As most (if not all) of us are well aware, there’s been an urgent push to use less plastic and produce less waste to preserve the planet. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that many reusable products have grown in popularity—including (gasp!) reusable toilet paper. While it may sound disgusting or unsanitary, it may actually be a viable alternative.

The United States uses the most toilet paper of any country in the world (a fact that was made quite evident by the TP panic at the start of the pandemic). The estimated annual toilet paper consumption for Americans is 141 rolls, beating out second-place Germany (134 rolls) and third-place United Kingdom (127). Compared to countries like France (71), Italy (70), China (49), and Brazil (38), it’s not a very flattering look for the U.S.

According to Justin Thomas, editor of MetaEfficient, Americans use 36.5 billion rolls of toilet paper each year, which represents the pulping of approximately 15 million trees. “This also involves 473,587,500,000 gallons of water to produce the paper and 253,000 tons of chlorine for bleaching,” he told The Scientific American.

Plus, manufacturing all that toilet paper requires 17.3 terawatts of electricity, not to mention the energy and materials used in packaging and transportation. On a more personal level, toilet paper can clog pipes and wreak havoc on city sewer systems and water treatment plants.

How are countries like Italy and Brazil getting by with so much less toilet paper? Well, it’s often because they don’t need to use nearly as much—and they have bidets to thank for that. Although Americans tend to have an aversion to using bidets, for much of the world, using toilet paper seems more disgusting.

What many non-Americans seem to know and understand is that cleaning your bum with a stream of water is actually more environmentally friendly than using toilet paper. You might think a bidet requires a lot of water every time you use it, but a typical bidet actually only uses about a ⅛ gallon of water to flush. By contrast, the average toilet uses about four gallons per flush.

So why are so many Americans against using water to clean themselves instead of dry paper? Think about it this way: If you stepped in dog poop with your bare feet, you’d probably use more than just sheets of paper to clean it off.

Thankfully, there’s a more sustainable alternative to using all that standard toilet paper: reusable toilet paper. If you think reusing toilet paper sounds gross (can’t say we blame you), consider pairing it with a bidet.

Once the bidet has gotten you good and clean, you’ll essentially just be wiping away water (much like toweling off after a shower). You can wrap the reusable “toilet paper” around a regular TP roll, and once you’ve run through them, simply pop them into the washer. The Marley’s Monsters Toilet UNpaper® Roll, handmade in Eugene, Oregon, is made of 100% cotton flannel that can be washed in hot water.

Marley’s Monsters Toilet UNpaper®, 24-Count

$39.99 Shop Now at Amazon

As for choosing a bidet, you can typically buy one that attaches to your traditional toilet for less than $50. The Luxe Bidet NEO 185, for example, features dual nozzles for rear and frontal wash, plus a feminine nozzle that keeps you clean during monthly cycles (and can help ward off UTIs!). Pair your bidet with planet-friendly reusable toilet paper, and you’ll never fall victim to a toilet paper shortage again.

LUXE Bidet NEO 185 Attachment

$43.49 Shop Now at Amazon

Older homes are charming, but some nasty problems can be lurking behind that beautiful crown molding and those coffered ceilings. While it’s true that some older homes are more structurally sound than modern builds and can feature higher quality materials, there are some negatives you might not be aware of.

The federal government didn’t ban lead paint until 1978, and asbestos was allowed to be used in homes until the ’70s as well. Radon studies from that same decade showed the need for improved ventilation in many homes at the time. 

All of this means that if you’re considering buying a home built before 1978—or if you’re already living in one—there are some key things you need to check to verify the health of your family’s environment.

1. Plumbing

It’s possible that homes built between 1900 and 1990 will have plumbing issues that aren’t revealed in a general inspection. Antiquated plumbing can be expensive to fix, but time does a real number on pipes. Corrosion, rust, and decay are all possible issues. To avoid water damage, they need to be replaced. 

There are also possible safety issues at play. If an older home has lead pipes, they must be replaced immediately. It’s best to have a plumber take a look at your system so he can alert you to any changes or upgrades that need to be made.

2. Lead

Speaking of lead pipes, as we all know, the subject of lead is a major issue in older homes because of the lead-based paint used back in the day. Even the dust and paint chips can be extremely harmful to your health when the paint starts to crack and peel.

Sources of this toxic paint can include everything from your doors and windows to the cabinets and floors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 29 million American homes have lead-based paint hazards—and young children live in nearly 10% of those homes.

If you’re concerned about lead in your home, we recommend reaching out to a certified lead professional.

3. Asbestos

The mineral fibers known as asbestos are “perfectly safe” to be around in their normal state. Asbestos only becomes a hazard when broken and friable, meaning easily crumbled. Those broken fibers can stay in the air for days—and inhaling them can cause serious health issues.

Asbestos will likely be found in several places in homes built before 1975. If you’re planning on any kind of demolition, you should first consult a professional to identify asbestos.

4. Electrical Equipment

Just like with plumbing, an electrical inspection is another good idea for a home that’s more than 45 years old. Electrical systems and their standards have changed tremendously in the last four decades. Old electrical systems often aren’t up to code, and improper wiring can be a potential fire hazard.

There’s also the issue of insufficient electrical capacity for modern appliances and tech, as well as a lack of outlets. If you’re thinking about buying an older home, consult with an electrician and have them take a look to make sure it can handle your 21st-century needs.

5. Radon

Radon—a naturally-occurring radioactive gas—is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. It accounts for 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year, including 2,900 among people who’ve never smoked.

If the gas can dissipate, there’s no cause for concern. The real threat is when radon becomes trapped within a building. Homes built prior to the ’70s weren’t built with the need for air movement in mind, but they can be retrofitted. A simple test is available, and some states offer it for free.

6. Foundation Cracks

Not every old home has foundation issues, but it’s something to be aware of. If you have your eye on an older home, it’s imperative to have it evaluated by an inspector to look for signs of “differential settlement.” This can cause your doors and windows to be impossible to close. The inspector will also look for cracked chimneys and wet basements for signs of damage.

7. Pests And Insects

Homes wear down over time due to weather and natural degradation. Moisture damage, leaky basements, and wet crawl spaces can attract insects and pests, so you want to make sure water is being directed away from your home’s foundation. There are many options to fix moisture problems, so you should consult with a professional who can evaluate your specific issue.

8. Mold

Because building envelopes weren’t as well-sealed in older-style construction as they are today, mold can be a bigger issue in older homes. Signs that you have mold include condensation on walls and windows, bubbling or peeling paint, leaks and stains, and musty smells.

Get a professional to test for mold to avoid health problems like stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, wheezing, and burning eyes. Mold can also cause more serious health problems like lung infections, so don’t let the issue go unaddressed.

If you have a machine dishwasher, I’ve got some bad news for you: You’re probably choosing the most expensive time of day to run it.

Assuming you’re like me, you probably prefer cleaning up right after dinner so you don’t forget, thus avoiding a large pile of dirty dishes. Or if you do forget, you might turn on the dishwasher first thing in the morning before work so you have clean dishes ready at the end of the day.

Unfortunately, most of the population has the same philosophy when it comes to using their dishwashers. The moments immediately after dinner and first thing in the morning are peak hours in many locations, and that means energy usage is more expensive.

To circumvent those busy, high-priced times, consider taking advantage of the timer feature on your dishwasher to delay the start time until off-peak hours (generally during the late morning or early afternoon).

According to the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)—one of the largest combined natural gas and electric energy companies in the United States—peak pricing is either between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. or 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, depending on location. Weekends and holidays are off-peak hours, as are most weekday hours before 5 p.m. 

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Depending on the peak hours in your location, you could save yourself some moolah by reducing your energy usage during those higher-priced hours. 

PG&E suggests getting your dishes loaded and your clothes ready for the washer/dryer during those peak times, then waiting until lower-priced off-peak times to actually run your appliances. Those off-peak times, though, shouldn’t necessarily include overnight.

Scott Wolfson from the Consumer Product Safety Commission told The New York Times that running big appliances overnight isn’t a great idea because there’s a slight chance of fire. It’s common for appliances to feature fail-safe technology; in fact, your dishwasher probably has a cutoff switch to power down in case of overheating.

However, there’s always a slight risk with running appliances overnight. Wolfson warned that there may be times when fail-safes aren’t enough, and you may be required to personally intervene by unplugging the appliance or taking other direct measures.

The risk of fire may be rare, but it’s worth considering. For what it’s worth, PG&E offers conflicting advice, recommending that you run your dishwasher and washer/dryer overnight to save money. But our ultimate advice to save money and stay safe is to use your dishwasher’s timer feature.

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When it comes to using a washing machine, we often focus on what not to do. Don’t use this temperature, don’t mix those colors, don’t dry this or that—the list of laundry faux pas is lengthy. But did you know your humble washing machine could be doing a lot more than refreshing your clothes?

Washing machines can work their magic on many everyday household items, from leather accessories to gym equipment. Wave farewell to the stress and inconvenience of hand-washing and the arguably grosser option of skipping the wash altogether (looking at you, Uggs).

1. Car Mats And Other Small Rugs

The average washing machine can easily handle carpeted car mats and other small rugs. Use a vacuum to remove large debris, then run through a cold cycle. Set the rugs or mats somewhere safe to air dry. We do not recommend this method for washing rubber or plastic mats—some mild, soapy water and a cloth is better for those.

2. Hair Ties, Headbands, And Scarves

You wouldn’t wear the same socks every day without washing them, and if you think about it, your hair ties and other head accessories aren’t much different. Our hair and scalp transfer oil, sweat, and dirt onto our hair ties, headbands, scarves, and wraps. So, a quick rinse in a secure delicates bag will revive your adornments and fasteners. Air dry the items to prevent shrinkage or other damage.

3. Sheepskin-Lined Shoes

Whether you have sheepskin slippers, mules, or the same pair of ratty Ugg boots from 2014 like me, you might be surprised to know these cozy shoes can be machine-washed. Start by brushing off any loose dirt or debris. Then, place the boots in a mesh bag and add them to the washer.

Add a couple of towels to sop up excess moisture, then run on a cold, delicate cycle. Remove the sheepskin shoes from the washer as soon as the cycle is done, fluff the lining with your fingers, and allow them to air dry.

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4. Stuffed Toys

Speaking of years-old accessories—as cute as a child’s beloved stuffed toy can be, all that wear and tear (and no washing) can leave those cuddly companions looking more like rogue escapees from the Island of Misfit Toys than something you actually want in your home.

Most stuffed animals can handle a gentle, low-heat cycle and a good air-dry. If the stuffed animal has lots of plastic components that can’t be removed, a cold cycle is a safer bet. Smaller plastic toys can also be machine-washed in a pillow case secured with a rubber band to prevent a loud, clanking, chaotic mess.

5. Yoga Mats

Listen. I can watch all the DIY yoga mat spray videos I want, but I’m never going to actually make it. By the time I think of cleaning my yoga mat, I’m already starting my flow session for the day and not in the mood to go into cleaning mode.

Luckily, yoga mats can be safely cleaned in the washer in cold water on a delicate setting. Allow them to air dry flat or on a drying rack. Note: if your yoga mat is prone to flaking or crumbling, even a delicate wash cycle might exacerbate the problem.

6. Pet Beds

You wouldn’t want to sleep in the same bed linens for months on end. So why should your pet have to? Even if your pet bed doesn’t have a removable cover, you can still wash the whole bed much like a pillow. Start by vacuuming any hair or dirt off the surface (pet hair can do some serious damage to your washer), wash with mild soap on low heat, and then place in the dryer for up to 20 minutes before letting it air dry the rest of the way.

7. Leather Purses

While “leather” and “water” isn’t a combo I typically imagine will have a positive outcome, it turns out that you can actually machine-wash a leather purse. The key is to use a castile soap, which is made from plant-based ingredients for far gentler suds.

First, empty the bag completely (that means double-checking the pockets for any stray sticks of gum). Take out any removable liners or inserts, then throw the whole thing in the washer. Use around a quarter-cup of castile soap with cold water and run it on the gentlest wash cycle.

RELATED: Repel Bugs, Sharpen Scissors, And 5 Other Dryer Sheet Hacks That Don’t Involve Laundry

8. Baseball Hats

If your classic pinstripe ball cap is starting to look a little more yellow than white, that means it’s time for a refresh in the washing machine. Most modern baseball hats have a plastic core and backing, which means they do fine in a cold, delicate cycle. Just hand it up to dry and you’re good to go.

You’ll want to exercise more caution when washing hats made before the 1980s, as their linings tend to be cardboard. Cardboard-lined hats will sound hollow when you flick the brim and should be spot-cleaned only (although one can argue that grime ads to the vintage appeal). 

9. Canvas Shoes

Stop stuffing your shoes with newspaper or foot powder to absorb odors, and just wash them already. If your kicks are seriously caked with mud and grime, use a small brush or other cleaning device to remove the bulk of the dirt.

Remove the shoelaces and insoles, then place the laces in a mesh garment bag to prevent them from tangling. Wash the shoes, insoles, and laces on a delicate cycle in cool water. Using a non-bio detergent without additional cleaning enzymes will help protect the fibers of hemp-based canvas.

10. Shower Curtain Liner

Forget awkwardly wiping down a wafer-thin, massive piece of plastic—your shower curtain liners can go in the washing machine. Machine-washing your shower liners helps remove soap scum and mildew and is considerably easier than trying to clean it while it’s on the shower rod.

Add a few bath towels to weigh down the liner and help prevent tearing. Add an additional one cup of baking soda to your usual detergent to help shake off stubborn soap grime. For an extra deep cleanse, you can also add Borax and Oxi Clean to create a “miracle block” that mimics bleach for brighter whites and a more thorough clean.

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In the days following Christmas, the post-holiday blues can hit hard, especially when it comes time to take down the tree—it’s not nearly as fun as putting it up.

And even though it’s the worst, it’s important to keep everything organized so you’re not greeted with broken ornaments and tangled strings of lights next year. You can make things a whole lot easier on yourself by following these three simple hacks.

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1. Don’t Remove Ornament Hangers

Do yourself a favor and leave the wire hooks on your ornaments rather than removing them during your post-Christmas clean-up. Despite your best efforts, some are sure to fall off and go missing, so tuck an extra package of wire hooks into your storage container.

This box of 200 ornament hooks should do the trick. They’re metal plated, so they won’t rust easily and are sturdy enough to prevent ornaments from falling from the tree (or off the hooks). They come in gold, which feels appropriately festive for the December holidays. And they come with their own little plastic box for easy storage. 

2. Store Your String Lights On A Cord Organizer

What a nightmare it is to untangle that ball of tangled lights. Though we’re all eager to get them down and stowed, taking the time to do it neatly will save you a ton of time in the long run.

From stringing the lights on a notched piece of cardboard to using a clothes hanger, there are so many DIY ways to make this job easier. We find that the best way to organize Christmas lights is to use a winder made strictly for this purpose.

Holiday Joy Christmas Light Storage

$18.58 Shop Now At Amazon

All of your Christmas light storage needs can be met with this pack of four wind-up cord holders. Each holder will store up to 200 mini lights or 100 feet of extension cord—tangle free! 

3. Throw A Fitted Sheet Over Your Tree

In the aftermath of Christmas, taking down the tree is perhaps the most dreaded task.

As sad as it may be to say goodbye to the twinkling lights, it is even worse to have to deal with dropped needles until mid-spring. One way to avoid leaving a trail of needles behind after kicking the tree to the curb involves a fitted sheet.

Put an old fitted sheet over the top of your tree, tuck it in at the bottom, and hold it securely with your hands as you take it outside (even better if you can recruit a partner). The needles will remain inside the sheet instead of all over your floor.

This is a particularly helpful hack for tenants living in apartments since it keeps common areas clean. Afterward, just shake off the sheet outside and throw it in the wash. 

If you’d rather not sacrifice a sheet, you could purchase inexpensive disposable tree bags, which can also be used as storage bags for artificial trees (which can also get pretty messy, particularly if your tree has flocking).

We love these disposable Christmas tree bags—it accommodates trees up to nine feet tall.

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Gen X women are all too familiar with hairspray (insert Aqua Net joke here). Obviously, it’s a great tool for keeping your hair in place while adding some shine and volume.

But like we learned this year with items like dryer sheets and even old mayonnaise, some common everyday items can have unexpected uses around the home, with hairspray being no exception.

Many of us are probably aware of hairspray’s ability to help stop a run in pantyhose, but we’re betting you didn’t know hairspray could do any of these 12 things.

1. Get Rid Of Price Tag Residue

Those price tags on things like dishes and serving platters can leave behind a sticky residue, but that’s not a problem when you have a little bit of hairspray. Coat the problem area with a layer of hairspray and let it sit. The remaining adhesive will be broken down by the alcohol in the spray, so you can simply wipe it off with a wet cloth after about 10 minutes.

2. Keep Flowers Fresh

A beautiful bunch of fresh flowers has a limited life span, but you can use hairspray to extend it. To help the blooms last as long as possible, use this beauty staple to seal in the freshness and prevent the colors from fading. Simply hold a bottle of hairspray about a foot away from your flowers and spray the undersides of the petals and leaves.

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3. Take Care Of Loose Screws

If you have a screw that has a habit of loosening up no matter how much you tighten it, hairspray can help. Tighten that screw the best you can and coat it with the spray. When it dries, it will create a polymer seal to stop the screw from loosening.

4. Tackle Unwanted Pet Hair

We all love our pets, but some of them have a habit of leaving their fur behind after a nap on the couch. To remove that unwanted hair, you don’t need a lint brush or some other fancy tool. Simply spray a generous amount of hairspray onto a washcloth and start dabbing, and the loose hair will immediately cling to the cloth.

5. Thread A Needle With Ease

The struggle is real when it comes to threading needles, but it doesn’t have to be. Spritz some hairspray onto the tip of the thread to stiffen it, and it will easily pass through the eye of the needle without fraying.

6. Preserve Your Children’s Artwork

If your child produces pencil-drawn masterpieces that you’d like to add to the family scrapbook or memory box, you can preserve that artwork with a light mist of hairspray to prevent smudging. This method also works for chalk art.

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7. Make Slippery Shoes Less Slippery

If you have a new (or old) pair of shoes with slick bottoms, avoid falls by spraying the bottoms with a layer of hairspray. Give it a minute to dry, and it will create traction and stop your soles from sliding.

8. Accelerate Nail Drying

Fingernail polish can take forever to dry, but you can accelerate that process by spritzing your nails with hairspray. The aerosol will not only speed things up, but will also create a chip-proof coating to protect your manicure. Win-win!

9. Get Rid Of Static Cling

Avoid a static cling-induced wardrobe malfunction with a little bit of hairspray. Tame a dress or skirt by spritzing some on your hands and rubbing it on your clothing or tights to reduce the static cling without damaging the fabric.

