest games around.

PaRappa the RapperPaRappa the Rapper
NanaOn-Sha

Developer: NanaOn-Sha

Release Date: December 1996

There’s never been a rhythm game as fresh as PaRappa the Rapper for the PlayStation. You play as PaRappa, a dog learning how to rap, training under a master teacher. Buttons must be pressed at the right time to complete a song successfully. It was released in 1996 and is definitely a product of the era. We love PaRappa, but it’s one of the strangest titles you’ll ever come across.

PikminPikmin
Nintendo

Developer: Nintendo

Release Date: October 2001

One of the most creative yet strange virtual worlds is found in the Pikmin franchise. In the original game, you play as Omar, a little guy who crash lands on an unknown planet inhabited by cute little creatures with leaves and flowers on top of their heads.

Donkey KongaDonkey Konga
Nintendo

Developer: Nintendo

Release Date: 2003

Donkey Kong is well known for chucking barrels and kicking it with his simian friends in Donkey Kong Country. But one of the weirdest side games in the Donkey Kong franchise was Donkey Konga. Players use a special controller shaped like bongo drums that respond to taps and claps. It featured popular songs from modern artists at the time, like R.E.M. and Good Charlotte.

Desert BusDesert Bus
Absolute Entertainment

Developer: Absolute Entertainment

Release Date: April 1995

Magician duo Penn and Teller are the masterminds (if we can call them that) behind Desert Bus. The player drives a bus in real t-time from Tuscon, Arizona to Las Vegas, which takes about eight hours. There are no other characters, and the scenery is limited to the occasional tree or rock. The vehicle constantly veers to the right requiring the player’s full attention, or they risk being towed back to the starting point (again in real-time). One point is scored for a successful trip down, with another point available for completing a subsequent trip back to Tuscon.

Mister MosquitoMister Mosquito
Zoom

Developer: Zoom

Release Date: June 2001

This game is really weird and totally sucks but not in the way you might expect. In this title, you play as a mosquito sucking blood from people without getting their attention. Apparently, mosquitos stock up on blood for the winter, and it’s your job to help get ready for the cold season. Be careful to go unnoticed, or the humans you’re feeding on will become hostile.

Crazy BusCrazy Bus
Venezuelan Sega Genesis Team

Developer: Venezuelan Sega Genesis Team

Release Date: 2004

This title hardly qualifies as a game, but user input is required, so we’re putting it down! The Sega Genesis team in Venezuela created this demo. Users choose from a list of busses and drive them across the screen to the horrifying audio screeching sound from the Genesis sound card.

SeamanSeaman
Yoot Saito

Developer: Yoot Saito

Release Date: July 1999

Who needs Neopets or a Tamagotchi when you could get Seaman for the Dreamcast? For a virtual pet, these guys aren’t exactly cute, but they sure are involved. These virtual fish have human-like faces and need daily attention, or they might die.

Typing of the DeadTyping of the Dead
Sega

Developer: Sega

Release Date: 1999

How are you going to stop the zombie apocalypse? By keeping your pointer fingers on F and J, of course! Instead of shooting zombies to take them down, this game requires the player to type words without error to defeat these horrible undead foes. Is this a trick to get kids to practice typing? Who cares! Who wouldn’t want to learn with software as fun as this?

WarioWareWarioWare
Nintendo

Developer: Nintendo

Release Date: 1994

Mini-games go with Nintendo titles like sprinkles on a cupcake. Warioware is nothing but minigames, and boy, are they strange! Players have seconds to grasp the goal of a random minigame and complete it before the timer runs out. They range from reasonable things like hula hooping and frying vegetables to crazy games that require the player to shred an alarm clock with a cheese grater or pull nose hair from an oversized nose.

The Stanley ParableThe Stanley Parable
Davey Wreden, William Pugh

Developer: Davey Wreden, William Pugh

Release Date: July 2011

The Stanley Parable is a weird game, and it isn’t. Just kidding but not really. You play as Stanley and explore the world around you while a narrator comments on your actions every step of the way. There are 19 possible outcomes and plenty of ways to play. The most notable part of this game is the narration, which features the voice of Kevan Brighting.

Goat SimulatorGoat Simulator
Coffee Stain Studios

Developer: Coffee Stain Studios

Release Date: April 2014

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a goat? Goat Simulator won’t help you in any way, shape, or form despite the name. It will, however, provide one of the most memorable experiences you can have while gaming. You play as a goat, exploring the virtual world and racking up points doing who knows what without so much of a nod to the laws of physics. This game is hard to explain. You just have to check it out.

Hatoful BoyfriendHatoful Boyfriend
PigeoNation Inc.

Developer: PigeoNation Inc.

Release Date: July 2011

There’s really nothing out there like Hatoful Boyfriend and it’s easy to say it isn’t for everyone. In short, this is a pigeon dating simulator. You read that right and we don’t have much of an explanation. It plays like your typical visual novel but all of the love interests are pigeons with notably distinct personalities. You play as the only human attending St. PigeoNation’s Institute.

The name is a play on words that doesn’t translate directly to English. The word ハートフル (hatofuru/hatoful) can translate to heartful or hurtful while 鳩 (hato) means pigeon.

Katamari DamacyKatamari Damacy
Namco

Developer: Namco

Release Date: March 2004

The name of this game translates literally to clump spirit. The player’s goal is to roll things into a giant ball. Anything smaller than the ball will stick to it. Katamari is well known for its bizarre character design and colorful environment. Katamari Damacy is a well-established classic revered for its fun and experimental gameplay.

