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    42 Small Bathroom Storage Ideas That Are Actually Clever

    1Hang Shelves in the WindowSara Liggoria-Tramp2Rely on Decorative BinsChristopher DibbleFill pretty bins with frequently used items, like cleaning products, washcloths or skincare. Take note from Karen Nepacena from Destination Eichler and set them on floating shelves, so everything you need is within reach.SHOP BINS3Bring in a Small BenchStudio DIYIf you’ve got a few inches of spare floor space, a wooden bench can serve as an additional surface for storing towels and decor. For families with small children, it’ll be a functional step stool to reach the sink, too. See more at Studio DIY »SHOP SMALL BENCHAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Make Space for a Small OrganizerCherished Bliss5Categorize the Bathroom ClosetBless’er House6Mount Acrylic ShelvingMargaret RajicHere, Outline Interiors adds functional storage in an awkward alcove by hanging acrylic shelves. Clear shelves (glass or acrylic) are great for small spaces, since they look clean, light and nearly invisible.SHOP ACRYLIC SHELVESAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Stow Away Essentials in Wicker BinsJUSTIN L JORDANNot only do wicker bins add texture and warmth to any interior (as Bethany Adams Interiors demonstrates here), but they can easily hide clutter. Imagine hot tools, spare toilet paper rolls and personal care items you’d like accessible but not visible.SHOP WICKER BINS8Display Skincare on ShelvesMadeline HarperFancy skincare bottles and jars can easily double as decor when displayed on sleek shelving. Elevate the look by hanging a picture light above, just as designer Anastasia Casey does here.9Decorate With a Small StoolChristopher DibbleLimited floor space? No problem! A tiny stool is the perfect way to add charm and decor to an unused corner of the bathroom. Just take it from Karen Nepacena from Destination Eichler and top the surface with a faux plant.SHOP ROUND STOOLAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below10Construct a Secret CabinetY&B InteriorsThis playful patterned room, designed by Outline Interiors, has a secret medicine cabinet to contain counter clutter. When it’s closed, guests will have no idea it’s there!11Opt for Wire Baskets Under the SinkSara Liggoria-TrampWire organizers can help make the most of the space under your vanity. Not only does it look much better, but now you’ll know where everything is in a pinch.See more at Style by Emily Henderson »12Build in Open ShelvingChristopher DibbleDefined by a whimsical wallpaper and dark blue cabinetry, this small bathroom (designed and built by Arciform) has four built-in shelves, perfect for storing towels. If your towels will be on display, be sure to choose options that pair with your bathroom design.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Repurpose Your Bar CartMike GartenYour favorite place to store wine can double as the perfect linen closet on wheels. Arrange spare towels, toilet paper and washcloths in baskets and leave toiletries up top. SHOP BAR CART14Take Advantage of the Entire Wall Robert KentForget the floor cabinets and floating ledges. Instead, go the extra mile with built-in shelves all over the wall. You’ll truly have space for everything, including towels, ornaments, baskets of toiletries and bins of cleaning products and hair tools. 15Try a Storage Ladder Raquel LangworthyA ladder provides a spot to hang towels and baskets full of extra toilet paper, but it doesn’t protrude much from the wall, making it ideal for slim spaces.SHOP DECORATIVE LADDERAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below16Unclutter Your Vanity Drawers Courtesy of The Home EditBelieve it or not, just organizing your drawers can give you more space to store products. Use drawer dividers to section off items. Choose multiple sizes, one for hair ties and clips, and another for flat irons, blow dryers and brushes. SHOP DRAWER CONTAINERS17Opt for a Corner Cabinet Annie SchlechterIf you’re someone who loves to stock up on bath products, you may benefit from a larger cabinet. Choose a design with glass doors, so you can easily see what you need to grab. 18Use Bath Trays for Extra Space James French/ Styling: Marisha TaylorBring the spa right to your home with a simple bath tray that can hold everything from reading material to candles and body products. SHOP BATH CADDYAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below19Clear Off the CountertopTidbits & CompanyMounted wire baskets and a mirror with a built-in shelf make up for any space that may be lacking on top of your vanity. Keep toothbrushes, toothpaste, cleansers and lotions tucked inside.Get the tutorial at Tidbits »20Tuck Towels in BasketsAlec HemerTurn a problem (no linen closet) into a picture-perfect solution by sticking rolled bath and hand towels in cute baskets below your vanity. Talk about fashion and function all in one!Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master’s degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She’s also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work. Alyssa 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

