Aurelia Butler

In the kitchen, there’s always something in need of a deep clean — think food splatters on kitchen cabinets and stainless steel appliances, plus the grime that builds up inside dishwashers, messy microwaves and ovens. Luckily, it’s our mission to make these dreaded tasks — like cleaning greasy and crusty oven racks — a lot easier. For expert advice on how to clean oven racks, we tapped Carolyn Forté, the executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, who recommends deep cleaning your oven racks three to four times a year. In the interim, make sure to wipe clean splatters, spills or spots when you notice them. It’s important to remove grease splatters and deposits that build up over time on oven racks, not only because your kitchen will look cleaner, but it can help prolong the life of your oven.Below, we’ve highlighted the best ways to quickly and effectively clean your oven racks. Plus, keep scrolling for feedback on a few methods that we don’t recommend. How to Clean Oven Racks With Dish SoapWhat You’ll NeedWash your racks in the sink with warm, soapy water. (If you require more space for scrubbing, you can also clean oven racks in the bath tub — just lay down towels first to prevent scratching). For stubborn gunk and grime, try a grease-cutting dish spray, like Dawn Powerwash. Spray dirty oven racks with a dish spray and let them sit in the sink or tub for several minutes. Scrub your racks with a medium or heavy duty scouring pad (depending on how dirty they are). Then, rinse racks clean and allow them to air dry on the counter or hand-dry with a dishtowel before re-inserting into the oven.powerofforever//Getty ImagesHow to Clean Oven Racks With Oven CleanerIf your racks are especially dirty (think burned food and tough grease), it might be best to try an oven cleaner. We always recommend that you first remove your oven racks. Keep in mind some oven cleaners can damage wood or stone surfaces. Cover your workstation in several layers of newspaper or clean racks someplace outside. Below are a few of our favorites and how to use them, but always follow the instructions listed on the package. Also, take a look at your appliance manufacturer’s recommendations — some may suggest only using an oven cleaner to spot clean. Expert tip: Always wear gloves during deep cleans.Easy-Off Oven Cleaner: Spray oven racks, allow to sit for 30 seconds, then wipe clean with a wet cloth. This cleaner, great for spot cleans, can be sprayed directly into the oven, as long it’s completely cool. Weiman Stove & Oven Cleaner: Remove racks and lay them on a protected surface (several layers of newspaper works well). Spray foam cleaner and allow to sit for two to 10 minutes — try longer for tougher messes. Scrub racks with a scouring pad, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. RELATED: 8 Best Oven Cleaners of 2024, Tested by Cleaning ProsShould I clean my oven racks with baking soda? You can clean oven racks with baking soda, sprinkling it onto racks and scrubbing with a sponge or scouring pad, then finishing with a rinse. While this cleaning method may work for lightly soiled racks, we don’t suggest using baking soda to deep clean oven racks. Baking soda is a mild abrasive, so this method could require intense scrubbing and rinsing. Should I clean my oven racks with vinegar?Some choose to create a paste by mixing vinegar with baking soda, but we don’t recommend this method. Mixing baking soda and vinegar together is only effective while the mixture is bubbling, which won’t last long.Should I clean my oven racks with dishwasher tablets or detergent?Some recommend soaking dirty oven racks in warm water mixed with dishwasher detergent, but we don’t. Not only does this method require you to soak oven racks overnight in the sink or bathtub, but it isn’t any more effective than using dish soap. Plus, your warm water won’t stay warm for long, making the detergent less effective. “Dishwashers periodically heat the water throughout the cycle,” says Forté. “You can’t do that in your sink or tub without diluting the mixture.” The Best Products for Clean Oven RacksAlyssa 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

From family movie nights and entertaining friends to cuddling with pets, the couch receives a lot of daily use — which means it tends to collect crumbs, pet hair and the occasional food spill. Microfiber couches, while a durable choice for heavy-traffic homes, must be properly cleaned to ensure long-lasting quality. Keep in mind that the wrong cleaning methods can leave watermarks or damage your upholstery. Luckily, we’re sharing a step-by-step guide on how to clean a microfiber couch by Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, that’ll quickly refresh your living room. For a deeper clean, we recommend following all of these instructions, but for lighter debris and stains, you can stick to the simpler steps, like vacuuming the upholstery or spot-treating with an upholstery cleaner. A piece of key advice from Forté: “Always start with the gentlest method first and work your way up.”What You’ll NeedStep-by-Step Instructions for Cleaning Your Microfiber Couch:1. Determine the right cleaning method. The upholstered furniture industry uses a coding system to safely clean your couch. Check your couch’s tag or under-the-seat cushions to find its cleaning code.W means the fabric can be treated with water-based cleaners.W/S means that both water- or solvent-based cleaners are safe to use.S means the fabric cannot be treated with water and only solvent-based cleaning chemicals should be used.X means the fabric can only be vacuumed or lightly brushed.2. Steam clean the couch.Not only are handheld garment steamers gentle on microfiber, but hot steam can kill surface dust mites and lift stains from the fabric. Go over the entire couch, allowing just the steam to touch and penetrate the upholstery. (We recommend using a garment steamer to start your deep clean, but feel free to skip this step if you don’t have one).3. Vacuum the upholstery. With the upholstery attachment, vacuum the entire sofa: back, arms, skirt and cushions. Use the crevice tool to clean tricky areas — think crumbs and