Aurelia Butler

If you plan to paint your walls, cabinetry or anything else, you’ll want to know the best way to remove potential paint stains that may arise. While paint stains may not be a daily household issue, it’s important you know how to get paint out of carpet before it dries and makes the removal process more difficult.If an at-home paint project has gone awry, rest assured there are steps you can follow to remove these stains. Here at the Good Housekeeping Institute, experts in the Cleaning Lab test stain removers to find the products that will remove any and all spills from coffee stains to red wine stains, blood stains and more. Depending on whether you are working with a wet or dry water- or oil-based paint stain, you may be able to lift the paint with household items you already have under your kitchen sink. We’ll cover acrylic, latex and oil-based stains below.More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playYou can reference our guide to removing paint from clothes if your favorite tee also got stained, as well as our guide to cleaning a carpet the right way. For now, here is everything you need to know to successfully get water- or oil-based paint out of carpet.Before you startBefore you jump into cleaning your carpet, our cleaning expert Carolyn Forté, Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director, shares some pointers to keep in mind:Use a white cloth. If using a cloth to remove paint (rather than a sponge or paper towels), opt for a white cloth so the color from the cloth doesn’t bleed into the carpet.Blot rather than rub cleaning product into the carpet. “Rubbing is bad, especially for carpets,” says Forté. Focus on pulling the paint “up and out” of the carpet.Don’t use more water than absolutely necessary. You don’t want to over-wet or over-saturate the carpet and therefore the padding underneath. We recommend using a spray bottle to avoid this. If you don’t have a spray bottle on hand, you can also use a wet sponge or cloth.Don’t apply straight dish soap to a carpet stain. Liquid dishwashing detergent is too thick and sudsy, so you’ll never be able to completely rinse it out of your carpet. Instead, we recommend mixing dish soap with warm water.Apply paint thinner to a hidden spot on your carpet for safety and colorfastness. If you don’t notice any damage, then it’s safe to proceed!Wear gloves while cleaning and open a window to make sure you have proper ventilation when using paint thinner.Catherine Falls Commercial//Getty ImagesHow to get wet water-based paint out of carpetAcrylic and latex paint are popular water-based paints and are easier to remove than oil-based paint. Acrylic paint is known for its fast drying times and ability to be applied to a variety of surfaces, from canvas to paper. Meanwhile, water-based latex has become a popular paint for cabinetry in recent years. What You’ll Need Latex glovesPutty knifeSpray bottleWarm waterLiquid dishwashing detergentClean white cloth or paper towelsScrape away excess paint. While wearing gloves, use a putty knife or utensil with a hard, dull surface to scrape off excess paint from the carpet. Try to remove as much of the paint as you can. Spray with water. Add warm water to a spray bottle and spray it onto the stained area. Mix together equal parts warm water and liquid dishwashing detergent. Prepare the solution in a container or bowl that’s wide enough to dip a cloth into.Apply the solution to the stain. Use a clean white cloth you don’t mind ruining or paper towels. Dip a cloth into the solution and blot the stain to remove the paint. It’s important you avoid rubbing the stain as it may work the paint deeper into the carpet.Wet with warm water. Use a spray bottle with warm water to flush out dish soap and continue to blot with a clean cloth of paper towels. Repeat steps four and five until all paint has been removed. How to get wet oil-based paint out of carpetOil-based paint is a heavy-duty option for painting interior walls. While many choose oil-based paint for the glossy finish, it can be a lot harder to remove from carpet. You’ll need to use paint thinner or turpentine for this process. What You’ll NeedLatex glovesPutty knifeSponge or clean white clothPaint thinner or turpentine Liquid dishwashing detergent Warm waterSpray bottleScrape away the excess paint. Wearing gloves, use a putty knife or utensil with a hard, dull surface to remove excess paint from the carpet. Blot with a clean white cloth to lift up as much paint as you can. Spray with water. Use a spray bottle with warm water to wet the stained area. Blot again with a white cloth.Apply paint thinner. Starting at the edges of the paint stain, apply paint thinner or turpentine with a wet sponge or white cloth. Be careful to keep the paint thinner from spreading the stain. To avoid spreading, work on individual carpet tufts, carefully applying the remover and blotting the stain. If your sponge or cloth becomes covered in paint, rinse it or use a new one. Continue the blotting process until no more paint is removed. Apply dish soap solution. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with one cup of warm water in a bowl or container. Use a clean sponge or fresh white cloth to apply solution to carpet. Gently blot the area.Rinse and repeat if needed. Use a spray bottle with warm water to rinse out the dish soap and blot dry with a clean towel. Repeat steps four and five as many times as needed until all paint is removed from the carpet.How to remove dry paint from carpetIt’s best to remove paint as soon as you notice the stain. Dried paint is a lot harder to remove than wet paint. But if you catch a stain later not all hope is lost. Follow these steps for both dried water- and oil-based paint stains.What You’ll NeedLatex glovesPutty knifePaint thinner or turpentineSponge or clean white clothBreak up excess paint. While wearing gloves, use your fingers to break up the dried paint and separate the carpet fibers. Scrape off the paint. Go in with a putty knife or utensil with a hard, dull surface to scrape away any dried-up excess paint that may break free from the tuffs. Removing as much dried paint as possible will make it easier for the paint thinner or turpentine to get into the fibers. Be gentle so you don’t pull out any carpet fibers.Apply paint thinner or turpentine. Use a sponge or clean white cloth to apply paint thinner to the stained area. Blot the stain to remove it, and avoid rubbing the paint further into the carpet. For dried water-based paint, you can spray warm water onto the stain first and blot with a sponge or clean white cloth. If the paint doesn’t come out, apply paint thinner.Rinse. Spray with warm water and blot with a clean white cloth until all paint is removed. Updates EditorElizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College. More

From stovetop to oven and back again, a good Dutch oven is the heavyweight champion of cookware. Because they’re known to evenly distribute and retain heat, Dutch ovens are excellent at searing and slow-cooking everything from short ribs to meatballs to stews. Once you learn how to cook with a Dutch oven and keep it clean, you’ll never have enough Dutch oven recipes in your dinner lineup. If you take proper care of a cast iron or enameled cast iron Dutch oven, it can last a lifetime. Hot water, dish soap and a swipe of the sponge are usually all it takes to clean a Dutch oven after meal prep. But if the heat gets too high or you’ve left food unattended inside for too long, you may be staring at stuck-on bits or stains that leave you second-guessing. To make sure you’re removing food residue without removing the seasoning or accidentally scratching the surface, follow these step-by-step instructions carefully for the type of Dutch oven you have at home. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playExpert Tip: Though many Dutch ovens are technically dishwasher safe, we recommend washing by hand to avoid dulling. Cast iron Dutch ovens are also prone to rust, so avoid the dishwasher and dry them promptly after washing.rudisill//Getty ImagesHow to Clean a Cast Iron Dutch Oven Cast iron Dutch ovens are incredibly durable and easy to bring back to life if they get rusty or dull, but they do require more TLC than other types of Dutch ovens since they need to be seasoned to help food release easily when cooking and cleaning. If you’re wondering if it’s okay to use soap on cast iron, the answer is yes! While today’s dish soaps can dissolve fresh grease, they won’t remove the layers of seasoning on their own.What You’ll NeedPaper towels Plastic food scraper WaterBaking sodaNon-metal cooking utensilNon-abrasive sponge or nylon scrubbing padDish soapDry dishclothCooking oil Wipe away grease and food bits. Use a paper towel or plastic food scraper to remove any stuck-on food and grease from the Dutch oven once it’s cool. If you can easily wash away what’s left, skip to step three.Loosen stuck-on food on the stove. Avoid scrubbing with steel wool or soaking in water, which can damage the seasoning. Instead, fill the Dutch oven halfway with water and add baking soda (about 1 tablespoon for every 1 cup of water), then bring to a boil on the stovetop. This will help release bits of food and stains so you can rinse them away. Use a non-metal cooking utensil to agitate the surface as needed, then pour the baking soda water solution down the drain. Let cool completely.Gently remove any remaining residue. Use dish soap and a nylon scrubbing pad or the scrubby side of a kitchen sponge to remove any food or residue that’s left and rinse well with running water. Never use steel wool or steel sponges! Dry immediately with a dishcloth and heat. If water sits on a cast iron Dutch oven it can cause surface rust. To prevent this, wipe away visible water droplets as soon as you’re done washing, then place the Dutch oven back on the burner for about 30 seconds to evaporate any leftover water completely.Season before storing. If your Dutch oven looks dull, apply a light layer of cooking oil to the inside with a paper towel while it’s still warm, then pop in a 350ºF oven upside down for about an hour to set. (Don’t forget to add a tray or foil underneath to catch any oil drips.) Once cool, buff away visible grease and store in a dry place. Expert Tip: When you store a cast iron Dutch oven, keep the lid off to prevent a buildup of moisture which can cause the cookware to rust. How to Clean an Enameled Dutch Oven Enameled cast iron Dutch ovens are popular because they are non-stick, easy to clean and don’t require seasoning. Always hand-wash an enameled Dutch oven and avoid abrasive cleaners, which can leave surface scratches that compromise the coating. What You’ll NeedPaper towel Plastic food scraperWater Dish soapBaking soda Non-abrasive sponge or nylon scrubbing pad Dry dishcloth Wipe out the inside with a paper towel. As soon as your Dutch oven has cooled, use a paper towel or plastic food scraper to remove any leftover food or grease. If you wait too long, you may face more scrubbing.Fill with hot soapy water. Adding cold water to a hot pan can cause the enamel to crack, so take care. Let the Dutch oven cool completely before adding warm water, or let the water run hot