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    How to Clean a Mirror Without Leaving Streaks

    While your decorative mirror may not accumulate dust or greasy fingerprints for a few weeks, your bathroom mirror likely takes the brunt of water splatters, toothpaste globs and sticky hair products. Cleaning a mirror isn’t difficult, but there is a right way to do it. Can we agree there’s nothing more frustrating than a freshly cleaned mirror that looks hazy or full of streaks?Whether you prefer a homemade vinegar solution or one our top-tested glass cleaners, here’s how to clean a mirror with ease. Follow this expert cleaning advice from Carolyn Forté, Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab. First, Find a Glass Cleaner The best glass cleaners are not only easy and neat to use, but are effective at cutting grime and eliminating streaks. In GH’s cleaning lab, experts test how cleaners tackle greasy fingerprints, lipstick marks and other everyday stains (think the toothpaste splattered on your bathroom mirror). Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our top-tested options, but you can also make a homemade vinegar spray if you prefer to go the DIY route. Homemade Glass CleanerKeep in mind: If you live in an area with hard water, consider using distilled water in your homemade glass cleaner. Invisible Glass CleanerHOPE’S Perfect Glass CleanerNow 18% OffE-Cloth Window Cleaning KitHow to Clean a MirrorSpray glass cleaner directly on a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel. Foaming glass cleaners may be applied directly to the mirror, but most sprays will drip down the mirror’s surface before you have the chance to wipe it. Wipe your mirror with the damp cloth or towel using an S-shape motion, starting from the top and working your way down. Never wipe in a circular motion, which generates static that attracts dust. “I prefer a microfiber cloth, because they’re super absorbent and wipe away streaks fast,” says Forté, who suggests the E-Cloth Window Cleaner Kit, which includes a cloth for cleaning and one for polishing.Optional: For stuck-on spots, like crusted toothpaste or hairspray, spray glass cleaner on a scrub sponge and scrub the problem area. Then repeat steps one and two. Use a dry microfiber or polishing cloth to buff the surface and remove any remaining streaks. Expert tip: While decorative mirrors can be cleaned every three to five weeks, bathroom mirrors need more frequent attention and should be cleaned at least once per week.Related StoriesAlyssa 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.Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York. More

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    The Best Ways to Clean a Dishwasher