Muscle MarchMuscle March
Namco Bandai

Developer: Namco Bandai

Release Date: May 2009

Muscle March was made for the Nintendo Wii and released in 2009 on the official Nintendo Wii store. As the name suggests, it’s got muscles but what it doesn’t have is march. That is to say, all of the playable characters in this game are bodybuilders, but the player must copy the position of the front-most character as the team runs single-file through walls chasing down wrongdoers. You must move the Wiimotes to match the arm position of the broken wall to get through. If you mess up too many times, you have to start over. The best part of this game is the crazy soundtrack, which helps create bizarre, immersive gameplay.

Noby Noby BoyNoby Noby Boy
Bandai Namco Entertainment

Developer: Bandai Namco Entertainment

Release Date: February 2009

This game comes to us from the same team that made Katamari Damacy. You play as Boy—a long fellow that looks caterpillar-like. You must stretch and accumulate as much as you can to earn points that can be spent on Girl, the game’s main love interest. The characters exist in a strange realm with lots of bizarre characters and assets roaming about, like a giant carrot car with square wheels. It’s hard to wrap your head around what’s going on in Noby Noby Boy, but understanding isn’t necessary to enjoy this bizarre creation.

Fun mobile games that don’t trick you into in-app purchases to win or rank!
Feb 6, 2021
0

I started playing mobile games a few years ago and find them a great way to pass the time, join active guilds, meet interesting, new people, and escape from daily life.

Follow @howchoo and learn cool things:

Are you a passionate writer? We’re hiring!

Write for Howchoo

Like what we do?

Donate

Want to support Howchoo? When you buy a tool or material through one of our Amazon links, we earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.

Feb 5, 2021
h/pi • 225 guides
h/pico • 1 guide
h/pi • 225 guides
h/pico • 1 guide
Vilros Pico Starter Kit Vilros Pico Starter Kit
Check Price on Amazon
Waveshare Pico Starter Kit Waveshare Pico Starter Kit
Check Price on Amazon
Feb 2, 2021
20 minutes
Ash's profile pictureAsh
Joined in 2018 326 guides
Ash is an experienced tech writer with an endless passion for technology. She enjoys retro gaming, 3D printing, and making awesome projects on the Raspberry Pi.
Keep an eye on your temperatures.
In these interests: pi
Create your own budget-friendly Pi automated home!
In these interests: smarthomepi
In these interests: giveawayspi
No need to measure your head for these HATs—just make sure they fit your Pi!
An awesome touchscreen > a standard monitor when it comes to Raspberry Pi.
Have some extra Pi this Holiday!
Our curated list of the best deals in all things Raspberry Pi!
Great for newcomers and seasoned Raspberry Pi veterans, alike.
Keep your Raspberry Pi as a secure as your desktop or phone.
Explore
h/pi • 225 guides
The Raspberry Pi is a small, inexpensive computer developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation in the United Kingdom.
Explore
h/pico • 1 guide
The Raspberry Pi Pico is a microcontroller board developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. It features the new ARM-based chip developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation known as the RP2040.

DIY massive bookcase

DayneDayne Dayne (57)
Feb 4, 2021
10 hours

This bookcase was inspired by the Ikea bookcase system called Ivar. It was heavily modified (and slightly over-engineered). I will take you through my process and hopefully, you’ll learn something!

And if you’re doing this because you’re just plain bored and love DIY stuff, then check out our list of DIY hobbies to occupy you!

cross cut saw ×1
paint supplies ×1
square ×1
Tape MeasureTape MeasureTape Measure ×1
1″ x 10″ x 8′ – pine ×7
2″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×10
1″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×8

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

This step is crucial. I went with construction grade pine for 2 reasons. It is cheap and it is readily available at big box stores. It is a hassle to make something nice with construction grade wood, but it may be worth it if you’re inexperienced (like me) and/or you’re going to paint the thing anyways.

Spend as much time as you need to find the lumber in decent condition. Look for knots in the wood, damage from storage methods, and bows in the faces or the edges of the boards. The assembly can work some small bows out but you want straight wood.

Building supportsBuilding supports

My supports consist of the 2×2’s joined together using dovetails. Dovetails are unnecessarily complicated for this task but I wanted practice. A dado joint would be perfectly sufficient. Check out our guides on both dovetail and dado joints and choose dado because dovetails are ridiculous for this task.

Cutting notches in the shelvesCutting notches in the shelves

I didn’t get a good picture of my process here, but this is the perfect use for the jigsaw. Take your time to mark out the board according to the schematics, then go slowly with the jigsaw. During this step, I had a scrap 2×2 handy to make sure my notches were the right size before moving on.

Painting and stainingPainting and staining

I made the mistake of pre-staining everything. This was a problem for 2 reasons. The stained wood was a mess and I had to touch up everything that got cut or notched.

I highly recommend doing a dry fit with your pieces, then paint or stain everything in one go. I won’t cover which stains or paints to use here as that is a huge topic and one I’m not an authority on.

AssemblyAssembly

Placing all the uprights in the position I expected them to be, I started by sliding the bottom shelf through all the supports. Once it was close to the right position, I moved the supports in place and flattened the shelf. It took a little negotiation so I used a wood block on top of the shelf and hit that with a hammer to avoid damaging the wood. A rubber mallet would be ideal if you have one.

I found general purpose angle brackets and attached them from the wall using a drywall anchor to an upright support on each end near the top.

DecorationDecoration

I hope to one day own enough books that I love to fill this shelf. In the meantime, it will be partially filled with decorations as well.