10. Prevent Pollen Stains

Pollen grains from fresh flowers, like lilies and tulips, can fall off and cause some serious stains on fabric and carpet. They can be extremely difficult to remove, so avoid that problem from the get-go by spritzing some hairspray on the stamens when you bring fresh flowers into your home.

11. Preserve Leaves

Wreaths are a fabulous year-round decor item. If you’re a crafter who wants to create your own using real leaves, you can preserve them with some hairspray. 

Start by patting the leaves dry with a cloth until any moisture is gone, then cover both sides with hairspray so they don’t turn brown. This will make the leaves easy to incorporate into crafting projects while preventing them from wilting.

12. Hold Those Eyebrows In Place

Okay, this one is beauty routine-adjacent, but it’s definitely worth mentioning. If you have unruly, stubborn eyebrows, hairspray can help. Spritz some on your finger (or a spoolie), then wipe that finger over each brow—starting on the inside and moving outward—to keep those crazy hairs right where you want them.

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Social media is full of ways to make home organization and cleaning easier, and we came across some super-useful tips in 2022. From tackling the challenges of spreading cold, hard butter without destroying our toast to creative uses for dryer sheets (even used ones), we’ve rounded up some of the most useful home hacks we discovered this year.

1. Spreading Butter Like A Dream

A viral TikTok video posted by a Norwegian food blogger and viewed well over a million times proved there is an easy way to get cold butter to spread on toast like a dream. How exactly? By simply using a grater. 

In just a matter of seconds, you can get the best spreadability by using a grater directly over your warm toast. It will soften your butter flakes instantly and they will become smooth and spreadable. As the TikToker pointed out, grating butter also works well for baking. It’s “a technique used by home cooks and professionals to make food preparation tasks easier, faster, or more efficient.”

2. Never Buy Refills Again With The Swiffer Wet Jet Hack

You’ll never have to buy Swiffer solution refills again thanks to this Wet Jet hack. The one annoying design feature of the WetJet is the fact that you can’t open the cleaning solution bottle to refill it. But it can be done using a mug of hot water.

Simply put the bottle lid-side down into the mug, let it sit for about a minute, remove it from the water, and the lid will easily unscrew.

3. A Revolutionary Dishwasher Hack

We all have our own opinions about how to properly load a dishwasher. But did you know that putting aluminum foil in your machine can make your dishes cleaner? 

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As Chef Erin Morley explained on TikTok, “The foil has a reaction with the detergent to literally get all the grime, grease [off]. It gets your silverware and glassware shinier than you’ve ever seen it.” And she said it eliminates the need for a rinsing solution.

4. Tight On Counter Space? Try This Amazon Kitchen Hack

If you never have enough space for all the chopping and prepping in your kitchen—and don’t have the time or money to add a kitchen cart or buffet—you can get much needed workspace from this Amazon kitchen hack.

Influencer Julianna Claire shared a quick video on Instagram showing off a bamboo work surface designed with a lip. It can easily give you more kitchen counter space by simply placing it over your sink or stove.

5. A Snow Shoveling Hack A La Clark Griswold

Clearing fresh snow off of sidewalks, steps, and driveways can be time-consuming and back-breaking work. But just like Clark Griswold and his sled in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you can grease up your shovel with WD-40 or Pam cooking spray to save time and your lower back. This hack will keep the snow chunks from sticking to your shovel and weighing it down.

RELATED: 6 Common Laundry Mistakes You’re Probably Making & How To Fix Them

6. Using Dryer Sheets Outside Of The Dryer

Dryer sheets can be used for so much more than getting rid of static cling. We came up with seven ways to make the most out of those sheets around your home, and some you can use even after the dryer sheet has been used in a load of laundry. Dryer sheets are useful for repelling bugs, sharpening scissors, and cleaning your baseboards, among many other tasks.

7. Clever Uses For Expired Spices

If you’ve ever bought a spice that you only needed for one dish and never used again, this hack is for you. You can use expired spices to do things like tie-dye shirts, give a mineral boost to your plants, freshen up your carpet, and so much more.

8. Unexpected Uses For Honey

We all know honey can add sweetness to dozens of recipes, but there are other ways to use this liquid gold. Combine a teaspoon of honey with two teaspoons of brown sugar to make a lip scrub. Or, make your own hair mask with raw honey, coconut oil, and an egg. Check the link for lots more uses—this condiment is a jack-of-all-trades!

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There are certainly pros to having a front-loading washing machine, but one big con is that they can get … well, a little stinky. And you certainly don’t want to throw your clothes into a smelly washer when you’re trying to get them clean and fresh-smelling.

Ever wonder what causes your washer to smell bad? Several factors could be at play.

Front-load washing machines don’t use as much water as others, which is a definite plus. But that also makes it difficult for the machine to wash away every bit of the products you use to wash your clothes.

And if you use a lot of product to get your clothes clean (too much detergent, fabric softener, etc.), this can build up over time and turn into sludge sitting in your machine’s water pump filter. This is the type of sludge mold and bacteria love to call home, hence the smell.

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Another possible explanation for the odor is that lint can build up in your washer’s water pump filter. Yes, your washer also has a lint trap and it needs to be cleaned out just like the one in your dryer. If you don’t have the first clue about cleaning your washer’s filter, you’re certainly not alone. And don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

1. Unplug your washing machine.
2. Find your washer’s access panel—for most front-load washers, this should be on the lower front corner of your machine.
3. Lay a towel under a baking sheet (with a lip) or shallow bowl on the ground in front of the washer to protect your floors from any nasty stuff that might come out.
4. Using a flathead screwdriver, pry off the access panel. Open the little door on the inside, and voila! There’s your water pump filter.
5. Turn the filter’s handle counterclockwise until water begins draining onto your baking sheet and you’re able to pull the filter out (you may have to empty your drain hose before this step).
6. Use soap, water, and a toothbrush or paper towel to clean the filter, paying special attention to the rubber gasket. Replace it if you spot any damage.
7. Soak the filter in hot water for 10 minutes.
8. Screw the water filter back into your machine by turning the handle clockwise, then close its little door and replace the access panel.

If you need a visual aid, @brunchwithbabs shows how it’s done on TikTok.

Manually cleaning out the gasket that runs around your washer’s drum on a regular basis will also help stave off any stench.

To give it an extra-deep clean, pour two cups of bleach into the detergent tray (which you also might want to remove and wash) and run a hot cycle, followed by one or two hot rinse-only cycles. Then put two cups of white vinegar into the detergent tray or drum and run a cleaning cycle or another hot cycle. Finally, run one last rinse-only cycle to ensure your machine is thoroughly cleaned out.

It’s not a fun job, but it’s satisfying to open that washer and have it smell like clean laundry instead of mildew.

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Candles can create a lovely ambience in your home, making the atmosphere cozy and dreamy with just a few expertly-placed votives. But like other discoveries we’ve made recently, from showering inefficiently to loading our dishwashers incorrectly, we’ve been burning our candles all wrong.

You might be thinking, “How can I do candles wrong?” We hear you—we rolled our eyes at first too. But it turns out there are candle-burning rules that candle fanatics take very seriously. And with the fanciest candles costing upwards of $75 or more, you might want in on this intel.

1. Burn It Right The First Time

The way you burn your candle the first time is crucial to its longevity. Make sure you burn it for at least three to four hours (or long enough that the wax pool reaches all the way to the edges of the candle jar).

Candle wax has memory (not kidding), and if you don’t allow the top layer to melt evenly all the way across the first time, it will only burn to that smaller circumference each subsequent time. This is called tunneling and results in a buildup of wax around the edge of the jar, making your candle look as though it has, you guessed it, a tunnel running through its center.

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2. Fix Tunneling

It’s possible to fix a tunneled candle, but you must act fast. If you have to extinguish your candle before the top layer has a chance to melt evenly, the next time you use it, wrap aluminum foil around the top of the jar. Cut a hole in the center of the foil, and allow the candle to burn long enough so the wax melts into an even layer.

3. Keep The Wick Trimmed

Always keep the wicks of your candles trimmed to one-quarter of an inch long. Keeping it at this length will help avoid excess smoke and unsightly soot marks. You can use wick trimmers, nail clippers, or just regular scissors. Maintaining the wick will keep it from curling (another thing I’m guilty of) and potentially breaking off into the wax—not a cute look. Trimmed wicks also make for a prettier and cleaner flame.

4. Keep Candles Away From Drafts

It’s also important to burn candles in a well-ventilated room. But make sure to avoid keeping your candles too close to vents, open windows, ceiling fans, etc. That can cause sooting, flare-ups, and even tunneling.

5. Properly Extinguish The Flame

If you want elite candle-burner status, use a wick dipper or a candle snuffer rather than blowing out your candles the usual way. These tools will keep the wax inside the vessel, prevent too much smoking, and keep your home smelling like a candle instead of a campfire.

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After years of buying (or making) my loved ones presents, I’m running painfully low on new, thoughtful gift ideas. For family members like my parents and grandparents, it can seem even harder to find the perfect present. What do you give the person who already has everything, anyway? 

I didn’t want to add clutter to my family’s homes, rely on impersonal gift cards, or give them baked goods for the third year in a row. BloomsyBox poses a perfect solution to this type of dilemma—and it might solve yours, too. 

BloomsyBox is a floral subscription service that delivers fresh, high-quality bouquets to your giftee as often as once a week. These breathtaking bouquets are simple gifts that make a big impact, brightening your loved ones’ homes and offices for months to come.

The Basics Of BloomsyBox

Generally speaking, BloomsyBox operates like most other floral delivery services. You can opt to send a single bouquet in whatever size and floral combination you prefer. But BloomsyBox’s bread and butter is its unique, hand-picked subscription service. 

Subscription services are separated into weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly plans. BloomsyBox offers three versions of its monthly bouquets: Original, Deluxe, and Premium (each version larger and more elaborate than the last), in addition to its weekly and bi-weekly plans. 

Bloomsy Original Monthly Subscription

Per Month: $44.99 Shop Now at BloomsyBox

• A fresh-cut, unique arrangement delivered monthly.
• Includes 22-24 stems per bouquet.

It also offers unique subscriptions like The NYBG Subscription (inspired by the New York Botanical Garden), a rose-only package, houseplants, eucalyptus, and pet-friendly flowers—something I particularly loved as a cat mom whose fur children love to get into the bouquets on the counter. 

Shipping is as quick as two days, and BloomsyBox schedules all following deliveries according to your initial delivery date. You can pause or cancel your subscription at any time. You can also pay month-to-month or in three, six, and 12-month increments.

What Makes BloomsyBox Better

I’ve ordered flowers from countless websites before, but none had a selection like BloomsyBox. The variety in stems blew me away, from classic roses, lilies, and tulips to more unique picks like Scottish thistle, stunning Heliconias, and rustic red fern. Plus, BloomsyBox designs a new hand-cut bouquet each week or month of your delivery. 

BloomsyBox’s prices range from around $40 to $120, which is comparable to most major (and reliable) floral retailers. Except with BloomsyBox, these flowers are shipped from the farms where they’re picked. Only two to five days after the stems are cut, the blooms will arrive on your doorstep in a stunning arrangement.

Moreover, BloomsyBox delivers many of its flowers in bud form, allowing you (or your giftee) to watch them bloom before your eyes. Watching the red roses of my selected bouquet open their petals surrounded by long-lasting calla lilies made for such a lovely experience. Plus, this bouquet lasted longer than any previous grocery store or other major retailer’s bouquet I’ve had on my counter. 

On top of this, BloomsyBox’s bouquets are sourced primarily from Rainforest Alliance-certified farms, making it one of the only direct-to-consumer florists so deeply dedicated to sustainability.

The Gift That Keeps On Giving

BloomsyBox takes the guesswork out of gift-giving entirely. Its florists create stunning arrangements for your loved ones so that your only job is to set up the subscription. After that, BloomsyBox does the rest.

There’s a reason the floral industry is worth billions of dollars—as simple as these gifts may seem, we love them. We love lighting our living spaces with vibrant blooms or (not so) subtly showing off a new bouquet at the office. And with BloomsyBox, you get to deliver that joyful feeling year-round. 

A BloomsyBox subscription service is a fantastic way to give your loved ones a sentimental, thoughtful present without repeating any DIY projects or baked goods bundles. Because BloomsyBox never sends the same bouquet twice, this long-lasting present will never get stale. As the seasons change, so will your giftee’s blooms. 

The only thing that won’t change is the excitement they feel with each new BloomsyBox delivery. Don’t settle for the best gift of the holiday season. Choose a gift that your loved ones will appreciate all year with BloomsyBox’s unique, gorgeous bouquets.

Tinsel garland is a tried-and-true Christmas tree decoration, but it’s definitely divisive. Some people claim it’s tacky and maybe a little too retro—is there such a thing? But it is a relatively cheap decoration that can make your tree look sparkly and pretty.

I mean, it’s one of the oldest holiday trends we’ve got (we’re talking 1600s here), but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t add it to your tree. Could it use a bit of a makeover, though? The answer to that is a resounding yes! 

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A new hack shows how to update your garlands of tinsel into a fresh and modern look. It’s a unique take to be sure, but once again opinions are split: Some adore the look, while others are skeptical. We’d love to know—would you try this Christmas tree hack?

In a video that’s garnered more than 1.9 million views, TikTok creator Teana of @itstea____ showed how to create a “starburst” tinsel look instead of the traditional wrap-around-the-tree method.

Teana first twists a piece of tinsel around a branch, then takes a pair of scissors and clips off the end. Next, she fluffs out the strands and repeats the process sporadically throughout the tree.

Several commenters thought the process seemed longer than necessary, saying things like, “It’s so cute, but my patience could never.” But others were obsessed with the outcome. One commenter stated, “Aww it looks like little fireworks on the tree,” with which we have to agree.

If you want to get the look but are worried about waste, fret not. Teana claimed she only used three feet of tinsel garland to complete the look on her six-foot tree. So while this method isn’t reusable for real trees, it’s not super wasteful, and you could always use less than recommended.

However, another commenter pointed out a way to make the decorations more sustainable by gluing the tinsel “stars” to mini butterfly clips.

Even better, this tinsel garland comes in several different hues, so you can have a rainbow of stars/fireworks all over your tree!

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There are so many benefits to having an artificial Christmas tree during the holiday season. They’re convenient, hypoallergenic, and super low-maintenance—no sweeping up pine needles or watering required. Plus, they come in an array of different styles and colors according to your taste.

They’re also economical—you can decorate the same tree for years to come—and they’re typically less of a fire hazard than a real tree. But as advantageous as they are in many ways, they sometimes need a little boost in the aesthetics department. 

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Artificial trees can sometimes resemble the scraggly Charlie Brown Christmas tree, and we say lean into it if you dig that look. However, if you want your tree to look fuller or more expensive, then check out this hack!

TikTok creator @tnstyled normally focuses on easy and affordable recipes, but she occasionally has a home decor hack or two up her sleeve. She recently made a reel showing us how to up our artificial Christmas tree game, and it’s seriously the simplest hack.

The influencer said one of her favorite ways to make her Christmas tree look more voluminous is to add a few strands of inexpensive evergreen garland. In the reel, she wraps three strands around her pre-lit but undecorated tree starting at the top. After that, she throws in a few more pieces of extra greenery in a different shade for contrast.

To the naysayers who commented telling her to just buy a different/new/real/fuller tree, @tnstyled said, “Some people, unfortunately, can’t afford that. This garland is $5, so not very expensive.” And we wholeheartedly agree; improving things we already own is a great way to save money and avoid waste.

Ziomizi 9-ft Christmas Garland

$18.97 Shop Now at Amazon

When it comes to choosing the right type of garland, you have a few different options. You can buy a versatile plain garland that will blend in with pretty much any artificial tree. Just make sure you buy enough to cover your whole tree.

Christmas Garland Greenery

$23.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Or go with a garland pre-decorated with pinecones, berries, poinsettias, etc. The look is natural and festive, and will save you some decorating time.

Frosted Artificial Christmas Garland

$21.99 Shop Now at Amazon

You could also go with frosted garlands for color contrast or to blend in with your flocked tree.

As a bonus, the leftover garland can be draped over mantelpieces, staircase banisters, entryway tables, or doorways for a festive look throughout your home. The options are endless when it comes to decorating with garland, but this hack is definitely going on my to-do list.

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We love learning new uses for common household products, and we’re even more interested when those hacks involve cleaning messes.

We’ve recently learned a lot about common food staples and their unexpected uses. Did you know that honey can help fresh flowers last longer, or that mayo can clean crayon marks from walls and erase water stains from wood? Even expired spices have a multitude of hidden uses.

Inedible products such as nail polish remover can also be used in ways that differ from their intended purpose. Nail polish remover contains a solvent called acetone, so it’s really good at its original job—but nail polish isn’t the only thing it can remove.

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Keep in mind that nail polish remover is highly flammable, so it should never be used close to an open flame or heat source. Make sure to keep the area ventilated as well, as nail polish can be irritating to the skin, lungs, and mucus membranes. And always keep out of reach of children and pets.

1. Remove Stains From Coffee Mugs

After a while, no matter how hard you scrub, your coffee mugs will become stained. It’s just a part of life. But once again, nail polish remover can save the day. Use a Q-tip or cotton round to scrub the interior of your ceramic mug and remove the unsightly stains, then be sure to follow up with soap and water.

2. Remove Ink And Permanent Marker Stains

Ink and permanent marker stains can be erased from hard non-porous surfaces and fabrics with nail polish remover. For hard surfaces, soak a cloth or cotton ball with nail polish and scrub until clean.

To remove from fabric, make sure to spot-test in an inconspicuous spot first to ensure the material is strong enough to withstand the acetone. Apply the nail polish remover to a clean cloth, then dab at the stain until it disappears. Make sure to wash all items afterward.

3. Revive Old Nail Polish

It’s such a bummer when your favorite nail polish gets gunky, thick, and/or dried out before you finish the bottle. Nail polish remover can once again save the day. Just add a drop (using a dropper would be ideal) of nail polish remover to the bottle. Next, roll the nail polish bottle between your hands for around a minute.

The acetone should help return the nail polish to its original smooth state. Afterward, make sure to store your nail polish in a cool place with the lid tightly closed. Store all of your nail polish bottles upright so clumps don’t form at the neck of the bottles. And only keep your nail polish bottle open as long as necessary when using. Exposure to air will dry out the bottle quickly.

4. Get Rid Of Sticker Gunk From Glass Or Metal 

If you have children or grandchildren, you likely know the joy that stickers can bring them. However, they can also cause a headache once the stickers are stuck to everything, including your metal and glass appliances.

Luckily, using a little bit of nail polish remover can dissolve any leftover residue that stickers can leave. Just dab a little on the adhesive to break it down and wipe it clean.

5. Disinfect Nail Clippers And Other Grooming Tools

Because nail polish remover is made from acetone and alcohol, it makes a great disinfectant. You can disinfect your nail clippers, tweezers, scissors, and other grooming tools with a cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover. Make sure to wash the tools with soap and water and let them dry before using them again.