    1Clean out bits of food daily.Tammy Hanratty//Getty ImagesLeftover food lingering at the bottom of your dishwasher is the root of most odor problems. After each dishwashing cycle, pull out the bottom rack and check for any remaining bits of food, paper or small items that could have gotten stuck in the filter well or screen. Remove it with your fingers or a paper towel to help prevent future buildup.Expert tip: Wipe excess food from plates, silverware, bowls and other items before loading them into the dishwasher. If you don’t plan to run a cycle immediately, rinse them quickly at the sink or run a rinse-only cycle to prevent unwanted smells. Always remove any labels or stickers from jars you may be reusing before putting the items into the dishwasher.2Wipe door and door gasket weekly. Daniel de la Hoz//Getty ImagesYou may notice greasy residue or splatters settling onto the interior surface of the door, the bottom of the dishwasher, the door edges, the handle or the dishwasher control buttons. Quickly wipe these areas with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge.As for the door gasket and dispenser, gently scrub any gunk from the rubber seal around the door using an old soft toothbrush dipped in either warm, sudsy water or a mild all-purpose cleaner. With a damp cloth or paper towel, wipe the dispensers to remove any debris or traces of undissolved detergent.3Clean the dishwasher filter weekly.gettyThe filter is found below the bottom spray arm; you’ll need to pull out the bottom rack to get to it. If you’re not sure how to remove it, check the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for details. Unlock and remove the filter and rinse it under hot running water.Using a soft toothbrush, scrub the mesh screen and plastic frame to remove any grease or particles stuck in the crevices. Then rinse it clean.Lock the filter back into place.Expert Tip: Never operate your dishwasher without the filter properly locked, as you can cause severe damage to your machine and possibly void the warranty.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4Run a cleaning cycle monthly.Once a month, it’s important to get down and dirty to remove any trapped particles, mineral buildup or detergent residue hiding in your machine’s internal parts and spray arms. Dishwasher cleaners, like Good Housekeeping Seal Star Cascade, are an easy fix, as they contain surfactants that dissolve and clean away trapped food bits and greasy residue. Use them according to the label’s directions.Expert Tip: Check the instructions before using any commercial dishwasher cleaner. Most require an empty dishwasher, but some can be used in the same cycle with dishes and detergent for even more convenient cleaning.5Polish your dishwasher’s exterior as needed.Fancy/Veer/Corbis//Getty ImagesFingerprints make any surface look dull and grimy, but they really stand out — in a bad way — on stainless steel appliances. That’s why we suggest using a stainless steel cleaner made specifically for cleaning appliances, like GH Seal Star Weiman, to shine up your dishwasher door and give it a protective finish. Not only does the cleaner leave behind a streak-free shine, but it also contains ingredients to help repel future dirt and smudges. Expert Tip: Stay away from abrasive cleaners or pads that can scratch and mar your dishwasher’s exterior. Always clean and wipe stainless steel in the direction of the metal’s grain to avoid streaks.Can you deep-clean your dishwasher with vinegar?If you opt to take the DIY route to fight residue and buildup, go with vinegar in an empty dishwasher.To clean your dishwasher with vinegar, place a dishwasher-safe bowl filled with one cup of distilled white vinegar on the top rack and run a pots-and-pans or heavy (hot) cycle without detergent or dishes.To clean your dishwasher with vinegar and baking soda for extra freshening, after running the vinegar cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda in the bottom of your empty dishwasher and run a short or quick cycle. Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowCan you clean your dishwasher with bleach?No, bleach and bleach-containing cleaners are not recommended, especially if the dishwasher has a stainless steel interior. Some dishwasher detergents contain bleach, but that’s to remove tea and coffee stains from cups and other dinnerware. And do not use bleach with vinegar — the combination of the two can create potentially lethal chlorine gas.Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.Alyssa 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

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    8 Best Dishwasher Cleaners, According to Cleaning Experts

    Both a cleaner and a limited disinfectant, the Glisten Dishwasher Magic Machine Cleaner is EPA Safer Choice Certified, which means the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency verifies that the product’s ingredients are safe for the environment, people and pets. Not only does this product remove limescale and rust in a dishwasher, but it also kills some strains of E. coli and Salmonella. Beyond sanitizing, this cleaner eliminates odors and leaves behind a fresh lemon scent. “Left it clean and smelling fresh, with all stains and marks gone! Looks brand new inside,” one online customer wrote. To use, remove the cap to expose the wax plug, place the bottle upside down in the silverware basket, and run your machine’s hottest, longest cycle. More

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    16 Renter-Friendly Design Upgrades You Won’t Regret Trying