The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
MichaelMichael Michael (175)
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes

Who doesn’t have an extra sock or two that’s missing a pair – lost forever to the black hole in the dryer! Grab that extra sock and a pair of scissors, and you have yourself a DIY armband for running!

DIY massive bookcase

DayneDayne Dayne (57)
Feb 4, 2021
10 hours

This bookcase was inspired by the Ikea bookcase system called Ivar. It was heavily modified (and slightly over-engineered). I will take you through my process and hopefully, you’ll learn something!

And if you’re doing this because you’re just plain bored and love DIY stuff, then check out our list of DIY hobbies to occupy you!

cross cut saw ×1
paint supplies ×1
square ×1
Tape MeasureTape MeasureTape Measure ×1
1″ x 10″ x 8′ – pine ×7
2″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×10
1″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×8

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

This step is crucial. I went with construction grade pine for 2 reasons. It is cheap and it is readily available at big box stores. It is a hassle to make something nice with construction grade wood, but it may be worth it if you’re inexperienced (like me) and/or you’re going to paint the thing anyways.

Spend as much time as you need to find the lumber in decent condition. Look for knots in the wood, damage from storage methods, and bows in the faces or the edges of the boards. The assembly can work some small bows out but you want straight wood.

Building supportsBuilding supports

My supports consist of the 2×2’s joined together using dovetails. Dovetails are unnecessarily complicated for this task but I wanted practice. A dado joint would be perfectly sufficient. Check out our guides on both dovetail and dado joints and choose dado because dovetails are ridiculous for this task.

Cutting notches in the shelvesCutting notches in the shelves

I didn’t get a good picture of my process here, but this is the perfect use for the jigsaw. Take your time to mark out the board according to the schematics, then go slowly with the jigsaw. During this step, I had a scrap 2×2 handy to make sure my notches were the right size before moving on.

Painting and stainingPainting and staining

I made the mistake of pre-staining everything. This was a problem for 2 reasons. The stained wood was a mess and I had to touch up everything that got cut or notched.

I highly recommend doing a dry fit with your pieces, then paint or stain everything in one go. I won’t cover which stains or paints to use here as that is a huge topic and one I’m not an authority on.

AssemblyAssembly

Placing all the uprights in the position I expected them to be, I started by sliding the bottom shelf through all the supports. Once it was close to the right position, I moved the supports in place and flattened the shelf. It took a little negotiation so I used a wood block on top of the shelf and hit that with a hammer to avoid damaging the wood. A rubber mallet would be ideal if you have one.

I found general purpose angle brackets and attached them from the wall using a drywall anchor to an upright support on each end near the top.

DecorationDecoration

I hope to one day own enough books that I love to fill this shelf. In the meantime, it will be partially filled with decorations as well.

The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
MichaelMichael Michael (175)
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes

Who doesn’t have an extra sock or two that’s missing a pair – lost forever to the black hole in the dryer! Grab that extra sock and a pair of scissors, and you have yourself a DIY armband for running!

 
33
8

DIY massive bookcase

DayneDayne Dayne (57)
Feb 4, 2021
10 hours

This bookcase was inspired by the Ikea bookcase system called Ivar. It was heavily modified (and slightly over-engineered). I will take you through my process and hopefully, you’ll learn something!

And if you’re doing this because you’re just plain bored and love DIY stuff, then check out our list of DIY hobbies to occupy you!

cross cut saw ×1
paint supplies ×1
square ×1
Tape MeasureTape MeasureTape Measure ×1
1″ x 10″ x 8′ – pine ×7
2″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×10
1″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×8

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

This step is crucial. I went with construction grade pine for 2 reasons. It is cheap and it is readily available at big box stores. It is a hassle to make something nice with construction grade wood, but it may be worth it if you’re inexperienced (like me) and/or you’re going to paint the thing anyways.

Spend as much time as you need to find the lumber in decent condition. Look for knots in the wood, damage from storage methods, and bows in the faces or the edges of the boards. The assembly can work some small bows out but you want straight wood.

Building supportsBuilding supports

My supports consist of the 2×2’s joined together using dovetails. Dovetails are unnecessarily complicated for this task but I wanted practice. A dado joint would be perfectly sufficient. Check out our guides on both dovetail and dado joints and choose dado because dovetails are ridiculous for this task.

Cutting notches in the shelvesCutting notches in the shelves

I didn’t get a good picture of my process here, but this is the perfect use for the jigsaw. Take your time to mark out the board according to the schematics, then go slowly with the jigsaw. During this step, I had a scrap 2×2 handy to make sure my notches were the right size before moving on.

Painting and stainingPainting and staining

I made the mistake of pre-staining everything. This was a problem for 2 reasons. The stained wood was a mess and I had to touch up everything that got cut or notched.

I highly recommend doing a dry fit with your pieces, then paint or stain everything in one go. I won’t cover which stains or paints to use here as that is a huge topic and one I’m not an authority on.

AssemblyAssembly

Placing all the uprights in the position I expected them to be, I started by sliding the bottom shelf through all the supports. Once it was close to the right position, I moved the supports in place and flattened the shelf. It took a little negotiation so I used a wood block on top of the shelf and hit that with a hammer to avoid damaging the wood. A rubber mallet would be ideal if you have one.

I found general purpose angle brackets and attached them from the wall using a drywall anchor to an upright support on each end near the top.

DecorationDecoration

I hope to one day own enough books that I love to fill this shelf. In the meantime, it will be partially filled with decorations as well.