6. Shine Your Shoes

You can shine your patent leather shoes and clean scuff marks from your tennis shoes with nail polish remover. Spot-test first, then soak a paper towel in nail polish remover and gently buff away the marks. Make sure to wipe the shoes dry afterward. Enjoy seeing your reflection in your new-looking shoes!

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If you’re like me, you have absolutely zero tolerance for bugs and household pests. When I see a critter in my house, I immediately squish it—no questions asked. Cockroaches? No. Spiders? Absolutely not! I don’t want any of these creatures living rent-free in my space.

It turns out, though, that I might be too overzealous in my bug-killing mission. Yes, some of those unwanted creatures are nothing but a nuisance, but the following five bugs can actually be helpful to have around your home. So next time, think before you squash.

1. Daddy-Longlegs

Whatever you call them (the species’ official name is Pholcus phalangioides), this bug actually does serve a purpose. I know they look creepy, but hear me out.

These leggy bugs are actually carnivores and love to dine on other spiders, including redback spiders and black widows, which can be dangerous to humans. They even eat spider eggs! They also eat insects like mosquitoes (which love to feed on your blood), and aphids (which love to feed on your plants).

And because they also like to feed on dead insects and bird poop, they can help keep your patios and outdoor spaces clean. While they sometimes congregate in clusters during the fall, this only happens for a short period of time and doesn’t cause any structural damage.

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2. Centipedes

These little arthropods are found all over the world, especially in places with high levels of moisture. So you’ll likely find them in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and damp basements. With a name that means “100 legs,” it’s no surprise that these creatures look like something out of a horror movie.

While they’ll probably always give you the heebie jeebies, centipedes don’t pose any significant threat to either your health or any type of property damage.

In fact, you should refrain from killing them because they offer free pest control by hunting small insects and other arthropods that are hiding out in your house. If you start to see an increase in centipedes, that might be because there’s been an increase in their food source. In other words, this could be indicative of a bigger pest problem in your home.

3. Ladybugs

Ladybugs, with their hard-shelled red bodies, black spots, short legs, wings, and antennae, are definitely cuter than most bugs on this list. Their adorable looks and the fact that they’re a sign of good luck in many cultures are reason enough not to kill them, but that’s not all.

The biggest reason not to kill ladybugs is that they’re absolute gladiators when it comes to fighting off aphids in your garden, mealybugs on your houseplants, and mites in your carpet and upholstery.

There’s just one caveat with ladybugs—don’t let their numbers grow too large. That’s when they can become a problem, and they’ll also emit a foul odor when bothered. Gross.

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4. Praying Mantis

Praying mantises—instantly recognizable by their narrow green body, small triangular head, large eyes, and oversized front legs that make them look like they’re deep in prayer—actually make quite obliging companions.

The upside to having a praying mantis in your house is that it will hunt, trap, and feed on pests. They tend to go after flies, moths, mosquitoes, and roaches. The downside is that they sometimes like to lay eggs indoors. To avoid that, gently catch these little guys in your hands and put them outside to help combat any mosquitoes.

5. Spiders

For those of you who hate spiders as much as I do, this is probably the last thing you want to hear. But having spiders indoors can be a good thing. Spiders are natural predators, meaning they will actively be targeting and eating other pests, including insects that can carry diseases. Plus, out of thousands of species of spiders, only 30 are known to be venomous to humans, equating to roughly 1/20 of 1% of all spiders.

Of course, many of us are still opposed to having spiders in the house. If you can, capture the spider in your home and set it free outside where it can continue to do its thing in farther proximity from where you sleep.

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Interior designer Lizzie McGraw’s style is relaxed, a little bit beachy, and a little bit modern. Her signature look is thoughtful and gives a feeling of perfection without looking like anyone broke a sweat to create it.

Someone, of course, probably did. Good design doesn’t come easy, which McGraw knows better than anyone. Her home was on Los Angeles’s popular Abbot Kinney Boulevard before it was one of the hottest design strips in California.

It’s now her design shop, Tumbleweed & Dandelion, and after two decades in the business, McGraw has published her first book. Creative Style: Livable, Loveable Spaces is filled with her favorite textiles, furniture, and accessories.

Creative Style: Liveable, Loveable Spaces

$36.99 Shop Now at Amazon

The book also provides tours of 12 of her most inspiring interior projects, including her own 1920s cottage in Southern California. When she moved in, the building was neglected and rundown, but McGraw used flea market finds, upcycled vintage pieces, and a whole lot of creativity to build an airy space that’s filled with character.

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I connected with McGraw to learn more about how she makes her home and shop warm and welcoming, and for some tips on how we can borrow her relaxed approach in our own homes over the holidays.

What advice would you give readers to get your look in their own home? 

“I always tell clients to edit out anything in their home that’s not useful. I believe in beautiful things, but it is possible to have too much of a good thing.”

What are some easy, quick tips for those of us who might feel overwhelmed by getting the house ready for holiday guests? 

“When getting the house ready for guests, my mantra is ‘keep it simple.’ Serve food that’s delicious, but easy to prepare. During the holidays, most guests prefer light fare anyway!”

Along similar lines, what are one or two of the most impactful things you can do that will create a festive mood in your home? 

“I rely on fresh greens for their great holiday scent and easy ambiance. They always create a festive mood. Whether in a vase or hung by twine on a door, it always sets the tone. I also like to have a gentle but lovely candle burning. The Fraiser Fir candle we sell at Tumbleweed & Dandelion always sells out so fast at holiday time.”

How do you decorate for the holidays at your home?

“Our home is simple, organic, and functional. Fall is a big season in our world, so our at-home vibe is filled with aromatherapy and fresh greens. It’s the most calming and beautiful way to enjoy our home without stress.”

How do you decorate the shop?  

“We like to offer handmade goods and vintage ornaments during fall and at the same time, we don’t rush it. That said, we have baskets of ornaments surrounded by dough bowls with pumpkins. Our seasonal candle scents that we make sit out for easy picking, and our music always sets a tone!”

Is there a color palette you typically stick to or does it change year to year?

“We are always open to change, so yes. We have a consistent neutral vibe, but this fall we have fun napkins in fall pastels for Thanksgiving, and we are feeling a bit of pink instead of red!”

What are your favorite Christmas items that you sell in the shop?  

“Hands-down, our candles. We make them ourselves, so every year we add a few different scents. This year orange clove is taking the stage!”

What non-traditional Christmas decor items do you go back to year after year?

“We are more holiday/family rather than Christmas, so we like to fill baskets with pinecones that we gather on our trips! Sometimes we spray them, or just leave them in their beautiful natural state.”

Do you go for real or artificial greenery? Are you a one-tree family, or do you like to have multiple trees in the house?

“We are a ‘replant trees’ people. We always buy a few potted trees and replant them after the season.” 

Do you entertain a lot during the holidays? How do you set a holiday table to make a party festive?

“My husband is a chef, so cooking is fun here. He creates the meal and I set the table and create the ambiance. I love beautiful table settings, so we play with napkins tied with twine and rosemary.

“If I have the time, we will wrap a baguette for each guest, or send them off with some of Jonathan’s homemade toffee. We always make time to hang with our team and our friends.”

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Most of us assume that scrubbing dishes by hand with soap and water is just as effective as using a dishwasher. Some may even prefer this method over using a machine.

Yes, those sparkling dishes on the drying rack might look squeaky clean, but are they actually disinfected? We were surprised to find out that many dishwashing soaps are not antibacterial. So if you’re washing by hand, your dishes could be secretly harboring bacteria.

To be honest, this isn’t really that big of a deal most of the time. However, if you have someone in your house who’s been sick or if you prepare raw meat on your dishes or cookware, then sanitizing your hand-washed dishes should be a priority.

Dishwashers might not get rid of all those stuck-on food particles, but they do disinfect your dishes. That’s because water temperature needs to be above 140 degrees Fahrenheit to kill off bacteria. This is a given with machines, but your hands can’t handle that kind of heat.

If you want to thoroughly disinfect your dishes when washing by hand, you’ll need to start with the proper dish soap. Dawn Ultra Antibacterial Dishwashing Liquid and Palmolive Ultra Antibacterial Dishwashing Liquid are two good store-bought options.

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You could also try mixing your own solution using one tablespoon of unscented chlorine bleach per gallon of water. When using this method, you’ll want to soak your dishes in the solution for a full minute before rinsing thoroughly.

Also, a silicone sponge—like this one from GreenLife—is a much safer bet than using a traditional sponge that’s probably teeming with germs. These innovative dishwashing net cloths could do the trick as well. If you refuse to part with your traditional sponges, it’s best to replace them often and be sure to disinfect them after cleaning sessions.

Speaking of dishcloths and cleaning towels, using a dirty one after drying your dishes could be counteracting your sanitation efforts. Be sure to wash them regularly using the hottest possible water and your washing machine’s “sanitize” cycle if it has one.

Our final tip when washing dishes by hand is to get the water as hot as possible and use a pair of heat-resistant gloves to protect your skin.

But remember, unless you use dishes to prepare raw meat or your someone in your household has been sick, it’s not necessary to go through this song and dance every time you hand-wash your dishes. Happy cleaning!

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Gas or electric? When it comes to choosing a kitchen stove, many might believe it’s a simple preference, but when it comes to gas stoves, it turns out there’s more to consider than just temperature control—they might also be impacting your health and the environment.

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Because natural gas emits pollutants, using a gas stove comes with environmental and health concerns. We’ve discussed the safety of gas stoves and the fact that they can release dangerous carbon monoxide into the air, especially if they are unvented. But they may have an even bigger impact on the environment and our health than we realized. 

Several proposals have been made to limit home gas usage due to these growing concerns. In fact, Berkeley became the first California city to bar natural gas pipes in new buildings as of 2020. Several other California cities have followed Berkeley’s lead, and more states are likely to join in.

Why We Should Be Concerned

A study published in October 2022 in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found more evidence that gas use in homes, including gas stoves, could negatively impact both climate change and public health.  

According to the study, about one-third of households in the country cook with gas. Gas use, however, is significantly higher in some states, such as California, where the study took place, where more than 60% of homes use gas for cooking. 

The researcher collected 185 samples of unburned natural gas from 159 homes in California from three gas companies: Pacific Gas & Electric, SoCalGas, and San Diego Gas & Electric.

Each sample revealed a shocking truth: All contained air pollutants classified as hazardous by the Environmental Protection Agency, which could lead to cancer and other serious health problems.

Despite a large number of air pollutants in samples, there was one particular containment found that was most concerning: benzene. Benzene is a highly flammable chemical with no odor or color, which makes it hard to detect during a leak. Of all the toxins, it was the most prevalent.

A particularly alarming fact is that being exposed to benzene long-term can increase the risk of blood disorders and cancer such as leukemia. Boston College professor and pediatrician Philip J. Landrigan told The New York Times that benzene levels are a long-term concern.

“Benzene accumulates in the body over a person’s lifetime, and health risks increase almost linearly with exposure,” he told The New York Times. “There is really no safe threshold” for benzene exposure.

Unfortunately, limiting gas stove use or venting doesn’t reduce levels of indoor benzene, and other studies have shown that gas stoves are unsafe even when turned off. During their inactive state, they leak alarming quantities of methane, a harmful greenhouse gas. 

What We Can Do

Shockingly, California gas appliances and infrastructure emit nearly as much benzene as nearly 60,000 cars each year. In light of the growing evidence of indoor air pollution, both from this study and many others, there is a push to avoid gas entirely and cook with electric stoves instead.

While some consumers may not be able to switch to electric right away, there are some options to help. To encourage homes to switch from gas to electric, President Biden’s climate plan offers incentives. According to Joe Biden’s new climate law, homeowners can now claim energy efficiency tax credits and rebates, enabling them to make positive changes in their homes.

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There seems to be a slew of rules to follow in the world of nonstick cookware, from avoiding metal utensils to never using it with your oven’s broiler setting. Still, when it comes to protecting your nonstick pans from wear and tear, we have one more tip to add that you’ll certainly want to follow.

There’s no question that nonstick cooking sprays save time in the kitchen. But despite being safe to use on most cookware, cooking sprays such as Pam can eventually damage nonstick finishes.

Nonstick surfaces are adversely affected by the emulsifier in cooking spray called lecithin. Lecithin serves as a barrier between the heated surface and the food being heated. Over time, it forms a sticky buildup on nonstick surfaces that is difficult to remove. After a while, this film can cause the pan’s nonstick properties to suffer, making it nearly impossible to cook with ease. 

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In order to extend the life of your nonstick cookware, it’s best to skip cooking spray altogether. But what are the alternatives? And are they just as effective for preventing food from sticking to the pan?

Cooking Spray Alternatives

Replacing your cooking spray with pure cooking oils such as olive oil or butter will not only enhance the taste of your dish but will also extend the life of your nonstick cookware. 

If you want to limit your calories or simply reduce waste, choose a refillable oil mister. These oil spritzers are useful not only for nonstick pans but also many other cooking tools such as air fryers and Instant Pots. And for salad lovers, they’re a convenient way to add your favorite light dressing.

Aside from foregoing cooking sprays and opting for gentler alternatives, there are other ways to maintain the integrity of your nonstick pans:

1. Season your pan! Similar to cast iron, you can add a little oil to a warmed pan which should aid with flavor and help with its nonstick properties.
2. Avoid the dishwasher. Dishwashing detergent is generally harsher than normal dish soap, so it could potentially ruin the finish over time.
3. Don’t preheat an empty pan. If your nonstick pan is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), that chemical can break down and release potentially harmful fumes if heated above 500°F. Adding a little butter or olive oil can help give you a visual cue the pan is hot and ready to go before it hits that level.

By avoiding cooking spray and keeping these rules in mind, your nonstick pans will look and function better for much longer.

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I’ve ruined so many items of clothing in the washer and/or dryer. My sweet mother-in-law insists on buying me “hand-wash only” pieces, and only now at the respectable age of 38 am I responsible enough to heed the tags’ instructions.

But I came from the camp of throwing (almost) everything together into the washing machine, using cold water, and just seeing what happened. Sometimes the result was a ruined blouse. Many of you can probably relate.

But with age comes wisdom, and now we know that sometimes taking a few extra moments to read the tag can save us a lot of headaches and money. However, tag instructions don’t always cover everything. Read on to find out how you should handle laundry day if you have a furry friend who sheds, plus a few other clothing items you should always hand wash or take to the dry cleaners for best results.

1. Pet Hair-Covered Clothing

If you’re a dog or cat owner, you’re likely to experience some level of pet hair on your clothing (unless you have a non-shedding dog or cat, in which case lucky you). You would probably think it’s fine to just throw your pet hair-covered clothes into the wash, but sadly, that’s not the case.

It might be smooth sailing for a little while, but over time the pet hair could clog drains and put stress on your home’s plumbing. The hair will also clump together and stick to the walls of the washer. It’s all pretty gross, but the solution is easy enough. Simply use a lint roller or masking tape on clothing and vacuum as much pet hair as possible from bedding (yours or your pet’s) prior to washing.

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2. Swimsuits

Be gentle with your swimwear! The agitation of the washing machine can stretch the fabric, damage the strings, and fade the color of your swimsuit. The dryer in particular is a no-go because it will quickly ruin the elasticity of the fabric. Your tankini will fare much better over the long run if you hand-wash it instead.

3. Certain Delicate Fabrics

There are certain types of fabric you never want to throw in the washer. Cashmere, wool, velvet, lace, leather, and suede are a few obvious ones. But clothing that’s been embroidered or that has other similar decorative elements should likely be hand-washed or even dry-cleaned, depending on the fabric.

4. Stains From Flammable Liquids

You should forego the washing machine if you find yourself with a stain from gasoline, mineral oil, acetone, or another flammable substance on your clothing. First, spot-treat the stain, and then hand-wash and lay flat to dry.

5. Sweaters 

To keep your sweaters looking their best, it might be okay to wash them occasionally on a gentle cycle. But hand-washing and laying them flat to dry will likely keep them at their peak coziness. And of course, fold them after they’re dry—never hang them!

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Among the highlights of the year, autumn certainly has its golden hour with the beauty of fall foliage. Nevertheless, once the leaves fall and end up all over the lawn, that charm quickly fades.

As leaves blanket the yard, our weekend to-do list once again includes raking, but experts are saying it may be time to say goodbye to this dreaded task. In fact, raking leaves might actually be harmful to your yard and the environment.

Leaves Can Actually Improve Your Lawn’s Health 

While this was news to us, experts have actually been touting the benefits of fallen leaves to our yards and the environment for years.

To start, leaves contain vital nutrients like phosphorous and potassium that together act as a natural fertilizer for your lawn. Leaves can also support the soil below, aiding in its structure and water absorbency.

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David Mizejewski, a naturalist at the National Wildlife Federation, explained to USA TODAY that where leaves fall naturally is also important.

“The leaves fall around the root zone of these plants, where they do things like suppress weeds or other plants from growing that would otherwise compete with the trees and the shrubs,” he explained. “They slowly break down and compost right there at the base of the tree [or] the shrub … where they return nutrients that the plant can then recycle and reuse next spring.”

Not Raking Is Also Good For The Environment

Fallen leaves offer more benefits than just natural fertilizer; they also serve as shelters for creatures vital to local ecosystems.

“There are probably thousands of different species that actually live in that leaf layer,” Mizejewski noted. “Most of them are invertebrates, so think of everything from earthworms and little pillbugs and all sorts of little critters that live in that leaf layer.”

These invertebrates are a vital food source for birds and other critters in your area. Raking up the leaves can disrupt this vital process. But the potential impacts don’t stop there.

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Maxim Schlossberg, an associate professor of turfgrass nutrition and soil fertility, told USA TODAY how blowing leaves into streets and sidewalks also presents problems like disrupting drains and local waters. It is also possible for foreign debris to clog grates and prevent water from draining properly.

Drains that lead to streams and rivers can also carry leaves into the water. Schlossberg says that can affect water quality and sensitive species adapted to those waterways.

What’s more, by not raking and bagging your leaves, you can help minimize landfill emissions. Mizejewski noted that leaves sent to landfills are a major contributor to climate change. As leaves decompose, they emit greenhouse gases, so it is important to keep them out of landfills as much as possible.

What To Do Instead

This fall, skip leaf raking, according to experts. But, in the event that leaves form a mat over your grass, they suggest removing them as the weather cools. In this case, Mizejewski suggests placing leaves in garden beds or raking them into a big pile for natural decomposition. 

Schlossberg urges the use of a lawnmower, as it breaks up the leaves and brings nutrients to your grass. “Since they’re smaller, they’re more rapidly dismantled and decomposed by microorganisms. And the whole recycling process of those nutrients being returned to the soil occurs more rapidly” he explained. 

Overall, when you’re taking care of your lawn this fall in preparation for next spring, remember how beneficial leaves are to wildlife and the environment.