    1Hang Wireless LightsAlice and LoisStatement lighting elevates any space — and luckily, this DIY project doesn’t require any skills or understanding of electrical wiring. Adhere LED puck lights to wicker baskets, then hang new fixtures from the ceiling using twine. Most puck lights can be controlled with a remote control; you just have to replace the batteries from time to time.Get the tutorial at Alice and Lois »2Mount Temporary Wall MoldingAnna Page3Experiment With Peel-and-Stick WallpaperJessica TeichJessica Teich, Good Housekeeping Institute deputy editor and self-proclaimed “peel-and-stick queen,” revamped her New York City apartment with a floral accent wall just outside her bedroom. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is beginner-friendly and designed to be easy to remove — so there’s no sticky residue left behind for the next tenant. FYI: There are tons of great wallpaper options available, but GH editors have shared positive experiences with Spoonflower.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4Make Faux Stained GlassA Beautiful Mess5Create the Illusion of Built-In ShelvingMadeline HarperDecorate a blank white wall with floor-to-ceiling bookcases that are lightweight and easy to mount (helpful for when it’s time to move to your next apartment). You may need to drill a few holes into the wall, but it’s easy enough to patch them up when the lease ends.Take note from designer Anastasia Casey and fill your shelves with a collection of books, antiques and art. 6Consider a Peel-and-Stick BacksplashVeronica CrawfordYour rental may not have your dream kitchen, but small changes — like an earth-toned mosaic backsplash — can have a huge impact. Peel-and-stick kitchen backsplashes look like ceramic or porcelain tiles, but are mostly commonly made from thick vinyl. They typically come in 10- to 12-inch square sections that can be arranged and cut to fit your space.See more at Style by Emily Henderson »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Swap out Light FixturesBrigette MullerTrade boring light fixtures for flush mounts, pendants and chandeliers that spark joy. Design influencer Bridgette Muller (a.k.a. @hummusbirrd on Instagram) thinks it’s well worth hiring a professional. “I’ve been told it’s not super hard to do, but I live in a 96-year-old building, so I definitely don’t want to be messing with wires of that age,” she says. If you plan to take the fixtures when you move out, hold onto the originals so you can swap them back in again before you go.8Embrace Tile Stickers in the BathroomKaleidoscope LivingWaterproof vinyl tile stickers make it easy to cover dated bathroom floors with a playful pattern of your choosing. You can even use tile decals on shower floors or walls. Keep in mind: Tile stickers won’t work on every surface, so make sure to read product descriptions before purchasing them. Get the tutorial at Kaleidoscope Living »9Replace Light Switch CoversAlyssa GautieriMy Jersey City rental has been given the “landlord special” in more than one way, but what drove me crazy were the outlet and light switch covers dotted with black wall paint. Light switch covers cost around $1 and a fresh one makes the room look newer! For a pop of personality, there’s plenty of funky light switch covers, too. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below10Install Window TreatmentsSara Liggoria-TrampIf you’ve moved into a rental with cheap plastic blinds — or worse, no window treatments at all! — you know that window treatments can make a space feel more expensive. Whether you install Roman shades or mount a curtain rod and hang drapes, just know that you may need to patch any holes created if you plan to take the treatment with you when you leave, but most landlords would consider this an upgrade (just ask if you can leave them behind!). See more at Style by Emily Henderson » 11Change the Shower HeadJill WellerOf course, if your showerhead doesn’t work properly, your landlord should be responsible for replacing it. But, feel free to tackle the project on your own if you prefer something more aesthetic (like the gold fixture pictured here, chosen by Arterberry Cooke) or a shower filter option. For the most part, replacing a showerhead doesn’t require any technical skills or knowledge of plumbing.12Divide Rooms With CurtainsBrigette MullerDesigner Brigette Muller, who lives in a railroad-style apartment in Brooklyn, uses curtains to create a bit of separation between her bed nook and living room. “Curtains — and textiles in general — are the key to making a space feel like home,” she says. “They really help soften the space, and are such a great way to add a little bit of color, pattern or texture.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Try Removable Tiles in the KitchenShelby TurnerShelby Turner, known as @itsmeshelbyturner on TikTok, recently removed these blue geometric peel-and-stick tiles from her kitchen floor. Although it took a lot longer than expected to clear all the residue, Turner says “I would totally do these renter-friendly upgrades again!””When it comes to flooring, I would never lay peel-and-stick floor directly onto the floor in my rental again,” she adds. Try putting a layer of poster paper or a shower liner between the original floors and the peel-and-sticks.14Cover up Old CountertopsShelby TurnerIn the same apartment, Turner covered her plain white kitchen countertops with marble contact paper for a more luxe look. Following the process of removal, which involved using a hair dryer, a bottle of Goo Gone and manual scrapping, the influencer rated the removal a 7 out of 10.15Build a Faux FireplacePretty in the PinesRecreate the beauty of a real fireplace by crafting an antique-inspired mantel. Shelby Vanhoy of Pretty in the Pines created this statement piece using MDF board and roman clay, plus peel-and-stick brick panel for the center. The best part? You can take it with you when you move out!Get the tutorial at Pretty in the Pines »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below16Update Cabinet HardwareMeghan Beierle-O’BrienSwap out simple kitchen knobs and pulls — just be sure to store them somewhere safe and replace them before you move out. Here, Kitchen Design Group’s Caren Rideau pairs statement gold hardware with white cabinetry for a chicer style. Alyssa 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

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    How To Get Rid of Sugar Ants Inside Your Home

