Aurelia Butler

When you think of classic prints, chances are polka dots come to mind. Recently, fashion designers ranging from Carolina Herrera to Prabal Gurung showed their love of the timeless pattern on runways, and now polka dots are popping up in the interior design world. Whether you’re in search of stylish rugs, throw pillows or statement wallpaper, the pattern seems to be everywhere right now. “Polka dots are a classic, but at the same time, they have a nostalgic and playful quality to them,” says designer Sasha Bikoff. “The great thing about polka dots is that there are so many variations in terms of color and scale, which make the print completely versatile and useful in many settings.”Refresh Your Space”Polka dots are a classic and comfortable, much like a stripe,” says designer and artist Rebecca Atwood. “I do think classics that have a bit of a ‘90s spin are feeling fresh again, especially in fashion, so it makes sense that this would happen in home as well.”Designer Joy Williams of Joyful Designs Studio also appreciates the print: “I love polka dots because I think design should be fun. It also feels geometric to my eye, so there’s interest there, especially black and white variations or something tone on tone.”Design: Joy Williams; Photo: Daniel Green Architectural + Interiors PhotographyHow to Nail the TrendIf you’re stumped on how to incorporate polka dot prints into your space, try these designers’ tips and tricks:✔️ Pick the right one. “Polka dots can easily feel a bit cutesy, so look for them in unexpected materials, sophisticated colors or slight twists,” says Atwood, noting her Embroidered Dot Sheers fabric. ✔️ Pair the print wisely. “Polka dots are a graphic-shaped design, so they pair well with something completely different like a floral,” says Bikoff. ✔️ Decide whether to go big or small. “You can either have them be center stage and incorporate them on a larger basis, such as with carpeting or wallpaper. Otherwise, it also is fun as a smaller accent in throw pillows or on an upholstered chair,” says Bikoff. ✔️ Aim for contrast. “For a more whimsical or quirky take, two high or low contrasting colors work well with polka dot patterns, but it should not be a one-off. You need to move it around the room to make an impact when you’re using the pattern in more whimsical ways,” says Williams.✔️ Consider simplified color palettes, too. “Think natural linen with white pigment print, or an indigo resist-dyed fabric,” says Atwood. ✔️ Experiment in small layouts. “I love this print for a powder room because it’s the whole idea with packing a lot of punch into a smaller space,” says Bikoff. Related StoriesMonique 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

‘The Old Farmer’s Almanac’ recently released a chart breaking down the most common garden pests, how to identify them and how to treat them. Different pests target different plants.Many pests can be lessened by handpicking them off, adding row covers or spraying plants with a water and soap mixture.Like many hobbies, gardening is a labor of love. You prep your space in spring, buy seeds, plant them and nurture them as they grow, watering and weeding — all for the end goal of a beautiful bounty you can enjoy. However, many gardeners never make it to that point. Sometime between prep and harvest, their garden is overtaken by insects. Instead of plump tomatoes, they see large holes, missing leaves or worse. To catch the invasion before it’s too late, The Old Farmer’s Almanac released a chart of garden pests, ascribing certain plant damages to specific bugs.Here’s what you need to know. What is The Old Farmer’s Almanac? Dating back to 1792, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is an annual booklet filled with long-range predictions, recipes, astrological insights and more. These predictions are made using findings from three specific areas of study: solar science, climatology and meteorology. The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac Trade EditionNow 25% OffBased on the data acquired via these methods, The Old Farmer’s Almanac shares insights about temperatures, peak planting times, rain forecasts, etc. that are particularly helpful for farmers, gardeners, outdoorsmen and chefs. Garden Pest GuideFor the casual hobby gardener, it can be hard to identify which pests cause what harm, especially if you can’t catch the culprit in action. So the Farmer’s Almanac created a chart/guide, breaking down what characteristics to look for on plants, based on the habits of common garden pests. Recognizing that your garden has become an insect haven is the first step; identifying what type of bug has taken residence is second. The last step is treatment. The graphic reveals the seven common garden pests and how to get rid of them organically:Aphids: Spray leaves with soapy water or dust leaves with food-grade diatomaceous earthPest Caterpillars: Add row covers or hand removeJapanese Beetles: In the morning, handpick beetles off plants and spray plants with neem oilLeaf Miners: Add row covers, remove affected leaves and spray with neem oilSpider Mites: Spray with neem oil or water Flea Beetles: Add row covers or use food-grade diatomaceous earthSlugs & Snails: Tend to your garden at night and pick them off, create beer traps or use copper tapeOf course, these aren’t the only pests that might make their way into your yard. You can check out the Farmer’s Almanac’s Garden Plant Pest and Disease Control Library to see all of its recommendations for dealing with little critters. More Plant CareKate Franke (she/her) is an editorial assistant in the Hearst Lifestyle Group, covering for Woman’s Day and Good Housekeeping. She loves all things lifestyle, home, and market related. Kate has a BAJMC in Magazine Media and BA in Writing from Drake University. She is a proud ASME alum whose work has appeared in Food Network Magazine, The Pioneer Woman Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Farmhouse Style, Beautiful Kitchens & Baths, and more. Next to writing, Kate’s two favorite things are chai lattes and pumpkin bread! More