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Halloween is almost here and people all over are getting ready to carve funny faces and cool designs into their pumpkins—if they haven’t already. If you’re a fan of making jack-o’lanterns but hate the mess that comes from hollowing out a pumpkin, check out this hack from lifestyle influencer Brunch With Babs. 

How To Carve Your Pumpkin With ‘No Mess And No Fuss’

Barbara Costello rose to fame with the TikTok account “Brunch With Babs,” where she gives tips and tricks on everything from how to properly load a dishwasher to which appetizer is best to have on hand for parties. 

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In a recent video, Costello shared her “Do’s and Don’ts of Pumpkin Carving,” saying that her advice “saves the mess and speeds up carving with no mess and no fuss.” In the clip, Costello shows viewers the process of carving a pumpkin from start to finish. 

Her first tip? “Carve from [the] bottom. That way you have the stem to hold onto and you can easily slip the pumpkin right over a candle or flashlight,” she wrote in the caption. She also told viewers to “hold [the] pumpkin in your lap to carve. You will have a much steadier pumpkin to cut.”

This Simple And Unexpected Trick To Clean Out Your Pumpkin

Her next tip is one that most have definitely not heard. The messiest part of carving a pumpkin is removing the stringy “guts” of the gourd, and a lot of people name it as their least favorite part of the process. Have no fear, Babs is here with a hack!

“Use a hand mixer to clean out your pumpkin,” Costello shared. In the video, she moves the mixer around the inside of the pumpkin, stripping the strings from the sides. “Get all those strings cleaned up,” she said while demonstrating this trick. “Your mixer did the hard work of loosening all those strings.”

Don’t believe her? Jennifer Garner tested the hack on her own Instagram account and endorsed the hand mixer method.

How To Make Your Jack-O’Lantern Smell Like Pumpkin Spice

When it comes to carving a design, Costello shared two easy ways to get the perfect jack-o’lantern face: use a dry erase marker to draw your design (easy to rub away if you make a mistake), and get out your cookie cutters. Costello demonstrated how cookie cutters and a rubber mallet can be used to hammer shapes into the pumpkin. 

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Now that the jack-o’lantern is complete, what comes next? “Cover all cut surfaces with Vaseline to keep the pumpkin moist after carving,” Costello said. “Pumpkins should last 1-2 weeks carved!” Sprinkle some cinnamon inside to give it a pumpkin spice scent, and voila! You’ve got the perfect pumpkin to put out for trick-or-treaters. Costello is known for her clever home hacks and tricks, so it’s no surprise she’s discovered the easiest way to carve a pumpkin!

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Finding the time to declutter your home can be difficult. But if you tackle one room at a time, letting go of the things you no longer use doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Case in point, I recently decluttered my bathroom and it felt amazing. I finally got rid of that cucumber melon body spray I’ve had since the ‘90s and so many other items that no longer served a purpose in my life.

Decluttering is a form of self-care that often gets overlooked. We totally get it; letting go can be hard. These items might hold a nostalgic attachment (like my body spray) or you may feel a sense of security knowing you have certain items on hand, even if you don’t use them anymore.

In reality, though, a cluttered living space can have a negative effect on your happiness and well-being. So we’ve compiled a list of things to either get rid of altogether or store elsewhere to help make your bathroom a calmer, more functional space.

1. Expired Medications

This might be an obvious one, but you should take care to dispose of any expired medications properly. For prescription medications that might mean finding a drop-off location to get rid of them. It’s probably fine to throw other over-the-counter medications away in the trash, but you may want to conduct a quick Google search just to check.

In addition to getting rid of old medications, finding a better location outside of the bathroom to store your medicine could be ideal. Humidity from the bathroom can damage certain medications. Plus, some meds have temperature requirements—they might need to be stored in the fridge or freezer. But most medications need to be stored in a cool, dry place. For safety purposes, storing medications in a locked box might be warranted.

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2. Razor Blades

If you haven’t switched out your razor blade lately, it could be time to throw out the old one and grab a new one. Definitely swap out your razor if you see any signs of rust. This is another item that may benefit from being stored in a room with less humidity. While not the most convenient, keeping your razors in a dry place outside the bathroom will prolong their life.

3. Old Loofahs And Sponges

Sponges and loofahs can be a breeding ground for bacteria, especially when stored in a humid place, aka the bathroom. Loofahs are meant to clean your body, but if they haven’t been changed in a few weeks, you could be defeating their whole purpose. Sponges, whether used for wiping down countertops or applying makeup, can also harbor bacteria if not cleaned and stored properly.

For cleaning sponges, make sure to rinse thoroughly and squeeze out any excess water. Keep in a well-ventilated area and change out every month or so. Makeup sponges should be cleaned every few days and stored either in the container they came in or in a specific makeup sponge holder.

4. Cleaning Supplies

If you didn’t know (I didn’t!), cleaners and disinfectants can expire. They likely won’t be harmful after their expiration date, but they might not be as effective as they once were. If you do determine that they’re past their prime, you might need to call your local hazardous waste facility to find out the best disposal method.

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If you store chemicals in your bathroom, you’re definitely not alone. Many people keep cleaning supplies under the sink or in the bathroom closet. However, you should be extra careful to keep these potentially harmful products out of reach of children and pets. It’s also best to keep your cleaning supplies together, preferably in a cool, dry place and out of direct sunlight.

5. Out-Of-Date Beauty Products

Makeup, perfume, and other beauty products can expire sooner than you think. Some products like lipstick, foundation, and blush can last up to two years. But other types of makeup may have a shorter shelf life.

For example, mascara and eyeliner are typically only good for a few months. If you use them regularly, you probably won’t have any problem sticking to that timeframe. But considering many people only use makeup for special occasions, it can be difficult to remember to throw away unused products on time.

It may be ideal to buy smaller travel sizes of makeup and perfume. Decluttering your expired beauty products might give you a better idea of what you do and don’t use, which could allow you to shop smarter in the future.

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As video content has become more prevalent in recent years, the number of videos touting home tips and hacks popping up can make your head spin. Some are truly helpful, like products that can free up space in a small kitchen. Others might cause more harm than good, such as loading your garbage disposal with ice to clean it. Many of them may have you asking, “Am I really doing this wrong, or is this person just crazy?”

Enter in one such video that immediately caused debate on the Suggest team: What is the correct way to load a dishwasher?

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Posted by beloved internet mom/grandma Babs Costello, known affectionately as Brunch With Babs on both TikTok and Instagram, a recent video on how to load a dishwasher garnered over 6.5 million views and a lot of comments. 

From cozy family recipes to everyday cleaning tips, Costello sweeps social media with all types of advice. In her post on loading a dishwasher, Costello started the video with her two very important don’ts, and her first tip was quite controversial with fans.

Dishwasher Loading Don’t’s:

1. “Scrape, don’t rinse,” was the advice she gave about removing food scraps from dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. “Not only will you save water, but the detergent will have something to adhere to.” This obviously had people talking.
2. “Don’t put things in the dishwasher that don’t belong there, like wood objects or your good kitchen knives.” These items should be hand-washed instead, which we agree with.

From there, Costello went into her long list of do’s, some of which had viewers surprised.

Dishwasher Loading Do’s:

1. Fragile items go up top, nestled gently between the prongs, not perched on top of them. Costello included small bowls in this group and added that bulky utensils should be tucked between the cups and bowls.
2. For our most precious items, wine glasses, Costello offered a genius tip for how to load. “For tall wine glasses, don’t forget to drop your top shelf down before closing,” she said in the video. “To lower your top rack, just push in (on the sidebars) and press down.”
3. For the lower rack, Costello recommended orienting items toward the center for a more effective clean.
4. If you’re washing pots or pans, they belong in the front of the dishwasher.
5. Knives should be placed sharp side down for safety, and forks and spoons could be grouped together for easy unloading later.
6. To finish, ensure the spray arms are unobstructed, and you’re ready to run!

As we said, this video sparked both intrigue and a few raised eyebrows.

Some took issue with the advice on how to load silverware. Many commenters mentioned that depending on your utensil rack, grouping spoons and forks together could cause them to nestle together and not get as clean. Another pointed out that placing spoons and forks handle side down might not be the most sanitary when it comes to unloading.

Of course, the most controversial point involved not rinsing the dishes before loading. Many noted that they don’t run their dishwasher daily, so rinsing is needed to ensure proper cleaning. Others responded by saying a lack of pre-rinsing can leave behind a weird odor, regardless of what detergent they use.

According to Ashley Iredale, an expert for the independent consumer advocacy group Choice, pre-rinsing is not only unnecessary, but it can also make your dishes less clean. “If you pre-rinse everything, your dishwasher’s going to think that your plates are cleaner than they actually are, so it won’t wash as intensely and they might actually come out dirtier,” Iredale told The Guardian. This is because most modern dishwashers have built-in sensors that measure the amount of dirt detected in the initial rinse cycle. Who knew?

Everyone’s dishwashing habits and appliances are different, but perhaps you may have learned a few do’s (or don’ts) to apply in the future.

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We’ve discussed unconventional uses for mayo and expired herbs and spices. I mean, who knew that mayo could clean stainless steel? And now we’ve got the lowdown on honey. Sure, you can add a bit to your afternoon cuppa, make some baked goods, or add it to a ton of recipes for an added bit of sweetness.

But, there are several other uses for honey that your grandma or your friend who homesteads probably already knows about.

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Getting the most out of all of our products is important these days, and if you have a container of honey that is crystallizing from non-use, then we have the perfect solution. Solutions, actually! Here are our favorite non-food uses for honey.

1. Create An Easy Lip Scrub

Combine a teaspoon of honey with two teaspoons of brown sugar. Massage the mixture onto your lips and leave for about ten minutes. If you can resist the temptation to lick it off, wipe off the mixture with a warm washcloth. The mixture will exfoliate your lips while moisturizing too.

2. Help Fresh Flowers Last Longer 

A vase full of fresh flowers really helps brighten a room (and our moods), but you don’t need to rely on packaged flower food to keep them vibrant longer. Simply add one tablespoon each of honey and vinegar when replacing the water. The honey provides nourishment for the flowers, while the vinegar will keep the resulting bacteria in check (which is what causes wilting).

3. Use As A Topical Wound Care

Honey has been used in folk medicine since ancient times. More recently, scientists have rediscovered honey’s usefulness, and research shows that certain types of honey can treat wounds and shorten healing time in surgical wounds and pressure ulcers.

It can do the same for minor burns or scrapes at home—manuka and other types of honey are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and can help you heal faster.

4. Nourish Your Hair And Scalp

Research also shows that honey can hydrate the hair and scalp. It’s an awesome natural hair conditioner that you’ve probably noticed on the ingredient list of several products. But you can also make your own if you feel so inclined!

To make your own honey hair mask, you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons of raw honey
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
• 1 egg (whisked)

Mix the coconut and honey together in a small pan and gently heat on a stovetop. Allow to cool, then add the egg and then apply it to the hair. Let the mask sit on the hair for at least 20 minutes. Cleanse your hair with shampoo and warm water to remove the hair mask.

It’s nice to know that such a common item in your pantry can come in so handy—and that those Costco-size containers won’t go to waste.

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If you’re lucky enough to own a home, you know it can be both a blessing and a curse. The idea of tailoring your home to your tastes is appealing, but getting there can be less than glamorous. Forget the before and after—it’s the in-between that counts. 

Before moving into a midcentury ranch last year with my husband, I thought myself a master of rental renovations: cheap, temporary, and as I like to call it, close enough for government work. I decorated spaces within the confines of my lease, and it worked. 

But when we moved into our house last August, we were eager to get started on bigger, more permanent DIY projects. (As a disclaimer, I’m lucky—my partner is an independent contractor who has been fixing things around the house since his youth.)

Still, we ran into our fair share of snags. And as plan A repeatedly turned into plan B, I realized I did not know as much about home renovation as I thought. I spoke to several colleagues, friends, and even strangers about their home reno “wish I knews,” and it was both a validating and eye-opening experience.

1. Come To Terms With Timelines

Because I was so used to making temporary renovations, I had a horrible concept of how long a project should take in our new house. I was frustrating myself with these unrealistic time frames. Once I stopped expecting a project to be done in a matter of days, my stress levels finally went down.

I thought I might be impatient, but it turns out this is a common issue. I spoke to Dallin Hales, a DIY blogger and current owner of a renovated 1880’s pioneer home, who said, “it’s a safe measure to plan three times more time to finish the project than initially expected. If you finish sooner, even better!”

Layla Acharya, online education site owner and DIY-er, had a similarly tough lesson to learn. “I went for renovating myself, and it was a very hectic and time-consuming process. I was unable to focus on my work life because of it. If I would have hired an interior designer, things would have taken less time, and my house would get a completely different feel. I will surely go for that next time.”

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2. Prioritize Function Over Beauty

Jen Stark, founder of Happy DIY Home, said the biggest thing she wishes she knew before starting a DIY renovation project is “that function beats beauty every day. For example, that refrigerator may look fabulous in your kitchen, but what good is it going to do if you can’t open the doors all the way? Think about how you’ll use the space and efficiency. Consider the ins and outs of the space before you commit to anything.”

I encountered similar issues when picking out furniture and light fixtures for our new home. The most visually attractive options seemed to be the least functional—though you wouldn’t think it at first glance. But after double-checking the measurements, wiring configurations, and other product specs, I realized all that glitters in the home decor world is not gold.

It can be tempting to commit to non-functional pieces to stick to a theme. But remember it’s your home, not an art gallery. Take the time to consider how you will feel living in this space daily. If it doesn’t improve the functionality of the area, then it might not be worth the splurge.

3. Don’t Forget About Red Tape

Homeowners are not exempt from bureaucratic red tape—in fact, they usually have to deal with a lot of it. The larger the renovation, the more tape there is. “If the renovation involves adding to the footprint of the house, most towns require drainage mitigation for any addition over 400 square feet,” explained Vincent Colangelo, strategic construction advisor.

“This will require an engineering report. A survey will also be required demonstrating that the new addition meets the setbacks, easements, floor area ratio, height, and green area regulations. If the house is on septic and well, an entire separate set of regulations enters the design considerations.”

There are housing costs to consider, too. As Steve Elliot, a franchise owner of Restoration1, explained, “I am renovating a condo townhouse. In this area, the maximum price for a house of this style is about $300,000. Therefore, while I could spend $30,000 or more renovating, I wouldn’t be able to recoup those costs if I sold the house. Over-renovating will result in a home that costs you $350k that you’ll never be able to get more than $310k for in a sale.”

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4. DIY? Maybe Don’t

If there’s one thing being married to a contractor has taught me, it’s that major DIY jobs rarely go well. I’ve heard countless horror stories of him having to repair botched flooring, plumbing, wiring, and drywall jobs that cost his customers (and him) more time and resources in the long run.

My coworker Allison Weston offered this advice from her hairdresser: “[she] told me, ‘there’s a reason why you pay me to do your hair. It’s because it’s what I’m good at. There’s a reason painters make their living painting—because they’re good at it. Let people that are good at their job do it.” Weston said she hired painters at her new house on this advice, “and it was worth every single penny.”

Generally speaking, it’s important to know your limits with home renovations. “[DIY] is a great way to save money, feel accomplished, and involve the whole family,” said Kerry Sherrin, consumer advocate at Ownerly. “But it can turn disastrous if you don’t know what you’re doing.”

“Identify what you can safely do and what you should leave to the pros,” Sherrin continued, “like a potentially load-bearing wall, asbestos, or lead paint. If you’re unsure, find a reliable contractor.”

5. Teamwork Makes The Dream Work

Whether you decide to hire a pro or do it yourself, never underestimate the power of a helping hand. This not only means actual hands on the project—but also consulting videos, books, and other resources as often as you need. The most talented contractors, carpenters, and engineers I know are constantly looking up the latest information, techniques, and trade secrets.

Sherrin offered several helpful online resources, which she said are great for beginner DIY-ers. The DIY Huntress is great for projects like desks, headboards, and even a simple step stool, she said, and “Woodworking 101” at Anika’s DIY Life is great for tool recommendations, tutorials, and tips, she said.

And Toolbox Divas is a “veritable playground of practical and imaginative woodworking projects, like farmhouse shelves, desks, and covered garden beds, to all kinds of wood crafts like a serving tray, multi-tier hanging planter, and an easy-to-make wall clock from scrap wood and colored epoxy.”

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6. Remember The Good, Fast, And Cheap Theory

Home renovations can be a major undertaking, requiring lots of time, money, energy, and know-how. It’s best to prepare for the unexpected, maintain a healthy savings account for non-reno-related emergencies, and be patient. No matter which project you embark on, property owner Doug Greene wraps up his DIY advice succinctly.

“The best advice I can convey is the concept of ‘good, fast, and cheap.’ The theory is that you can always only have two of them. For example, if you want really good results on refinishing your cabinets and you need it done ASAP, then you’re going to have to invest in a top-notch orbital sander. Doing it by hand might be cheaper, but it would take longer.”

“You can see the tradeoffs. If you’re truly taking on a home renovation yourself, then invest the money you are saving into high-quality power tools. It will make all the difference, and you can get scary good results by using the right tools. Be patient, and learn some new skills. You never lose them, and it’s very rewarding when the job is done.”

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Most of us know that common household products like vinegar and baking soda have a plethora of uses around the house. You can make a DIY spray with vinegar to clean sinks, countertops, and other surfaces. And baking soda is also a good cleaner and odor neutralizer.

But there are other unsuspecting items in your home that have more than their original intended use. For example, you can use expired spices to nourish plants or act as a natural bug repellant, while a humble dryer sheet can tame flyaways or even sharpen scissors. Even food can be used for things other than sustenance. We’ve shown you how to use onions to clean your grill and beautify your hair, while leftover water from boiling potatoes can help you out in the garden.

There’s another unassuming product in your refrigerator that has plenty of uses. From cleaning stainless steel to conditioning your hair, there are a surprising number of things you can do with this spread. What is it you ask? Mayo, of course!

1. Clean Crayon From Walls

If you have children in your life, you’ve likely encountered this predicament. But if your walls are painted, then mayo should easily erase stubborn crayon marks. Rub the mayo onto the mark and let it sit for about 10 minutes. After letting it sit, grab a clean microfiber towel to wipe it off.

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2. Clean Stainless Steel

Use mayo on your stainless steel appliances to make them shine. Simply apply a thin coat of mayo to your refrigerator or dishwasher and then wipe it off with a clean cloth.

3. Make A Hair Mask

If you have really dry or damaged hair, a mayo hair mask may be what you need for shiny and stronger hair. Just coat your tresses with the condiment, leave for 20-30 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse.

4. Erase Water Rings From Wood

You can remove water rings with a dab of mayo and a clean cloth. Make sure the table is clean and dry, then smear the mayo onto the spot. You may want to spot test in an inconspicuous place first if the piece of furniture is expensive. Wipe off the mayo after a few hours or leave it overnight.

