Aurelia Butler

There’s no shortage of home decluttering methods — take Marie Kondo’s popular minimalist approach, the KonMari Method, for example. But when it comes to downsizing your belongings, including furniture, clothing, shoes, kitchen essentials and even documents, to prepare for your older years, Swedish death cleaning is an approach that’s worth considering. What Is Swedish Death Cleaning?Swedish death cleaning is a well-known concept in Swedish and Scandinavian culture, where you work on eliminating unnecessary items from your home, so loved ones won’t be burdened with the task after you pass. The thorough organizing method involves editing everything from furniture and clothing to the ever-growing piles of documents that’s been difficult to control over time. It’s a slow process that’s been all the rage lately, thanks to Peacock’s new show, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, by Amy Poehler. While Swedish death cleaning is all about holding onto essential belongings, pinpointing the items you want to keep and part ways with isn’t an easy process. So, follow our checklist below to see how to get started and decide whether this buzzy cleaning method is the right one for you. Swedish Death Cleaning Checklist Chiociolla//Getty Images In 2017, Swedish author Margareta Magnusson coined the term in her New York Times best-selling book, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter. In her guide, she urges those 65 and up to partake in the task, though it never hurts to begin earlier, especially since decluttering is a great stress reliever. When starting, focus on areas you may find the easiest to tackle. According to Magnusson’s book, the attic or basement may be best since they are more likely to have unnecessary excess items, like broken seasonal decorations. Choose belongings you don’t have emotional attachments to and determine the category you want to scrap first, such as unwanted clothes, books or even half-empty bottles of skincare. And there’s no time limit or true checklist to know when you’re done. It’s all about how you feel and the goals you want accomplished. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playThe Gentle Art of Swedish Death CleaningThe Gentle Art of Swedish Death CleaningNow 10% OffGo Straight to the Wardrobe There’s no need to start with personal and sentimental items, like love letters or your children’s photographs. In fact, our closets and drawers may be the easiest to organize. You’re sure to have two or more garments of the same color and size that you never wear. Choose clothes that no longer fit, discard damaged shirts or pants and donate items that no longer suit your lifestyle. Since you may have a bulk of clothes to sort through, don’t worry about how long it’ll take. Start with seasonal clothing and gradually work your way through your piles over the course of a few months (or even years if you must!). Declutter by SizeGo for the large items first, such as any furniture or rundown decor hidden away in the garage —think broken tables, chairs or smelly rugs. Then, move on to smaller items you can easily discard in boxes. We’re talking about shoes you barely wear, any excess magazines and more! If you find it easier, go room by room instead of decluttering your house as a whole. You can start off in the kitchen by ridding your cabinets of the 20 plates hidden in the back or burnt pots you still keep in the oven. As you clean, you may find many “just in case” items you’ve been holding onto for emergencies. Sadly, they only create clutter and should be discarded too. Daniel Balakov//Getty ImagesBuy Less The fewer items you have, the less time you’ll need to clean! It doesn’t matter what age you start Swedish death cleaning, it pays to limit shopping to avoid feeling overwhelmed. And don’t worry, as this doesn’t mean you have to stop buying the things you love. It’s simply about taking time to rethink your purchases— for example, there’s no need to buy yet another pair of shoes when you already have a large sneaker collection. Discuss the Process With Loved OnesYour family and friends may not understand why you want to start this process, but it’s still important to share the journey with them. Plus, they may have items they want to keep or pieces they want you to cherish until the end (a school painting or Christmas gift are just a few ideas to consider). It might also be helpful to invite them on your decluttering journey. It can be a beautiful and nostalgic way to reflect on memories throughout your life. Bhupi//Getty ImagesConduct a Digital Detox Almost everything is online, including your important passwords and documents shared through email or Google Drive. While the process may feel tedious, sorting through emails and making sure loved ones have your login details is a step that shouldn’t be overlooked. A simpler way is to scan key documents, including your house deed, medical records, photos and more, to put on a flash drive. Jose Luis Pelaez Inc//Getty ImagesSave Sentimental Items for Last In her book, Magnusson recommends saving your highly sentimental belongings for last. Sorting through them too early may deter you from continuing your household purge. These items can range from photo albums and letters to scrapbooks and family heirlooms. When looking at photos, discard duplicated or blurry images and keep your heirlooms in a separate box to pass down. Since you may be emotionally attached to these items, this step may be the most difficult. That’s why it’s important to talk things through with family and friends to help you stay motivated. Assistant EditorMariah 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.  More