before you add it to still-warm cookware. Let it soak for anything from a few minutes to overnight to help loosen stuck-on foods and make cleaning easier. Gently scrub away leftover food. Apply a squirt or two of dish soap to your kitchen sponge then scrub in a circular motion. Target stubborn spots with a plastic scraper or nylon scrubbing pad. Enamel can still scratch, so steer clear of abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool. Rinse well with warm water.Dry promptly with a dishcloth. While the enamel inside the Dutch oven won’t rust, the cast iron rim can, so you need to towel dry it quickly and completely. Like cast iron Dutch ovens, make sure you store it in a dry place away from water.Expert Tip: Remove stains promptly. As soon as you see stains on the inside of your enamel Dutch oven, fill it with a mixture of 3 tablespoons of household bleach per quart of water and soak for 2-3 hours. Wash thoroughly and rinse.How to Clean a Ceramic Dutch OvenLike enamel, ceramic coatings are sensitive to temperature changes so it’s important to let a ceramic Dutch oven cool completely and heat up slowly. Ceramic Dutch ovens can be cleaned following the same step-by-step instructions above, except you can let your ceramic Dutch oven air dry since it’s not prone to rusting like cast iron. How to Clean a Non-Stick Dutch OvenSince non-stick cookware is designed so food slides right out of the pan, it should be very easy to clean. Follow the same enamel and ceramic Dutch oven cleaning steps, avoiding the use of scouring pads, steel wool or abrasives. If you find that cooking oils leave a residue on the nonstick surface, fill the Dutch oven with water and 1/2 cup white vinegar and it bring to a boil. The residue should float to the top. Skim it off with a paper towel, pour out the liquid, then wash according to the directions above. How to Clean a Stainless Steel Dutch OvenWithout any natural or synthetic coating, stainless steel Dutch ovens can be tougher to clean. But the good news is that there are GH-tested stainless steel cleaners that can help you get the job done quickly.What You’ll NeedRemove grease and food bits. With a paper towel or a plastic food scraper, scrape what you can into the trash, then rinse with warm water to loosen what’s left.Start scrubbing with dish soap. A squirt of your regular dish soap may be all the cleaning power you need. Rub a nylon scrubbing pad or the scrubby side of your kitchen sponge in a circular motion to remove any food residue. If larger pieces of food remain stuck on, fill the Dutch oven with warm soapy water and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing again. Tackle stubborn stains. If you’re still left with spots or stains, you may need to call in a stainless steel cleaner like Brillo Cameo Cleaner or Barkeepers Friend. Both are designed to target tough stains and restore shine. Rinse and dry before storing. Use warm water to rinse away soap and cleaners completely and dry with a dishcloth to avoid water spots, then return your Dutch oven to storage. Expert Tip: Stainless steel cookware can still scratch. If you’re storing another pot inside your Dutch oven, use a pan protector to protect the surface between uses.How to remove rust from a Dutch ovenRust can be removed with a non-metallic scrubber and a mild dish soap like GH Seal star Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid. Scrub in a circular motion, then rinse well and quickly dry completely. When all of the rust is removed from a cast iron Dutch oven, place it back on the stovetop to evaporate any remaining water droplets, then follow the steps below to season it to prevent future rust from forming. How do I season my Dutch oven? Seasoning a cast iron Dutch oven creates a natural non-stick coating on the surface, which is essential for cooking and cleaning. Some cast iron Dutch ovens come pre-seasoned, while enameled cast iron and ceramic Dutch ovens don’t require seasoning at all. If you have a cast iron Dutch oven that needs to be seasoned, first heat it on the stove so the pores open and allow for more absorption of oil. Use a paper towel to apply a thin layer of neutral oil across the entire surface of the Dutch oven, inside and out. Pop the pan in the oven upside down at 350ºF for an hour with a baking sheet or foil underneath to catch any oil drips, then let cool completely. Wipe away excess oil before storing it to avoid a buildup of residue.How do you store a Dutch oven properly? For cast iron and enameled cast iron Dutch ovens, it’s important to dry them completely before returning them to storage. Heating the pan on the stovetop after washing can help ensure water droplets completely evaporate. Cast iron Dutch ovens also need to be properly seasoned before storing to prevent rust, which can form simply due to air exposure. It’s also a good idea to store the Dutch oven lid separately so moisture doesn’t build up inside. Taryn 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