5. Remove Dead Skin

Dry skin can be a nuisance, but if you don’t mind the unconventional scent, mayo can be an economical solution. Place a little bit on rough, dead skin, leave for about 10 minutes, then wipe away with a washcloth.

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It’s officially fall, so if you’re an autumn enthusiast, you’ve likely already pulled out your Halloween and fall-themed decor. You’ve probably switched out your throw pillows, hung your dried pampas wreath, and started diffusing your fall scents. And if you’re ready to add a little festive flair to your kitchen, look no further! Le Creuset has dropped a fall collection and we can’t wait to get our hands on some of the cult favorite’s goods.

The brand has a major following, which includes the likes of Ina Garten, so you know it’s the real deal. While some of the brand’s products cost a pretty penny, other products are reasonably priced. But either way, the quality and value of Le Creuset’s products are unmatched in the culinary world.

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The durable, beautiful, and versatile cookware has led the way in bold design, style, and color since 1925. Read ahead for the coziest fall-inspired collection that will transform your kitchen into a fall haven.

Le Creuset Mini Pumpkin Cocotte

$34 Shop Now at Le Creuset

This adorable mini pumpkin cocotte is great for side dishes and individual servings of cobbler, mac and cheese, and other fall treats. The stoneware distributes heat evenly, keeps food at the desired temperature, and is oven safe to 500°F. This sweet cocotte will be a fun and functional addition to your kitchen.

Le Creuset Bat Stockpot

$120 Shop Now at Le Creuset

We’ve gone batty for this amazing stockpot. A cauldron of bats is featured on the side and lid of this Halloween-themed pot. Quickly heat up soups, stews, brews, and ciders in this festive stockpot.

Le Creuset Pumpkin Casserole

$125 Shop Now at Le Creuset

Great for derby, pecan, or apple pie, this pumpkin casserole dish is thoughtfully designed and easy to clean. Use it as a charming serving dish at Thanksgiving or other fall feasts. Safely store leftovers, cook quiches, and transport yummy treats to family gatherings with this beautiful dish.

Le Creuset Bat Mug

$24 Shop Now at Le Creuset

Pour your mulled cider, dirty chai latte, or hot chocolate into this bat mug that features appliqué bats on the side. This 14-fluid-ounce mug will keep you and your drink warm and cozy on a brisk fall morning.

Le Creuset Pumpkin Cocotte

$368 Shop Now Le Creuset

If you’re ready to do some homestyle fall cooking, this cute pumpkin cocotte is the perfect pot. Make all your homemade soups, comforting beef stews, warm roasted chicken, and more in this versatile cast-iron dutch oven. Available in three autumnal colors: persimmon, meringue, and sea salt, this cocotte has a lifetime warranty and is dishwasher safe.

Le Creuset Halloween Cakelet Pan

$25.20 Shop Now at Le Creuset

Bake up some spooky treats this Halloween with Le Creuset’s adorable cakelet pan. Featuring mini pumpkin and ghost molds, this pan is perfect for sweet and savory cakes alike. Plus, a heat-resistant silicone strip makes it easy to take the pan out of a hot oven.

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When my husband and I bought our first home in 2019, we were so excited. We saw past the buckling hardwood floors, the dated kitchen, and the literal piece of paper taped to the wall where a section of crown molding was missing. We saw a home we loved.

Anxious to start moving in (I was pregnant), we looked past things we probably shouldn’t have. We were first-time buyers and there were some red flags that we ignored, many of which should have at least been a discussion with the realtors or sellers.  

Buying a home, whether it’s your first home or not, is an overwhelming and exciting time. When you find a home you can envision your family in, it can become all-consuming. And most clever sellers know this and use it to their advantage. Sometimes it’s innocuous things, but other times these staging “tricks” might be covering up something more serious. 

Staging a home in and of itself isn’t manipulative. It helps the buyer see the potential of the home and connect with it more than if it were a vacant home. But being aware of common staging techniques can help you become a more savvy shopper and save you from some potential headaches in the future.

1. Curtains

Curtains can make a room feel warm and inviting. They provide some privacy, add some insulation, and help tie the room together. But, they are also good at hiding problems. Always make sure to check all the windows in each room to see their condition. Older windows may lead to issues regulating temperatures in the rooms, which affect energy bills.

Additionally, broken, damaged, or cracked windows or walls can be strategically hidden by curtains. Window treatments can also camouflage small windows, making them appear larger. Hanging curtains closer to the ceiling is a trick that most homeowners employ to make their rooms feel taller and airier. This is common, just make sure to open all the curtains while looking at homes.

2. Fresh Paint

In most cases, adding a fresh coat of paint is a positive sign the seller is trying to update the home for a new owner. That said, paint can cover up a lot, like mildew, water spots, and other potential deal breakers. If it looks like the paint job was rushed, ask questions about past issues with mildew.

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3. Overpowering Air Fresheners

If the seller has added overwhelming scents to the home before the showing, they might be trying to cover something up. Pet odors, cigarette smoke, or sewage odor might be present, however temporarily masked by a strong scent.

Sellers still usually use some sort of scent when showing a home, although in recent years sellers are using less offensive air fresheners and going with more subtle essential oils or DIY room sprays.

4. Background Music

As with the above-mentioned, another sense that the seller may try to manipulate is your hearing. If background music is playing during the showing, the seller might be trying to cover up road noise, nearby train tracks, or foot traffic. It’s best to ask them to turn off the music to get a feel of what sounds and noises you’ll be hearing on a daily basis.

5. All The Lights Are On

Sellers typically want the home to look as light and bright as possible, so they may have all the lights on to try to fake it a little. Natural light is a hot commodity, and many older homes won’t have much. So, always turn some lights off to see what the natural light situation would be.

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6. Rugs

We love a good rug. They can make the room look more put-together, brighten up a dark room, and bring out the beauty of hardwood floors. But obviously, rugs can also hide imperfections.

Stained, scuffed, and/or damaged floors can easily be covered up by a pretty rug, so make sure you have a good idea about the condition of the floors before you make any big decisions. If rugs are over already carpeted flooring, check to see what condition they’re in too. Always be aware of any potential water damage or foundation issues before buying a home.

7. Mirrors, Artwork, Decor

Mirrors can make a room look larger and brighter, so keep that in mind when envisioning your space. Check the measurements of the room to make sure your furniture will fit well. Strategically placed mirrors, artwork, and decor can also hide cracks, blemishes, and water stains on walls.

8. Furniture Placement 

Beyond decor, placing smaller or compact furniture in a small room is another tactic to make it appear larger. Does the dining room have a compact four-top or a table that can seat 10? Is there a full-size mattress in the master bedroom compared to your king-size at home? Always be sure to think about your current furniture and how it may look in the space.

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Record-setting heat waves have been hitting all over the country in recent months, with the Pacific Northwest recently experiencing a bad bout of triple-digit temps.

For people like myself who are used to living in the muggy, heavy heat of the Mississippi Delta region, air conditioning is non-negotiable. But for areas of the US that aren’t used to experiencing such high temperatures, A/C is far less common. 

When temperatures soar above 100º F for days on end, the last place you want to be is inside without A/C. HVAC installation is a pricey, lengthy process and might not be a viable option for some. Window units are easier to install, but they can still get expensive. Plus, their limited reach will inevitably bring everyone to the same room.

A portable air conditioner can be a good option for your heatwave woes. According to a Suggest editor currently living in northern California, you should opt for a unit with a window vent over a water-based one. Here are some of the best-selling options currently available on Amazon.

LG Portable Air Conditioner

$459 Shop Now at Amazon

• Cools rooms up to 300 sq. ft.
• 3-in-1 Operation: Cool, Fan, and Dry Mode
• Auto swing air vent
• 2 cooling and fan speeds
• Single hose system
• 56.4 poounds
• 1-year limited warranty

LG’s Portable Air Conditioner features a window vent like our editor suggests and is available with cooling and heating capabilities. This particular model can cool rooms up to 300 square feet, making small spaces like bedrooms and offices livable again. It also features two cooling and fan speeds for additional customization.

Many customers rave about the unit’s icy cooling power and lack of water buildup. However, others complained of bulkiness and noise. LG’s unit is roughly 13x17x27 inches, which should fit most spaces. But if you’re incredibly tight on floor space, you might want to measure your living area before ordering. Others mentioned the unit’s sound output seemed high. But as one reviewer put it, “I’d rather have the noise than the heat.”

Black + Decker BPACT10WT AC

$385.99 Shop Now at Amazon

• Cools rooms up to 450 sq. ft.
• 3-in-1 Operation: Cool, Fan, and Dehumidify Mode
• Self-evaporating operation
• Remote control, top-mounted LED display
• Single hose system
• 50.7 pounds
• 1-yr warranty on labor/parts, 5-yr warranty on compressor

Black and Decker offer a similarly sized unit that can cool an additional 150 square feet. This unit is also slightly lighter than LG’s model, weighing only 50 pounds as opposed to 56. Many happy customers noted the durability of Black and Decker’s model after multiple years of regular use.

Like the LG model, many customers complained about the noise. The unit’s two rotary fans and ball bearing compressor are to blame, but one customer noted that it “doesn’t seem to interfere with phone calls or voice chats.” This unit boasts a “sleep mode,” which makes the machine quieter overnight for less sleep disruption.

Whynter ARC-14S

$499 Shop Now at Amazon

• Cools rooms up to 500 sq. ft.
• 3-in-1 Operation: Cool, Fan, and Dehumidify Mode
• Advanced auto drain technology
• 24-hr programmable timer
• Dual hose system
• 73 pounds
• 1-yr warranty on unit, 3-yr warranty on compressor

This portable AC unit by Whynter covers the largest area (500 square feet) and is also the most expensive. Unlike the other two models, the Whynter unit uses a dual hose system. One hose functions as an air exhaust hose, and the other draws air from outside. This allows the unit to cool itself and the room more quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, Whynter’s model features advanced auto drain technology, which uses and recycles moisture collected during the cooling process to produce more cool air. While many users still commented on the noisy output, several remarked it was quieter than units they’ve tried in the past. 

Generally speaking, it seems that any portable A/C model comes with a bit of ambient noise and requires a little bit of set-up finesse. But depending on your room size, wiring, and your personal preferences, one of these options might be your best bet to beat this miserable, record-breaking heat.

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I’m guilty of buying an uncommon (for me) spice for a specific recipe, using it once, and then completely forgetting about it. And of course, we have all the normal spices that get used regularly, but sometimes we get burned out on even those. Then we find them, several months later, pushed to the back of the cabinet.

Many times these spices and dried herbs become expired, at least according to the label, but that doesn’t mean you should throw them out. They might lose their potency, but herbs and spices don’t really “go bad” as other dried goods might (read: they are completely safe to use after their “Best By” date).

Still, the drop-off in flavor can make it tempting enough to toss them in the trashcan. If you’re someone who hates waste, there are actually plenty of clever uses for old spices. Here are some of our favs.

1. Tie-Dye Shirts

Tie-dyed shirts have had a resurgence in popularity in the past few years, but honestly, these fun shirts never go out of style. We love the earthy natural tones that natural dye provides. And using your old spices is the perfect way to get the most out of them.

To make the dye, first, boil water and place it in a large bowl. Next, add two tablespoons of whatever spice you choose and let it infuse for several minutes. There are tons of beautiful colors to choose from. Tumeric will result in a warm golden color, beetroot will make a rich red hue, saffron will result in yellow, and paprika is a beautiful orange shade.

2. Add To Your Plants

You can add expired dried herbs and spices to your plants for a boost of minerals and vitamins. Adding these nutrient-dense superfoods will help keep your indoor or outdoor plants happy and healthy. Add cinnamon to protect the leaves and roots from fungus, use turmeric to get rid of powdery mildew, or make a mixture of nettle, dandelion, and yarrow to be used as liquid fertilizer. You can also add a mixture of rosemary, oregano, and bay leaves to keep plants growing.

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3. Freshen Up Your Carpet And Rugs

Whether from kids, pets, or just heavy traffic, carpets and rugs can soak in and hold scents over time. While giving it a deep cleaning every now and again is always the ideal solution, in a punch, sprinkling a little ginger and rosemary prior to vacuuming can help freshen things up.

4. Homemade Soap

You know those fancy soaps you see at the farmer’s market for like $25? You can easily make homemade soap, complete with pretty herbs. You’ll need a soap-making mold, glycerin soap base, and whatever herbs you want to add.

5. Make A Natural Bug Repellent

While they may be pleasant for us, bugs and insects can be offput but the scent of certain herbs and spices. Bay leaves are a great example and can be effective at keeping bugs, especially cockroaches, out of the home. Mint is a natural ant and flea deterrent and can also be useful in warding off mice. Sage, rosemary, and thyme can also be bound in sachets to help deter a number of insects or pests.

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Whether your child has gone off to college, moved to a new city, or simply moved out of home for good, parents across the country are probably finding themselves with some extra space.

Some empty nesters will mourn the vacancy, keeping the room intact as a shrine to their child and poised for visits. Others will celebrate the additional space, with redecorating ideas all buzzing in their minds.

In a Houzz poll asking parents whether they would change their kids’ bedrooms after they move out or leave them as is, 2,127 said they’d make the change while 743 thought leaving the room unchanged was the best choice.

If you fall into the “change it” category like these parents and are looking for ideas, Decorist recently launched a new service just for you.

Remote Room Decorating

Choosing where to begin when remodeling or redecorating a room can be daunting and expensive. Decorist Virtual Design Consultations make hiring an interior designer convenient and more affordable. 

The 30-minute, $59 video design consultation can help you design your perfect space whether you’re creating your own design, drawing a blank, or nearing the finish line.

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Decorist matches you with an interior designer based on your needs. During the call, you can show your consultant your room, and share details about your needs and goals. Your designer will then offer ideas including furniture sourcing, room layout, and renovation ideas. After the call, you’ll receive a designer summary with personalized recommendations. 

Decorist’s new service is a great way to efficiently jump-start a new look for that now-empty room. Not sure where to start? Take Decorist’s design quiz, and check out some ideas for your newly empty room below.  

Ideas For An Empty Nest Bedroom

Here are a few basic ideas to help get the wheels spinning.

1. Home Office

Working from home has become increasingly popular over the past couple of years. Making your vacant space into a cozy home office is a no-brainer if you often work remotely.

Roundhill Furniture Roskilde Storage Wood Office Desk

$142.65 Shop Now At Amazon

This desk is simple and modern and perfect for transforming a small space into an office.

Hylone Office Chair

$155.99 Shop Now At Amazon

This office chair comes in 4 colors and my favorite thing about it is the flip-up arms, which make it easy to tuck under your desk to save space. That functionality also allows you to sit criss-cross applesauce if you so desire.

2. Guest Bedroom

One popular option is to give college-bound children’s rooms a light refresh, converting them into guest rooms. Then adult children still have a place to stay when they come home to visit, but the room will also be appropriate for guests.  

Empty nesters can also get the best of both worlds by converting the additional space into a hybrid office guest room with a daybed or murphy bed.

Bestar Nebula Full Murphy Bed

$1,527.64 Shop Now at Amazon

This modern murphy bed leaves space for an office, hobby room, or home gym.

Parachute Linen Sheet Set

$189 Shop Now At Parachute

Now is the perfect time to splurge on luxurious bedding. Parachute has become the go-to for sturdy but soft linen sheets that come in 11 beautiful colors.

3. Hobby Room

You might find that you now have time to work on hobbies and passions you had previously put off, too busy raising your kids. Transform that old bedroom into a sewing nook, art studio, music room, or library, and cross some items off your bucket list.

Chelmsford Desk

Shop Now At Wayfair

This simply desk is the perfect workspace or accent table to store supplies and decor.

4. Home Gym

Transforming the empty bedroom into a home gym can save money as well as allow for faster, more efficient workouts. It might even encourage you to exercise more often.

Oversized Home Gym Mirror

$219.99 Shop Now At Wayfair

Work out with perfect form in your home gym with this oversized mirror.

Regardless of what you choose to do with your extra room, Decorist can help you make it both beautiful and functional.

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Autumn might mean the end of poolside days and long nights, but not everything from summer has to stop in September—including a garden full of fresh, ripe veggies. We often associate our edible garden with abundant summer harvests, but you can still enjoy a diverse garden well into fall. 

This goes for every gardening zone in the continental US, though specific compatibility will vary by region. From the brisk Northeast to the balmy Southwest, several vegetable staples not only survive but thrive in the shorter days and cooler autumn temps. 

There is still plenty of time to enjoy a home harvest before the cold deep winter the Farmer’s Almanac predicts for most of the US. For even better results, plant your cold-loving veggies deeper than the package suggests to give them the cool, damp environment they crave.

The Best Vegetables To Plant In Fall

Between leftover back-to-school treats (thanks, kids) and Halloween goodies, there are ample sweet treats to enjoy in the fall. Balance out these well-deserved chocolate breaks with leafy greens, hearty root veggies, and brassicas from your own backyard.

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These vegetables have evolved to protect themselves against the cold by accumulating sugars. Not only does the sugar prevent water in the plant cells from freezing, but it also makes these veggies taste extra sweet, flavorful, and delicious. Thanks, Mother Nature.

Some resources recommend trying pelleted seeds, which are coated with a layer of clay to increase ease of handling, reduce seed waste, and encourage even spacing. These types of seeds also retain moisture better than non-pelleted seeds, which means you get to worry less about constant watering.

Of course, where you live impacts the type of vegetables that will thrive best in your garden. We’ll be referencing the above plant hardiness zone map when detailing which vegetables grow best in which regions.

1. Dark, Hearty Greens

Bok choy, kale, and Swiss chard are all well-suited for cooler temps. Bok choy and Swiss chard are the most durable and can grow in Zones 2-11 and 3-10, respectively. Kale is a bit pickier, thriving in southern Zones 7-9. The cooler but not freezing weather softens the bitterness of these nutrient-rich greens for a deeper, more palatable flavor.

2. Lettuce And Spinach

Whether you’re making salads, sandwiches, stir-fries, or omelets, fresh lettuce and spinach are two kitchen staples that will elevate these dishes to the next level. Lettuce produces sweet, crisp leaves in the fall in Zones 4-9. Spinach can be planted a little further north in Zones 2-9 and has a short maturation period so that you can enjoy multiple harvests before winter. 

3. Hearty Root Veggies

Fall is also a great time for planting hearty root veggies, which means more flavorful and robust soups, stews, and roasts. Turnips, beets, radishes, and carrots all thrive in Zones 2-11, with small discrepancies from plant to plant. These veggies have a fairly long maturation period, which means they need to be planted before the autumn months.

However, they boast amazing flavor if left to their own devices through fall. Because they’re root vegetables, they can even withstand light frosts with minimal damage. The extra sugar will only make these vegetables yummier.

4. Peas, Beans, & Brassicas

Finally, other cool-loving veggies you can enjoy in the fall include green beans, peas, and brassicas (i.e., cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower). All of these plants do well in Zones 1-11. However, cabbage does better in the North, and cauliflower and broccoli thrive in the South. Peas and green beans are fairly middle of the road in Zones 2-10 and 2-9, respectively. 