We’ll cut straight to the chase: You should be changing your bed sheets once a week. “The longest you should wait before changing out your sheets is two weeks,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab “Weekly is even better.” That’s because bed sheets can accumulate so many things you can’t see, like dead skin cells, dust mites, germs and even fecal matter. Moreover, if you allow your pets to sleep in the bed or anyone in your household has dust or pollen allergies, sweats excessively or is experiencing an infectious illness, you’ll probably want to consider washing your sheets even more frequently.What happens if you don’t change your sheets once a week?Considering we spend one-third (or more!) of our lives in bed, it’s not hard to envision why it’s not OK to only wash your sheets once a month! Of course, bedding doesn’t wear like gym shorts or underwear, but you do spend a lot of time in it — and night after night, germs, sweat, pet dander and body oils accumulate quickly, meaning it’s not particularly hygienic to sleep in dirty sheets. Plus, while dust mites aren’t harmful to humans per se, they can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If changing your sheets once a week seems like a hassle, we recommend purchasing multiple sheet sets so you’ll always have clean ones on hand.What’s the best way to wash sheets?Just as important as how often you wash your sheets is making sure you’re using the right methods to get your sheets really clean and extend their life. We asked Forté to share her best advice for how to wash this bedding essential. Treat stains prior to washing “If there are no stains, there’s no need pretreat the sheets,” says Forté. “But it’s always a good idea to check pillowcases for makeup residue.” If there are noticeable stains, she recommends using a prewash stain remover like Shout Advanced Ultra Gel to help get any spots out. Or, if you’re dealing with a really tough stain, try OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Spray.Then add a top-performing laundry detergent, like Good Housekeeping Seal holder Persil ProClean + Stain Fighter Liquid Laundry Detergent — but just be careful not to overload your machine. “Sheets needs to circulate to get clean,” says Forté. “Today’s enormous washers can probably hold several sets, but you should never cram them in. And if your washer has an agitator in the middle, don’t wrap the sheets around it. This can cause them to wrinkle or tear. Instead, lay them in separately without wrapping them.”Wash with higher temps on a normal cycleTo boost cleaning (which helps if you suffer from allergies), increase the water temperature. Choose a cleaning cycle that uses the hottest water safe for the sheets’ fabric (check the care tag). “The hotter the water, the more germs you kill,” says Forté. Note that some new washers have dedicated cycles just for washing sheets. But if yours doesn’t, select the “normal” or “casual” cycle instead of “heavy duty.” Choosing a heavy-duty cycle isn’t necessary, unless your sheets are a serious mess. “Sheets don’t need excessive agitation to get clean, and the heavy-duty cycle can cause tangling and wrinkling,” says Forté. “It’s fine to wash sheets on the normal, regular or colors cycle. These options are gentler and shorter than heavy duty and, depending on the machine, will cool water gradually for less wrinkling.”Tumble dry sheets on lowWhile bedding might take a little longer to dry than a regular load of clothes, leaving sheets in the dryer longer “just in case” is a mistake. It’s best to tumble dry sheets on low heat for the shortest time possible to avoid over-drying them — and yes, this could take some trial and error to get right! “This is the best method to minimize shrinkage and reduce wrinkling too,” says Forté. You also may want to keep your sheets separate to avoid over-drying issues, since not all linens are created equally. “Sheets dry faster than towels, so when the sheets are dry the towels will likely still be wet if you dry them together,” says Forté. If you’re aiming to combine loads, she says it’s probably okay to put some light cotton fabrics in with sheets, but towels are problematic.Related StoriesSenior EditorLauren is a senior editor at Hearst. She was previously the senior editor at WomansDay.com and the home editor at GoodHousekeeping.com and HouseBeautiful.com. Her book club, ramen, and jean jackets are a few of her favorite things. More

A client request to revamp a 1950s ranch-style Houston property yielded an immediate “yes” from designer Katie Davis. As the couple with three young children began to describe the home’s layout and location in the city’s Memorial neighborhood, it started to sound very familiar to Davis.As kismet would have it, it was Davis’ childhood home. “This house shaped everything for me. My parents worked with a designer to renovate it when I was in sixth grade, and I watched the whole process unfold. I credit my mom for introducing me to a world I didn’t know about,” she says.Katie Davis as a child in front of the home.Courtesy of Katie DavisToday, Katie Davis is the founder and lead designer at Katie Davis Design.Kerry KirkFor the clients, she converted the dining room to a music room, made the sunroom more suitable for entertaining and refreshed several other spaces. But it was her instant familiarity with the home that made the design process so special: “I had a comforting feeling when I walked through the door,” she says. “Even though it wasn’t my parents furniture and there had been tweaks to the layout, at its core, the house has special spaces that feel so unique and interesting.” Talk about a full-circle moment!We spoke with Davis, who talks details behind designing the property she once shared with her parents and brother. Whether it’s crafting versatile spaces for the current family of five or finding unique ways to pay homage to the original design, here’s her top six pieces of advice:Kerry Kirk1. Let wallpaper inspire your paint color.In the powder room, the cabinetry’s green hue (Benjamin Moore’s Saybrook Sage) was pulled from the leaves on the floral wallpaper. The rectangular mirror with ruffled edges from Ballard Designs adds to the whimsical charm.2. Create an “outdoor” living room.With nature as its backdrop and a ton of seating, the sunroom is the perfect place to gather. The sectional and the Palecek chairs create a cozy vibe. “It’s a special spot,” Davis says of the room, which was her go-to play area as a child. BEFORE: Wicker seating gathered around a small coffee table, illuminated by lantern-style lighting and spotlights.Courtesy of Katie DavisAFTER: A pair of armchairs, a spacious sectional and matching ottoman, plus textured throw