Let’s sing the praises of the duvet for a moment. This combo of fluffy insert plus comfortable cover keeps you warm and cozy without weighing you down. It’s also easy to care for, since the plush quilted insert is safely encased in a soft, pretty, easy-to-launder cover.But. The tangling! If you use a top sheet with your duvet (and we’re in favor of that practice, since it means you’ll need to wash the cover far less often), you’ve no doubt suffered the momentary panic of waking up ensnared by a sheet that wound itself around your legs while you slept. And then after you’ve managed to extricate yourself, making the bed can become a bit of a wrestling match.But. There’s a fix!Avec’s innovative Align System combines a duvet cover and a top sheet, using a patented zipper system, so your nights are tangle-free and your mornings are hassle-free. The fiber scientists at the Good Housekeeping Institute were so impressed by the Align Linen Viscose Duvet Cover’s performance both in the lab and during at-home sleep tests that it and the matching, attachable Align Linen Viscose Top Sheet earned the coveted Good Housekeeping Seal. Here’s how it works.Courtesy of AvecThe Align cover has a zipper that runs in an L shape along the entire foot and one side, so it’s easy to insert a fluffy duvet. (Align makes a down-alternative duvet that’s just the right weight to keep you comfortable all year round.) Eight ties, in the corners and along the sides, ensure that the insert stays smooth and evenly distributed.Now for the ingenious part: attaching the Align top sheet to the Align duvet cover. Clever hidden zippers run along the edges of both, and the zipper pulls are labeled, making the two pieces easy to, well, align. Now, when you slide beneath the covers, your sheet won’t scrunch down toward your feet, so you can sleep more peacefully. And tomorrow, it’s a snap to make up a wrinkle-free, lump-free bed — no frustrating tugging and repositioning to ruin the restful night you just had.Courtesy of AvecBut. There’s more!The Good Housekeeping Institute’s textile pros weren’t just fans of the Align System’s ease and convenience — they also called out its luxurious feel. Both components are made from a unique blend of viscose and linen that feels lightweight and super-soft next to the skin (not a feature usually associated with linen), yet has enough heft to drape invitingly across a bed. What’s more, even after the lab’s ruthless machine rubbed swatches of the fabric together 1,000 times, it showed minimal pills. There were also virtually zero wrinkles when the cover came out of the dryer. So during the day, your bed will always look polished — and yet, at the same time, you’ll know it’s marshmallow-y soft. A serene night’s sleep. Streamlined, done-in-seconds bed-making. A stylish look. It’s the stuff of dreams, isn’t it? More