Stainless steel is a popular material used in kitchen appliances and cookware. Stainless steel appliances give kitchens a modern look and can look like new for years after installation, while stainless steel cookware is known for its heat retention and durability. Like most things that are used regularly at home, the best way to keep stainless steel cookware looking new is to clean it after each use. Layers of burnt-on grease are much harder to remove from pots and pans and in some cases may never come off at all. It may seem like a daunting task, but cleaning stainless steel pans is actually simpler than cleaning stainless steel appliances (no need to wipe with the grain here) and luckily, our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care and Cleaning Lab have found the best ways to do it in the shortest amount of time. Reach for an expert-tested stainless steel cleaner and follow the steps below to keep your cookware in tip-top shape.How to Clean Stainless Steel Pans after Everyday UseThe best way to clean stainless steel pots and pans after everyday use is with your usual dish soap and warm water. If you have stubborn spots or bits of food that could use a little bit of work, follow the steps below to get rid of them quickly. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playWhat You’ll NeedDish soapNon-abrasive spongeScrape away any leftover food bits from the pan. Use a wooden spoon to gently dislodge any stuck-on bits while the pan is still warm, but not hot.If there are any bits of food still stuck on the pan, soak the pan in hot water. After the pan has cooled completely, place it in a large pot of hot water or fill the sink with hot water and allow the pan to soak for at least 30 minutes. Any remaining food bits should loosen up. Scrub the pan with a scratch-free sponge. Dip the sponge in a soapy water solution and scrub the inside and outside of the pan thoroughly. Expert tip: For extra-stubborn stuck-on bits, fill the pan with water, place it on the stove and bring it to a boil for several minutes to loosen up stubborn or burnt-on food.How to Clean Stainless Steel Pans with Burnt-on StainsYou may be inclined to immediately go for a heavy-duty scouring pad or steel wool pad to get heavy, burnt-on stains off your pots and pans, but you may be doing more harm than good. These products are often too abrasive for stainless steel and can damage the surface of pans. The safest way to get stained stainless steel pans back to their original shine is by using a dedicated stainless steel cookware cleaner. If you use a store-bought cleaner, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure that the product you use is safe to use on cookware, not just stainless steel appliances. Some stainless steel appliance cleaners often leave behind a protective coating that is not food-safe.What You’ll NeedStainless steel cookware cleaner or baking soda Non-scratch sponge Add water to the pot or pan, place it on your stove and bring to a boil. Allow the water to boil for a few minutes then turn off the flame and use a wooden spoon to scrape away any stuck-on bits of food inside of the pot. Make a paste with your favorite stainless steel cleaning powder or baking soda and water. Allow the pan to completely cool, then pour a bit of the cleaner or baking soda right inside the pan and add just enough water to form a paste. Use a sponge to spread the paste and scrub the pan. Unlike with stainless steel appliances, you don’t have to scrub cookware in the direction of the grain. Scrub in a circular motion and work the paste into all parts of the pan. Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly. After you are satisfied with your scrubbing, rinse the paste off of your pan well and dry with a towel to prevent water spots. Alex Wilson//Getty ImagesCan you ruin a stainless steel pan?Stainless steel pans can become scratched if they are cleaned improperly or discolored if they are not cleaned thoroughly enough. They can withstand more abrasive methods cleaning methods than stainless steel appliances, but there still are a few things you should never use to clean them. Steel wool pads and other very abrasive cleaning products can scratch the surface of pans and damage their smooth finish. Oven cleaners, grill cleaners and products containing bleach should never be used on stainless steel cookware as they are too harsh. The same goes for using vinegar to clean stainless steel pans. Vinegar is much too acidic and can damage the look of stainless steel. If must use vinegar, dilute it with at least equal parts water and do not allow it to sit in the pan. The safest option is always to start with the most gentle approach — dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge — and work your way up to slightly more abrasive products as needed. Running cold water over a still-hot stainless steel pan can also cause the material to warp and lose its shape. Tips to Keep Stainless Steel Pans Looking Like NewUse a lower heat setting to prevent food from burning onto your pans and causing discoloration.If you have a gas stove, use a burner that is the same size or smaller than the base of your pot. If the flame reaches up on the sides of your pot, the surface can become damaged. Try to remove stains as they happen to prevent build-up. It’s harder to get rid of multiple layers of burnt-on grease than it is to remove just one stain at a time. Allow your stainless steel pots and pans to cool completely before running them under cold water. If not, you risk warping the material. Stainless Steel Pan Cleaning ToolsBar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser Credit: Bar Keeper’s FriendBON AMI Powder Cleanser for Kitchens & Bathrooms Credit: Bon AmiBrillo Cameo Aluminum & Stainless Steel Cleaner Credit: BrilloScotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges (6-pack)Now 37% OffCredit: Scotch-BriteHome Care & Cleaning Lab Reviews AnalystJodhaira (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab, where she tests and writes about home appliances, cleaning products and cleaning tips. Prior to joining GH in 2021, she graduated from Hofstra University with a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and spent two years as an analyst in an environmental lab in Queens. More