pillows and decorative lighting.Kerry KirkKerry Kirk3. Try tone-on-tone with a twist.Monochromatic spaces don’t have to feel one-note. In the entry nook (which was a cedar closet long before Davis’s parents reconfigured the area), varied shades of blue, paired with the mix of Schumacher textiles for the custom sofa and walls, keep the look fresh and appealing. The butterfly print is by Paule Marrot.4. Feature art you love.”The only requirement for art is that it makes you happy,” Davis says. For the music room, which had been her family’s dining room, the clients chose a tumble weed photograph by Dallas artist Allison V. Smith. “This room was special — we had so many holidays with family and friends there,” Davis recalls. BEFORE: Carpeted floors and patterned seating with a dose of greenery and landscape wall art.Courtesy of Kerry KirkAFTER: A calming brown paint color paired with a neutral area rug and pale blue armchairs. The star of the show: a tumbleweed photo.Kerry Kirk5. Reinvent classic colors.As a nod to her childhood home — which had bright blue tiles, paint colors and patterned fabrics — Davis wove in classic blue elements. For the daughter’s bedroom, Davis found versatile pieces that felt modern and could grow with the home. She went with a blue headboard and floral fabric bench that reminds her of a “cute cottage” — but also acts as storage for dolls and barbies.Kerry KirkKerry Kirk6. Play with pattern. The surge of pattern and color continue into the boys’ bedroom, which Davis wanted to feel young yet subtly masculine and mature. “I love the stripe wallpaper,” she says. “It helps add interest to an otherwise simple room.” Next, she layered in patterned throw pillows and hung antique artwork above the beds.A version of this feature appeared in the May 2023 issue of Good Housekeeping.Senior Home EditorMonique Valeris is the senior home editor 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

Whether in the form of powdery spots on wood furniture, yellow stains on walls or black gunk in the corners of the shower, most of us have encountered mildew at some point (unfortunately). Mildew is a type of mold and thrives in moist, damp spaces — clinging to fabric, walls, tiles and wood. It also hides in neglected spots, like the garage, basement, attic, under the sink, behind appliances — aka: any area that traps moisture and has an indoor humidity level outside the normal range (which is between 30% and 50%). “Besides the ugly black stains it leaves behind, if mildew is left untreated, it can trigger allergies and breathing problems and generally diminishes the indoor air quality in a home,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. While most mildew is visible, you may first detect an outbreak by the musty odor or allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching and difficulty breathing. It’s ideal to prevent mildew before it starts (tips below), but don’t stress if you’ve already got a mildew situation. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get rid of mildew in every corner of your house.Expert Tip: When tackling mildew or mold, always wear a face covering, long rubber gloves and protective eyewear.Ekspansio//Getty ImagesMildew vs. MoldAlthough it’s less dangerous than other types of mold (think black mold), both microscopic fungi can cause health problems and damage to your home. Mildew is typically more visible during early stages and pops up as white or gray powdery dots. It may turn yellow or brown, but generally remains pretty flat. Mold appears darker, often in shades of red, green or black and can have a fuzzy texture. While the mold and mildew can be treated in similar ways, read our tips for removing stubborn mold spots if you suspect a mold outbreak. How to prevent mildew Use a dehumidifier to keep damp areas, like the basement or bathroom, dry and maintain indoor humidity levels (Check out: Top-tested dehumidifiers)Open the bathroom door during and after showering to allow moisture outDry or squeegee shower walls, floor and tub after showering to remove excess moisture and help surfaces dry fasterIf you have bathroom tiles, seal grout lines every year to waterproof the surface Decorate with houseplants to help improve air quality (Check out: Best air-purifying houseplants)Avoid storing linens, books or furniture in damp basements or atticsDon’t leave damp towels or gym clothes in bags or closets Track down and fix leaks as soon as possibleWhat you’ll need to get rid of mildewWalls and groutMildew can quickly take root on walls and grout, especially in the bathroom where ventilation is poor. It’s important to stop growth during early stages. Here’s how:Mix ¾ cup bleach with one gallon of water (equal to 3 tablespoons bleach to one quart water for smaller areas)Apply mixture with a soft scrub brush for walls or a stiff brush for grout (don’t forget to wear gloves)Let the solution penetrate for 15 minutes before rinsing with waterWipe dry. Then, use a fan to dry the surface thoroughly Shower curtainsIf you step into the bathtub and notice that your shower curtain is dotted with mildew, take action quick. Quick prevention tip: Spread out your shower curtain or lining to help it dry.Wash plastic liners or plastic shower curtains in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with the regular amount of detergent — you can also add bleach. Add two to three bath towels for extra cleaning agitationHang curtain to dry or put it the dryer on low for a few minutes to remove excess moisture. Stand close by and watch it. Never leave it unattendedExpert tip: If your shower curtain is fabric or decorative, wash according to the care instructionsClothing or linensIf you’ve stored clothing or linens in a moist attic or basement, you may notice a mildew scent of mold stains — but don’t worry, here’s how to properly wash away mildew. Use a stiff brush to remove mildew spores (we suggest doing so outdoors)Sun dry the item for about three hoursCheck the care labels and if safe, use chlorine bleach or pre-soak colored fabrics for 30 minutes in liquid non-chlorine bleach. For mild stains, you can instead soak the area in equal parts white vinegar and waterRinse and machine