Aurelia Butler

You can’t escape laundry. Whether you live alone or with family, it always seems like there’s a load (or three) to tackle. But what you can potentially escape is a higher-than-necessary energy bill when doing your laundry. How? Consider doing laundry during non-peak hours. “Running your dryer at off-peak hours, if your utility offers them, is a great way to save money,” says Carolyn Forté of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab. “For safety’s sake, though, never run your dryer while you are out of the house or overnight when sleeping. In the event of a fire, you’ll need to address it promptly.”Related StoryHow off-peak hours work:Depending on where you live, your energy company might charge you less to use your dryer during non-peak hours. During the summer, most off-peak hours fall between the late evening to early morning (9 p.m. to 8 a.m.), and in the winter, mid-day to early afternoon (noon to 2:30 p.m.), and then late evening to early morning (9 p.m. to 8 a.m.). Although, it will be different depending on your utility provider and where you live. For instance, SRP, which provides service to central Arizona customers, offers an off-peak price plan rate of 9.28 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) (versus 22.95 cents on-peak) in May, June, September and October, and 9.55 cents (versus 12.15 cents) off-peak from November through April. (The peak hours are 2 to 8 p.m. from May to October; and 5 to 9 a.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. from November to April).ConEdison, which serves New York City and Westchester County, has off-peak hours from midnight to 7 a.m. The rate is 2.49 cents per kWh. Some companies, however, include a surprising monthly meter charge. For instance, I called PSEG’s customer service department (which serves New Jersey), and was told that in order to get the off-peak hour rate, I’d need to have a Residential Load Management meter installed on my property. There’s a one-year commitment and a monthly meter charge of $15, although there’s no installation fee. “We’d love to see utility providers stop charging consumers for the smart meter, since they benefit too from all the data they’re able to collect from the connected devices,” says Dan DiClerico, Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab director at the Good Housekeeping Institute. DiClerico adds that utility companies with the highest adoption rates of time-of-use plans tend to do the best job of teaching customers how to benefit from the technology. DiClierico also notes that the pricing isn’t perfect, and it certaintly won’t work for everyone (especially people who are working during off-peak hours). That said, it might be worth giving your local energy company a call to discuss its off-peak plans, or do a little research on their website to confirm what’s available in your area.Other ways to reduce your energy bill when doing laundry: See these helpful tips from the cleaning experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute and the U.S. Department of Energy:Even though you should read clothing care labels, you can typically wash items in cold water.Clean your dryer’s lint filter after every load. It helps to maintain your dryer’s performance and prevent fires from lint build-up.Don’t make your dryer work harder than it has to. Avoid over-drying your clothing.When the weather permits, dry your clothes outside. No yard? A clothes drying rack in a sunny indoor spot will do the trick.GH’s cleaning pros swear by the “shake method” when drying clothes. Simply shake each item before you place it into the dryer. This prevents your laundry from balling up, which will make items dry much faster and more evenly.Keep in mind that demand drives energy costs. So, if people are using their appliances more in the warm-weather months, chances are they’re being hit with a higher energy bill compared to the winter season. That said, it’s always a good idea to try to decrease your energy use and keep more money in your wallet while you’re at it. More Laundry AdviceMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

If you think your ceiling fan is only worth turning on in the summer months, think again. There are actually two directions your fan can spin, each one circulating air in an entirely different way. While many homeowners don’t think twice about the way their fan spins, it’s definitely worth checking — not only does the direction of the fan help maintain cooler temperatures in the summer and warmer ones in the winter, it can also save you some money in energy costs as a result. Our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab are here to explain how this simple tip can be implemented at home for a warmer (or cooler) space, depending on the season. Which way should your fan spin for each season? If you’re hoping to keep your house warm for the winter, you’ll want to make sure your fan is spinning clockwise. “This will push warm air that’s rising to the ceiling back down into the room, making the space more cozy,” says Dan DiClerico, director of the home improvement and outdoor lab at the GH Institute. “Come summer, set the blades to spin counterclockwise to cool the room.”How do you switch between settings? Prasert Krainukul//Getty ImagesIf your ceiling fan is remote control-operated, there should be a button that allows you to change the direction of the fan. Oftentimes, it looks like a reverse symbol, or a