The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
MichaelMichael Michael (175)
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes

Who doesn’t have an extra sock or two that’s missing a pair – lost forever to the black hole in the dryer! Grab that extra sock and a pair of scissors, and you have yourself a DIY armband for running!

DIY massive bookcase

DayneDayne Dayne (57)
Feb 4, 2021
10 hours

This bookcase was inspired by the Ikea bookcase system called Ivar. It was heavily modified (and slightly over-engineered). I will take you through my process and hopefully, you’ll learn something!

And if you’re doing this because you’re just plain bored and love DIY stuff, then check out our list of DIY hobbies to occupy you!

cross cut saw ×1
paint supplies ×1
square ×1
Tape MeasureTape MeasureTape Measure ×1
1″ x 10″ x 8′ – pine ×7
2″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×10
1″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×8

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

DIY massive bookcase

DIY massive bookcase
DayneDayne Dayne (57)
Feb 4, 2021
10 hours
Dayne
 
33
8
30 DIY or Low-Cost Hobbies You Can Start at Home Today30 DIY or Low-Cost Hobbies You Can Start at Home Today 30 DIY or Low-Cost Hobbies You Can Start at Home TodayTry a few of these affordable DIY’s and hobbies to stay connected and productive!
30 DIY or Low-Cost Hobbies You Can Start at Home Today
cross cut saw ×1
paint supplies ×1
square ×1
Tape MeasureTape MeasureTape Measure ×1
1″ x 10″ x 8′ – pine ×7
2″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×10
1″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×8

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

cross cut saw ×1
paint supplies ×1
square ×1
Tape MeasureTape MeasureTape Measure ×1
1″ x 10″ x 8′ – pine ×7
2″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×10
1″ x 2″ x 8′ – pine ×8
Tape Measure
Table of Contents

Jump to step:

  1. Wood selection
  2. Building supports
  3. Cutting notches in the shelves
  4. Painting and staining
  5. Assembly
  6. Attach to wall using angle brackets
  7. Decoration
 
33
8
In these interests
h/woodworking • 18 guides
h/diy • 97 guides
h/home • 33 guides
h/woodworking • 18 guides
h/diy • 97 guides
h/home • 33 guides

This step is crucial. I went with construction grade pine for 2 reasons. It is cheap and it is readily available at big box stores. It is a hassle to make something nice with construction grade wood, but it may be worth it if you’re inexperienced (like me) and/or you’re going to paint the thing anyways.

Spend as much time as you need to find the lumber in decent condition. Look for knots in the wood, damage from storage methods, and bows in the faces or the edges of the boards. The assembly can work some small bows out but you want straight wood.

This step is crucial. I went with construction grade pine for 2 reasons. It is cheap and it is readily available at big box stores. It is a hassle to make something nice with construction grade wood, but it may be worth it if you’re inexperienced (like me) and/or you’re going to paint the thing anyways.

Spend as much time as you need to find the lumber in decent condition. Look for knots in the wood, damage from storage methods, and bows in the faces or the edges of the boards. The assembly can work some small bows out but you want straight wood.

Wood selection

Building supportsBuilding supports

My supports consist of the 2×2’s joined together using dovetails. Dovetails are unnecessarily complicated for this task but I wanted practice. A dado joint would be perfectly sufficient. Check out our guides on both dovetail and dado joints and choose dado because dovetails are ridiculous for this task.

Building supportsBuilding supports

My supports consist of the 2×2’s joined together using dovetails. Dovetails are unnecessarily complicated for this task but I wanted practice. A dado joint would be perfectly sufficient. Check out our guides on both dovetail and dado joints and choose dado because dovetails are ridiculous for this task.

Building supports

Building supportsHow to make the dado (housing) joint by handHow to Make the Perfect Dovetail Joint Using Traditional Woodworking Tools
Cutting notches in the shelvesCutting notches in the shelves

I didn’t get a good picture of my process here, but this is the perfect use for the jigsaw. Take your time to mark out the board according to the schematics, then go slowly with the jigsaw. During this step, I had a scrap 2×2 handy to make sure my notches were the right size before moving on.

Cutting notches in the shelvesCutting notches in the shelves

I didn’t get a good picture of my process here, but this is the perfect use for the jigsaw. Take your time to mark out the board according to the schematics, then go slowly with the jigsaw. During this step, I had a scrap 2×2 handy to make sure my notches were the right size before moving on.

Cutting notches in the shelves

Cutting notches in the shelves
Painting and stainingPainting and staining

I made the mistake of pre-staining everything. This was a problem for 2 reasons. The stained wood was a mess and I had to touch up everything that got cut or notched.

I highly recommend doing a dry fit with your pieces, then paint or stain everything in one go. I won’t cover which stains or paints to use here as that is a huge topic and one I’m not an authority on.

Painting and stainingPainting and staining

I made the mistake of pre-staining everything. This was a problem for 2 reasons. The stained wood was a mess and I had to touch up everything that got cut or notched.

I highly recommend doing a dry fit with your pieces, then paint or stain everything in one go. I won’t cover which stains or paints to use here as that is a huge topic and one I’m not an authority on.

Painting and staining

Painting and staining
AssemblyAssembly

Placing all the uprights in the position I expected them to be, I started by sliding the bottom shelf through all the supports. Once it was close to the right position, I moved the supports in place and flattened the shelf. It took a little negotiation so I used a wood block on top of the shelf and hit that with a hammer to avoid damaging the wood. A rubber mallet would be ideal if you have one.