wash as usualWashing machinesFor front-loading machines, mildew can grow on the rubber gasket if you’re not frequently cleaning your washer.Peel back the rubber gasket, and scrub the area with ¼ cup of chlorine bleach mixed with two cups of water. Use a microfiber cloth or soft-bristled brushRun a wash cycle on hot with a cup of bleach or a washing machine cleaner, like GH Seal Star Tide Washing Machine CleanerMoving forward, regularly clean and dry your washer — paying close attention to the rubber gasket. You should also leave the washer door open after you’ve finished a load, so it’ll dry fasterCarpets or rugsWhether you’ve experienced a little flooding or a room is overly damp or humid, mildew may grow on carpets. You may notice a musty smell or greenish stains. Carpets and rugs that are completely saturated by dirty flood water, should be discarded. Make sure the space is dry. Use a wet-dry vacuum to remove water. If possible, hang rugs or carpets outside in the sun to dry. If it’s not possible, open windows and use fans to air out the space. Try to pick up wet sections if you can to make sure the padding and flooring underneath dry thoroughlyFor small stains, use a carpet stain remover. Or, clean and rinse the carpet with a steam cleaner for larger stains (Check out: Best Carpet Cleaners of 2023, Tested by Cleaning Experts)For lingering odors, spray a mixture of one part vinegar and two parts warm water onto the carpet. Allow it to sit overnight. Sprinkle the area with baking soda, and vacuum it up after a few minutes. You may also spray the carpet afterwards with Lysol disinfectant spray, according to label directions to sanitize the surface.Wood surfaces Mildew can grow on wood cabinets, paneling or furniture if they’re exposed to moisture. Vacuum loose spores with the soft brush attachmentClean small areas using a well-wrung cloth dipped in a few squirts of dishwasher detergent mixed with a gallon of waterRinse with a clean, water-dampened cloth and dry immediately with a fan. Be careful, not to oversaturate the wood as it could warp or damage the finishApply a thin coat of Good Housekeeping Seal holder Weiman Furniture Polish to restore the shine and protect the finishExpert tip: After vacuuming mildew spores, toss the filter and bag to prevent spores from escaping into the air next time you vacuum.Mattresses (and sofas)Not only is choosing the best mattress important, cleaning your mattress is critical to your health — and that definitely does not include mildew growth. When cleaning your mattress, you’ll only be cleaning surface stains. Any mattress that’s been damaged by water or may have mildew growing inside should be discarded.Vacuum the entire mattressFor remaining stains, sponge the surface with a cloth moistened in 1 cup rubbing alcohol and 1 cup warm water — but do a spot-test first to make sure the fabric won’t damageTo rinse, wipe the mattress with a water-dampened spongeFan dry the mattress for several hours; sprinkle on and brush in baking soda to help remove odorsSpray the surface with a disinfectant, like Lysol, to kill spores that can lingerOld books They might make chic home decor, but old books can be a breeding grown for mildew. Air the pages outside on a sunny, breezy day for at least three hoursOnce they’re dry to the touch, brush off the mildew with a dry clothRemove stains by wiping the books gently with a soft cloth dipped in a solution of 1 part chlorine bleach to 4 parts water — wring it well firstWipe the books with a soft cloth dipped in water to gently sponge away the chlorinePat or fan dry. Speed up the drying process by sprinkling cornstarch or baking soda on each page to absorb any remaining moisture, then wipe it off with a soft, clean paint brushSenior EditorLauren is a senior editor at Hearst. She was previously the senior editor at WomansDay.com and the home editor at GoodHousekeeping.com and HouseBeautiful.com. Her book club, ramen, and jean jackets are a few of her favorite things.Associate Lifestyle EditorAlyssa 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

No matter how many times you mop, scrub, and clean, the stenches of everyday life are inevitable. As long as you cook, play, and well, live, they’ll be there. But with the right products — both DIY remedies and top-tested picks from the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab — you can banish questionable smells for good. Follow this guide to get rid of kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and living room odors once and for all. Gridley + Graves Photographers1. Clean your trash can.Sometimes it’s not the actual trash that smells – it’s the trash can itself! Clean it by sprinkling in baking soda or using a deodorizing pack or pod, like Fresh Wave, under the can’s liner or adhered inside the lid. Then spray it all over with a disinfecting spray, like Lysol, to kill bacteria.2. Use baking soda to absorb refrigerator odors.Nothing beats the aroma of a freshly cooked dinner … unless it’s mixed with the smell of leftovers from the night before. Remember to always double-wrap pungent foods (think: stinky cheese!) and store leftovers in containers with secure lids — and absorb odors by storing an open box of baking soda in the fridge and freezer.3. Deep-clean your dishwasher regularly.How often do you clean your dishwasher? Yeah, we thought so. One a month, use a dishwasher cleaning tablet, like the ones from Cascade and run a cleaning cycle. Unless you’re one of those families that runs their dishwasher daily, always rinse dirty dishes before placing in the dishwasher to prevent food from sticking and smelling.