circle with revolving arrows. Conventional ceiling fans typically have a physical switch that’s located in the middle of the fan near the pull string and lightbulb. Flip it either up or down to change the direction of the fan’s blades. Tip: If you have a conventional ceiling fan, make sure to turn the fan completely off before hitting the switch. How can your fan help you save money?While you’ll still need to turn on your heat or air conditioning depending on the season, your ceiling fan can help lessen energy costs by functioning as a helpful heating or cooling tool. In the colder months, your ceiling fan (when spinning in the clockwise direction) will push rising warm air back down so you won’t need to run the heat as much. When you switch the fan’s direction in the warmer months, it’ll circulate air, cooling you down and in turn reducing your desire to crank up the AC.According to the U.S. Department of Energy, adjusting your thermostat by around seven degrees during the day could trim your heating and cooling costs by as much as 10 percent throughout the year. That works out to a couple hundred dollars worth of savings for the average homeowner. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Homeowners have long embraced the appeal of open kitchen shelving — the easy access to dishes; their airy feel, especially in small layouts; and the opportunity to put decorative objects on full display. In factBut now, a recent Kitchen Trends report from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) has found that a growing number of homeowners are trading open shelving (and open pantries) for concealed kitchen storage that keeps clutter under wraps. The NKBA surveyed more than 500 kitchen and bath professionals (designers included), and discovered that 87% said homeowners prefer pantry designs concealed behind cabinet doors or panels to maintain a polished look. What’s more, 66% believe walk-in pantries and butler’s pantries will be all the rage in the next three years. Revamp Your Cooking Space“The appeal of open shelving lies in its ability to create an airy, layered aesthetic – one that works beautifully for clients with a highly curated collection or a disciplined sense of organization,” says designer Lara Apelian. “But in practice, the realities of daily life often call for a more tailored, efficient approach. Concealed storage – whether through custom millwork, integrated pantries or seamless cabinetry – provides a sense of refinement and cohesion, allowing the kitchen to feel like an uncluttered oasis.”Designer Mikel Welch agrees: “Many people are moving away from open shelving because it collects dust and can easily look cluttered unless you know how to keep your stacks of plates and bowls perfect. Concealed storage, like cabinets and pantries, keeps things organized and hidden, making the kitchen look cleaner and more functional. Plus, it allows for smarter features like pull-out shelves and hidden bins, all while offering more privacy and a streamlined aesthetic.”Aimee RyanDesigner Sharon Sherman of Thyme & Place Design believes there’s another reason for the rise in closed kitchen storage. “Driving this (trend) is a desire for organized spaces, which bring calm. It reduces the stress to keep exposed items clean and neat, placing the design emphasis on the beauty of the cabinets.”But like many design choices, there’s a downside, too. It’s mainly the lack of room, according to Colleen Bennett of CBB Design Firm. “The con is that it just takes up a lot of space in the kitchen, especially if you don’t have a scullery,” Bennett says, noting that she prefers this clean kitchen aesthetic as a way to free up countertops. Curious about how to make a kitchen full of closed cabinetry look as chic as possible? Consider the below tips from designer Emily Ruff of Cohesively Curated:3 Ways to Elevate Kitchen Cabinets Design: Emily Ruff; Carina Skrobecki Photo✔️ Prioritize function. Start with the sizes and locations of your appliances, and then build out your cabinetry plan from there. “We tend to use almost all drawers for base cabinets, as it is a lot more functional than cabinet drawers with roll-outs,” says Ruff. “We also aim to create symmetry around the range and around the sink when possible, which helps to make sure our tile layouts are symmetrical as well.”✔️ Aim for visual interest. “The key is to leave space elsewhere for artwork or tile to have the spotlight, so it isn’t just cabinet doors as far as you can see which makes a kitchen feel closed in,” Ruff says. “We always start with choosing the countertops, especially natural stone, and then we choose the cabinetry color from there. Your cabinetry color has to be a tone that looks good in the lighting of your kitchen, but also that plays nicely with your stone.”✔️ Pick your hardware wisely. While it might seem like a simple detail, hardware has a way of elevating kitchen cabinets. Ruff suggests mixing your hardware to make a statement. “Don’t just put the same style and size pull on every cabinet and call it good. We like to put knobs on cabinet doors, pulls on drawers and vary the size of the pulls so it fits the size of the drawer well.”Here are some guidelines: Under 24″ drawers get a 4″ pull; over 24″ get a 6″ pull; and over 33″ get an 8″ pull Appliance pulls for panel-ready appliances should be different from pulls in the rest of the kitchen, and make sure you go for at least 12″ or 18″ for larger refrigerators and freezers. Consider cabinet latches on smaller cabinets up high or cabinets under the sink — areas you don’t open/close multiple times a dayMore Kitchen Design InspirationMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