AssemblyAssembly

Placing all the uprights in the position I expected them to be, I started by sliding the bottom shelf through all the supports. Once it was close to the right position, I moved the supports in place and flattened the shelf. It took a little negotiation so I used a wood block on top of the shelf and hit that with a hammer to avoid damaging the wood. A rubber mallet would be ideal if you have one.

Assembly

Assembly

I found general purpose angle brackets and attached them from the wall using a drywall anchor to an upright support on each end near the top.

I found general purpose angle brackets and attached them from the wall using a drywall anchor to an upright support on each end near the top.

Attach to wall using angle brackets

DecorationDecoration

I hope to one day own enough books that I love to fill this shelf. In the meantime, it will be partially filled with decorations as well.

DecorationDecoration

I hope to one day own enough books that I love to fill this shelf. In the meantime, it will be partially filled with decorations as well.

Decoration

Decoration
The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
MichaelMichael Michael (175)
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes

Who doesn’t have an extra sock or two that’s missing a pair – lost forever to the black hole in the dryer! Grab that extra sock and a pair of scissors, and you have yourself a DIY armband for running!

The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
MichaelMichael Michael (175)
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes

Who doesn’t have an extra sock or two that’s missing a pair – lost forever to the black hole in the dryer! Grab that extra sock and a pair of scissors, and you have yourself a DIY armband for running!

NEXT UP
DIY Phone Armband for Running
DIY Phone Armband for Running
The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
MichaelMichael Michael (175)
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes
Michael Continue reading
Share this guide!
RedditEmailTextPinterest
Dayne's profile pictureDayne's profile pictureDayne
Joined in 2015 57 guides
Software engineer, co-founder of Howchoo, and renaissance man. Lifelong amateur woodworker, espresso mechanic, freestyle lyricist, drummer, artist, runner, coffee roaster, electrical engineer, gamer, inventor, churner, psychoanalyst, photographer, pizza chef, pit master, audiophile, guitarist, entrepreneur, dad, yogi, cyclist, and barista.
Dayne's profile picture
Related to this guide:
DIY Phone Armband for RunningDIY Phone Armband for Running
The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
In these interests: diyfitnessrunning
No Sew Running BeltNo Sew Running Belt
No basketball jerseys were hurt in the making of this guide! Okay, maybe one was.
In these interests: fitnessdiyrunning
DIY Phone Armband for RunningDIY Phone Armband for Running
The simplest guide to making an armband you’re likely to find!
In these interests: diyfitnessrunning
Michael's profile pictureView guide
In these interests: diyfitnessrunning
diyfitnessrunning
No Sew Running BeltNo Sew Running Belt
No basketball jerseys were hurt in the making of this guide! Okay, maybe one was.
In these interests: fitnessdiyrunning
Michael's profile pictureView guide
In these interests: fitnessdiyrunning
fitnessdiyrunningZach's profile pictureView guide
In these interests: retrogamingpiretropie
retrogamingpiretropie
People also read:
Splicer Bunny 3D printed maskSplicer Bunny 3D printed mask
Ditch those latex masks for something much cooler this year!
Raspberry Pi Coffee GrinderRaspberry Pi Coffee Grinder
Put the calculator away, we’re having Pi for coffee.
Anycubic Kobra Go 3D Printer Hands-On ReviewAnycubic Kobra Go 3D Printer Hands-On Review
A detailed review on the Anycubic Kobra Go DIY 3D printer
Raspberry Pi cameraRaspberry Pi camera
Raspberry Pi cameraHow to Take a Photo with Your Raspberry Pi Camera
Splicer Bunny 3D printed maskSplicer Bunny 3D printed mask
Splicer Bunny 3D printed mask10 Awesome 3D Printed Halloween Masks (2022)
Raspberry Pi Coffee GrinderRaspberry Pi Coffee Grinder
Raspberry Pi Coffee GrinderAutomated Coffee Grinder Uses Raspberry Pi To Create Perfect Cup
Anycubic Kobra Go 3D Printer Hands-On ReviewAnycubic Kobra Go 3D Printer Hands-On Review
Anycubic Kobra Go 3D Printer Hands-On ReviewAnycubic’s Kobra Go 3D Printer Hands-On Review
PiCar-V V2.0 KitPiCar-V V2.0 Kit
PiCar-V V2.0 KitDIY Raspberry Pi RC Car: SunFounder’s PiCar-V V2.0 Kit
DIY Dog Door for French Door Window Panes
Setting up a Raspberry Pi ChromecastSetting up a Raspberry Pi Chromecast
Setting up a Raspberry Pi ChromecastHow to Set Up a Raspberry Pi Chromecast
Raspberry Pi Amazon EchoRaspberry Pi Amazon Echo
Raspberry Pi Amazon EchoBuild Your Own Raspberry Pi Amazon Echo
Dog staring at Kong ToyDog staring at Kong Toy
Dog staring at Kong ToyDIY Frozen Kong Toy with At-Home Filling
Cat in mid scratch.Cat in mid scratch.
Cat in mid scratch.DIY Cardboard Cat Scratcher You Can Make Right Now
Posted in these interests:
woodworkingwoodworking
Explore
h/woodworking • 18 guides
“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.” – Francis of Assisi
diydiy
Explore
h/diy • 97 guides
“It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project.” – Napoleon Hill
homehome
Explore
h/home • 33 guides
Home is where the heart is.
woodworkingwoodworking
Explore
h/woodworking • 18 guides
“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.” – Francis of Assisi
Explore
diydiy
Explore
h/diy • 97 guides
“It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project.” – Napoleon Hill
Explore
homehome
Explore
h/home • 33 guides
Home is where the heart is.
Explore
Discuss this guide!
Discover interesting things!
Explore Howchoo’s most popular interests.
Explore

Follow @howchoo and learn cool things:

Are you a passionate writer? We’re hiring!