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.4. Boil lemon slices and water in your microwave.You cook basically everything in your microwave — soups, leftovers, you name it — which means there are a million smells circulating in a very confined space. Get rid of lingering smells by boiling one quart of water with lemon slices for several minutes. Be sure to wipe out any stuck-on bits of food and leave the door open so that your clean microwave can air out.5. Put your plastic cutting boards in the dishwasher.Obviously, sanitizing cutting boards is a no-brainer but even that doesn’t always keep strong onion and garlic smells at bay. To freshen up, stick plastic cutting boards in the dishwasher. For wood cutting boards, scrub them with a lemon half dipped in salt. Alec Hemer6. Clean your toilets before they start to look dirty.Here’s our rule of thumb for toilets: Clean them with toilet bowl cleaner before they start to look dirty. To combat smells and stains for up to one week, use Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Cleaning Gel. After cleaning, pour 1/2 cup bleach into the water. If smells are your main concern (hey, it happens!), spritz Good Housekeeping Seal Star Poo-Pourri before you go to the bathroom to mask odor. Kat Teutsch7. Sprinkle baking soda on a musty mattress.After a few years (or even a few months), your new mattress may start to smell musty. Give your bed a refresh by sprinkling baking soda on the mattress, letting it sit, and then vacuuming it up. For a quick fix, spray soft surfaces with Good Housekeeping Seal Star Febreze Fabric Refresher. 8. Avoid closing your closet door.Whatever you do, don’t close your closet door. Closing the door traps all the moisture — and smells — in the small space. Closet dehumidifiers, like airBoss or DampRid, absorb mike garten9. Sprinkle baking soda on a smelly carpet.Unlike hardwood floors, plush carpets absorb smells like no other. Sprinkle baking soda all over the carpet to remove odors. Let sit (while you lounge on the couch and watch a movie) and then vacuum.10. Sprinkle baking soda on smelly pet beds, too.The same goes for pets: Sprinkle pet bedding with baking soda, let sit, and vacuum. Or if that’s not doing the trick, use Resolve Carpet Cleaner Moist Powder.Try These Odor RemoversAmanda Garrity is a lifestyle writer and editor with over seven years of experience, including five years on staff at Good Housekeeping, where she covered all things home and holiday, including the latest interior design trends, inspiring DIY ideas and gift guides for any (and every) occasion. She also has a soft spot for feel-good TV, so you can catch her writing about popular shows like Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias, Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart and more. Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive DirectorCarolyn 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

Not only is the roof over your head critical for keeping out the weather, it has a huge impact on your home’s curb appeal. “From a design perspective, the roof is a dominant — if often overlooked — visual element,” says Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab for the Good Housekeeping Institute. “Trust us when we say, if you choose a roof that clashes with the style of the home, everyone will notice.” The wrong material can also mean inadequate protection or premature failure.Replacing your roof isn’t cheap (the average homeowner spends about $10,000), so it’s an investment in your home. Your roof takes the brunt of any harsh weather: the beating sun, thrashing rain, winter snowstorms and the like. Even once you consider your budget, climate and installation, it may still feel overwhelming to settle on a new roofing material. To help you decide, we’ve rounded up the best roofing materials — from versatile picks like asphalt shingles to long-lasting slate and clay tiles. Asphalt ShinglesDouglas Sacha//Getty ImagesAsphalt is the most popular material for residential roofing in the U.S. because it’s affordable, easy to install and works well in most climates. There are three main types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab (most affordable), dimensional or architectural (thicker than 3-tab shingles) and luxury (designed to look like slate tiles).Pros: Cost-effective and durable, asphalt is easy to install and maintain. The material is available in a variety of colors and types, pairing with most house styles.Cons: Some less robust 3-tab shingles will be prone to damage from wind and hail, and asphalt as a category has a shorter lifespan than some other roofing types. Average lifespan: 25 yearsAverage cost: $10,000Wood Shingles or Shakeskampee patisena//Getty ImagesFrom Cape Cod cottages to contemporary homes, wood roofing is a natural, stylish and affordable choice. For a rustic or unique aesthetic, wood shakes and shingles are available in different colors, patterns and grains. Typically made of cedar, the material is naturally energy-efficient, wind resistant and impact resistant. Since it’s an easy target for water damage, wood roofing is best for dry climates — just note you may need a fire retardant. Pros: Wood shingles and shakes have a unique curb appeal, plus the natural material is energy-efficient and can be considered more eco-friendly. The material is wind resistant and impact resistant (hint: thicker wood is more durable). As for installation, wood shingles are applied in the same way as other shingles. Cons: Although the average cost is similar to other roof types, wood is not the best material for all climates. Wood roofs are susceptible to moisture and mold damage, plus they’re prone to insects. Wood shingles or shakes may also require a fire retardant as the material is vulnerable to fire. Average lifespan: 25 yearsAverage cost: $21,500Slate TilesDouglas Sacha//Getty ImagesIf you’re intending to live in your home for decades to come, slate may be a viable option for you — since the natural stone can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. Slate roofs are durable enough to withstand high winds and high temperatures, plus they are fire-proof and do a good job keeping out water. If you do plan to move at some point, a slate roof may help to increase a home’s value. Pros: Not only is slate visually appealing, the naturally occurring stone can last upwards of 100 years (or even longer). The long-lasting material holds up in most climates, since it can withstand high winds, resist moisture and prevent fires. It’s a great option if you’re looking to make a long-term investment.Cons: Although they have a long lifespan, slate is one of the more pricey roofing materials — likely two or three times more expensive than asphalt shingles. Not to mention, slate is