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Ask any interior designer and they’ll tell you that a rug can make or break a room. Not only does a rug help protect your flooring — it also adds warmth and personality to a space. Whether your interior design style is traditional, modern, coastal or eclectic, you can have fun with various textures, color palettes and pile heights. Rugs can easily elevate a kitchen, living room, dining room, you name it. Considering that there are so many rug styles out there, we couldn’t help but to reach out to some interior designers to find out what’s popular right now. Here, design pros share the top rug trend styles for 2025. Round RugsSAFAVIEH Madison Collection Round Teal RugWhen it comes to rugs, rectangular and square might be the first shapes that come to mind, but Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, The Brownstone Boys, say there’s a trending pick that’s worth considering: round rugs. The designers, who recently launched a rug collection with NuStory, prefer pairing round rugs with curved furniture or centered under a statement light fixture. “They work beautifully in entryways, bedrooms or under small dining tables, anywhere you want to soften a space or create a moment,” says Bordelon. Vintage RugsGo for a vintage rug to give a room a more lived-in feel, says designer Sandy Yen of Yen Collective. “They pull in a mix of colors in a really subtle, easy way,” says Yen, who prefers a slightly distressed look. She recommends sticking to a palette of blues or leaning into earth tones (Yen likes warm terracottas, olive shades and sandy neutrals) for just about any room. “They add instant character without feeling too bold or overly trendy,” she explains.Kate Hartman of Kate Hartman Interiors also loves outfitting interiors with vintage rugs. Her favorite way? Using them with modern furnishings. “The juxtaposition of old and new creates a balance that makes a home feel grounded and fresh all at the same time,” Hartman says. Turkish Vintage RugHand-Loomed Dhurrie RugsAccording to designer Erika Hollinshead Ward, reversible hand-loomed dhurrie rugs, which are flat-woven or textile and traditionally made in India and the surrounding regions, are making a comeback, too. “Their ability to complement both classic and contemporary interiors makes them incredibly versatile,” Hollinshead Ward says. “Plus, the reversible design enhances durability and offers homeowners a smart, sustainable investment in style.” What’s more, since they’re a tight weave, people tend to find them easier to clean. Annie Selke Ojai Hand Loom Knotted Cotton RugThis loom knotted cotton beauty features a geometric diamond pattern with multi tonal textural stitches executed in two colors, creating an intriguingly hypnotic effect on this contemporary rug. Handwoven in India, this is a compelling composition for the modern interior.WashableIf you live with kids and pets, washable rugs might be best for you and there’s no shortage of options. They’re ideal for the most frequently used areas in a home and these days, it’s easy to find designs that hold up well in the washing machine (no costly professional cleaning needed). “Washable rugs are a no-brainer in certain spaces, especially high-traffic zones like mudrooms, kitchens and entryways where life can get messy,” says Kate Pinney of Inside Stories. “These are the areas where durability matters just as much as style, and washable rugs let us have both. They allow us to layer in color, texture and pattern without the stress of muddy boots, spilled wine or whatever else the day brings. It’s a practical solution that still feels polished and brings style you don’t have to tiptoe around.”RUGGABLE Sarrah Washable RugSwedish RugsEqual parts timeless and trendy, Swedish rugs are another designer favorite, says Sophoe Selden Kelly of Context Design Studio. “Their sturdy woolen texture feels grounding and comforting underfoot – substantial without being precious. With geometric patterns that are both playful and refined, these rugs bring a fresh energy to a space without ever feeling loud or overworked. They add just the right amount of personality, proving classic design doesn’t have to take itself too seriously.” Flatweave Swedish RugCut-Out / Negative Space Rugs Not a fan of traditional design choices? Designer Samantha Gallacher of design firm IG Workshop appreciates the appeal of cut-out or negative space rugs. “They’re designed with intentional voids or cut-out sections that expose the floor beneath,” says Gallacher, who is also the founder of Art + Loom, a rug retailer. “These rugs add a sculptural, almost installation-like element to a room.”Gallacher recommends the rug style for minimalist interiors, “emphasizing shape and form over pattern” as well as designs featuring repeated patterns like wave motifs or circles. They can also add character to homes featuring hardwood, stone or terrazzo floors, she says, where “the rug becomes a frame rather than full coverage.” Living Arts India Cut Out Abstract RugStatement StylesWhile there’s always room for subdued rug designs, designers are also embracing daring patterned styles that immediately draw the eye. “For a long time, rug design leaned heavily into neutrals—think sisal or jute with very little color, says designer Cortney Bishop. “But now we’re seeing a real shift toward bold, statement-making pieces. Rich, vibrant hues and larger-scale patterns are taking center stage, especially in expansive spaces like living and family rooms.”Bishop usually prefers to let a statement rug dictate a design scheme. “I often start with the rug and build the rest of the room around it—from fabrics to finishes—because a great rug can ground the entire design,” she explains, noting her preference for wool and silk blends. “The way the fibers play off each other not only elevates the color saturation but also adds a beautiful sense of depth and luxury underfoot. These are all elements I took into consideration when designing my own collection, which will be launching this fall.”Related StoriesMonique 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

Even if you’re lucky enough to have central AC, prolonged summer heat waves have a hot-box effect on homes. As the heat builds, it never seems to get cool enough, even with the system on full blast. That’s why when temperatures push above 90 ° F, with humidity creating real-feel temps in the triple digits, I do everything possible to keep as much heat as possible out of my home. There are three rules in particular that my family follows to get us through the sweltering heat at home. Keep the curtains closed — all day, every day. About three quarters of the sunlight that falls onto windows enters the home as heat, according to the U.S. Energy Department. Keeping blinds and curtains closed from sun up to sun down will reduce that heat gain, meaning your AC won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. If you’re in renovation mode, think about installing new windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings that reflect heat while still letting through light. Exterior awnings are another smart investment, since they can reduce solar heat gain by as much as 77%.Break out the fans. The breeze creates a wind chill effect that will let you turn the AC up by 5 to 10 degrees without compromising on comfort. Ceiling fans are the best option, since they circulate air throughout the room. Remember to set the fan so that the blades are spinning counterclockwise to create maximum breeze. Floor and pedestal fans also do a fine job circulating air throughout the room. In our latest roundup of best fans, those that feature multiple speeds and oscillation were especially effective. Editor’s note: It’s important to remember that in extreme heat, using a fan isn’t enough to protect you from heat-related illnesses. If you don’t have an A.C., make sure you’re seeking out air conditioning whenever possible at public spaces, such as libraries or cooling centers, and increase your water intake to stay hydrated. If possible, fire up the grill. A heat wave is no time for indoor cooking appliances, namely the oven and cooktop, both of which will heat up your kitchen and surrounding parts of the home. I love grilling with the family once the sun goes down and the worst of the heat is behind us. No grill? Turn to air fryers, toaster ovens and other countertop appliance that won’t radiate nearly as much heat throughout your home as large cooking appliances.More ways to stay safeAccording to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, here are some other recommended tips to stay safe during extreme heat:Stay in an air-conditioned location as much as possible Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids Avoid outdoor activities if possibleWear lightweight clothing and sunscreenTake cool showers or baths.Related StoriesHaving written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More