Write for Howchoo

Like what we do?

Donate

Want to support Howchoo? When you buy a tool or material through one of our Amazon links, we earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.

Write for HowchooDonate

OctoPrint
OctoPrint

OctoPrint15 guides

These interests are similar to the octoprint interest.

h/3dprinting • 70 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
h/ender3 • 18 guides
Videos
2

OctoPrint Series

OctoPrintOctoPrint
Untether your printer!
OctoPrint touchscreenOctoPrint touchscreen
An inexpensive upgrade that improves the printing experience
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
OctoPrint dark themeOctoPrint dark theme
Will somebody please think of the eyes!

These interests are similar to the octoprint interest.

h/3dprinting • 70 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
h/ender3 • 18 guides
Videos
2

OctoPrint Series

OctoPrintOctoPrint
Untether your printer!
OctoPrint touchscreenOctoPrint touchscreen
An inexpensive upgrade that improves the printing experience
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
OctoPrint dark themeOctoPrint dark theme
Will somebody please think of the eyes!

Discover awesome OctoPrint guides and projects and control your 3D printer remotely! Just getting started? Learn how to install OctoPrint.

About h/octoprint
15
3
103
About h/octoprint
15
3
103
Related interests
h/3dprinting • 70 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
h/ender3 • 18 guides
h/3dprinting • 70 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
h/ender3 • 18 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
Started By
zach's profile picture
zach
Joined in 2015
zach's profile picture
zach
Joined in 2015
zach's profile picture
OctoPrint on Ender 3 V2
OctoPrint on Ender 3 V2How to Set Up and Use OctoPrint on the Creality Ender 3 V23dprintingender3octoprint
Prusa i3 MK3S OctoPrint Guide
Prusa i3 MK3S OctoPrint GuideHow to Set Up and Use OctoPrint on Your Prusa i3 MK3Sprusaoctoprint3dprinting
The Spaghetti Detective
The Spaghetti DetectiveHow to Access OctoPrint Remotely With the Spaghetti Detectivepioctoprint3dprinting
OctoPrint Camera
OctoPrint CameraHow to Choose the Best Camera for OctoPrint3dprintingpioctoprint
How to Disable the TouchUI Screensaveroctoprint
Ender 3 OctoPrint touchscreen
Ender 3 OctoPrint touchscreenHow to Add an OctoPrint Touchscreen to Your Ender 33dprintingoctoprintender3
OctoPrint touchscreen
OctoPrint touchscreenHow to Add an OctoPrint Touchscreen to Any 3D Printerpioctoprint3dprinting
OctoPrint dark theme
OctoPrint dark themeHow to Enable the OctoPrint Dark Theme3dprintingoctoprint
OctoPrint FAQs
OctoPrint FAQsOctoPrint FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Octoprint3dprintingpioctoprint
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe Most Popular OctoPrint Plugins (And How to Install Them)octoprint
Finding guides
Finding guides
OctoPrint on Ender 3 V2
OctoPrint on Ender 3 V2How to Set Up and Use OctoPrint on the Creality Ender 3 V23dprintingender3octoprint
Prusa i3 MK3S OctoPrint Guide
Prusa i3 MK3S OctoPrint GuideHow to Set Up and Use OctoPrint on Your Prusa i3 MK3Sprusaoctoprint3dprinting
The Spaghetti Detective
The Spaghetti DetectiveHow to Access OctoPrint Remotely With the Spaghetti Detectivepioctoprint3dprinting
OctoPrint Camera
OctoPrint CameraHow to Choose the Best Camera for OctoPrint3dprintingpioctoprint
How to Disable the TouchUI Screensaveroctoprint
Ender 3 OctoPrint touchscreen
Ender 3 OctoPrint touchscreenHow to Add an OctoPrint Touchscreen to Your Ender 33dprintingoctoprintender3
OctoPrint touchscreen
OctoPrint touchscreenHow to Add an OctoPrint Touchscreen to Any 3D Printerpioctoprint3dprinting
OctoPrint dark theme
OctoPrint dark themeHow to Enable the OctoPrint Dark Theme3dprintingoctoprint
OctoPrint FAQs
OctoPrint FAQsOctoPrint FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Octoprint3dprintingpioctoprint
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe Most Popular OctoPrint Plugins (And How to Install Them)octoprint
OctoPrint Anywhere: Access OctoPrint Remotely Over the Internet3dprintingoctoprintpi
OctoPrint
OctoPrintOctoPrint: Control Your 3D Printer Remotely with Raspberry Pi and OctoPioctoprint3dprintingpi
Powering a Raspberry Pi using a 3D printer
Powering a Raspberry Pi using a 3D printerHow to Power a Raspberry Pi from a 3D Printer Using Your Printer’s Power Supply Unit (PSU)3dprintingpioctoprint
OctoPrint Ender 3
OctoPrint Ender 3How to Set Up and Use OctoPrint on the Creality Ender 3ender33dprintingoctoprint
Update OctoPrint
Update OctoPrintHow to Update OctoPrint3dprintingoctoprint

These interests are similar to the octoprint interest.

