30 Down-and-Dirty Tricks for Big DIY Savings

Clean food stains in stone counters with a poultice made of flour and hydrogen peroxide. Mix to the consistency of peanut butter. Spread on the stain, cover with plastic, and let sit overnight. Gently scrape off in the morning.

Cost: $5 for poultice supplies, $14 for Stone Spray-N-Seal to prevent future stains.

Savings: about $250 for a pro to do a light refinishing of a small section of countertop.

Bonus: The poultice also works on stone tile and concrete floors.