pet hair stuck in seams, around buttons or along the trim. If the cushions are removable, take them off and vacuum the fabric underneath, as well as both sides of each cushion. Quick cleaning tip: In between vacuums, use a lint roller to pick up stray hairs or a few crumbs. Oleg Breslavtsev//Getty Images4. Test your cleaning solution.Whether you’ve created your own cleaning solution (¼ teaspoon of mild dish soap mixed with one cup of warm water might do the trick) or you’ve bought an upholstery cleaner, it’s important to test the product on a hidden area first. Apply the cleaning solution to a small spot to be certain that it’s safe for the fabric and doesn’t cause any water spotting or color loss.RELATED: 8 Best Upholstery Cleaners, Recommended by Stain Removal Experts 5. Spot clean stains.When using any store-bought upholstery cleaner, always follow the package instructions. For water-safe fabrics, tackle stains with an enzyme-containing formula like Bissell Professional Pet Stain & Odor Remover. If your cushions have removable covers, unzip them and place a paper towel between the fabric and filling to absorb excess moisture. Apply upholstery cleaner to a microfiber cloth and blot the stain carefully, working from the outside in. Once the stain is removed, dab the area with a damp cloth, then blot dry. For “S” fabrics, clean stains according to label directions with a solvent-based product such as ForceField Dry.skaman306//Getty Images6. Bring in a carpet or upholstery cleaner for tougher stains.For fabrics that can be treated with water, use a portable extraction cleaner, like Bissell’s Little Green Portable Cleaner, for a deeper clean. Dispense the cleaner and water mixture through the hose, agitate the fabric with the brush nozzle and vacuum up the dirt into the tank.7. Allow fabric to air dry.Let your couch completely dry, ideally overnight, before sitting or laying on the cushions. To speed up the drying process, use fans or open the windows on a warm day.8. Sanitize the couch. Once your sofa is clean and dry, kill lingering bacteria and remove smells on water-safe fabrics using a sanitizing spray, like GH Seal star Tide Antibacterial Fabric Spray. Quick cleaning tip: Between deep cleans, eliminate any odors by sprinkling baking soda all over the sofa or spraying it with GH Seal Star Febreze FABRIC. The Products You Need to Clean Your Microfiber CouchAlyssa 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

When it comes to curb appeal, no exterior element has greater impact than your home’s siding. It’s also one of the first lines of defense against the elements, from pounding hail to lashing rain to blazing heat. No wonder siding replacements have one of the highest returns on investment of all home improvement projects, according to Remodeling Magazine’s latest Cost vs. Value Report.“Home re-siding is one of the most common jobs we take on,” said Randy Miller, owner of Allrite Home & Remodeling in Milwaukee, WI. and past president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. “Even if the siding is in decent shape, after 25 or 30 years, a lot of homeowners are ready to refresh the look and bring it up to date.”The average cost of re-siding is around $11,500, according to ANGI, the home services marketplace, so taking on this project for your home is a major investment. That means you definitely want to get it right the first time. Though most homeowners hire the work out, it pays to have a firm handle on the options before you start interviewing contractors. With that, the experts from the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute pulled together this primer on the seven best types of siding for a house. Choose wisely and you just might end up with the prettiest home on the block. Vinyl sidingPros Competitive priceMinimal upkeepLightweight design makes for easy installationConsCheaper versions can crack, warp and meltDespite design improvements, it still can’t match the beauty of real woodCost$3 to $12 per square foot, or $3,000 to $30,000Over the last 50 years, vinyl has been the most common siding material in the U.S., based on data from the American Housing Survey, conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau. Credit the material’s low cost, lightweight design which makes for easy installation and minimal maintenance, including the fact that it doesn’t need to be painted. Though vinyl’s use in new construction peaked around the turn of this century, it’s still used on about a quarter of new homes, and it remains a popular choice with remodelers.While first-generation vinyl was often cheap looking, both the aesthetics and performance of the material have improved dramatically, especially over the last decade. “The old, hollow-backed panels with a 4-inch lap have been replaced with 6-inch-wide insulated panels that closely resemble wood siding, without any of the oil canning,” said Miller, referring to the waves and ripples that that are a telltale sign of inferior vinyl siding.CertainTeedA good example of this next-generation vinyl is Certainteed CERTAplank Single 7′ Reinforced Siding (pictured), which took home a Good Housekeeping Home Reno Award. The reinforced siding withstood our tough impact tests and also fended off stains and scratches. Our design experts applauded the “beautiful and timeless color options.” Still, even the best vinyl siding on today’s market won’t be mistaken for real wood from close range. Plus, though the upkeep is minimal, when vinyl reaches its end of life after several decades, it will need to be replaced, whereas well-maintained natural materials, like wood and stone, can last for centuries. Cheaply made vinyl siding may also be more prone to crack, warp or melt.Fiber cement sidingProsProtects against extreme weather, fire, termites and moreAvailable in a range of styles to suit every architectureEasy to maintainConsHardness and heft make for a more challenging installationRelatively expensiveCost$5 to $14 per square foot, or $5,000 and $35,000Made from a blend of cement, sand and cellulose, fiber cement siding has been around for more than four decades. Its popularity has grown steadily in that time, especially in the West, where more