incredible heavy which makes the installation process more difficult.Average lifespan: 75 to 100 yearsAverage cost: $25,000Clay and Concrete TilesPutu Angga Kusuma Atmaja / EyeEm//Getty ImagesFrom reddish-orange terracotta to textured gray concrete, tile roofing is meant to last a lifetime (or longer). “Concrete and terracotta tiles are extremely durable, even against fire — making them a good option in warm, dry regions that are prone to wild fires,” says DiClerico. The material is popular in hot climates — like Florida, California and the Southwest — because it holds up well in extreme heat and exposure to salt air.Pros: Clay and concrete tiles offer a ton of curb appeal, especially when you consider the versatility in colors and styles. If you go with clay or concrete, your roof should last at least 100 years. The natural material can withstand high winds, hail and fires. Cons: While concrete tiles are more affordable than clay, both options are more expensive than asphalt or wood shingles. These type of tiles are heavy, so you’ll definitely require professional installation. Given the heft of the material, it is not ideal for roofs with sharper slopes. Average lifespan: 100+ yearsAverage cost: $21,000Metal Roofingscotto72//Getty ImagesMetal roofs are typically made from steel, aluminum, copper or tin. Although they can be costly, the material has a long lifespan and holds up exceptionally well in harsh winter climates. “Metal does a good job of shrugging off heavy snow, which is why you see them in northern parts of the country,” says DiClerico. Pros: With a lifespan of around 80 years, metal roofs can withstand high winds and shouldn’t corrode with a rust-proof coating. The material is a safe choice for snowy climates, plus most metal roofs are made from recycled content — making them a more environmentally-friendly choice.Cons: Metal roofing can be expensive, plus the installation can be costly because of the tools and expertise required. The other downside? Metal roofs can be noisy during heavy rain or hail storms. Average lifespan: 80 yearsAverage cost: $16,500Solar RoodsGAF EnergySolar shingles or solar roof tiles can replace existing shingles, and work best paired with asphalt or tile roofing. They harvest sunlight to generate electricity. Solar energy is best for sunny climates, but isn’t ideal for homes with steeply pitched roofs or those that are surrounded by a lot of trees or other sun-blocking objects.Pros: Solar roofs generate electricity for your home, helping to reduce your energy bill. Although the initial cost of a solar roof is high, there is little maintenance required after installation and it can increase your home’s value. There are more affordable options, like the GAF Energy’s Timberline Solar (a Good Housekeeping Home Reno award winner) that integrates solar technology into traditional roofing.Cons: Solar panels are expensive and difficult to install. Average lifespan: 25 yearsAverage cost: $27,000Living RoofsTom Lau//Getty ImagesAlso known as a green roof, a living roof is exactly what it sounds like: a roof partially or completely covered with soil, vegetation and plants. Although they’re a less popular choice, green roofs last 40 to 50 years — protecting your home from wind, ice, snow rain and UV rays in the process.Pros: A green roof is a sustainable option, since it benefits the environment by releasing carbon dioxide and helping to improve air quality. The vegetation and soil store rain water to prevent flooding and absorb the sun’s heat in hot climates. You can even turn your roof into a full garden, complete with fruits and vegetables. Cons: As expected, a living roof requires frequent and more difficult maintenance — which can also led to a greater expense.Average lifespan: 30 to 50 years Average cost: $22,000RELATED: How to Start an Organic Garden in 9 Easy StepsWhat to consider when choosing a new roof?✔️ Style: “Your roof should coordinate with the architecture of the home,” says DiClerico, who suggests starting with style. More often than not, homeowners replace their roof with the same material. If you want to switch it up, you can take your cue from similar homes in your neighborhood.✔️ Cost: The average homeowner spends between $10,000 and $20,000 replacing their roof, according to DiClerico. But, prices vary widely depending on the choice of material and size of the house. ✔️ Installation: On top of material cost, you’ll need to consider the cost and difficulty of installation. Asphalt is the most affordable option, but more expensive materials may last much longer. Lightweight shingles and tiles are generally easier to install (you may even be able to do it yourself), although heavier materials typically have longer lifespans. ✔️ Climate: You’ll want to consider your climate as certain materials hold up better to snow, rain and hail, while others withstand high winds and tropical temperatures. Asphalt and metal work well in most climates, while wood is best in cold temperatures and clay and concrete tiles do well in heat.Why trust Good Housekeeping?As Good Housekeeping’s associate lifestyle editor, Alyssa Gautieri covers home improvement and interior design topics. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she worked for various home publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine, in addition to brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. To choose the best types of roofing materials, Alyssa consulted with Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab for the Good Housekeeping Institute. DiClerico brings more than 20 years of experience to the Institute, reviewing thousands of products (including roofing and solar systems) for Good Housekeeping and previously for This Old House and Consumer Reports. Prior to starting his career as a home expert, Dan worked for several years on a roofing crew, mainly replacing asphalt and wood shingle roofs on suburban homes. Associate Lifestyle EditorAlyssa 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