h/3dprinting • 70 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
h/ender3 • 18 guides
h/3dprinting • 70 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
h/ender3 • 18 guides
Ender 3 3D printer
Videos
2
2
Howchoo YouTube Profile Picture howchoo
How to Add an OctoPrint Touchscreen to Any 3D Printer (Ender 3 + Others!)
a year ago Watch on YouTube
Howchoo YouTube Profile Picture
Watch on YouTube
Howchoo YouTube Profile Picture howchoo
OctoPrint: Control Your 3D Printer Remotely Using a Raspberry Pi!
2 years ago Watch on YouTube
Howchoo YouTube Profile Picture
Watch on YouTube

OctoPrint Series

OctoPrintOctoPrint
Untether your printer!
OctoPrint touchscreenOctoPrint touchscreen
An inexpensive upgrade that improves the printing experience
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
OctoPrint dark themeOctoPrint dark theme
Will somebody please think of the eyes!
OctoPrintOctoPrint
Untether your printer!
OctoPrint touchscreenOctoPrint touchscreen
An inexpensive upgrade that improves the printing experience
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
OctoPrint dark themeOctoPrint dark theme
Will somebody please think of the eyes!
OctoPrintOctoPrint
Untether your printer!
OctoPrint touchscreenOctoPrint touchscreen
An inexpensive upgrade that improves the printing experience
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
OctoPrint dark themeOctoPrint dark theme
Will somebody please think of the eyes!
OctoPrintOctoPrint
Untether your printer!
OctoPrint touchscreenOctoPrint touchscreen
An inexpensive upgrade that improves the printing experience
The OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plugThe OctoPrint octopus holding a power port and plug
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
OctoPrint dark themeOctoPrint dark theme
Will somebody please think of the eyes!
OctoPrint CameraUpdate OctoPrintThe Spaghetti Detective
Discover interesting things!
Explore Howchoo’s most popular interests.
Explore

Follow @howchoo and learn cool things:

Are you a passionate writer? We’re hiring!

Write for Howchoo

Like what we do?

Donate

Want to support Howchoo? When you buy a tool or material through one of our Amazon links, we earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.

Write for HowchooDonate
Christina's profile pictureChristina
Joined in 2021 4 guides
Christina is a writer with a BFA in Creative Writing, years of experience working with technology, and a passion for all things creative. She has a wide array of interests in subjects such as, cooking, knitting, DIY, literature, and technology. Currently, she’s still working in technology, writing a chapbook, and excited to be exploring her many interests here at Howchoo.
Related to this guide:
Weirdest Video Games of All TimeWeirdest Video Games of All Time
Things are getting a little strange in here.
In these interests: retrogaminggaming
Video Game CompetitionVideo Game Competition
You’ll never believe how much they get played to play games!
In these interests: streamingyoutubegaming
People also read:
Highest-Grossing Video Game Franchises
These franchises bring in the big bucks.
Best PC Gaming Controllers
Customize your PC gaming experience.
Jackbox Game Drawful via Zoom
No matter where your friends or family live, you can still play some Jackbox Party Pack!
How to Record with OBS
Take a video, it will last longer.
Gaming keyboard
Having the right equipment can make or break your gaming experience.
Rarest Video Games
Check your closet, basement, or attic for one of these rare games!
Posted in these interests:
gaminggaming
Explore
h/gaming 42 guides
READY PLAYER 1
iosios
Explore
h/ios 34 guides
iOS is the mobile operating system used by the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch.
androidandroid
Explore
h/android 19 guides
Discuss this guide!
Feb 3, 2021
5 minutes
h/ender319 guides
Feb 15, 2021
Michael's profile pictureMichael
Joined in 2020 136 guides
A maker at heart, Michael loves all things DIY. Michael is an award-winning poet, writer, and editor. He has published two books of poetry and has writing in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, The New Yorker, and many others. He has taught writing at colleges across the country, and managed many leading literary magazines to national prominence. Now, he’s excited to devote his energies full time to Howchoo. He currently resides in the Tampa-area with his wife and puppy.
In these interests: 3dprintingender3
The first thing you need to learn how to do is level the bed.
In these interests: 3dprintingender3
Choosing and installing new bed springs on the Ender 3 V2.
In these interests: 3dprintingender3
Check for new firmware regularly.
Here’s how to add the new Ender 3 V2 to Cura.
Because maybe you can’t read the default Chinese Ender 3 menu.
Improve your overall printing experience—and quality.
An inexpensive upgrade to make your Ender 3 quieter and safer
The most common Creality Ender 3 questions answered!
Make your Ender 3 quieter and improve your prints with this board upgrade.
An inexpensive upgrade that greatly reduces bed leveling frequency!
An inexpensive upgrade to make your Ender 3 even better!
Update your 3D printer’s firmware and add thermal runaway protection.
Explore
h/ender3 19 guides
An interest for owners of the Ender 3, an amazing budget 3D printer from Creality. Have a specific question? Be sure to check out our Ender 3 FAQ.
Feb 3, 2021
5 minutes
h/ender319 guides
Feb 15, 2021
Michael's profile pictureMichael
Joined in 2020 136 guides
A maker at heart, Michael loves all things DIY. Michael is an award-winning poet, writer, and editor. He has published two books of poetry and has writing in publications such as The Wall Street Journal, New York Magazine, The New Yorker, and many others. He has taught writing at colleges across the country, and managed many leading literary magazines to national prominence. Now, he’s excited to devote his energies full time to Howchoo. He currently resides in the Tampa-area with his wife and puppy.
In these interests: 3dprintingender3
The first thing you need to learn how to do is level the bed.
In these interests: 3dprintingender3
Choosing and installing new bed springs on the Ender 3 V2.
In these interests: 3dprintingender3
Check for new firmware regularly.
Here’s how to add the new Ender 3 V2 to Cura.
Because maybe you can’t read the default Chinese Ender 3 menu.
Improve your overall printing experience—and quality.
An inexpensive upgrade to make your Ender 3 quieter and safer
The most common Creality Ender 3 questions answered!
Make your Ender 3 quieter and improve your prints with this board upgrade.
An inexpensive upgrade that greatly reduces bed leveling frequency!
An inexpensive upgrade to make your Ender 3 even better!
Update your 3D printer’s firmware and add thermal runaway protection.
Explore
h/ender3 19 guides
An interest for owners of the Ender 3, an amazing budget 3D printer from Creality. Have a specific question? Be sure to check out our Ender 3 FAQ.
Feb 2, 2021
10 minutes
3 Ingredient Biscuits3 Ingredient Biscuits 3 Ingredient BiscuitsEasy biscuits are just minutes away.
h/recipes • 32 guides
h/food • 36 guides
3 Ingredient Biscuits3 Ingredient Biscuits 3 Ingredient BiscuitsEasy biscuits are just minutes away.
Nov 19, 2020
5 minutes
Tayler's profile pictureTayler's profile pictureTayler
Joined in 2020 75 guides
I like coffee, cats, video games, weird instruments, and unique prose. I sometimes write decent things.
In these interests: productivityamazon
The easiest peanut butter cookie recipe you’ll find.
In these interests: recipesbakingfood
It’s both more complicated and more precise an art than you would imagine!
In these interests: adobedesignindesign
Learn how to create and use Kubernetes secrets
Bring the bar experience to your home.
Easy biscuits are just minutes away.
Find out how to clear cache on your iPhone or iPad in less than 30 seconds!
Simple, tasty, and spicy!
Eat ’em, freeze ’em, enjoy ’em all week long!
Should Users Use Minecraft Hosting Pro?
Build your own security camera with motionEyeOS.
Check Out Our List for Best Routers
Wrap your tentacles around these sweet plugins!
Explore
h/recipes • 32 guides
Many of our recipes address the things we make every day, like eggs, cookies, bread, and cakes. And, as always, the stories behind the recipes are optional.
Explore
h/food • 36 guides
Foodies assemble!