than a third of new homes are now clad in fiber cement. Part of its appeal in wildfire-prone parts of the country is the material’s resistance to fire (some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with fiber cement siding). The material also does an excellent job fending off extreme weather, wind, moisture and pests, plus it’s easy to maintain.In addition to its many performance benefits, fiber cement comes in an array of alluring styles, starting with traditional lap siding that is hard to distinguish from real wood, especially with a factory-applied paint finish. The material can also be fashioned into architectural panels well-suited to contemporary homes or board-and-batten siding, ideal for the popular farmhouse look. A couple drawbacks to keep in mind: Fiber cement is one of the more expensive siding materials and it’s quite heavy, which makes it harder to install than other siding products.Courtesy of James HardieIf you’re interested in fiber cement, you’ll no doubt come across James Hardie, which invented the material and is still the clear market leader. The company is also a GH Seal holder, so its Hardie line of products have been tested by our experts to meet the highest standards of durability and performance. Its expanded Hardie Architectural Collection (pictured) also won a GH Home Reno Award, in part because of its range of contemporary and traditional siding styles.Wood sidingProsUnparalleled warmth and beautyVery durableConsRequires periodic refinishingVulnerable to fire and pestsCost$1 to $15 per square foot, or $1,000 to $37,500Though less than 5% of new homes have wood siding, it was once the dominant material, especially throughout the Northeast and Midwest. It’s still the nostalgic favorite with many homeowners who stand by the natural warmth and beauty of wood siding, whether it’s cedar shingles or clapboards milled from pine, oak or spruce trees.The old-word charm of wood siding is matched by its durability, though Miller lamented that today’s trees are not quite as hardy as the old-growth species that used to produce the earliest wood siding. Be that as it may, most wood siding will do a solid job of keeping out the weather and it can take its hits without cracking or denting, whether from pounding hail or an errant baseball.Wood siding’s biggest vulnerability are fire and pests, including termites, carpenter ants and woodpeckers. And, of course, it needs to be diligently maintained, with a fresh coat of paint or stain every 10 to 15 years, depending on the harshness of the local climate.Composite sidingProsResembles wood, without the upkeepProtects against weather, fire and pestsConsLacks the authenticity of natural wood or stoneCost$1 to $6 per square foot, or $1,000 to $15,000This newer siding category includes several synthetic products made from materials like wood fiber, plastic and PVC. “Composite siding is another way to get the look of real wood without all the maintenance,” said Miller. Purists may balk at the synthetic formula, but there’s no debating the value of these engineered products.Though composites vary based on their ingredients, they are all extremely durable and resist weather and pests. They can also be fashioned into any shape or size, from shake siding that closely resemble cedar to traditional lap siding. Most varieties can be painted or stained any color, or you can choose from factory-applied finishes. Courtesy of TimberTechOne of the highest performing siding materials to pass through the Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab for testing is TimberTech’s Cladding (pictured), an advanced PVC product that delivered superb dent and scratch resistance in our tests. We also like that it’s made in the USA from approximately 60% recycled materials, including plastic bottles and construction scrap. Stone veneer sidingProsEasier to install than real stonePuts less strain on the structure of the houseConsProne to water leaksTends to have an artificial lookCost$5 to $11 per square foot, or $5,000 and $27,500Another cement-based siding product, stone veneers are made to look like brick, natural stone or other masonry material. They can be installed piece-by-piece, like the natural materials they mimic, or as part of a panel system. “Because they’re thinner than the real thing, veneers go up a lot easier than full stone or brick, which helps keep the project cost down,” said Miller. That also means that they put less strain on the structure of the house.The disadvantage of stone veneers is they’re not as durable as actual stone, plus they are prone to water penetration, unless the installation is perfect. And despite improvements in manufacturing processes, including better pigments and molds, the faux stone has a hard time passing for the real thing. That’s due in part to the pattern repeats that occur with any mass-produced product, but also because it’s often applied in ways that natural stone wouldn’t be, for example, as an accent wall on the front of the house. Brick sidingProsExtremely durableSustainably producedClassic beautyConsVulnerable to moistureDifficult to install Cost$10 to $20 per square foot, or $10,000 to $75,000Brick is another timeless material that’s been used for centuries to clad traditional-style homes, from stately Colonials to charming Tudors. About 20% of new homes feature brick siding, proof of its staying power. The clay-fired bricks are a sustainable building material, plus they come in various sizes and textures for design versatility. Performance-wise, brick is extremely durable (remember The Three Little Pigs…), but its porous structure makes it vulnerable to moisture, which is why you see it most often in dryer parts of the country. If you’re thinking about brick for your home, keep in mind that the material is on the pricey side, and the installation is labor-intensive, making it one of the most expensive siding materials. But provided the job is done right, it will be the last time you ever have to re-side the house. Stucco sidingProsExtremely durable, especially in dry, hot climatesStrong insulating qualitiesConsCostly to install and repairNot the best moisture barrierCost$7 to $9 per square foot, or $8,000 