Autumn will be here (and gone) before we know it. So, make sure to get a jumpstart on your cold-weather veggies now while the opportunity is still ripe.

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You’ve probably heard the saying about leftover pasta water being like liquid gold. However, you almost certainly don’t think twice about what happens to the water used when you boil potatoes. But next time, you should.

You may be surprised to learn that the cloudy, starchy water from your boiled potatoes may be a powerful natural fertilizer.

Potato water boasts an impressive amount of minerals and nutrients which can contribute to the well-being of both indoor and outdoor plants. In every 100 grams of this natural plant food, you’ll find 350 mg of potassium (K), a macronutrient that plants need to build immunity against environmental stress, along with phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and zinc.

Aside from providing more potassium than a banana, spud water also contains protein, iron, and B6 vitamins. These essential nutrients can help nourish your plants without a trip to the hardware store.

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In spite of the fact that leftover boiled potato water can benefit plants, there are some cautions to be taken. In order to be effective and safe, starchy water must be made from unsalted potato water. Using salted potato water in your garden will help you eradicate weeds and other plant life. In particular, when used immediately, salted potato water is a very effective weed killer for broad-leaf weeds. 

Conversely, salt-free spud water is an excellent source of supplemental plant food for both indoor and outdoor plants. Using just potato water instead of plant food may not be a good idea, but it is an excellent way to recycle potato water. Aside from that, it provides plants with some of the essential nutrients they need. For strong, hardy, beautiful plants, add potato water to your existing plant food.

While we’re recycling potato water, let’s not forget about those precious tuber peels. In addition to being a powerhouse of nutrients, potato peels can be used as an organic fertilizer for plants. Potato peels improve soil fertility with potassium and phytonutrients, which plants love.

However, getting the benefits is not as simple as pouring on leftover potato water. It is recommended that potato peels be composted before being introduced to the garden. By skipping this step and sprinkling peels directly into your garden, you risk attracting plant-destroying pests like deer, rabbits, and rats.

If you are having potatoes for dinner, don’t throw out the leftover water. Be sure to shake up any potato water before adding it to your plants. Simply add it to your watering can along with your existing plant food and water your plants as usual.

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When it comes to saving on energy costs, we do our best. We’ve been drilled about turning off the lights when we leave a room since we were kids. Weatherstripping our doors and windows and using thermal curtains in the winter has become second nature. We even check our refrigerator settings to ensure our food is safely stored and that our wallets aren’t hurting too much.

We’re doing a lot already, but there’s one simple thing that can help us cut down on our energy bills even more. And, we’ll do just about anything to keep these bills from getting too out of hand. I mean, more than they already are.

Studies have shown that around 23% of power usage in an average household comes from “always on” appliances. You know the type. Our televisions, microwaves, and desktop computers are almost always plugged in, and the list of “vampire appliances” goes on and on.

Some of the larger appliances have a lengthy set-up, so it’s best to keep them plugged in. But other appliances, like our computers, lamps, and phone chargers don’t always need power.

In fact, with reports showing the average American household spending around $115 per month on electricity, these “always on” appliances could be costing you over $300 a year!

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So what can we do to keep these devices from sucking up too much energy? We’re glad you asked! The Vont Smart Plug can help you lower your electric bills and make smarter choices about your energy consumption.

Vont Smart Plugs can be controlled by an app on your phone or by voice command. Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and IFTTT, with the smart plug, you can set routines, control devices from anywhere, and see a breakdown of your energy consumption on the app. Even for the least “techy” among us, the smart plug is easy to use and set up. Just download the Vont app, plug in the device, and click on Add Device in the app.

Once installed, you are in total control of when to power on and off any appliance or device in your home. Set up a routine to automatically turn off unneeded electronics while you sleep or turn lights on once it gets dark. Tap to power up your coffee maker while still in bed, or to turn off the TV from the other room.

Vont Smart Plug

$19.99 Shop Now at Amazon

As long as you have a Wi-Fi connection, you can set “vacation mode” to keep your home looking occupied even when you’re not around. Lights will turn off and on at a set time or as you control it from the app.

And, remember the days of worrying about whether you left your coffee maker on as you were leaving for vacation? Well, as long as it’s plugged into a Vont SmartPlug, you won’t have to worry any longer. If that doesn’t convince you, I’m not sure anything will. For me, that’s a major game changer!

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Extending your living space into your backyard can give you that extra needed area to relax and unwind. Even if your space is limited, you can design the area to feel like an extension of your home.

We know social media and magazines typically showcase expansive backyards with sprawling gardens and enormous patios. But, that’s just not the reality for many of us. Whether you’re a city-dweller, condo or townhouse occupant, or you just don’t have acres of land to design, you can still have a cute and cozy outside space.

Finding the right design for your outdoor area and lifestyle can sometimes be tough. It’s all about a balance between functional and cute that will ensure you have an area in which you can relax and de-stress. Scroll on for some inspiration for your own backyard oasis, even if you’re tight on space.

Insta Inspo

String lights, puppy dogs, and a snuggly baby?! Never leaving the backyard again!

A little pool for a little area is ideal. Even in neutral tones, it’s fun!

A cozy courtyard looks picturesque with an outdoor rug and a couple of chairs.

Short on space for a garden? No worries! Grow your plants vertically!

Even if you only have a balcony, you can make it more enjoyable with a hanging chair and some hanging plants.

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With potted succulents, you don’t have to worry about watering your garden every day.

A deck with plenty of furniture and a vertical garden would be the perfect place to sip your morning coffee.

Or, just turn your outside space into an inground pool. Not much to complain about with this design.

All you really need is a hammock, right?

Forget the grass. A small platform deck makes the perfect impromptu dance floor.

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No matter what your plans are, whether it’s redesigning your bath, planning a complete overhaul, or simply daydreaming while scrolling through Instaworthy spaces, a bathroom renovation can make a big difference to the overall feel of your home. 

In fact, updating the bathroom is one of the best investments you can make when it comes to home improvement projects. It’s no surprise that for many of us it can be a place of retreat, evoking a calming, spa-like feeling, making the space all the more relaxing. 

Dreaming of a luxurious bath with amenities equal to those at your neighborhood retreat? We take you through some stunning ideas to make your bathroom into a serene oasis you’ll never want to leave.

Modern Meets Classic

When getting light into your bathroom is a must for that fresh-from-the-spa feeling, this is a great starting point. The large mirror and light wood accents make this bathroom shine.

Go Big! Go Bold!

Wallpaper instantly enhances the energy in any space and gives it an unexpected sense of style and wow factor.

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Soothing Soaking Tub

Just because your space is tight doesn’t mean your bathroom can’t achieve spa-level perfection. This soaking tub and standing shower combo is a great option and a few bits of greenery really help sell the ambiance.

Moody Black

While the all-white bath is the standard for creating a tranquil, spa-like environment, sexy, dark, sleek black bathrooms are starting to take center stage.

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Golden Art Deco

Art deco-inspired decor can truly make any spa-like bathroom feel more extravagant and luxurious.

Fireside Bath And Shower

This winter, stay toasty and cozy in your elegant master bathroom suite, complete with an elaborate fireplace.

Botanical Oasis

Relax, soak, and unwind in a botanical oasis. Soft, soothing greenery abounds in this bathroom alongside swoon-worthy patterns and textures.

Serene Green

Spa-like and serene, this light shade of calming sage green will work to give any bathroom an air of growth and renewal.

Marble Meets Tile

In addition to being bright and airy, the floor-to-ceiling tiles, as well as the stunning marble flooring create the illusion of more space and provide a clean, cohesive feel.

Calming Blue

An enchanting tranquil shade, reminiscent of a pale robin’s egg blue, fits perfectly for a tranquil at-home spa.

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Double Shower

This huge tile-and-glass shower will leave you feeling pampered, as will the adjacent bathtub equipped with jets, perfect for soaking after a long day.

Vintage Accents

An enchanting combination of old meets new, this vintage bathroom also feels like a spa-like retreat. Custom accents have been added to the bathroom decor, giving it a fully unique and homey feel.

Let There Be Light

When possible and privacy permits, large windows, such as skylights or windows next to the tub, are great additions to any bathroom, providing beautiful views and natural light.

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Oak Finish

Natural oak creates an oasis that feels comfortable, cozy, and modern at the same time.

Enchanting Bathroom Lighting

Lighting in the bathroom can completely transform the look and feel of the room. Lighting can also reflect any trend you love!

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Usable counter space in the kitchen is a hot commodity. If you know, you know. There never seems to be enough space for all the chopping, prepping, and serving. For seriously cramped spaces, not even these space-saving hacks can cut it. So, what are our options?

There are a few choices available to get more counter space. If you’re handy, then you can build additional countertops. If you have enough room in your kitchen, a kitchen cart or buffet can add the needed workspace.

But if you’re already tight on space or don’t want to break out the tools, those options may not work for your needs. Luckily, we’ve stumbled upon a product that can make any kitchen—even a super small kitchen—way more functional.

Influencer Julianna Claire shared an “Amazon Kitchen Hack To Know About” post on her Instagram. In the video, she stated, “you can use it as a trivet, serving station, and cutting board.” Claire then demonstrated the functionality of this multi-functional kitchen solution, which can slide over a sink or on top of a stove to instantly create more working space.

While admittedly there are many questionable “hack” videos out there, this one actually was helpful. The simple but beautiful wood board is an easy addition to any kitchen. Need more room to chop and prep meals? Done! Having a dinner party and need more space to serve? Easy! Do you want to cover a stovetop to prevent accidents when not in use? Here you go!

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While not the exact product featured in Claire’s video, the Prosumer’s Stovetop Cover Cutting Board is the perfect solution to your tight-on-space dilemma. The ingenious tool adds a roomy 29.5 x 21 inches to your workspace—those who work in cramped kitchens know that type of space is invaluable.

Plus, the large dimensions fit over most conventional stovetops. It also has adjustable feet that fit over your range while still looking stylish, thanks to its sleek bamboo finish. The material is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and sustainably sourced. Additionally, the integrated juice groove makes cleanup a breeze.

Prosumer’s Choice Stovetop Cover Bamboo Cutting Board

$87.99 Shop Now at Amazon

One happy Amazon customer raved about Prosumer’s beautiful and functional piece. “Wowza!! This thing far surpassed my expectations. I have chopped on it, cooked using a hot plate on it, served happy hour appetizers on it, kneaded dough on it. It’s been through a lot and maintains its good looks. Easy to clean/wipe up and feels very solid and sturdy. We oiled it, per the instructions and it took it very well. When guests come over and see it, they always comment on how lovely it is.”

Now that we’ve solved our countertop dilemma, what’s next? Check out some more kitchen and home hacks below.

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Supporting small businesses is something that many of us value, but the ease and convenience of shopping on Amazon can easily win during our time-crunched days.

However, Amazon Small Business brings the best of both worlds. It’s now possible to buy well-made, handcrafted products from small business owners on the same platform you know and love for quick shipping and easy returns. 

While you can shop just about any product you need via Amazon’s Small Business section, their wide range of home decor, from high-quality furniture to decals and everything in between, really caught our eye.

Here are our top home decor picks to brighten your living space (and a small business owner’s day).

Crystal And Pearl Air Plant Hangers

$26.85 Shop Now at Amazon

Air plants are a great option for those with less-than-green thumbs. These gorgeous “jellyfish” hangers safely house your durable air plants in Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls. 2 Dirty Birds Boutique ships their gorgeous sea urchin planters ready to hang with live air plants and a care guide included. Add a pop of color to windowsills, office spaces, and more.

Tic Tac Toe TP Holder

$64 Shop Now at Amazon

Tired of trying to get everyone in your house to replace the toilet paper? Make a game out of it. This handmade TP organizer is made in Littleton, Colorado out of lightweight, sturdy blue pine. While it can’t get the men in your house to put the lid down, it can at least remind them to replace the TP every once in a while.

Marion Rustic Barn Vanity Light

$140 Shop Now at Amazon

Sometimes, all it takes is the right lighting to completely revamp a room. This handmade rustic barn vanity light adds a touch of farmhouse flair to bathrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and more. With 20 available stain colors and different light cage options, you can customize this light fixture to seamlessly blend in with your current aesthetic.

Customizable Dry Erase Calendar

$55 Shop Now at Amazon

Every year, you wait for your schedule to get a little less crazy. And every year, it ends up getting even more packed. Keeping your household’s lives straight is a challenge, but a customizable dry-erase calendar can help. Use this calendar year-round to remember appointments, delegate chores, and most importantly, pick out free days for relaxing. (What a concept, I know!)

Midcentury Record Player Cabinet

$230 Shop Now at Amazon

Vinyl has come back in a major way. So, why not get a piece of high-quality furniture that celebrates your return to records? This midcentury record player cabinet features ample space for your turntable and your killer vinyl collection. This unique, vintage-inspired piece looks so authentic that people will assume you must’ve scoured flea markets for hours to find it.

Vintage Herb Markers

$22 Shop Now at Amazon

Growing and using fresh herbs can make all the difference in your favorite dishes, and these vintage herb markers help you keep them all straight. Whimsical, unique, and functional, these will elevate your indoor planters to a whole new level (and prevent a mint-basil mishap in your pasta).

Variable Glaze Ceramic Vase Set

$37.97 Shop Now at Amazon

Never underestimate the ability of a ceramic set to tie a room together. Whether on a bookshelf, mantle, table, or otherwise, these variable glaze ceramic vases add a pop of color and fine art to any living space. You can even spread them throughout the house for a cohesive design flow. Moreover, these stunning pieces are multi-functional—store flowers, pens, incense, and more.

All Are Welcome Here Doormat

$29.99 Shop Now at Amazon

There seem to be a million quippy doormat options on the market, ranging from sarcastic to sweet and sentimental. However, this option lands right in the middle: blunt, to the point, but most importantly, welcoming. Let your guests know they’re welcome no matter what with this high-quality coir mat, available in small, medium, and large sizes.

Island Concrete Modern Succulent Planter

$125 Shop Now at Amazon

If you’re like me, you struggle to keep anything green alive for much longer than a week. In that case, you’re better off with succulents, some of the toughest indoor plants. This stunning concrete planter from Bella Vista Canyon is an eclectic take on a classic decor item. Each planter is hand-cast for a unique, one-of-a-kind feel.

Thank You Mailbox Decal

$10.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Online shopping can only go so far without the help of a mail carrier delivering your goods straight to you. Leaving water and snacks is one way to show appreciation. But on days when you’re unable to do so, this magnetic, waterproof mailbox decal can do the trick. They’ll be delivering the decal in the first place; it’s only polite to say thanks.

12-Piece Matisse Minimalist Poster Set

$11.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Artwork can make or break a living space, but finding multiple pieces that look good together can be expensive and time-consuming. Luckily, this 12-piece Matisse Poster Set takes the guesswork out of your redecorating. Each pastel-themed print works together so that you can arrange them side-by-side, gallery style, or spread them throughout the house for a uniform theme.

Wood And Moss Wall Clock

$49 Shop Now at Amazon

Not only does this wood and moss clock offer an eye-catching way to tell the time, but it also purifies and deodorizes the air, controls humidity, and is antistatic and dust repellent. This heavy-hitting rap sheet is all thanks to squares of Scandinavian moss, available in multiple colors. It’s a little modern, a little cottagecore, and incredibly unique—a win-win-win.

Personalized Neon Desktop Sign

$29.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Add a fun pop of color and light to your bar cart or kitchen counter with a personalized neon desktop sign. Whether you’re a cocktail or kombucha enthusiast or both, this sign will add some pizzazz to your favorite watering hole. This adorable sign is also available in seven LED colors to match any aesthetic or style perfectly.

Rustic Planter Boxes

$17.50 Shop Now at Amazon

Taking care of a whole garden? That’s a lot. Taking care of a single planter? Well, that might be a more manageable task. Luckily, these rustic planter boxes from Red Oak Road are so beautiful, you’ll actually want to decorate them with as many plants as you can. These are also great options for those with minimal yard space (and an itchy green thumb).

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The world of revamped real estate is vast—from storage containers to treehouses and everything in between, humans find a way to turn just about anything into a home. And for Santiago and Bonnie Suarez, that also includes a 19th-century New England church. 

According to TopTenRealEstateDeals.com, the Suarezes renovated the Greenwich, Connecticut church in 2007, 155 years after the church was originally built in 1852. Architectural firm Gray Organschi turned this stuffy steepled building into a truly divine piece of art. 

Currently on the market for a cool $1.8 million, join us as we take a look inside of this very unique New England home.

This home wastes no time making a statement. As soon as you arrive, the eye is drawn to a stunning white-cedar front door that the owners modeled after a Japanese sushi bar. Paired with the classic white columns of the church, the blend between old and new is evident before you even step inside.

Once inside, you’d never be able to tell this building once held parishioners just two years after California became a state. The clean, white color of the walls highlights just how tall 20-foot ceilings really are. They also reflect the sunlight brought in by two massive 16-foot windows on either side of the living room. 

Oh, and that breathtaking light fixture? It’s a Venetian chandelier from Murano. It’s unclear whether this fixture was custom-made or from old Murano stock, but pieces of a similar size start at around the $9,000 range.

Shift your gaze from the sleek, black fireplace to the kitchen, and you’ll find a remnant of the old church: a choir loft. Of course, Gray Organschi revamped this second-story space considerably. The loft is now a free-floating birch pod with rounded edges and smooth planes straight out of a midcentury lover’s dream.

Sometimes, style supersedes functionality in modern kitchens. But in this home, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The thought that the designers put into this room’s design is evident. 

The appliances and counter space flow from one to the other, maximizing efficiency and ease of movement. Additionally, a rolling bar, dining island, and eye-catching art pieces add even more flair to this expertly crafted kitchen.

Sure, fancy chandeliers are great, but what about the really important rooms? The owners of this New England church thought about that, too. In what appears to be the upstairs bathroom, there is both a stall shower and bathtub. Relax or rinse—your choice.

The floors are gorgeous honey hardwood, which beautifully contrasts with a chestnut statement wall behind the roomy vanity. It’s narrow (hey, it is a church from the 1850s) but effective with its use of space. 

On the other side of the revamped choir loft is the primary bedroom. This spacious room features exposed ceiling beams, a hardwood statement wall, and an expansive view from the second-story window visible from the front yard. 

I don’t know, but I think getting to wake up in a bedroom like this makes up for the lack of calisthenics space in the bathroom.

What might that bedroom view be looking out on? The lucky residents of this home get to look out onto lush, mature trees year-round. Enjoy the vibrant greens of spring and summer, and then sit back and enjoy the fiery reds, yellows, and oranges New England’s autumns are famous for. 

This amazing blend of old and new architecture is currently listed under Liz Forrest of Douglas Elliman Realty. So, what do you think? Is it divine enough for a down payment?