Luxurious kitchen fixtures might be beautiful, but many fail to live up to homeowners’ expectations. One prime example? Pot fillers. Often a symbol of high-end kitchens, pot fillers may look desirable on social media, but surprisingly, designers say their clients never actually use them. When I asked 17 interior designers about the most overrated home features, nearly half of them said the popular design choice tops the list. Pot fillers are installed on the wall above the stove. The intent is to easily fill pots with water while cooking and eliminate the need to carry them from the sink to the stove. In reality, designers tend to discourage clients from installing them, citing the only real appeal is aesthetics. Related Stories”The top needless renovation item on my list is the pot filler,” says Nancy Davilman, principal designer of ND Interiors. “Rarely is a kitchen so large that carrying a pot of water from the sink to the stove causes any real strain. I feel they’re a complete waste of money — and more importantly, they disrupt the design of the backsplash.” “Pot fillers are the poster child for kitchen features that look impressive but rarely earn their keep,” agrees Olivia Botri, principal designer of Dart Studio. “They’re often installed for aesthetic impact, yet most home cooks still fill pots at the sink — where they also drain them.”Another point of concern is the additional plumbing, which often requires drilling into the kitchen’s backsplash. Pot fillers can also be expensive to install and a headache to maintain. “Add in the cost of plumbing a water line into a backsplash, plus the risk of leaks, and the payoff just isn’t there,” says Botri. According to data from Angi, installing a pot filler costs $1,650 on average, but it can be $3,000 or more if new pipes are needed. Jumping Rocks/UIG//Getty Images”They sound convenient, but the truth is — you still have to carry the pot back to the sink to drain it,” says Michelle Murphy of DEMI RYAN. “I always ask: Is it worth the cost and potential maintenance for a feature that solves half a problem?”Despite the cons, pot fillers can look stunning and luxurious in modern kitchens. If aesthetics are top of mind, you might still decide to invest in this popular home feature. However, it also pays to consider other kitchen design upgrades that are worth the investment. Go for features that improve your cooking routine and boost your home’s value. Remember that your home should be customized to fit your preferences and lifestyle — beautiful kitchen design is never one size fits all. More Expert Design AdviceAlyssa 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

It’s always a thrill when a talented artist lands a Las Vegas residency, and it’s finally Kelly Clarkson’s time. Not only has the star’s show just kicked off at Caesars Palace, but she’s giving fans another reason to celebrate — she has a new home collection with Wayfair.The Kelly Clarkson Home x Vegas line includes 37 standout pieces, all selected by Kelly with the intention of adding personality to any living room. It’s her way of giving decor lovers a chance to bring some of her unique stage setups into their own home. What’s more, it showcases her love of ’70s style with rich wood tones, velvet, rattan and more. This latest launch is also a fun departure from her last Wayfair collection, which was inspired by her rustic Montana home. “The whole idea is studio sessions—I wanted to recreate the vibe of when we go in and record,” Kelly said in a statement. “We worked with Wayfair to bring that vision to life with some of my favorite pieces—cool, chic, and comfortable. It’s all my worlds colliding in one place.”When it comes to rugs, you can take your pick of everything from a faux cow hide design to florals to geometric prints. There are striking barrel chairs and a luxe velvet sofa available in a few chic colors, including one that happens to be a top pick for Kelly: “That green couch is one of my favorites—green is my favorite color, and I love her. She’s real cute!”If you’re in the market for storage, shop the black sideboard with gold cane doors, the rattan accent cabinet or a pair of contemporary cabinets with adjustable shelves. Plus, there’s a small selection of decor accents, including throw pillows, lighting and a scented candle, if your space is in need of a quick refresh. The best way to describe the home line, according to Clarkson? “It’s a homey vibe.”Shop the Kelly Clarkson Home x Vegas CollectionRelated StoriesMonique 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