to $11,100Given the uptick in home building in the Sun Belt over the last 10 years, stucco is now the most common siding material used in new construction. Made from a mixture of Portland cement, lime, sand and water, stucco is a thin finish that’s typically applied in multiple coats to a home’s exterior. It also comes in prefabricated panels that are fastened to the sub-structure, easing installation. Stucco is a durable material that does particularly well in dry climates, where it resists fire and heat. Little maintenance is required and it’s a fairly good source of insulation, providing both energy savings and sound reduction.The trouble with stucco is it’s a pain to repair if chips or cracks do occur and it’s not great at fending off moisture, hence why it’s almost non-existent in northern regions. What to look for when choosing the best siding for your houseMany homeowners choose to replace their siding with the same material. But given the range of materials available today, including many that deliver the same look but with better performance and less upkeep, it’s a good idea to consider all the options. Here’s what to think about.✔️ Cost: Depending on the size of your house, you might be able to spend as little as $1,000 on the project or upwards of $30,000. With large houses, prices go up accordingly. Keep in mind that contractors charge more for homes with two or three stories since they’ll need to bring in extra ladders and scaffolding. And if your home has a lot of complicated shapes, like turrets and dormers, that will drive up the project cost even further.✔️ Style: Switching up the type of siding on your house can have a dramatic effect. Just make sure it’s not eye-catching for the wrong reason by choosing a design-inappropriate material. Applying stone veneer to a contemporary-style home probably won’t look right, for example. Likewise, stay away from modern-looking panels on classical-style homes. ✔️ Weather: Most siding materials perform better under some climate conditions than others. Stucco, for example, is impervious to the hot sun, but it’s not built for wet conditions. Vinyl can become brittle in extremely cold conditions, especially if it’s not backed with insulation. If wildfires are a concern, fiber cement or stone is a better option than wood. Before making a final decision on your siding choice, think about the worst-case scenarios that the material might have to withstand.✔️ Maintenance: This effects the long-term cost and performance of siding. Wood is one of the most beautiful materials, but it will need to be refinished (painted or stained) every 10 years or so. Low-maintenance materials like vinyl, composite, and fiber cement, just need to be washed down with a garden hose or a pressure washer (on a low setting). What’s the best place to shop for siding for your house?Since siding replacements are usually done by professionals, most homeowners purchase materials through their contractor, who will get it directly from the manufacturer. But if you are tackling the job yourself, or you’re functioning as the general contractor on the project, you can order many mass-produced materials (vinyl, composite, veneer, etc.) through home centers like Home Depot and More

Tackling a home renovation can bring up a lot of emotions — there’s the anticipation of building your dream space, the pressure to order the right products and the stress of landing on a design and picking partners, all while staying on budget. Add all those up, and it’s a lot — and you haven’t even gotten started yet!To help you feel more at ease before embarking, we tapped renovation expert Ashley Wainscott, CEO of Simply Home in Austin, Texas, for her strategies on navigating the experience from start to finish. Her big-picture takeaway? “Work with companies that think through your options with you, because you may not recognize options that will make your home more functional,” she says. A concierge company like Ferguson Bath, Kitchen, & Lighting Gallery, for example, will go above and beyond — not merely selling you products, but providing personalized guidance all along the way. “I worked with Ferguson on my last home renovation,” says Dan DiClerico, Director of Home Improvement and Outdoor at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “Their expansive showroom and staff expertise were instrumental in us finding all the right fixtures for our kitchen and bathrooms.”Wainscott recommends coming prepared to your initial consultations, so the experts can help you leverage your resources for the best outcome. (For example, peruse the website before heading to a Ferguson showroom to help you narrow down the products you are most interested in seeing in person.) Read on for her tips on the main issues to focus on in advance.Develop a Clear Design Vision While budget is essential (we’ll get there shortly!), it can be tricky to begin pricing and deciding what’s realistic without an end goal in mind. “Projects are more successful when the client has a solid vision of what they want,” says Wainscott. If you’re feeling lost, collect visual references for the space you’re hoping to create from social media and magazines before tapping a professional for help. One such source is Trends & Influences, which forecasts trends for the upcoming year and beyond and is available free online and in Ferguson showrooms. Make the most of the tools available to you — if you’re shopping at a Ferguson showroom, say, you can schedule a one-on-one appointment. In this time, a skilled consultant can help provide additional inspiration, walk you through your options and streamline the process of selecting all the right pieces for your project. You can also use their easy Shop by Look tool to see how various pieces can be used for different projects and aesthetics. Come prepared with basic measurements and blueprints in addition to inspo, to make the most of your meeting time. And an online project tool like the one from Build with Ferguson is a great way to keep all the design ideas, products, inspiration, and costs you settle upon organized. You can explore everything from lighting and plumbing to appliances and flooring, add them to your