1Mercury ThermometersMassanPH//Getty ImagesIf you have an older fever thermometer lying around, it may contain mercury. The use of mercury is being phased out and several states prohibit the sale of mercury-containing thermometers, because it’s “a toxic, environmentally-persistent substance,” according to The United States’ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2Lead-Based PaintKypros//Getty ImagesThe federal government banned consumer use of lead-based paint in 1978, because exposure can cause serious health problems. Lead-based paint is still present in older homes (often under layers of newer paint), exterior surfaces and playgrounds.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Corded Window CoveringsDavid Cooper//Getty ImagesIn an effort to reduce the risk of strangulation to children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned custom window coverings with cords in 2022. Corded blinds, shades, drapes and more should be taken down immediately. 4Certain Space Heaterslucentius//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Crib BumpersDana Hoff//Getty ImagesNever let your newborn sleep with a crib bumper pad — they’ve been linked to more than 200 infant deaths. In 2022, the Safe Sleep for Babies Act (SSBA) declared crib bumpers as “banned hazardous products.” 6AC Units With R-22Adél Békefi//Getty ImagesR-22 is a refrigerant often used in air conditioning equipment, and as of 2020, it’s being phased out because it depletes the earth’s ozone layer. For now, you can continue using your existing AC unit, but according to the EPA, you could save money on your energy bill with a newer, more efficient model. RELATED: 8 Best Window AC Units, According to TestingAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Incandescent Light BulbsJAMES BAIGRIE//Getty ImagesAs of August 2023, the sale of incandescent lightbulbs was banned due to their extreme energy inefficiency. While it’s not illegal to continue using incandescent light bulbs (if you bought them prior to 2023), your energy bill will see the impact.8Some WeedkillersWestend61//Getty ImagesMost of us have heard that weedkillers contain harmful chemicals — but what does that actually mean? There are two banned ingredients you should definitely steer clear of: chlorthal-dimethyl and dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA or Dacthal) as they can harm human health.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Gas Leaf Blowersskhoward//Getty ImagesCities in California, New Jersey and Illinois have banned the use of gas leaf blowers. Although functional, the backyard tool emits toxic pollutants that be hazardous to the environment and human health. They can leave the lungs vulnerable, according to the Respiratory Health Association. 10Wood Shingles (In Fire-Prone Cities)Dean Muz//Getty ImagesWood roofs are banned in some areas prone to wildfires — like Southern California. While your home may be grandfathered in, the bans been in effect for upwards of 15 years, so it may be time to consider replacing your wood shingles. RELATED: How to Choose the Best Roofing Material for Your HomeAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Flooring can make or break a space. The right flooring doesn’t just bring functionality to a room — it’s a key design element that can completely change its look and feel. You can take a playful approach with geometric tiles in a bathroom, try a high-pile rug for a cozy bedroom or lean into a rustic flair with warm hardwood (imagine embracing an aged grain pattern). “Flooring serves as the foundation of a room and all the details matter: floor stain color, pattern and the finish,” says Kelly Collier-Clark of House of Clark Interiors. Pick Your MatchWith so many flooring choices out there, we couldn’t help but ask interior designers about their clients’ top pick right now. What’s the top flooring trend at the moment? Their answer was clear: White oak is dominating homes these days. “European white oak is the hottest thing on the market,” says Colleen Bennett of CBB Design Firm, noting that people are going the engineered route due to how construction is being built. Houston-based designer Kyle Dutton of Kyle Dutton Home & Design is also seeing more and more white oak. “We are really loving white oak tones with natural tones like Rustic Beige, Silvered Gray and Weathered Oak,” Dutton says. What’s interesting is that, according to Nicole J. Colin of Coco Design & Build Co, homeowners’ love of white oak is nothing new. “Surprisingly, this trend has remained popular for six to seven years, and it shows no signs of slowing down,” says Colin. “Its timeless appeal and ability to brighten spaces make it a favorite in many projects.”CBB Design Firm; Photo: Shortoff MediaOne main draw of white oak is the versatility of its “naturally light finish, which means it can be stained in a wider variety of colors,” according to Katara Cade of Pearson Design Group. It complements a range of interior design styles, whether you’re aiming for a rugged and rustic aesthetic, or on the opposite end, a sleek and modern flair. “For example, in modern architecture, we tend to use cooler toned stains for the white oak, whereas in our rustic projects, we