With a reputation for being durable and easy to maintain, tile still tops the list of go-to flooring choices for homes. Beyond endless colors, shapes and sizes, tile flooring comes in an increasing range of materials, making it easy to find the look and feel that’s right for your space. But home housekeepers beware: When you customize your design, you have to also customize your cleaning methods. For example, ceramic and marble require very different cleaners, as do slate and linoleum, porcelain and granite, travertine and terracotta… the list goes on.No matter what type of tile floors you have at home, this tile cleaning guide from our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab has the tips you need to keep them squeaky clean and looking like new for the long haul. And if you’re dealing with dirty, dingy grout, we’ve been there, too. We’ll help you clean and whiten those tile grout lines when you’re ready.SolStock//Getty ImagesHow to Clean Ceramic and Porcelain Tile FloorsBoth ceramic and porcelain (a type of ceramic) tiles are clay-based and kiln-fired, making them durable, moisture-resistant flooring materials that can be cleaned quickly and easily with the right tools. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playWhat You’ll Need:Soft-bristle broom or vacuum attachmentMicrofiber mop or cloth or spray mopWater bucket Mild detergentClean, dry microfiber clothGet rid of loose dirt. All tile floors need to be vacuumed or swept before they’re washed. Because many tile materials can scratch easily, we recommend using a vacuum attachment with soft bristles or a soft-bristle broom to remove dirt, dust, hair and debris. If your vacuum doesn’t have a bare floor attachment, check if the brush roll can be turned off, a feature we look for in the best vacuums we test. Use a handheld broom in tight corners and along the edges of the room to help maintain tile floors between washing.Mix a mild detergent and water in a large bucket. Less is more when adding detergent to your water as too much can make rinsing difficult. For the right ratio, mix ¼ cup of a mild detergent, like Mr. Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner (a GH Seal star and one of our top-tested multi-purpose cleaners), into 1 gallon of water. Submerge a microfiber mop or cloth in the solution. While it’s tempting to grab a sponge to quickly wash your bathroom tile floor by hand, you could end up with unsightly streaks or water spots if you’re using too much water. Since sponges naturally retain water, it’s best to use a microfiber cloth or microfiber mop and a bucket so you can squeeze out excess water or a spray mop where you dispense the cleaning solution as you work. For larger floors, work in sections to reduce the amount of water you need to get the job done. Rinse thoroughly. To help make your floors shine, change the water in the bucket frequently and wipe away any leftover cleaning solution. Rinse your mop or cloth completely then use it to wipe a section clean. Repeat until the whole floor looks squeaky clean.Dry to avoid spots. Unglazed tiles can be left to air dry, but we recommend wiping glazed tiles with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.Expert Tip: Ceramic tiles with texture can be harder to clean than smooth or glazed tiles, especially if dirt and spills aren’t addressed quickly. If your tiles and grout are sealed, you can use a steam cleaner without any cleaning solution, like one of our Lab-tested steam cleaner picks, to moisten and lift stuck-on spills so you don’t have to get on your hands and knees to scrub. How to Clean Vinyl Tile FloorsMade from PVC, vinyl tile flooring is a low-maintenance, durable option that is often waterproof and therefore is very easy to clean. Simply follow the same floor cleaning steps above. To remove scuff marks, use a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or baking soda, then rinse off.How to Clean Linoleum Tile FloorsLinoleum tile floors can also be cleaned following the same step-by-step instructions above, with one small tip. Linoleum is a synthetic material that’s not meant for high moisture, so definitely skip the steam mop on these tiles. Water can quickly seep under the tiles if it’s not sealed properly, causing deterioration. Instead, try a convenient spray mop, like GH seal star Swiffer Wet Jet, that lets you control how wet the surface gets. Have a stubborn mark on your hands? Very gently rub it away with a dampened delicate, non-scratch scrub pad, but note that this will likely also remove any wax finish from the tile too. phototropic//Getty ImagesHow to Clean Natural Stone Tile FloorsNatural stones are particularly porous and can scratch easily, so they require more maintenance and care than other tiles. Follow the step-by-step instructions above, but pay careful attention to the type of cleaner we recommend below for your specific flooring type. Not all cleaners are safe for all types of natural stone tile floors. (Steam mops are also not recommended!) And remember, never use any abrasive cleaners or tools that might scratch the surface. Marble Tile FloorsTo keep your marble floor looking its best, always wipe up spills quickly to prevent staining, and be very careful not to use acidic cleaners like vinegar and lemon which will etch the stone. Instead, use a solution of mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. To prevent stains, use a marble sealer at least once a year. If staining does occur, look for a marble polishing powder like tin oxide at your local hardware or home-improvement store and apply according to the