project, and even share your lists and ideas with your design partners.Nail Down a BudgetCreate a realistic budget — and communicate it clearly and often. Wainscott recommends doing a little legwork before finalizing a number, especially if you’re new to construction: “Request preliminary ballpark ranges from companies you are considering hiring before launching into the full design.”Also know that every decision you make on layout and materials will affect your budget, so it’s wise to make a list of priorities you’re willing to spend more on (luxe sink fixtures, perhaps) and elements you don’t mind keeping basic. Wainscott recommends asking each reno partner to supply you with “a detailed estimate and contract — make sure you know exactly what is included or not included.”Photo Courtesy of FergusonFeaturing Brizo, Kohler, Signature Hardware, Affinity Tile, Maxim and Visual ComfortAssemble Your Team In a classic heist movie, this would be the montage moment, when you put together your dream team. It might not look quite that exciting in real life, but it’s a vital step in ensuring your process is as seamless as possible. Wainscott suggests asking trusted local friends and neighbors for first-person recommendations when it comes to contractors, architects and designers. Then do your research — review their accreditations, past projects, social-media presence and online reviews. The experts at Ferguson advocate referencing the National Association of Home Builders, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the American Society of Interior Designers both to locate and check accredited pros. Your showroom consultant can talk you through the search process in more detail during your private appointment. DiClerico says, “It’s important to bring your contractor into the process as early as possible, since they’ll give realistic feedback on actual project costs. You don’t want to fall in love with a design, only to find out that it’s way beyond your budget because of structural issues or other unforseens.”Keep in mind that what was right for someone else might still not be the best fit for you. “Ask yourself: Will they be my advocate? Do they see my vision? Will they be the best partner for me?” says Wainscott. “Trust your gut instinct. If it’s telling you a contractor is not for you, listen to it.”Shop IRL Before Purchasing Online shopping can be great for narrowing things down, but nothing compares to experiencing fixtures, appliances and finishes in person. An in-person visit to a showroom like Ferguson is especially helpful, since you’ll find a curated selection of luxury and designer brands that will allow you to compare and contrast. With everything from lighting to appliances in one place, you can knock out all your selections in one go. (After all, sometimes you have to sit in each actual tub to know which one you’ll love for years to come.) And try to avoid getting swept up in trends unless you genuinely love them — and are confident that love is going to be a lasting one. “Focus on choosing products that speak to you,” says Wainscott. “It’s good to get inspiration, but be careful not to fall into the trap of what everyone else is doing.” Communicate Clearly Even with the best team in place, things can get lost in translation or fall through the cracks during a busy renovation. One huge benefit of working with an expert showroom consultant like those at Ferguson is their project-coordination skills. They work closely with both you and your reno team to ensure a smooth experience from inspiration to installation, are well-versed in the lingo and can help head off any issues before they happen — all of which can keep you on schedule and on budget. Ferguson even has an online project-management tool where you and your collaborators can share images and spec sheets and sort products by room. Most important: Always advocate for your and your family’s needs. “Take into account where you put things like shampoo bottles in the shower, or cereal boxes in your pantry. The placement of electrical outlets can be huge,” says Wainscott. “Remember: All of these things are going to impact your life every day.” More

Not only can a full-home renovation boost your property value, it also allows you to design a space to best fit your lifestyle and taste. But if you’re thinking about renovating, there’s a lot you need to consider. First, of course, is money. According to HomeGuide.com, the average cost of remodeling a house is $20,000 to $100,000, depending on factors like the size of your home, the quality of materials and if any structural changes are needed. And if you run into any snafus, that price will quickly skyrocket. So what are the most costly home renovation mistakes — and how can you avoid them? We spoke with interior designer and HGTV star Emily Henderson to get her best advice.According to Henderson, there are two main types of expensive renovation errors: design mistakes and splurges that aren’t necessarily worth the cost. The former bucket includes errors like not hiring professional help when you should have or failing to communicate with a general contractor, while the latter involves investing in certain materials, custom features or smart home technology that won’t necessarily add much value to your home.Kaitlin GreenOne home renovation that’s almost always worth the investment? More windows. “Natural light is your best friend when it comes to decorating,” says Henderson. But if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and questioning all of your decisions, don’t worry: Henderson say that’s normal. “Renovating is financially, mentally, emotionally and physically draining. I don’t want to sound negative, but I want people to know going into a renovation, that they’re not alone. And, a few mistakes are inevitable — give yourself a little bit of grace and self love.”Here, the most common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them, according to Henderson. What are the most common reno mistakes?1. Failing to communicate with your contractor.Henderson says the biggest mistakes can come from a lack of proper communication with a general contractor. “If you fail to properly communicate, that’s