    If you’ve spotted sugar ants in your kitchen or pantry and want to evict these pests who have a sweet tooth ASAP, you’ve come to the right place. It’s frustrating to see them crawl all over a fruit bowl on the kitchen counter or an ice pop your kid dripped on the floor. Experts who study sugar ant behavior (yes, that’s a thing) explain exactly how to get rid of sugar ants fast (ant killers are your friend) and what’s a waste of time and money when you clearly have a problem inside your home. But first, get to know a little more about these pesky creatures.What Are Sugar Ants? Sugar ants is a term for any kind of ant that prefers sweet nourishment—especially from sugary liquids—and doesn’t require a lot of water. They’re usually dark brown or black, and don’t grow as large as some other types of ants. According to Michael Skvarla, Ph.D., assistant research professor of Arthropod Identification at Penn State University, one common example found in many parts of the country is the odorous house ant, Tapinoma sessile, whose scientific name isn’t nearly as easy to remember as sugar ants. Usually no more than one-eighth inch long, these brown ants are pretty stinky when they’re crushed. Other examples of sugar ants include argentine ants and ghost ants. “It’s useful to identify what species may be causing you a problem because they may require different management strategies,” says Andrew Sutherland, Ph.D., an urban pest management advisor at the University of California Davis. “In particular, you’ll want to find out whether you have a primarily outdoor species that has come in or if it’s an indoor species that’s nesting inside the house.” For instance, Sutherland says, argentine ants readily enter homes but they nest outside. If you can’t ID the type of ant, your county office of the USDA’s Cooperative Extension System may be able to help. The Not-So-Secret Lives of Sugar Ants In the spring and summer months, colonies of ants who primarily live outside may send scouter or worker ants inside for food. “With argentine ants, you may even be able to follow their trail to see how they’re getting in and out of the house,” says Sutherland. Some ants, on the other hand, may build a nest inside, which may prove to be more difficult to control. Either way, in the search for nourishment, sugar ants may make a beeline for the kitchen or pantry. If they find something to nibble on, they’ll help themselves to food for the colony, take it “to go” and spread the word about their goodies by leaving a pheromone trail. At this point, Skvarla says many homeowners freak out (we’re not judging) and make the problem worse. There’s no need to panic, because experts created a plan of attack. RHJGetting Rid of Sugar Ants Once and For All You can try a handful of ways to give sugar ants the boot on your own. What works best depends on the kind of sugar ants you’re dealing with and how early you caught the problem. If You Think You’re Dealing With an Outdoor SpeciesSutherland suggests watching the ants to see where they go—and try to seal up access points. When you cut off their bridge into the house, they might move onto a different food source. If You Need a Quick Fix Fill a spray bottle with 10 percent dish soap and 90 percent water. Spray it on the ants, and then just wipe ‘em up. Sutherland says it’s an effective strategy for short-term control, like when you’re having company and don’t want ants to rear their ugly heads. “You’ll erase their pheromone trail and slow them down and confuse them,” says Sutherland. “It won’t affect the nest, so eventually they’ll probably return.” White vinegar can be used in a similar way as a soap solution. “It will kill ants on contact and will probably alter the pheromone trail,” Sutherland says. He adds that vinegar and certain essential oils, such as peppermint, thyme and citrus, may also serve as a repellent during the very short time when you can smell them. “I prefer soap to these other options because it creates a residue that does not volatilize, and is present for longer on the surface,” he says. If You Want to Tackle the Problem Head OnBuy ant bait that contains food and a slow-acting toxin. Sutherland prefers baits to spraying pesticides indoors because you won’t have the residue on your countertops and other surfaces—it remains confined within the bait. “Plus, you have a chance to knock out an entire colony of ants with bait,” says Sutherland. Worker ants may bring it back to the colony and they share it. If it gets to the queen, the colony will die out! Terro Liquid Ant Killer, 12 Bait StationsSome species react best to liquid or gel baits, while other species are more attracted to granular baits. Different brands use various types of food sources, and what ants prefer may even vary seasonally. “In winter and spring, odorous house ants in my area tend to be more attracted to a granular protein-based bait, but later in the summer and fall, they’re most attracted to the sugary baits.” Since professionals might not even know what types of bait will work best, they often put out a couple of different types. Copy their idea, and then be patient!When the ants come marching along for the bait, you’re going to have to resist killing them on the spot. “Expect at least 5 to 10 days for the problem to clear up,” Skvarla cautions. What’s more, Sutherland warns that you may even see an increase in ants at first because they’re attracted to the food. If there’s more than one queen and the colony moves, you may have to repeat the process a second or third time until you wipe out the ants for good. How to Keep Sugar Ants Outside Once you’ve had a sugar ant issue, you’ll probably never want to deal with it again. These effective strategies will help fortify your territory. Landscape the perimeter of your home with rocks or pebbles, which will deter outdoor ants who don’t like to cross these obstacles. Seal exterior doors and windows, which can help with all kinds of pests. “If you can see daylight coming through the bottom of your door, ants can get through there and it needs to be sealed,” Sutherland says. Inspect the bottom of your garage door. Particularly in newer homes, the roll-down garage doors may have a gap at the bottom, according to Sutherland. If you see one, consider buying a threshold seal to keep out pests.Keep open food off the counter as much as possible. Move dog bowls and food away from exterior doors, which may attract ants from outside.Make another sweep of the kitchen before bed, cleaning up any sugary spills, whether it’s juicy watermelon that dripped on the counter or a spot of honey that didn’t make it into your tea. Related StoriesThe former senior editor at Parents who started the brand’s awards programs, Karen Cicero is a seasoned journalist who specializes in travel, book, lifestyle and food coverage.Cicero has visited almost every state with her family (look out Wyoming, she’s coming for you next!) She recently presented at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA and the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance. A mom who goes overboard for all the holidays, Cicero lives in the Christmas city itself: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. More