play up the warmth of the wood,” Cade adds.Interior designer Hill Rondero of Ro House Studio prefers the warmer tones to create an inviting atmosphere. “I love white oak in an older home as a contrast to the more traditional architecture. The warmer hardwoods are a nice complement to the more modern spaces we’ve been seeing lately. It’s always about the balance.”For even more visual appeal, there’s room to experiment with a variety of widths as well, says Bennett. “We are seeing a lot of different widths like 3”/5”/7”, 4”/5”/6”, 4”/5”/7 — not just one simultaneous plank just to make it look a little bit more interesting.” And not only does it look good, but Dan DiClerico, the Home Improvement & Outdoor Director in the Good Housekeeping Institute, notes that oak is of the most durable woods out there, so it’s ideal for high-traffic areas. “It’s extremely hard-wearing, plus its tight grain pattern conceals any nicks or scratches that do occur over time,” DiClerico says.So, it’s clear, if you want style and function, white oak is the way to go. Get More Flooring AdviceMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

One of my least favorite parts about cleaning the house is how dirty I seem to get in the process. No matter how hard I try to avoid it, some form of dirt, whether it’s soap scum from the shower or grease from the stovetop, always finds its way onto my skin. While I generally enjoy the satisfaction that comes from cleaning, I’m always looking for easier (and ironically, cleaner) ways to get the job done. So when I got my hands on an electric spin scrubber, I was eager to try it out on the most stubborn surfaces in my apartment. What is an electric cleaning brush? HOTO Electric Spin ScrubberCredit: HOTOAn electric cleaning brush is a handheld device with a rotating head that breaks down grime. The scrubber usually comes with several different attachments made specifically for tackling various areas of the house — bathroom tiles, greasy stovetops and even tile floors. Because the tool spins with the push of a button, it eliminates a lot of the dirty work (literally) that comes along with scrubbing and cleaning stubborn dirt and debris. I tested the HOTO Electric Spin Scrubber, which was rated the best overall pick by our Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. It’s $100 on Amazon right now. It comes with six brush head attachments and an extension rod for cleaning the floor and other hard-to-reach places. After trying it for myself, I can see why it scored so well in versatility and grime removal.More WinnersWhat I cleaned with my spin scrubber I decided to use a few different brushes while cleaning my apartment. I tried the small flat brush for my sink, the sponge pad for my mirror and both the large flat brush and pointed brush for my bathroom wall tiles and grout. To switch between attachments, all I had to do was unlock the head by pressing down the buttons on each side. Bathroom sinkThe first spot I tackled was my bathroom sink. It had a dull look, especially around the drain, due to soap scum build-up. I attached the small flat brush, sprayed some all-purpose cleaner and went at it. Laura MillarLaura MillarI guided the brush toward the dirty area, applied some pressure and the scrubber did the rest. It did a really good job of getting into the crevices, too. After about 30 seconds of focusing on the drain, it started to glisten again. I then scrubbed the rest of my sink, which only took a couple minutes. MirrorNext up was the bathroom mirror. I sprayed it, attached the sponge head to my scrubber and made my way from one side to the other. Laura MillarThe sponge glided across the mirror effortlessly, eliminating all fingerprints, toothpaste residue and water spots in an instant. Afterwards, I wiped it down for a sparkling finish. Related StoryWall tiles and groutI had been avoiding cleaning my wall tiles since the last time I tried and ultimately failed to get them to the level of cleanliness I desired. That being said, I was honestly pretty doubtful that the scrubber would be able to really get into the creases and crevices once and for all. I attached the pointed brush head and made my way through the grout. Laura MillarLaura MillarI prepared myself to spend hours on my bathroom wall, so when the scrubber got rid of the yellowing grout in just a few minutes, I was shocked. Not only did it get the job done, it saved me what could have been hours of manual labor. All I did was hold the scrubber in my hands and push between the cracks. The bottom lineIt’s normal to have go-to cleaning habits. If you’ve never used an electric spin scrubber, you might be hesitant to incorporate it into your cleaning routine. However, I guarantee that you’re doing more dirty work than you need to be without it. I know I definitely was. To say I’m pleased with the device would be understatement. It completely transformed the way I think about cleaning, especially when it comes to the areas I dread the most. If it’s even possible, I think I’m looking forward to the next time my bathroom tiles need a little bit of sparkling — and that’s saying something. Related StoriesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