on you,” says Henderson. “For contractors, it’s their job to do things fast and affordably — they’re not going to ask you about every detail and they’ll likely make a lot of assumptions to keep the project moving forward. If you want something done a certain way, you have to get ahead of those conversations.”HOW TO AVOID: Take the time to explain exactly how you want things done, like where a wall-mount faucet should be installed over the sink or where tile backsplash should end. When possible, share drawings and measurements that outline exact specifications.Kaitlin GreenKaitlin Green2. Not hiring a professional for certain projects.”If you don’t have a job and you love YouTube, you can do a decent amount on your own,” Henderson jokes. But, there are projects that necessitate hiring a contractor — especially when it comes to plumbing. “If your plumbing isn’t done right, you close the walls and tile, then there’s a leak later, you’re stuck renovating again,” Henderson warns.HOW TO AVOID: If you’re moving walls, electrical, plumbing or an HVAC system, hire help. Many designers we’ve spoken to agree that the one subcontractor you definitely shouldn’t skimp on is a plumber. As for finding the right contractor, Henderson says word of mouth is the best way to go. 3. Over-designing your space.”I always want people to feel free with color and encourage taking risks and adding creativity in your home, but pretend it’s 20 years from now,” says Henderson. “Ask yourself, ‘do you still love this space?'” Not only are there environmental reasons at play, but you don’t want to renovate your home every 10 years simply because you’re no longer happy with a trendy style. HOW TO AVOID: “Not every surface — think floors, walls, cabinets or countertops — has to be a design risk,” says Henderson. “Hone in on maybe one or two risks, per room. I’m talking about hard finishes — you can go crazy with art, pillows, accessories and even furniture, since those things can be sold or moved around.” Kaitlin GreenIn her sunny dining room, Henderson plays it safe with crisp white walls and simple moldings, then takes a risk with checkerboard tile flooring.4. Investing in the wrong rooms.Don’t invest in a room you’ll never spend much time in (maybe it’s your formal dining room or a rarely used guest room). “It’s really important to design your rooms based on how you want to experience them,” says Henderson.HOW TO AVOID: Invest the most time, energy and money in rooms where you and your family will be spending the most time. For example, Henderson wanted to ensure her media room would be a space her whole family would love, so she invested in a massive sectional sofa and Samsung’s The Frame TV. Not sure where to allocate most of your budget? Start with the kitchen. “Even if you don’t care about resale, you’re going to spend so much time in the kitchen,” says Henderson. “I also think the primary bedroom gets highly neglected and it really shouldn’t. If you’re happy with where you sleep, you will be a better person.” Finally, she says, organized storage spaces, like mudrooms or pantries, are worth the money to help avoid daily chaos.Kaitlin GreenSamsung The Frame TV, which displays artwork in Henderson’s media room when not in use, is a great way to check multiple boxes with one purchase. 5. Splurging on unnecessary custom features.Custom cabinetry, built-ins and millwork (think molding and trim) look beautiful, but can be a big investment. “Certain spaces, like the living room, can be elevated through decorating with furniture, art and accessories, so you can invest less in the harder finishes,” says Henderson. “If you’ve sourced vintage furniture and cool artwork that creates conversations and adds a lot of personality, then I don’t know how much your eye is going to clock the custom beading on the baseboard. Whereas in a kitchen, where you have less decorating possibilities, I would dial up the details.”HOW TO AVOID: Carefully consider your space and how you’ll use it, asking yourself questions like, “How much time will I spend in this space?” Then, take a look at your budget to determine if splurging on custom features is worth the cost to you. Unless you truly have a large budget, Henderson suggests exploring customizable options available at budget-friendly retailers like The Home Depot or IKEA. Kaitlin GreenIn the kitchen, you may want to dial up the details.What’s the difference between an upgrade and a renovation?Smaller home improvements, like adding tile backsplash, replacing kitchen faucets or installing light fixtures, qualify as upgrades. Home renovations, on the other hand, are more costly and involve opening up, moving or relocating walls. Once you break down walls, you can open up a lot of potential problems — especially if you’re dealing with an older home. “Once you find those surprises, you can’t unsee them and you’ll have to fix them,” warns Henderson. “If you have the budget and want to invest in your home, you absolutely should renovate,” advises Henderson. “If you can’t, try to do the upgrades.” Kaitlin GreenKaitlin GreenRelated StoryAlyssa 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

If you’re into bold looks, then you’re going to love the latest interior design trend that everyone’s buzzing about on TikTok.Coined the “unexpected red” theory, the trend was introduced by Brooklyn-based interior designer Taylor Migliazzo Simon. In a viral TikTok video that has garnered almost one million views to date, Simon defines the concept as “adding anything that’s red, big or small, to a room where it doesn’t match at all and it automatically looks better.”While decorating with a pop of color or an accent wall isn’t a new concept, the inspirational photos seen behind Simon in the short clip illustrate just how effective this look can be. From a vibrant red lamp to a punchy red bathroom sink, the eye is immediately drawn to the crimson red shades.Heather TalbertWhy is the “unexpected red” theory going viral? Red lipstick, flashy red sports cars, sky-high red-bottom stilettos — red is certainly an attention-grabbing favorite. But in a world dominated by neutral interiors, homeowners often gravitate towards safer options (unless it’s a festive holiday occasion or their space is curated by a maximalist who embraces bold colors without hesitation).But the past few years have shown us that more and more design enthusiasts are willing to welcome energetic color choices, like red, to normalize designing with your personality in mind. Yes, a red room can be jarring if not done correctly, but a splash of red doesn’t hurt anyone!Rayon RichardsLiving room designed by Naïka Andre.Naïka Andre, interior designer and founder of NJA Interiors, agrees. “People are getting comfortable breaking design ‘rules.’ Red has always been considered a harsh color. People are seeing how designers successfully use this color in their spaces,” she explains. How to add some unexpected red to your homeIs pulling off the red color theory as easy as it looks? Not quite. The references Simon selected in the video featured complementary or analogous colors like blue-green and purple, so reddish undertones look right at home. It’s important to zero in on the red that works best for your room and ask yourself questions like, Should it be cool-toned or warm? How much of the color is going into use? and Where will it fit in best? This stimulating color is an instant wake-up call, but it can veer into a nightmare if there’s no strategy.Jamie Davis, co-founder of Portola Paints, advises that not all reds are created equal. “It is absolutely possible to create a shade of red that feels warm and inviting, but it can be tricky. Dialing back the saturation is a good place to start,” says Davis.Heather TalbertBefore you begin buying jars of paint, notice that the examples Simon used focus on a pop of color, not a monochromatic look. The theory is making a major statement because it’s a low-lift commitment that doesn’t require hiring professionals. Red can be a playful, sexy and the extra zest of life your home is waiting for. Maybe it’s time to break up a dull living room by adding contrast — go for a red accent chair! Or add a bouquet of red flowers to your coffee table.Andre suggests starting small if you’re intimidated by red. “Introduce a pop of red with flowers, an accent chair, artwork or a red picture frame. Observe how the color makes you feel. If you love it, go ahead and add more.”Justin ColeBedroom designed by Naïka Andre.Do we think red is on its way to becoming a go-to neutral? Not quite. But is this invitation to take risks with colors more than welcome? Absolutely! “One misconception about the use of color in your home is that there are different rules associated with how you use color,” Andre shares. “The beauty of designing your home is that you make up the rules. Incorporate colors that bring you joy.”To help you champion this classic color in style, we’ve curated a shopping list of decor and accessories that will help you rethink the power of red in your home.Test the Red Color Theory TrendMedgina Saint-Elien is a lifestyle and design editor, whose journey has been marked by her interest in popular culture and technology. Saint-Elien uses her editorial eye to find the “on the pulse” moments in media through trend forecasting, exciting new product launches, hands-on reviews, and covering the “lightbulb” moments in every maker’s story. She is a creative strategist who conceptualizes digital franchises and partnerships that draw readers to take a second look. In addition to House Beautiful, her work has been published in Cosmopolitan, Byrdie, Snapchat, and more.  More

For most of us, showering is something we have to do — but the experience can also help us relax and rejuvenate. Whether you’ve just crawled out of bed or you’re unwinding from a long day, a soothing shower can serve as a momentary escape from the stress of everyday life. However, bright, overhead lighting (or as TikTok users would call it, the “big light”) completely kills the vibe. The problem is, not all bathrooms have multiple light sources — and that’s where the viral shower lamp comes in. The trend started when McKenna Barry — a home decor content creator — shared a video of her aesthetic shower design, which includes a cordless table lamp and waterproof speaker on an acrylic shower shelf. Ever since, we’ve been eyeing this waterproof cordless table lamp on Amazon, which is battery-operated and has three light settings, allowing for a customized shower experience.”I used to feel like showering was such a drag and I honestly loathed it — it felt like a chore,” says Barry. “I’ve been on a bit of a self-healing journey, learning to be intentional about caring for and being kind to my body and my soul. Sometimes that means finding little ways to romanticize the mundane. By adding a silly waterproof lamp and waterproof speaker to the shower, I’ve come to truly look forward to shower time.”Between Instagram and TikTok, Barry’s video has earned thousands of views and hundreds of comments — most noting frustration that they hadn’t considered the idea sooner. “The amount of times I’ve showered in the dark or with a ton of candles bc the overhead light is overstimulating 💀,” writes one viewer. Acrylic Corner Shower ShelvesCordless Table LampWaterproof Bluetooth SpeakerAfter many showers in the dark, Barry was determined to find a waterproof lamp that fit the feel of her home. “The lamp shown in my video was sitting in my Amazon cart for eight months before I decided to finally purchase it,” Barry jokes. “Now I wish I had shared it sooner, especially in light of how receptive viewers have been to the concept. It makes my heart wildly happy seeing it benefit so many people, especially those who are neurodivergent or those who suffer from migraines.” What to consider before buying a shower lamp:Make sure it’s battery-operated and waterproof. “I would never do this with a lamp that plugs in — that can lead to electrocution,” warns Alec Scherma, the Good Housekeeping Institute’s test engineer.Check the product’s IP rating. Every product is given an IP rating, which notes if it’s water and/or dust resistant. “If a product is rated IP68, that means it has a level 6 dust rating and a level 8 water-resistance rating,” explains Scherma. “These are the highest ratings available, and it basically means no dust and water can get in and affect this product.” If you’re unsure what a product’s IP rating means, you can Google descriptions for each number — but as a general rule, a higher number is best. You may have to clean more often. While placing the shower lamp further from water, soap and shampoo will keep it cleaner, it will be another item that requires regular cleaning. According to Carolyn Forté, the executive director of the GH Institute Home Care and Cleaning Lab, your shower lamp will likely “have to be wiped dry regularly. Otherwise, soap scum and mold could build up on or under it.”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. More