Our shoes get dragged through the mud, grass and streets on a daily basis, so dirt buildup and stains are almost inevitable. But when you find a good pair of shoes that’s comfy and stylish, a little routine maintenance is totally worth it. Keeping your shoes squeaky clean doesn’t have to be a big chore. Most of what you need to remove dirt and stains from shoes is already in your cleaning closet. If you’re going to invest in any new cleaners, prioritize protection. “When you apply a protection cream or conditioner to shoes it prevents stains, cuts down on cleaning time and helps them last longer,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care and Cleaning Lab. When your shoes and their soles need a good cleansing, follow these steps and you can restore your sneakers, boots and heels to their original glory. How to clean leather shoesDurable, breathable and water resistant, leather is a natural choice for shoes of all styles. You’ll have them for the long haul if you follow these steps and remember to condition them regularly. What You’ll Need:Soft-bristle brush Liquid dish soap or leather cleaner Paper towelWaterMr. Clean Magic EraserDry, clean cloth Leather conditionerRemove and clean the laces, if applicable. See below for full instructions.Brush off loose dust and dirt. Hold the shoe over the garbage or take them outside, then gently move a soft-bristle brush in small circles, working top to bottom, to remove any loose debris. This will prevent your shoes from being a muddy mess when you wipe them with a wet paper towel.Apply a mild soap or leather cleaner. Mix a few drops of dish soap, like Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid, into a cup of warm water, then dip a paper towel into the soapy water and rub all over the leather uppers to remove any remaining dirt or dust. Or you can use a leather cleaner like GH Seal-holder Weiman Leather Cleaner & Conditioner according to the package directions.Wipe clean with a damp paper towel. Repeat until the soap or residue is completely gone.Clean rubber sides and trim. Brighten these areas easily with GH Seal-holder Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Do not use the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on the leather uppers as it is abrasive.Buff dry. Rub a dry, clean cloth over the leather surface to remove excess moisture and restore natural shine. (Don’t air dry outdoors, as sunlight can cause fading and excessive heat can lead to shrinking.)Condition the leather. If you are using soap to clean, apply a separate leather protector, like Furniture Clinic Leather Protection Cream, to keep shoes soft and supple. Expert tip: Use a soft cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to safely and effectively remove ink stains or any dye transfer from denim or clothing.How to clean white leather shoesWhite leather shoes can be whitened and brightened following the same leather shoe cleaning steps above. If you’re dealing with tough stains on white leather shoes, try this cleaning trick: Dip a wet soft-bristle brush or even your fingertip in baking soda and rub gently on the area. Wipe with a clean, wet cloth and let air dry.How to clean faux leather shoesFaux leather may not be as durable as genuine leather, but the synthetic surface is as easy to clean. Keep in mind that it is prone to cracking over time and can take on odors, so addressing stains and smells quickly will help your shoes last longer.What You’ll Need:Soft-bristle brush or toothbrushRubbing alcoholSoft cloth or cotton swab Liquid dish soap WaterPaper towelMr. Clean Magic EraserDry, clean clothScrub the bottoms and soles. Use a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to remove dirt and debris from rubber soles. Follow with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.Wipe down with soapy water. Add a few drops of liquid dish soap to a bowl of water then dip in a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush and use it to gently scrub the shoe uppers.Follow with a clean, wet paper towel. Repeat until all soap suds and dirt are gone. Let air dry indoors. Sunlight can also cause faux leather to fade and excessive heat can cause shrinkage.Condition to prevent cracking. Rub a dab of unscented baby oil or coconut oil onto the shoe uppers to prolong their lifespan. Sprinkle on baking soda to remove odors. If the faux leather has taken on a bad smell, sprinkle baking soda into the shoe, and let it sit for several hours or overnight before brushing or vacuuming it away. How to clean white canvas shoesVansIf you own a pair of white canvas sneakers, chances are they’re your go-tos, which also means you know how quickly they get dirty. While it’s tempting to toss them in the washing machine, resist! Hand washing and air drying these shoes is the best cleaning method. What You’ll Need:Soft-bristle brush Cleaning cloth Liquid dish soap Paper towelWaterHydrogen peroxideMr. Clean Magic EraserRemove and clean the shoelaces. See below for full instructions.Brush away any loose dirt. Run a soft-bristle brush or cloth along the outside of the shoe, rubber edge and tongue. Rinse the brush clean. Wash with soapy water and a soft brush. Mix a few drops of dish soap into a cup of warm water. Dip a cloth or soft brush into the soapy water and gently go over both shoes. Scrub out stains. Dip the soft-bristle brush in hydrogen peroxide or make a paste out of 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of water, then scrub until the spot has faded completely. Rinse in the sink. Run the sneakers under clear water to remove any remaining dirt or soap residue. Clean the soles and sides. Rub the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser along the rubber areas, turning and wetting the eraser sponge as needed. Stuff the sneakers with white paper towels. This will absorb moisture from the inside and maintain the shape of the shoe.Let the shoes air dry. If the paper towels get too wet, change or remove them to speed up the drying process.Expert tip: Don’t clean white sneakers with bleach. It’s too harsh for use on white sneakers and can create a yellow tint instead of restoring them to their original state. Read more tips for cleaning white shoes.How to clean running shoes Dirt is usually the biggest culprit when it comes to mucking up your running and workout shoes. Besides compromising traction, which is important for safety reasons, stuck-on mud can leave messy footprints around your house. Avoid a floor-cleaning marathon with these simple steps. What You’ll Need:Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush Skewer or toothpick (optional)Liquid dish soap Medium bowl Sponge Newspaper or paper towelRemove and clean the shoelaces. See full instructions below.Brush away dirt, mud and grass. If they’re really dirty, take this step outside and rinse with a hose. Use a skewer or toothpick to remove stuck-on mud from the soles, as necessary.Scrub shoe uppers with soapy water. Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap, like Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid, with water in a medium bowl, then scrub the fabric surface with a soft-bristle cleaning brush or toothbrush.Rinse clean with a warm well-wrung sponge. Frequently rinse the sponge as you work to remove any remaining dirt or soap.Stuff with paper towels to dry. Keep the shoes indoors away from light and heat sources, which can cause discoloration or warping of the soles.How to clean suede shoesGetty ImagesSpotting stains on suede gives most of us a case of the shoe scaries. But fear not! These tips will help you erase fresh stains and old stains from your new (or blue) suede shoes. What You’ll Need:White paper towelsBaking sodaSuede cleanerSuede brush or toothbrush Suede eraser Garment steamerSuede protectorQuickly treat new stains with baking soda. Using a clean paper towel, blot (don’t rub) the stain on the shoe’s surface. Then, sprinkle baking soda on the stain and allow it to sit and soak up the stain overnight, then lightly brush away the powder.Brush or scrape away old stains. With a special suede brush or toothbrush, gently brush in the direction of the fibers to remove the stain from the shoe’s surface. If this doesn’t work, you can try dabbing a suede eraser on the stain to remove it.If a stain still remains, use a suede cleaner. Our experts recommend the Kiwi Suede Cleaner.Gently brush the shoes to restore the suede nap. The key here is to brush in the direction of the fibers, not back and forth or in circles, which can cause further damage to the suede. If you applied a suede cleaner, wait until the shoes are completely dry to brush the fibers. If the area is matted, apply low steam for a few seconds using your favorite garment steamer or hold the area above a tea kettle before you brush.Clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Wet the melamine sponge, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are spotless.Apply a suede protector. Try Kiwi Suede Waterproofer to prevent further stains or water damage to your suede sneakers.Expert tip: You can use an emery board to buff stains out of suede in a pinch. If the suede is matted, brush in the up direction to lift the fibers and the stain. Read more tips for cleaning suede shoes.How to clean patent leather shoesPatent leather shoes are magnets for unsightly streaks and scuff marks, and they’re usually not subtle. Take action at home (or on the go!) with these tips and tricks. What You’ll Need:Pencil eraser Alcohol Cotton swabCleaning cloth Liquid dish soapErase any streaks or marks. Raid your office supply stash for a pencil eraser and get to work. Remove stubborn spots with alcohol. For resistant marks, dab with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, then wipe away with an absorbent cloth.Wash with soapy water to restore shine. Add a drop or two of liquid dish soap to a damp cleaning cloth and wash the patent surface clean.Buff dry with a clean, soft cloth.Expert tip: You can shine up patent leather with a little petroleum jelly. Rub a dab on with a cloth and buff well with another dry cloth to remove any excess so it doesn’t feel greasy.How to clean shoelacesLet’s not forget about those grimy laces! You can place them in a mesh wash bag and then run them in the washing machine on a cold water cycle, or follow these steps to give them a quick refresh before threading them back through. What You’ll Need:Liquid dish soap WaterBaking soda Toothbrush Hand towel or paper towelUntie and remove laces from shoes.Soak in warm, soapy water. Add a few squirts of liquid dish soap to your bathroom sink or a large bowl. Immerse the laces and soak them for about 15 minutes or until clean.Scrub stubborn spots. Make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub by hand with a toothbrush.Rinse with fresh water. Run them under the faucet, then squeeze out excess water.Lay flat to dry. Place on top of a hand towel or paper towel, then flip after a few hours.FAQsCan I clean shoes in the washing machine?It’s best to clean any shoes by hand, especially if they’re new. If you’re tight on time and want to refresh an old pair, you can try cleaning canvas sneakers in the washing machine but note they may shrink or lose their shape. Place them first in a mesh bag and add a few old towels to balance and buffer the load. Choose a delicate cycle with cold or warm water and a low or moderate spin speed. Stuff with paper towels to air dry away from heat and sunlight. How do you clean the insoles of shoes?To remove dirt and odor, remove the insoles and place them in a mesh wash bag, then run in the washing machine on a cold water cycle. If you don’t know if your insoles can be machine washed, you can also make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub them by hand with a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush, then rinse in cold water. Let air dry to prevent shrinking. How do you get rid of salt stains from shoes?Make an at-home cleaner by combining equal parts white vinegar and water. Dip a cloth in the solution and dab the stained area of the shoes. Rinse with a water-dampened cloth and wipe with a dry towel. Let shoes air dry. More Ways to Clean Your ShoesTaryn Mohrman is a freelance writer with over 15 years of experience writing for major consumer magazines, retailers and digital outlets, including buybuyBABY, Woman’s Day, Parents and Redbook. She also specializes in content strategy and business development for B2Cs and startups, and has served as a consultant for companies in the home, fashion, beauty, tech, kids and gifts industries. More