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My mom bought a set of four Polywood Adirondack chairs in 2005. They’ve lived outside, through mountains of Minnesota snow and scorching summer sun, and you’d never know. When it came time to buy my own outdoor furniture, I learned the hard way that you get what you pay for.

Shop Polywood Now

In my 10 years as a homeowner, I’ve bought a total of five outdoor tables, two outdoor sofas, and a handful of odds-and-ends off of Facebook marketplace. I have purchased name brand, fancy-schmancy tables that should last a lifetime, but actually start to splinter and show wear after only one season. In a change of strategy, I started buying cheap patio furniture, thinking that I would just replace it when it inevitably started looking rough, but that felt really wasteful (not to mention, expensive).

I finally realized there are two things worth splurging on, because they’ll last forever: Polywood and Sunbrella.

The Good

Polywood furniture is made of recycled plastic, so it’s incredibly durable. It won’t fade in the sun and it doesn’t get warped or splintered. It comes in a multitude of colors, in addition to natural and wood tones.

Since it’s recycled, I feel a bit better knowing that my consumerism is in some way eco-friendly, even if it probably doesn’t make that much of a difference in the whole scheme of things.

I live in Missouri, and these chairs have seen their share of severe weather. They’ve lived through hail, snow, thunderstorms and near-tornadoes, and you’d never know. I will admit (as you can see on the bottom of the chair on the right), sometimes my kids’ sunscreen is harder than I’d like to scrub off, but it comes off eventually, and they look as good as new.

They’re so comfortable and seem to accommodate a wide range of body sizes and shapes. I can fit two kids (three, uncomfortably) in one chair, and everyone is happy. Polywood sells matching Sunbrella cushions for all their products, but so far I haven’t splurged for the upgrade (more on that in a bit).

They’re also incredibly heavy and there’s no way these things will blow away in a storm. While that’s good news for durability, that brings me to one of the cons….

The Not-So-Good

I can proudly attest that I have now personally assembled 10 Polywood Adirondack chairs. I can also tell you, this is an incredible workout. These chairs are HEAVY. Each chair weighs 37 pounds, and while that may not sound like a lot, it’s effectively like moving around a big, awkward 4-year-old. I would recommend that assembly is a two person job, but if you’re stubborn like I am, you can definitely do it yourself.

That brings me to the assembly. If you assemble enough of these things, you’ll grow to hate the Allen wrench. Each chair has six parts, and if you’re not careful, you’ll mix up the pieces and have to start over. They all have to be hand screwed together with that little Allen wrench, and it’s pretty tedious. When all is said and done, they look beautiful, so it is easy to forget the work it took to get there.

As for cost, Polywood isn’t a budget option. I rarely see Polywood sales, and they’re usually excluded from coupons. One Adirondack chair starts at around $230 and goes up, depending on style and color.

The last somewhat negative thing I’ll say is that you might have to be a little patient (especially post-pandemic). I recently decided to upgrade our warped outdoor dining set with the Vineyard Dining Set in Sand. It took just over two months to get it delivered. Not the end of the world, just something to consider if you’re looking for an immediate upgrade.

Splurging on Sunbrella

This time around, I did decide to splurge on the Sunbrella cushions for the dining set. If you’re not familiar with Sunbrella, it’s a performance fabric that holds up in the elements. We’ve had outdoor Sunbrella cushions and they still look brand new. For this set, I ordered the spiced burlap, and was pleasantly surprised at the $39 price point/cushion. Not bad for Sunbrella!

The dining set is currently sitting in nine very heavy boxes on my back porch. I did not envy the delivery driver on this one. While I’m not looking forward to hand-assembling a nine piece set, I do feel better knowing it’s likely the last dining set I’ll have to buy.

Final Thoughts

Buy once, enjoy forever. Yes, it’s a pain to put together. Yes, it is heavy. Yes, it might take a while to arrive. But, if 20+ years of ownership and my book club text chain are any indications, Polywood is most certainly worth it.

Shop Polywood Furniture

Editors Note: None of the furniture mentioned in this article was gifted. Our goal at Suggest is to share products that we actually know and love. While we may earn revenue from affiliate links within this article, our opinions and views are our own, in no way shaped by the brand. We just love this stuff, we thought you might too.

We all have that one (or two) over-filled kitchen drawer(s) that we avoid like the plague. My dreaded drawer is usually full of sandwich bags, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and other random kitchen items. It can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to get the kids out of the door in the morning.

It can also get messy quickly, leading to boxes getting pushed around and inadvertently lost. The smaller snack-sized boxes virtually disappear. (Even though they’re really just stuck in the back.)

And, of course, we then buy more bags and end up with a ridiculous amount of sandwich bags that won’t fit anywhere. But there are a few great organizational items we’ve rounded up to help even the messiest kitchen drawers.

Everything In Its Place

If you want to have everything in its place, there are a few options to help you have the kitchen of your dreams. And, of course, Amazon is the place with all of the options from which to choose. We love this plastic bag organizer, which will keep all your plastic bags neatly organized and separated.

The bamboo container easily allows you to store different sizes of bags. It has separate compartments for quart-size, gallon-size, sandwich, and snack bags. It easily fits in a large drawer, but it’s pretty enough to be mounted on a wall.

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Another Amazon gem, these storage bag organizers come in four separate pieces so you can configure them however you like.

SWBIYING Bag Organizer

$17.99 Shop Now at Amazon

You can keep your regularly used sandwich and snack boxes on your countertops, while your less-used quart and gallon boxes can be easily stored away in a drawer.

Another great option is this three-in-one organizer.

Crakth Bamboo Plastic Wrap Dispenser With Cutter

$25.45 Shop Now at Amazon

This holds your parchment paper, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap all in one convenient container. It even has a slide cutter for all three compartments.

Or, you can get an organizer that will put all of the above in one container. This handy organizer will contain your aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and four sizes of plastic baggies.

PeeToos 6 In 1 Wrap Dispenser With Cutter

$44.99 Shop Now at Amazon

We love when our kitchens are more organized. We’ve also shared refrigeration organization, under-the-sink organization tips, and ways to declutter the counter space in your kitchen.

Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a more functional and manageable kitchen! It’s always easier when there’s a place for everything.

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Kitchen clutter is no joke, and often the kitchen counters are where the mess begins. And after a while, it can start to become overwhelming. There are lifesaving but bulky kitchen gadgets, large knife blocks, and the weirdly annoying paper towel roll that always manages to get in your way. Not to mention the disorganized drawers that make finding space on the countertop even harder.

Staying organized and functional in the kitchen takes some practice, patience, and organizational tools. If you’ve spent any time on social media you’ve probably seen organization tips galore.

Surprisingly simple solutions to cut clutter can be easier to implement when you have a guide. And, luckily, we stumbled across a video that will make your kitchen much easier to manage. 

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In a recent “home hack video,” self-proclaimed YouTube Mom Mai Zimmy displayed three gadgets that can reduce visual clutter in your kitchen. Her first suggestion is to get knives off of the counter.

In-Drawer Bamboo Knife Block

$26.74 Shop Now at Amazon

Putting a knife block into a drawer can not only reduce the clutter, but it can also help with toddler- and child-proofing your kitchen if that’s a concern. As Zimmy states in the video, “You can child-lock the drawer of danger.”

Next up is a solution for your bulky oven mitts. Many people have them on display, hanging on the stove. Or, alternatively, try to stuff them into an already too-full drawer. (Guilty!)

Zimmy has a kind of genius idea for the oven mitts. She simply places a hook on the inside of a cabinet door close to the oven and hangs them there.

“It’s easy access and out of sight,” she states in the reel.

Budding Joy Adhesive Hooks

$14.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Her next solution admits that there is still “visual clutter” but at least the countertops are clear.

Banana Hook Hanger Under Cabinet Hook

$9.99 Shop Now at Amazon

A banana hook hanger gets your fruit off of the counter and even keeps your bananas fresher for longer. The hanger can be folded up when not in use. And, you can use the hooks to hang herbs, peppers, and even small bags of garlic.

A few more helpful tools to reduce clutter in your kitchen include a paper towel holder and an under-cabinet utensil hanger.

Paper Towel Holder

$12.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Under Cabinet Utensil Holder

$14.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Both of these items will also get added clutter off of your countertops. The utensil hanger in particular is a convenient way to store commonly used cooking utensils like spatulas, whisks, and spoons.

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Whether you’re a culinary pro or a cooking newbie, kitchen gadgets can seriously change your foodie game. These handy tools cut down on prep and cooking time and can make recipes more accessible and amplify your dishes’ flavor. 

Could you make everything by hand or from scratch? Sure—but when it comes to cooking, we’re big proponents of working smarter, not harder. And thanks to these amazing Amazon Prime Day kitchenware deals, you can do just that.

Amazon Basics Dutch Oven

$49.99 Shop Now at Amazon

A well-made dutch oven is worth its weight in gold, and Amazon Basics’ Cast Iron Dutch Oven is certainly no exception. Available in a number of eye-catching enamel finishes, this heavy-duty kitchen staple will quickly become your cooking go-to thanks to its even heat distribution and natural nonstick properties.

Whether you’re making bread, soup, or a casserole, having a dutch oven on hand is like having six pots in one.

GreenLife Healthy Ceramic 16-Piece Cookware Set

$113.82 Shop Now at Amazon

Investing in a full cookware set can be convenient, but the material of the pans and pots can make or break that investment. We’re a fan of this Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set from GreenLife precisely for its healthy nonstick coating.

Made from recycled aluminum and free of PFAS, PFOA, lead, and cadmium, each item in this 16-piece set makes the cooking (and cleaning!) process a breeze without the use of harmful chemicals.

Ninja Foodi 12-In-1 Pressure Cooker & Air Fryer

$284.99 Shop Now at Amazon

From air fryers to pressure cookers, there are so many handy cooking tools on the market and simply not enough counter space! That’s why getting a Ninja Foodi as a gift one year was game-changing.

This 12-in-1 appliance does it all and then some. The 8-quart XL is a pressure cooker and air fryer in one handy tool that can also steam, slow cook, and even dehydrate!

In my home, I love grinding and brewing my own beans, my partner prefers the ease of a quick espresso shot, while we still have boxes of K-Cups from past Christmases to use. Having three machines just to make coffee is a bit excessive, which is why I love this product.

Instant Pot’s Dual Pod Plus Espresso & Coffee Maker brews coffee and espresso using K-Cup pods, Nespresso capsules, or the included reusable pod. This machine also features adjustable brew strength and six brew sizes for ultimate versatility.

KitchenAid 14-Piece Knife Block With Built-In Sharpener

$68.37 Shop Now at Amazon

If you struggle with prep work, don’t count yourself out as an inexperienced novice quite yet. You might not have the right tools—namely, the correct knives. A full knife set makes slicing, cutting, chopping, mincing, and trimming a breeze.

This set includes and stores a chef, santoku, serrated utility, paring, and steak knives, and herb and utility shears. And thanks to KitchenAid’s Knife Block with Built-In Sharpener, you can keep your knives as sharp as they were the first day you used them.

COSORI Electric Kettle

$59.49 Shop Now at Amazon

There’s a reason electric kettles are a mainstay outside the US. Beyond its ability to quickly and evenly heat water for tea and coffee, an electric kettle is handy for making oatmeal, dried noodles, or even to speed up the process of boiling water on the stove.

COSORI’s Gooseneck Electric Kettle is not only attractive but extremely functional. The hot plate can keep your water at the same temperature for up to an hour, while the preset temperature buttons allow for precise brewing based on your tea or coffee of choice.

Amazon Basics Glass Locking Lids Food Storage Containers

$51 Shop Now at Amazon

If you’ve been looking for a sign to get rid of your mountain of cracked Tupperware and old Cool Whip containers, this is it. Upgrade your storage game with a set of Glass Locking Lid Containers by Amazon Basics.

These borosilicate containers are sturdy enough to withstand intense temperature changes, making them perfect for storing everything from fresh berries to last night’s leftover pot roast.

Ninja Professional 1000-Watt Blender

$99.99 Shop Now at Amazon

If you’re a fan of smoothies or frozen cocktails, then you know just how important a high-quality blender is to power through ice and frozen fruit to make a perfect consistency. A steal for the price, the Ninja Blender can easily tackle any frozen concoction you can throw at it.

This high-powered blender is also the perfect tool for making creamy soups, sauces, and dips thanks to its 1000-watt motor and signature blade distribution.

SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker

$159.95 Shop Now at Amazon

From refreshing soda alternatives to fizzy cocktail additions, seltzer water is an unsung hero of the drink world. SodaStream’s Terra Sparkling Water Maker allows you to make fresh, crisp seltzer at home without lugging in multiple 12-packs a week.

This energy-efficient set includes two Co2 cylinders; three one-liter dishwasher-safe carafes, and two 40 mL Bubly drops flavors.

DASH Deluxe Electric Griddle

$59.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Summertime means backyard BBQs and lazy day breakfasts, and no kitchen gadget is better suited for the job than a high-quality electric griddle.

The DASH Deluxe Griddle features a spacious, nonstick cooking surface and dishwasher-safe, removable plate. Eggs and pancakes, quesadillas, burgers, veggies—this 1500 watt griddle gets you to mealtime in no time.

Instant Ccu Slim Sous Vide Cooker

$99.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Sous vide enhances flavor, retains nutrients, and is a hands-off approach to getting restaurant-quality dishes at home. Instant Pot’s Accu Sous Vide Precision Cooker makes creating slow-cooked, mouthwatering meals easier than ever.

The slim device clamps onto your pot, uniformly circulating hot water that you can manage with precision, color-coded temperature controls.

KitchenAid Dual Digital Food Scale

$50.09 Shop Now at Amazon

As much as you might think you can “eyeball it,” you’re better off using a scale. Kitchen scales take the guesswork out of baking, meal prep, and portion control. They’re also a must-have if you’re still tending to your COVID-19 panic sourdough starter from 2020.

KitchenAid’s Dual Digital Food Scale is the creme de la creme, featuring two stainless steel weighing platforms and an easy-to-read, backlit LCD readout.

The annual consumer holiday known as Amazon Prime Days takes place this year on July 12 and 13, and the special deals and promotions for Amazon Prime members are already being promoted.

If you are currently in the market for furniture, this is an excellent time to find what you need at a budget-friendly price point. Here are some of the best furniture deals we found running during Amazon Prime Days.

Decor Therapy Accent Table

$193.44 Shop Now at Amazon

This versatile antique navy accent table from Decor Therapy will add charm to any living space. This transitional console table is made of solid wood and glass, blending classic styling with modern updates, versatility, and function. It can be used as an entryway table, a living room accent table, or a dining room buffet server.

YITAHOME 5-Tier Bookshelf

$129.99 Shop Now At Amazon

The YITAHOME 5-Tier, S-Shaped Bookshelf isn’t just a piece of furniture, it’s a work of art. The industrial freestanding storage unit is perfect for a living room or home office and is available in retro brown, black, and white.

Mellow Adair Mid-Century Modern Sofa

$399 Shop Now at Amazon

If you love mid-century modern furniture and decor—and are looking for a comfortable, stylish couch—check out the Mellow Adair Mid-Century Sofa. Available in a neutral light gray tone, this timeless modern sofa is absolutely perfect for small spaces like apartments or tight living rooms.

Walker Edison Rustic TV Stand

$349.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Big TVs are no problem for the Walker Edison Rustic TV Stand. This modern farmhouse metal and wood piece can hold a flat-screen TV as large as 80 inches and up to 250 pounds. There’s also extra shelving and cabinets for storage, plus a cable management feature to run cords in the back.

Classic Brands Mornington Upholstered Platform Bed

$420.99 Shop Now at Amazon

This beautiful, sturdy upholstered platform and headboard from Classic Brands comes in Full, Queen, and King sizes. The colors available include linen, gray, and dark gray. This is a budget-friendly way to update the look of your bedroom with a trendy and modern design, and no box spring is required.

Nathan James Harper Mid-Century 2-Drawer Nightstand

$169.99 Shop Now at Amazon

The Nathan James Harper Mid-Century 2-Drawer Nightstand is a beautiful end table that features plenty of storage with a space-saving design. The neutral colors blend well with any furniture, and you can put this table together in just 15 minutes.

Vibe Gel Memory Foam 12-Inch Mattress

$381.90 Shop Now at Amazon

The 12-inch gel memory foam mattress from Vibe is available in all sizes—from twin to California King—and none of them will burn a hole in your wallet! Featuring a high-density base for optimal support and pain relief, the mattress is complete with 3 inches of gel-infused foam to help keep you cool all night long.

VASAGLE Kitchen Baker’s Rack

$99.99 Shop Now at Amazon

The Kitchen Baker’s Rack from VASAGLE is a versatile and stylish piece with tiered shelves and hooks that isn’t just for storing baking utensils. It’s also perfect for a coffee bar or a microwave oven stand, and is available in rustic brown, rustic walnut, and greige.

Roundhill Furniture Tufted Parsons Dining Chairs

$122.35 Shop Now at Amazon

Change up your dining room seating in a stylish, budget-friendly way with this set of high-backed Roundhill Tufted Parsons Dining Chairs. Available in blue, gray, purple, and tan, these chairs are button tufted with padded seats and backs, and they come with durable wooden legs that are painted black.

BestOffice Big And Tall Office Chair

$139.99 Shop Now at Amazon

The Big and Tall Office Chair from BestOffice is a mesh computer chair with lumbar support and a wide seat that can hold up to 400 pounds. The ergonomic task chair features a high back, adjustable arms, and a 360-degree swivel and rolling casters.

Walker Edison Writing Desk

$245.99 Shop Now at Amazon

This beautiful writing desk from Walker Edison features two drawers with telescoping metal glides, a lifted tempered glass tabletop, and a powder-coated metal frame. The 56-inch size makes it perfect for a small home office or multi-purpose room.

YITAHOME Wood Lift Top Coffee Table

$132 Shop Now at Amazon

Who doesn’t want a coffee table that offers extra storage and a workspace? The Lift Top Coffee Table from YITAHOME has both of those features, with a lift top that can function as a computer desk plus a hidden storage space for books, magazines, remotes, and projectors. 

Decor Therapy Vintage Cherry Round Side Table

$126.50 Shop Now at Amazon

This unique Vintage Round Side Table from Decor Therapy is constructed from Chinese Oak and veneers with a beautiful cherry finish for a traditional style. No assembly is required for this table. And during Amazon Prime Days, you can get it for just a fraction of the regular price.

Christopher Knight Indoor Woven Rattan Chairs

$259.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Christopher Knight—aka the actor formerly known as Peter Brady—has a gorgeous line of furniture that includes this set of Indoor Rattan Chairs that we just love. The clean lines and round edges make them super stylish while at the same time being comfortable and sturdy. These are a great buy!