You’ve decorated and curated, arranged and rearranged, and your home is a pleasure to live in and to look at. But what about the factors you can’t see? Fresh, clean air is as important to making your home a haven as good design — and one doesn’t have to come at the expense of the other. These five air-quality-improving moves will enhance your environment without compromising on style.1. Convert Your FireplaceA fireplace is a statement-maker in any room, but if yours is wood-burning, those cozy flames are also emitting dangerous soot particles and increasing the concentration of carbon monoxide and other harmful contaminants in your home. Installing a natural-gas insert will significantly lower the amount of toxins you’re taking in — without compromising on the visual appeal and warmth of real flames. Another option: Reduce those emissions to near-zero by going electric. No, the fire in an electric fireplace isn’t real, but the technology has improved dramatically, resulting in realistic-looking colors and movement patterns for the faux flames.If you’re not ready to relinquish the ambience of a real wood fire, you can curb indoor air pollution somewhat by burning only thoroughly seasoned wood and making sure the fireplace is well ventilated and regularly cleaned, advises the American Lung Association.COURTESY OF DYSONNo matter what kind of fuel your fireplace burns, you can do your lungs a favor by placing a Dyson air purifier nearby.2. Add an Air Purifier (or Two)Here’s a shocking statistic: Indoor air quality is at least five times worse than the air outside — and it can be as much as 100 times worse, notes Good Housekeeping home improvement and outdoor director Dan DiClerico, citing EPA studies. The reason? Today’s homes are generally very tightly constructed and not very well ventilated, so when you breathe the air inside them, you may also be taking in contaminants from building materials, paint, carpets, household cleaners, even cooking fumes.If the thought of that leaves you gasping, don’t worry, there is a solution: an air purifier. Dyson’s purifying heaters include three models that contain integrated sensors and work on a sophisticated algorithm to automatically sense, capture and trap pollutants. Plus, they circulate purified air, allowing you to heat or cool it. The Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09 even detects and destroys formaldehyde, a harmful gas commonly found in homes that can come from paint and varnish, electronics, even air fresheners and dryer sheets. The HP09 contains Dyson’s most sophisticated filtration system and generates enough circulation power to suck even distant pollutants out of your air.And not only do Dyson purifiers perform pollution-removal magic — they look good doing it. There are plenty of big, bulky air purifiers on the market, but Dyson’s models have a sleek, modern design. They’re also compact and lightweight, making them both unobtrusive and easy to reposition at will.3. Use Your Fans … ExhaustivelyDo you run your bathroom fan only until the mirror is defogged? You may be missing an easy way to boost your indoor air quality. Not only should you switch on the exhaust system before you get in the shower, you should leave it running for at least 15 to 20 minutes afterward to rid the air of the moisture that encourages mold and mildew, two common airborne allergens. But if your exhaust fans have ugly grillwork and sound like a 747 lifting off, you’re due for an upgrade. More current models blend seamlessly into your decor — some are even near-invisibly incorporated into a light fixture — and have ultra-quiet motors.Moyo Studio4. Be Careful With CandlesThe scented-candle craze shows no signs of flickering out. They’re everywhere, from mall kiosks to chichi boutiques, and are the ubiquitous all-purpose gift (or regift). While some research has shown that paraffin candles, which are derived from petroleum, emit a bunch of bad-for-you chemicals when lit, the candle industry strongly disputes this, and most experts believe the amount emitted isn’t enough to harm you — especially if you always take care to burn your beloved scent-bombs in a well-ventilated place. But if you do prefer to avoid petroleum products, beeswax or soy-based candles are a cleaner alternative — and you no longer have to tolerate that this-looks-homemade-and-not-in-a-good-way appearance. Sophisticated shapes and colors, subtle natural scents and luxe packaging mean they’re still an ideal way to thank your dinner-party hostess or butter up your kids’ teachers.5. Curb “Pet Pollution”If you’re a pet parent, your furry friends’ presence is likely as much a part of your living space as a prized Oushak rug or your great-grandmother’s mahogany breakfront. But along with the cuteness, cuddling and slobbery kisses come a positively hairy amount of pollutants swirling through the air.Since your fur babies are pretty much a permanent fixture, do what you can to reduce their potential to spread pollutants: Vacuum often, groom them outdoors, bathe them and wash their bedding frequently —as well as your own, if you’re letting them sleep with you. And invest in a top-notch air filter. The Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehye HP09, Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool HP07 and Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Gen1 HP10 all are equipped with activated carbon filters to remove gases and odors and HEPA filters that capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns — we’re looking at you, pet dander. More