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    4 Energy-Efficient Home Improvements for Major Savings

    From replacing drafty windows to installing solar panels, there are many ways to make a house more energy-efficient. While clean energy home upgrades may cost you upfront, they can improve the value of your home and save you money down the line. Plus, they’re better for the planet and help support a sustainable lifestyle. With President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the largest-ever investment in clean energy and climate action, there’s no need to entirely invest in clean energy technologies on your own dime. When tax season rolls around next year, you can receive a tax credit to save thousands — including up to 30% on rooftop solar panels, heat pumps or new insulation. So if you’re ready to make energy-efficient upgrades to your home, here are the four that will save you the most money:To understand your home’s energy use, start with a home energy audit. You can receive up to $150 in tax credit.1. Swap in energy-efficient doors and windows. Not only can new windows, sliding doors or a modern front door boost your curb appeal, but energy-efficient options will save you money down the line. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. If your windows and doors are in good condition, try clean upgrades, like covering air leaks with caulk or weatherstrip. And when tax season rolls around, families who make energy-efficiency improvements can receive tax credits worth up to $500 for exterior doors and $600 for windows. John keeble//Getty Images2. Install an electric heat pump.Heat pumps, an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners, use electricity to heat or cool your home — depending on the time of year. While they have a high upfront cost (the transition will likely be a few thousand dollars), you’ll likely save an average of $500 per year on energy bills. Plus, families who install an efficient electric heat pump for heating and cooling can receive a tax credit of up to $2,000. 3. Replace old insulation.Insulation can last around 80 to 100 years, but some may start losing effectiveness much earlier. If your insulation is not properly reducing heat gain in warmer weather and heat loss in colder weather, heating and cooling costs will increase. An energy audit will help determine if your insulation should be replaced — and if it does, you can receive a tax credit up to 30 percent off the cost of new insulation.ferrantraite//Getty Images4. Invest in rooftop solar energy.Solar panel systems can be pricey (the average cost is around $22,000), but the investment can drastically reduce — or even eliminate — the cost of electric bills. They also help reduce carbon emissions and increase your property’s value! Luckily, if you’ve installed solar panels anytime since January 1, 2017 — or plan to in the next decade, you can save up to 30 percent of the cost of the installation via a tax credit. Related StoriesAlyssa 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

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    14 Designer-Approved Bathroom Trends Taking Over 2024