package directions. Other Natural Stone Tile FloorsTo wash slate, granite, limestone and travertine, you must use a neutral pH cleaner, so carefully check the labels and avoid any acidic cleaners. These stones are also susceptible to stains, scratches and cracks, so frequent cleaning and occasional sealing with a resin sealant are necessary to maintain their look and feel. To remove grease or oil, choose a proprietary spot-treatment stain remover that’s specific to the type of stone.Terracotta Tile FloorsLike other natural stones, terracotta is very porous so you should always avoid acidic cleaners and be careful not to let water sit on the surface or along grout lines while you’re washing. Unglazed terracotta tiles can also attract dust. Applying a water-based sealant can help protect the surface from stains and make routine cleaning easier. If you notice a color change in the first year, it’s likely the terracotta stone maturing.Expert Tip: Address spills with a damp microfiber cloth or mop as soon as you notice them to avoid stains and copious amounts of scrubbing on cleaning day. Find a Lab-tested mop that’s right for your floors.How often should you clean tile floors?Your cleaning needs depend largely on your household’s habits and foot traffic, but regular tile cleaning is essential to maintaining your tile flooring and keeping the work light on cleaning day. If you vacuum or sweep a few times a week — or at the first signs of dirt and debris — then you should really only need to mop every one to two weeks. The longer you wait between cleanings, the longer it’ll take to remove stuck-on grime and restore shine the next time.Why is my floor sticky after I mop?This is likely because the cleaning solution has not been properly rinsed from your floors. To avoid leaving residue behind on tile floors after cleaning, don’t skip the rinsing step. You’ll need to thoroughly rinse your bucket and microfiber cloth or mophead as you work across the floor in sections. It also helps to dry the floor with a soft, clean cloth versus letting it air dry. How do you keep tile floors shiny and clean between washes?One word: Prevention! You want to stop dirt and debris from coming into your home in the first place. Putting door mats at entry points and taking shoes off before you walk through the house is a quick and easy way to limit the amount of cleaning you’ll have to do later. Wiping up spills as they happen and vacuuming regularly helps keep tile floors cleaner too.Related StoriesTaryn 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

The concept of home may seem simple, but depending on who you ask, you’ll find that each of our individual experiences shape the definition. Take the creatives we spoke with here — every artist, designer, influencer and entrepreneur has a unique take on what home means, and how to curate one to reflect and honor not just their style, but also their culture. For many on our list, decorating goes well beyond the latest trends. It’s all about creating a space of calmness and healing. For others, home serves as an outlet that sparks the imagination, while some see it as the ultimate haven for rest.You’ll quickly learn that the beauty of home, particularly the beauty of the Black home, is ever-changing and always evolving, giving us endless inspiration. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playPhoebe CheongChristopher Griffin, Plantfluencer and Author of You Grow, GurlIf you’re a plant connoisseur, you may have heard of Christopher, who also goes by the Instagram username, @plantkween. The Brooklyn-based creative’s apartment is filled with gorgeous greenery — a space they describe as being “calm water where I can float effortlessly in my magic, beauty and light.” Christopher doesn’t shy away from color. In fact, they love decorating with warm shades, bold textures, unique prints and fun shapes. Their overall belief: “Minimalist does not have to mean plain, dahling!” “As a Black queer, non-binary individual, I am constantly reimagining my existence in this world, re-creating and re-shaping spaces to fit my needs, and challenging the white, heterosexist and gendered status quo this world tries to box our bodies into. It’s a beautiful feeling to just live without waves pushing and crashing into your existence. My home is my happy place that allows for moments of reflection, rejuvenation and relaxation, so that I can refill myself to be able to strut back into those waves when I walk out my front door.”Shop Christopher Griffin’s FavoritesTerracotta Tabletop PlantersNow 29% OffCredit: Plant Kween Phoenix Wallpaper in Naturale Credit: JungalowYoung, Gifted & Black Banner Credit: Rayo and Honey Julia MuseTenisha Wilde, Founder of Ten Wilde Tenisha Wilde curated her home to allow herself to dream big. In her “sacred space,” you’ll experience a bright and airy vibe, thanks to a mix of natural light, plants and candles. “As a creative and entrepreneur, how I design my space is incredibly important to me as it sets the tone for my entire day and helps me get into the right mindset. I’ve traveled all over the world, along with being born and raised in California, so all of these places have become a part of me. My home is a sanctuary that reflects this, and a place where I draw inspiration from and bring to life in my jewelry designs. Two of my absolute favorite places to take inspiration from have been Tulum and Italy — for the nature aspects, interior design and beautiful architecture.”Shop Tenisha Wilde’s FavoritesSpiced Vanilla Soy Candle Credit: Lulu Candles Matisse ArtCredit: HesenDot Artificial Silk Bird of Paradise Palm