3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Nutella has never been tastier.
TaylerTayler Tayler (75)
Feb 2, 2021
15 minutes

I love Nutella, but I’m not in love with Nutella and sometimes I try to think of ways to incorporate them into different recipes and, after researching some more complicated recipes for cookies, it occurred to me that simpler was better.

I like this recipe because it doesn’t call for any added sweetener, other than the Nutella, which is great because it isn’t too sweet, in my opinion. Furthermore, I like the simplicity of the flour, egg, and Nutella mixture.

Similar to the 3 ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe, I traded out the flour for self-rising flour to cut out the need for rising agents like baking soda and baking powder.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the recipe!

Kitchen tools
1 eacookie sheet
1 eaMixing bowlsMixing bowlsMixing bowls
1 eaStirring SpoonStirring SpoonStirring Spoon
1 eaCooling rackCooling rackCooling rack
Ingredients
1 cupNutella
1 cupself-rising flour
1 eaEgg

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

Cookie sheet.Cookie sheet.

Go ahead and crank up your oven so it can preheat while you mix the dough. I also like to take this moment to line my cookie sheet with parchment paper.

I’m using a Calphalon cookie sheet and wax paper as a liner.

nutella cookie ingredientsnutella cookie ingredients

Into your large bowl, use your measuring cup to combine the ingredients in this order:

  • 1 cup of flour
  • 1 cup of Nutella
  • 1 egg

I like to measure out the dry ingredients prior to the stickier ingredients. This is helpful, especially if you’re using the same 1 measuring cup.

nutella cookie doughnutella cookie dough

Using a spoon, stir until everything is combined into a cohesive dough. Stir more than you think you need to, and make sure you incorporate all of the flour into the Nutella.

You don’t want to bite into a cookie and sink your teeth into a pocket of bitter flour!

nutella cookie doughnutella cookie dough

Using the spoon that you mixed your dough with or diving in with your fingers, create balls of dough that are 1/2″ in diameter. Set them at least an inch apart from each other.

This dough will spread into the standard cookie shape after they’re baked.

Into the 350Ëš Fahrenheit over your cookies go for anywhere from 8-10 minutes. 8-10 minutes in the oven will give you cookies that are crunchy around the edges and soft in the middle.

If you like crunchier cookies, leave them in the oven for 10-11 minutes or until the tops of the cookies crack.

nutella cookiesnutella cookies

After the 8-10 minute bake time, let your cookies cool for five minutes before you attempt to eat or move them from the pan.

I like to set the entire pan on a cooling rack or at least five minutes before indulging!

For extra delicious, but not quite 3 ingredient cookies, hit the tops of your cookies with some powdered sugar! Not only is it pretty, but it’s delicious, too.

We have lots of great recipes that you can make with only 3 ingredients, like:

We know you love each of these and add them to your go-to repertoire!

No whisk, no reward.
TaylerTayler Tayler (75)
Oct 15, 2021
20 minutes

When I was first offered a beverage flavored with whiskey simple syrup, I was in a coffee shop in San Jose, California. I wasn’t even really interested in drinking coffee.

Follow @howchoo and learn cool things:

Are you a passionate writer? We’re hiring!

Write for Howchoo

Like what we do?

Donate

Want to support Howchoo? When you buy a tool or material through one of our Amazon links, we earn a small commission as an Amazon Associate.