To earn the Good Housekeeping Seal, these Simonton window models were put through the wringer. After assessing the brand’s 5500 Collection Double Hung Window, DaylightMax Collection Horizontal Sliding Window, 6200 Collection Horizontal Sliding Window, and 6500 Collection Double Hung Window in the lab, home improvement & outdoor director Dan DiClerico and his team were impressed by the stylish designs, reliable performance, energy efficiency and brand legacy. Watch the video above and read on to learn more about these windows.Stellar DesignSimonton windows come in a variety of exterior and interior colors to match any architectural style or interior vibe. Additional hardware and grille options offer dozens of combinations, so every homeowner can find their ideal look.Standout PerformanceUpon review by the Good Housekeeping Institute, the windows proved great at protecting against air and water infiltration. Operations tests confirmed the durability of the fusion-welded frames, and the utility of features like the tilt-in sashes that make the units easy to clean.Deep Energy SavingsWindows don’t just impact your home’s curb appeal — they also affect its energy efficiency. Simonton units feature dual-pane insulating glass with low-E coatings and argon-gas fill. This lets them do a great job of keeping warm air inside during cold weather and cool air inside during the summer. Brand ReliabilitySimonton Windows & Doors boasts 75 years of experience in the field, and it stands behind the quality and craftsmanship of its windows, offering a lifetime limited warranty on residential installations should any issues arise.Sarah Strong is a Food & Drink editor for branded content at Hearst. Her special skills include watching more television in a week than there are hours in a week, tap dancing, archery, boy band trivia and bargain hunting. You can follow her on Instagram at @feedsstrong to see where she’s eating, what she’s reading and which sneakers she’s wearing. More

Modern and minimalist design reigned supreme for years, but now homeowners are leaning toward traditional styles in 2025 — especially in the kitchen. Think earthy paint colors, natural stone countertops, warm wood cabinetry and charming details, like millwork and statement light fixtures. The style, popular from the 1980s to the early 2000s, is seeing a resurgence as homeowners crave warm and comfortable interiors. One in seven homeowners — 14% — are choosing traditional style for their renovated kitchens, according to the 2025 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, which is more popular than modern and contemporary aesthetics. More on the downfall of minimalism”In conversations with design and remodeling pros, we’ve heard repeated references to homeowners requesting spaces with personality, character and unique designs,” says Mitchell Parker, a senior editor at Houzz. “Many elements of a traditional-style kitchen meet those needs, offering a formal and yet comfortable ambiance.”To understand the shift toward traditional style, I spoke to five design experts and they all agreed: Traditional kitchen design is making a strong comeback. “My clients seem to be craving a timeless and classic look, because the market is a bit oversaturated with mid-century modern and minimalist styles — it’s beautiful, but it’s everywhere,” says Sondra Zabroske, an architect at Four Brothers Design + Build. Laura Metzler Photography”Homeowners are after interiors that feel more curated and layered,” says Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley Interiors. Think visual elements like rich wood, interesting cabinetry panels and unique hardware.”I’ve noticed that minimalistic kitchens are no longer topping homeowners’ wishlists,” agrees designer Jeff Andrews. “Instead, there’s a growing preference for designs rooted in tradition — spaces that are not only functional, but reflect individual lifestyles. A kitchen with a more traditional feel makes complete sense with the way we are living at home today.” Why are homeowners leaning toward traditional style?No longer are homeowners seeking perfectly curated interiors — instead, they’re drawn to personalized spaces. “This shift is driven by three key factors: comfort and familiarity, timeless appeal and a reaction against the starkness of minimalism,” says Rebecca Roberts, founder and principal designer at Method + Moxie. “For many Gen Xers and Millennials, traditional kitchens evoke a sense of home,” Roberts adds. “While no one is longing for the laminate cabinets and harvest tones of decades past, today’s take on tradition blends classic elements with a refined, modern sensibility.”Design: Lynn Holender Design; Photo: Kerry Kirk PhotographyTraditional kitchens are all about the details. “There’s a bit of embellishment or adornment everywhere you look — from arches and ceiling beams to furniture-style islands and custom range hoods,” says Parker.With its timeless appeal, traditional style favors rich architectural details over clean lines. “From elegant cabinetry and intricate moldings to warm color palettes and high-quality materials, traditional design blends sophistication with a lived-in feel that makes a house truly feel like home,” says Steve Gold, real estate broker and star of Selling the City.Above all else, homeowners are seeking timeless interiors — especially when investing in a kitchen remodel — and traditional style is a great choice. “We know from Houzz research that more than seven in 10 homeowners cite cost-effectiveness in the long run as the leading motivator for making sustainable choices during kitchen upgrades,” says Parker.What’s Trending in Home DesignAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More