Tree Credit: DEFLECTAIRJudith RitaDorcas Magbadelo, Founder of Dorcas Creates “Home to me is a safe space where I cultivate joy,” says Dorcas Magbadelo, a UK-based artist with a passion for creating illustrations that celebrate Black women. As a self-described eclectic maximalist, Dorcas’ home is a reflection of her personality and interests.Related Story”I try to find joy in the small things day to day: drinking my favorite coffee in a mug made by a friend, dancing (badly!) in the kitchen with my flatmate while we cook dinner, a new leaf peeking out from a plant I’d accidentally neglected. I want people to feel cozy and serene in my space. I like to add color to my home in different forms — lots of plants, bright book covers, embroidered cushions, patterned cookware, literally everything!”Shop Dorcas Magbadelo’s FavoritesAfro Woman PaintingCredit: CharDyceArtOnda and Sol Cork Vase Duo Now 37% OffCredit: Mind the Cork Ifeoluwa Wall Art Credit: Dorcas Creates Christopher PittAfter moving to New York in 2008 to study at the Fashion Institute of Technology, James Bianca found that her design approach is the same as her fashion sense. She calls it “timeless eclectic.” Her love for refined and long-lasting pieces inspires her collection of vintage and handmade decor. “My current apartment was a quarantine project, so I focused on making a space where myself and others would feel equal parts joy and peace. I curated color stories that are playful, yet soothing. I mixed in fabrics, like velvet, that are sumptuous and cozy. I always know that I’ve struck a great balance when people struggle to leave. My greatest design influence growing up was Ralph Lauren. I was always drawn to his timeless style, which never felt old or outdated. It’s as if he was curating a person’s full life and that has always had a great impact on me.”Shop James Bianca’s FavoritesGlass Bud Vases Credit: Monique LhuillierNeutral Hemp Pillow CoverNow 20% OffCredit: TShajOrganic Metal TraysCredit: West Elm Courtesy of Jason EvegeJason Evege, Founder of LinotoWhen asked to share his definition of home, Jason had three words: natural, authentic and comfortable. These are the same points that influenced him to create Linoto, which offers high-quality linen sheets.”Most of my furniture, plants, vases and lamps are things I’ve had for many years and purchased inexpensively when they spoke to me at vintage shops and thrift stores. Owning fewer quality things from natural materials like stone, metal, linen, wool or wood enhances the quality of time spent at home. I was influenced by the interiors of Christian Lacroix and Renzo Mongiardino. I don’t like clutter so there is a more sparse feel.”Shop Jason Evege’s FavoritesMinka Textured PotCredit: Anthropologie Stoneware Salad Plate SetsCredit: Bunny MillHouse Helper Treeless Linen TowelsCredit: LinotoMarie Zoumanigui”Our homes reflect who we are — it’s like our signature,” says Tania. The New York City-based fashion blogger of Darling Tee, follows a minimalist approach in her home. The design phrase she lives by: less is definitely more!”I find having lighter decor makes me feel brighter and upbeat, which I find especially helpful while living in a city that can be so gloomy 24/7. I tend to stick to neutral tones (white, black, beige and gold) and I crave a lovely home scent, whether it be candles, diffusers or Glade Plug Ins. There’s nothing more invigorating.”Shop Tania Cascilla’s FavoritesRattan Storage BasketCredit: H&MCrisp Champagne Classic CandleCredit: Voluspa Large Glass VaseCredit: H&MJulie SmithBrooke Lang, Principal Designer and Owner of Brooke Lang Design”My home is my safe harbor,” says Brooke. “It’s where I feel comfortable, relaxed and most like myself. A few years back, Brooke and her husband purchased a fixer-upper mid-century home in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago. It was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic that they started renovating the home. For Brooke, the experience is exciting, as they get “closer to completing their shared vision of a home that feels like their own.””My husband, Maverick, our Goldendoodle, and I enjoy entertaining, so we’ve knocked down some walls to create a more fluid, open-space concept that’s more inviting and conducive to having people over. To achieve our version of “livable luxury” in our home, we prioritized luxurious and functional drapery, statement lighting, masculine lines, mixed textures, and blending modern with vintage where we can. Lastly, I love weaving in pops of unexpected flair into every room, whether it’s coral pink dining chairs in bouclé fabric, a wall mirror in an irregular shape or a patterned marble floor tile in the entryway.”Shop Brooke Lang’s Favorites Artificial Tulip Silk FlowersCredit: Mandy’s Black Abstract Art PrintNow 30% OffCredit: Everstone Prints Asha Speckled Cement Knotted Taper Candle HolderCredit: CB2courtesyShelcy and Christy Joseph, Founders of NYC X Studio According to Shelcy and Christy Joseph, two Haitian sisters with a passion for lifestyle and fashion, home is a place (or person!) that makes you feel at peace. “Growing up, we were always drawn to the hand-carved pieces of furniture we’d see in our parents’ house and at street fairs in Haiti. It gave us an appreciation for labor and the wonders of hands. We’ve since translated that influence into a design aesthetic that blends earthy elements with the modern eccentric. This means sculpted wooden coffee tables, wabi-sabi accents, fuzzy bouclé seating and decor pieces in mostly brown, green, warm yellow, beige and orange shades. The idea is to feel both warm and inspired when you step into our individual homes.”Shop Shelcy and Christy’s FavoritesPleated Lamp ShadeCredit: Urban OutfittersAster Catch-All DishNow 14% OffCredit: Urban OutfittersWaverly Wooden Bean MirrorNow 24% OffCredit: Urban OutfittersRelated StoryAssistant 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

