I am starting a new Friday tradition… Fix it Friday. I can just hear ya’all cheering. The toilet paper holder I blogged about a while ago has me on a rampage of fixing stuff, I hope some of this comes in handy for you.  If not, I’ll stop. Girl Scouts honor (mmmm, now I want a cookie)

I think we’ve all pulled out an old toy or something else battery-operated only to find that the battery has leaked or corroded and the darn thing won’t work anymore. Well, wipe those tears girls, it might be an easy fix! Try these three steps before you give it away. But before you start anything, turn off the toy/item. Electrocution is so not cool. Also, rubber gloves and eye protection is recommended. This toy was not too bad, but still, not working:

1. Clean the area with vinegar and an old toothbrush. Just give it a good scrubbing. This cleans it and neutralizes alkaline so it won’t cause further damage. Wipe away any debris with a paper towel

Allow the item to dry completely (hours if needed). And if it still won’t work…

2. File down the springs with a nail file and then rinse the area with vinegar on a Q-tip.

Allow the item to dry completely. And if it still won’t work…

3. Fold some tin foil and put it between the springs and the battery to make sure the connection is tight

And if it still won’t work…

I can’t help you. But you could always take it apart and see all the cool parts inside or run over it in your car to teach your kids not to play behind cars… the possibilities are endless really. Martha Stewart said all bloggers are not experts after all. (hope I never gave you the impression that I might be!) This toy started after step 1. Old toothbrush + vinegar = happy baby