    1Unique Tile InstallationsCate Black”Creative tile installations will be a mainstay in 2024 as consumers aim to infuse more character into their homes. For bathrooms in particular, we love the impact of creating stripes through vertically stacked tiles in alternating colors. A basketweave pattern, as seen in our East Austin remodel, is another fun way to add interest. To achieve this look, alternate between two, three or four vertical stacked tiles and the same number of horizontal stacked tiles.” — Audrey Scheck, Audrey Scheck Design2Pattern Play in Small SpacesMarc Mauldin Photography”This colorful, botanical wallpaper from Walls Republic provides unexpected cheer and a burst of energy to the small bathroom that greets guests warmly while keeping the owner’s imagination flowing daily.” — Amber Guyton, founder of Blessed Little Bungalow3Striking Vanity MirrorsKieran Reeves Photography”Don’t let the small footprint of a powder room keep you from making a big impact. Instead, I love to go bold and incorporate a statement mirror to anchor the space. Look for unique silhouettes or interesting materials that command attention.” — Ashley Ferguson of Ashley Ferguson InteriorsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Separate SinksKARYN R MILLET”If space allows, ditch the long double vanity and separate the sinks for a total personal space experience. I love the idea of a bathtub between the two, but a tree or vintage coat rack makes for a more interesting bathroom installation.” — Raili Clasen, interior designer and author of Surf Style at Home5CurvesSam Frost ”I’m looking forward to incorporating more fixtures with curvature this year. They not only add a contemporary feel to the room, but also create the illusion of a spa-like bathroom, providing a sense of relaxation anyone would want.” — Lindye Galloway, chief creative officer of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop6Steam ShowersPhoto: Mark Verschelden; Design: Wendy Glaister Interiors; Construction: Adkins Construction”Consumers are placing increasing priority on products and design that focus on health and wellness. There’s increased interest in spa-like amenities in bathrooms, including steam showers and saunas. Steam showers have been at the top of the list as science has shown they may contribute to allergy relief, lower blood pressure and better sleep.” — Wendy Glaister, interior designer and allied member of ASIDAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Moody Powder RoomsSam Frost Studio”The powder room is the jewel box of the house and a space to have a little fun and be bold. Here, Lone Park Roman Clay by Portola Paints adds an extra depth to the room and plays with the reflection of the light in the space. We like when the powder room serves as a little surprise for guests as they experience the home.” — Brittany Zwickl, partner and principal designer for Studio Life/Style8Geometric PatternsKara Mercer”We’re seeing a surge in the popularity of patterns in both flooring and wall designs. The focus isn’t necessarily on colorful pattern designs but on the tile arrangements. Think geometric patterns such as chevron, basketweave and herringbone layouts taking center stage.” — Jessica Dorling, owner and principal designer of Dorling Design Studio9Backlit MirrorsPhoto: Dustin Halleck; Design: DGI Design x Build”A step past a simple pair of sconces flanking the mirror, 2024 is exploring options of backlit mirrors and wall washing with integrated ceiling lighting, which adds a minimalist edge to the bathroom.” — Peak Petersen, interior design principal at Hoedemaker PfeifferAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below10Playful WallpaperYe Rin Mok”Bathrooms are the perfect place to go a bit over the top and showcase your personality by using wallpaper as your hero piece. There is so much fabulous paper in the marketplace that there’s truly something for everyone — from small, classic prints to exotic toiles and florals to mural-like papers similar to what we used here.” — Betsy Burnham, founder and principal of Burnham Design11Plaster Shower WallsLauren Taylor”We’re seeing less tile in the shower and more of the plastered look. If Europeans use plaster for their bathrooms and showers without tile, then we’re going to see more of that catching on as people don’t want to deal with cleaning grout.” — Linda Hayslett, founder of LH.Designs12Natural MaterialsKirsten Francis”Natural materials, like marble, wood, ceramic and clay, are becoming more prominent in bathrooms. They infuse any space with richness and warmth.” — Molly Torres Portnof, founder of DATE InteriorsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Dramatic Wet WallsLam Photography”Spa-like bathrooms continue to dominate in 2024, but we’ll see drama added in the form of wet walls — entire walls covered in tile or mosaic instead of sheetrock or millwork. Not only do they instantly elevate a bathroom design, they’re also functional — bathing kids or fur-babies with a wet wall surround makes clean-up a lot easier.” — Jeanne Barber, founder of Camden Grace Interiors 14Textured StoneBJORG MAGNEA”The trend of bold, veiny stone accents stays strong. Often, we see people wanting to keep their millwork simple, with a feature element of colorful stone that adds visual texture to the space.” — Philip Consalvo, principal at PJCArchitectureAlyssa 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