In the process of getting all cleaned up in the shower, your shower door can become quite the opposite. When it comes to cleaning a glass shower door in particular, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind so your walk-in shower door looks as good as new. Removing stubborn hard water stains and soap scum can be such a chore, but a cloudy shower door can put a damper on the evening of self-care you had in mind. Thankfully, you can clean a glass shower door in no time with a vinegar cleaning solution made from items you probably already have under your bathroom or kitchen sink. Our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab have also tested shower cleaners and overall bathroom cleaners if you want to supplement our DIY recommendation. These products can help with upkeep of your shower door and maintain its sparkling shine in between weekly or monthly cleans. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playContinue reading to learn how to clean a glass shower door with vinegar and to gain advice on maintaining your door’s gleam post-shower. We also recommend the best cleaning products to have on-hand in case of more difficult stains.How to clean a glass shower doorWhat You’ll NeedDistilled white vinegarWaterDishwashing liquidSpray bottleSpongeMicrofiber cloth Combine ingredients: Add equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add dishwashing liquid: Pour 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid into the spray bottle. Let sit: Spritz solution onto shower door and let sit for 15 minutes. Wipe clean: After 15 minutes, use a microfiber cloth to wipe clean. For heavy build-up scrub with a delicate scrubber or eraser-type sponge. Dry: Rinse and buff dry.How often should you clean your glass shower door?The best way to keep your glass door spotless is to wipe water away with a squeegee on a daily basis. We recommend the Casabella Silicone Squeegee as it grabs water in a single pass and has over 1,500 reviews on Amazon. Not only will a squeegee remove water, but it can also wipe away mold and mildew.You can treat your shower with the vinegar solution on a weekly basis, and use shower cleaners per manufacturer’s instructions whether that be monthly or more frequently. How to remove hard water stains If you notice cloudy spots on your shower door, chances are these are hard water stains. These stains are caused when water contains high levels of “hard” minerals such as magnesium, calcium and iron. After you shower, chalky white stains are left behind as the water dries. Fortunately, you can easily remove hard water stains with the same vinegar solution mentioned above. It is important to stay on top of this shower treatment as hard water stains can become permanent if left unremoved. How to remove soap scum Soap scum forms when oil- or grease-based ingredients react with minerals in water. You can use the same distilled vinegar, water and dishwashing liquid combination to remove this chalky, white residue from your shower door, or opt for CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Action Cleaner. This 2020 Good Housekeeping Cleaning Award winner can remove soap scum and hard water stains. A double win! For a DIY solution, you can mix baking soda with water to form a paste. Or you can use a scrubber like Good Housekeeping Seal star Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath.What doesn’t clean a glass shower door?While homemade vinegar solutions and shower cleaners targeted for doors can clear up hard water stains, soap scum and leftover residue from your most recent shower, there are certain cleaning products that are best to skip for cleaning a glass door.One popular concept is using dryer sheets. However, if you use fresh dryer sheets to clean your glass shower door, you will likely deposit the fabric softener from the sheets. You could use used dryer sheets as a DIY cloth if you don’t have a microfiber cloth on hand. Bottom line: Keep this handy laundry product by the washer and dryer unless you want to repurpose used ones.More tips to keep your glass shower door cleanNow that you know how to clean your glass shower door on a daily, weekly and monthly basis, here are some expert tips on how to maintain your shower door’s shine:Wipe away water, mold and mildew with a squeegee every day.Keep your shower door dry. If you live in an area with high levels of magnesium and calcium minerals in your water, treat your door with cleaning solutions that target hard water stains. Deal with tough stains and problem areas using specific shower cleaning products. Opt for CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover to remove hard water stains, limescale and rust stains. Treat your glass shower door with a protectant such as EnduroShield Glass Treatment Kit. Our Lab tests found the product successfully repelled water so future cleaning is easier. Updates EditorElizabeth Berry (she/her) is the Updates Editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she optimizes lifestyle content across verticals. Prior to this role, she was an Editorial Assistant for Woman’s Day where she covered everything from gift guides to recipes. She also has experience fact checking commerce articles and holds a B.A. in English and Italian Studies from Connecticut College. More