Teamson Home Bathroom Linen Cabinet

$386.99 Shop Now at Amazon

This Tyler Two-Tone Linen Tower Cabinet from Teamson will add some style and storage to any interior space. This is a freestanding cabinet that features one drawer, one glass door, and three open shelves.

While there are many great deals to shop during Amazon Prime Days, electronics have to be the most tempting. From laptops to headphones to TVs, these usually big ticket items are always a welcomed deal.

To help you save big (and quickly), we scoured all the Amazon Prime electronic deals for the best ones to shop this year.

Apple AirPods Pro

$219.99 Shop Now at Amazon

If you’ve been eyeing Apple AirPods Pro now is a great time to get your hands on some. These wireless earbuds have active noise cancellation to block out the sounds around you or a transparency mode for tuning in to the world around you. They’re water-resistant, battery-powered, and adjustable for a customizable fit.

TCL 50-Inch 4K Smart TV

$339.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Seriously, this TCL 50-inch 4K Smart TV has everything you could want and more. Whether you’re catching up on the latest episode of Stranger Things or your favorite reality show, the stunning 4K Ultra HD resolution is sure to impress. Built-in Google Assistant and Chromecast make it easy to search and share, while the fast Wi-Fi connectivity can make accessing and streaming your favorite content a breeze.

Margaritaville Outdoor Tiki Torch Bluetooth Light-Up Speakers

$64.99 Shop Now at Amazon

For all of your backyard soirees, these Margaritaville Outdoor Tiki Torch Light-Up Speakers are a must. They sync easily to your phone or tablet to provide tunes and soft, mood-setting light.

Polk Audio Signa S2 Ulta-Slim Sound Bar And Wireless Subwoofer

$153 Shop Now at Amazon

A Polk Audio Sound Bar & Subwoofer is necessary for an improved home theater experience. Despite its sleek design, five full-range drivers deliver crisp mids and highs with impressive bass. Plus, Polk’s voice adjust technology means you can actually hear the dialogue in movies without killing your eardrums when the action sequence starts.

Kodak Wireless Mobile Photo Printer

$69.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Print your moments instantly with this Kodak Wireless Mobile Photo Printer. The compact printer easily connects to your phone and can print pics in under 60 seconds. The small 2×3 pics have a sticky back to place your pictures anywhere. There’s also an app to edit and create custom collages.

Victrola 8-In-1 Bluetooth Record Player & Multimedia Center

$134 Shop Now at Amazon

Have a blast of nostalgia while enjoying modern technology with this fun Victrola 8-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player. Pull out your old cassettes and CDs, pop in your favorite vinyl record, or sync up your favorite Spotify playlist to get the party going.

NOCO GENIUS10 Car Battery Charger

$84.70 Shop Now at Amazon

The last time my car battery died, I was parked in a spot that wasn’t reachable with normal jumper cables. A portable car battery charger saved me from needing a tow! The NOCO Portable Car Battery Charger is compatible with gas and diesel vehicles and has an integrated thermal sensor to monitor the battery temperature to ensure an accurate and fully charged battery.

HP 24MH FHD Monitor With Built-In Speakers

$123.72 Shop Now at Amazon

If you’re fortunate enough to work from home, then having a high-quality monitor is a must. From the built-in speakers to the fully adjustable height and tilt, this crystal clear HP monitor will make your work day even easier.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Tab A7 Lite 8.7″ Tablet

$109.99 Shop Now at Amazon

The Samsung Galaxy A7 Tablet is a compact and versatile device that is perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s lightweight and features a durable metal frame. It also features 1 TB of storage to keep all of your photos, apps, and videos running smoothly.

Meta Portal Smart Video Calling For Home

$74.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Keep in touch with all of your friends and relatives with the Meta Portal. This smart display is compatible with Messenger, WhatsApp, and Zoom and features a camera that auto-adjusts as you move for a clear video, every time. With Alexa Built-in and a growing list of partners such as Spotify and CBSNews, this multi-function display can play music, keep you up-to-date on the latest news, and so much more.

Bose SoundLink Color II: Portable Bluetooth Speaker

$129 Shop Now at Amazon

If you’re looking for a compact speaker that packs a lot of punch, look no further than the Bose Portable Bluetooth Speaker. This water-resistant speaker has up to 8 hours of playtime and a 30-foot wireless range. A built-in microphone allows for voice control or clear personal calls.

Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 13″ Laptop

$336 Shop Now at Amazon

Work or play from anywhere with a Lenovo Chromebook Flex. This 2-in-1 laptop has a foldable keyboard than instantly turns it into a tablet for flexibility of use. With 10 hours of battery life, a 13.3″ FHD screen, and Intel Core processors, this slim but powerful laptop can keep up with your busy life. It even supports a Lenovo digital pen (sold separately) to write, design, and move items on the screen.

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones

$99.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Get some Beats On-Ear Headphones for the teenager in your life, or yourself! These wireless headphones are comfy, durable, and provide a staggering 40 hours of battery life. Compatible with iOs and Android devices, these Bluetooth headphones are perfect for everyday use.

Kingslim D4 4K Dual Dash Cam

$119 Shop Now at Amazon

Hopefully, you’ll never need a Kingslim Dual Dash Cam, but having one just in case is a smart decision. The dash cam has night vision, a loop-recording function, and a 4K resolution video. It also has built-in GPS and front and back road cameras.

Nixplay 10.1 Inch Touch Screen Digital Picture Frame

$119.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Looking for a perfect gift? Look no further than the Nixplay Touch Screen Digital Picture Frame. You can digitally send photos and video clips to the frame from anywhere. Users can use the touchscreen to “heart” pictures to make a favorite playlist. There’s even a smart sensor that wakes the frame when you enter the room.

Panasonic HomeHawk Window Home Monitoring Camera

$149.95 Shop Now at Amazon

Easily monitor your front or backyard with this Panasonic HomeHawk Home Monitoring Camera. With easy indoor installation, this camera is mounted to a window inside the home to monitor all that goes on outside. Bright night vision and clear video recording ensure that you’ll have evidence if anyone even thinks about taking one of the Amazon packages from your porch!

If you’re like me and live in a home with no foyer or mudroom, you’re likely familiar with the problem of cramped entryways with no storage space or organization. Where do you put your coats, umbrellas, and backpacks? What about your keys, mail, pet leashes, and handbags?

Finding reasonably priced solutions to this problem that are well-made—without being an eyesore —is actually quite a difficult task. That’s why I was excited when I came across this rare find on Amazon—a handcrafted entryway organizer from a woman-owned shop based in North Carolina.

Revamp Your Foyer, Mud Room, And More

The high-quality entryway organizer comes from a small woman-owned business in Tar Heel country known as DistressedMeNot, which sells “rustic wood creations and home decor items” that can be customized based on length and style.

You can purchase this dark walnut organizer in two variations. The first option is to buy a single piece, which is a coat rack with a shelf. Or, you can opt for the set of two—a coat rack with a shelf plus a coat rack without a shelf.

Once you decide on a single piece or the set of two, you’ll then need to choose the length. The options are 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 48, and 60 inches. The longer the piece, the more double hooks it will have.

Mounting screws are included with every purchase, and the entryway organizer has pre-drilled holes for easy installation. 

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These organizers are multi-purpose, so they don’t have to be limited to entryways. They can also be used to hang holiday decorations. Or, you can put one in your closet to organize purses, scarves, or jewelry.

DistressedMeNot Coat Rack with Shelf

$79.95 Shop Now at Amazon

Beautifully Made

I’m not the only person who is a fan of this entryway organizer from DistressedMeNot. Here’s what other customers have to say.

“Perfect for what we needed. Put it at the top of the steps for leashes, bags, umbrellas, etc.,” one customer shared. 

Another added, “Beautiful shelf, well made. Easy to hang. I used my own screws and toggle bolts for maximum weight capacity as there were no studs where I wanted to hang, but they worked well with the pre-drilled holes in the shelf. Would definitely order more from this company for future decorating.”

Despite the customization, these items are in stock and ready to be shipped. You can have yours in less than a week, so what are you waiting for?

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Earlier this year, I discovered compression packing cubes and I absolutely fell in love. They are perfect for traveling, keeping everything clean, tidy, and in its proper place. But since I don’t travel all the time, those packing cubes were stuffed into a closet as soon as I got home. The thing is, there’s no need for them to sit in there and collect dust. Packing cubes can be useful at home, too.

From organizing a linen closet and storing seasonal clothes to even more unique uses, there are many ways that packing cubes can help you stay organized every day.

1. Clean Up Your Car

From creating an emergency kit to storing blankets for impromptu picnics, packing cubes can go a long way in making your vehicle more functional. Many packing cubes will also fit nicely under the seat and can store essentials like jumper cables, a spare jacket, or even an umbrella.

3. Home Office Organization

If you don’t have a dedicated space for a home office with a desk—and instead do your work on the kitchen table—packing cubes are great for organizing and storing office supplies. They are also an excellent storage option for device cords.

4. Tidying Up The Underwear & Sock Drawers

You can easily place pacing cubes into your dresser drawers to organize your different types of bras and underwear. They also work really well for organizing a sock drawer.

4. Storing Winter Items

Bulky winter clothes can take up a lot of space when they are in storage. If you put your sweaters, winter coats, hats, and gloves in packing cubes, you’ll have more room in your closet.

RELATED: This Highly Rated Packing Cube Holds Up To Three Pairs Of Shoes

5. Organizing Your Linen Closet

Speaking of closets, packing cubes are the perfect linen closet organizer. You can separate your sheets into different sizes or types—twin, full, queen, king, California King, fitted, and flat.

6. First-Aid Kit

Have a family-size first-aid kit ready at home with a packing cube filled with medicines, bandages, and ointments. You can also make a separate kit for pets, and use the smaller cubes for a travel-size first-aid kit.

Our Favorite Packing Cubes

Here are a few of our favorite sets from Amazon.

TravelWise Luggage Packing Organization Cubes

$27.27 Shop Now at Amazon

• 1 small, 2 medium, and 2 large packing cubes
• Available in nine colors
• Made with lightweight and durable nylon

EasyFun Packing Cubes

$19.99 Shop Now at Amazon

• 2 small, 2 medium, and 2 large compression cubes
• Available in seven different color combinations and sets
• Made from high-quality, water-resistant nylon

Gonex Packing Cubes

$35.99 Shop Now at Amazon

• 1 x-large, 2 large, 2 medium, and 2 small compression cubes
• 2 laundry bags
• Available in three colors
• Made from Honeycomb RipStop water-repellent fabric with high-quality zippers

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If you have a house full of hardwood or laminate flooring, as I do, you know what a big job mopping can be. Old-school brooms and mops don’t quite cut it, but Swiffer Sweepers and WetJets make the job easier. However, the WetJet, in particular, has one annoying design flaw—you can’t open the cleaning solution bottle to add more.

Okay, more likely it was made that way to ensure you keep buying the expensive refills for the spray mop. It’s frustrating but understandable. And, don’t get us wrong—we love our WetJet mops just as much as the next person. They’re convenient, can get into tough-to-reach areas, and are efficient at cleaning our floors.

But the price of those refills can start to add up. Don’t fret, though. If you haven’t already seen it, we’ve discovered a new hack that allows you to remove the lid to the refill bottle so you can add whatever cleaning solution you like. 

Save Money With This Swiffer Hack

The hack is to essentially remove the lid from the refill container. There’s a trick to removing it, though. You’ll need a mug of hot water.

Simply put the refill bottle lid-side down into the mug, let it sit for about one minute, take it out, and the lid will now easily unscrew.

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Another hack shows people using a wrench to remove the top from the container. Whichever way you decide to take the top off doesn’t really matter. What does matter is the fact that you get the lid off and can now add whatever cleaner to the refill bottle that you prefer.

Save even more money by buying a concentrated cleaner. Aunt Fannie’s Floor Cleaner is an all-natural, concentrated cleaner that is rated A by the Environmental Working Group. It works well on a variety of floors, including hardwood, tile, concrete, linoleum, bamboo, vinyl, and laminate. It’s also pet-friendly.

Aunt Fannie’s Floor Cleaner

$13.99 Shop Now at Amazon

Another tip is to buy a reusable mop pad. These washable pads are an eco-friendly answer to disposable pads. Just toss them in the washing machine after mopping and use again. You could even use a washcloth or old dish towel instead of the mop pads if you’re strapped for cash.

Turbo Mops Reusable Pads

$30.06 Shop Now at Amazon

The washable pads, concentrated cleaner, and WetJet hack should be all you need to keep costs down while still having the convenience of the WetJet.

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If you’ve taken the plunge into the deep end of cleaning hacks on TikTok, you’ve likely already seen several videos featuring the #garbagedisposalcleaninghack. You’ve probably even contemplated trying it if you have a garbage disposal, especially if that garbage disposal is stinky.

It may have given you pause, however, when you began to think about the possible repercussions of the hack. And, the fact that it looks really gross.

And, this isn’t the first “gross” cleaning hack we’ve seen from the platform. The newest hack is very reminiscent of the laundry stripping hack that was garnering millions of views a few months ago. 

So, what’s the deal with the garbage disposal hack? Does it work or could it potentially damage our garbage disposal? Let’s dive in and see.

It’s So Gross But Appears To Work

The TikTok videos, like one from @andreablack926 that has over 5 million views on the platform, show people filling their sinks with ice and then pushing the ice cubes down the drain with cold water and the garbage disposal running.

In the video, Black actually uses her hand to push down some ice cubes while the garbage disposal is running. This is NOT recommended for obvious reasons. Black quickly changes course and uses a plastic spatula to push down the remaining ice.

As the ice cubes are churned by the garbage disposal, dark water starts filling the sink, which the content creators are convinced means the disposal is being cleaned. But, this is done without any cleaning agents, so we’re unconvinced. Plus, without cleaners, the smell will likely remain.

Is It Actually A Smart Hack?

Plumbers say that putting a few ice cubes into your garbage disposal can help remove some food scraps. Plus, it will sharpen the blades, but the smell will need a deodorizing agent. The amount of ice you use also matters. Using too much ice could just clog the drain line. Or in the event of your garbage disposal already being very dirty, possibly break it, as one Suggest team member found out the hard way.

According to his plumper who came to the rescue after attempting this hack, there was too much in the disposal which caused everything to go out the wrong way.

RELATED: Viral Hack Claims Adding Ice To Your Dryer Can Help Fight Stubborn Clothing Wrinkles

However, the hack shouldn’t hurt your garbage disposal, as long as you don’t use too much ice, and you use cold water when cleaning.

There are actual garbage disposal cleaners available at most box stores and online that will help with the smell. But there are also DIY cleaners to try. Some popular DIY cleaners include pouring a half-cup of baking soda and a cup of white vinegar down your drain. Let it sit, and then run your garbage disposal.

Another recommends using a leftover half of a lemon or lime and running it through your garbage disposal for a fresh scent.

But, if you’ve exhausted all cleaning options and your drain is still smelly, it might be time to re-evaluate what you are throwing down the drain. Starchy foods, eggshells, coffee grounds, and grease are a few things that should never go through your garbage disposal.

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We can already feel the effects of the above-average temperatures that have hit the U.S. Speaking from experience, and last week’s heat advisories, we can definitely feel it in the south. The midwest and southwest are feeling it, too. And Western states are experiencing a drought on top of record-breaking temperatures, which only exacerbates the issue.

Rainfall, which typically provides some relief from the heat, across the county is expected to continue to be lower than normal this summer. 

Of course, many people will seek refuge indoors. Sitting in the AC, watching movies, reading, and playing games are expected in extreme temperatures. But even with our ACs cranked, experts are warning of potential rolling blackouts that could affect many states. And if we lose electricity we’ll need to figure out some different ways to stay cool.

Investing in a generator, new windows, or solar panels are a few ways to keep cool if the power goes out. Window coverings, avoiding using the stove, investing in an energy-efficient HVAC, and setting your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise are other ways to bring down the temperature in your home. 

But there’s another (and cheap) way that could help alleviate utility costs and lower the temperature in your home. And if you’re already a plant parent, you’ll likely be excited to add a few new plants to your brood.

We already know that indoor plants can boost your mood. And nature-inspired decor and propagation walls are trending thanks to shows like Fixer Upper. Some people have indoor plants just because they like the aesthetic. But, luckily, some plants can also naturally cool your home.

An Intro To Plant Air Conditioning

So, how do plants cool off your home, exactly? Through a process called transpiration, the plant releases moisture into the air. This process then cools the plant and the air around the plant. So, the more plants you have in your home, the merrier, and also cooler.

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While more research is needed on the assertion that plants purify the air, some scientists claim this could also be an added benefit. Many point to a 1989 NASA study that suggested that plants can rid the surrounding environment of toxins.

While the south-eastern states typically don’t have too much of a problem with low humidity in the summertime, the lower than average rainfall has made the humidity less than normal as well. Lower humidity can lead to higher rates of viral infections.

Plants can also help regulate the humidity inside a home, keeping it within the optimum range. However, if you notice your home is too humid in the warmer months, investing in a dehumidifier might be your best bet.

The Best Indoor Plants To Cool Your Home

There are tons of indoor plants that can help cool your home while bringing in a boho/chic vibe.

The Devil’s Ivy-Golden Pothos is a perfect low-maintenance plant for your home. It thrives in almost every condition, even low light, and only needs occasional watering. It’s best to let the soil dry out between watering.

The amount of water may vary depending on the season. It may require more watering during the warmer months and less during the colder seasons.

Costa Farms Devil’s Ivy-Golden Pothos

$19.99 Shop Now at Amazon

The Snake plant, which is part of the genus Dracaena, also goes by the names Sansevieria, bow string hemp, snake tongue, and devil’s tongue. As a succulent, it could become vulnerable to root-rot if it’s overwatered. It’s best to keep watering to once every few weeks.

The snake plant is a great addition to keep your home cooler and more stylish this summer.

Costa Farms Snake Plant

$23.46 Shop Now at Amazon

An aloe vera plant is a no-brainer for decor and easy care. Like the Snake Plant, the aloe plant is drought tolerant, only needing watering occasionally. Place next to a sunny window for at least six hours of direct sunlight.

These plants not only cool down your home but also have a plethora of topical medicinal benefits. If you stay out too long in the sun, just take off a leaf from your aloe plant and rub the inside of it on your sunburn. It’ll cool, soothe, and help repair your sunburned skin.

Costa Farms Aloe Vera

$24.67 Shop Now at Amazon

A Cat Palm is a cute, fluffy, feathery palm that brings a beachy aesthetic to your home. It’ll do well in bright, indirect light but will be slow-growing. Giving it just the right amount of water is integral—over or underwatering can result in root rot or browning leaves respectively.

This plant also likes higher humidity but can do well in an indoor environment. Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature will also help ensure it thrives. Try to position it in a place away from drafts, air conditioners, or heaters.

Costa Farms Cat Palm

$27.57 Shop Now at Amazon

Help your decor and your energy bill this summer by filling your home with your favorite plants, it’s a win/win situation!

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