Aurelia Butler

While the upfront cost of a dishwasher may seem like a significant investment, this kitchen workhorse is a luxury that’s hard to live without — saving precious time, energy and water while delivering superior cleanliness and hygiene.Today’s best dishwashers offer an array of convenience features that ensure exceptional cleaning performance alongside user-friendly operation. But what key factors should guide your purchase decision? The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab break it all down to help you make the most informed choice.Top Dishwasher QuestionsWhat makes a good dishwasher? ✔️ Cleaning Performance: When we test dishwashers, we soil various types of dishes, from plates and bowls to glassware and cookware. We then load them into each appliance, skipping the pre-rinse. The best models eliminate tough, greasy, starchy messes while ensuring dishes come out clean, dry and spot-free. ✔️ Smart Features and Flexibility: We test multiple cycles on each machine, including special options and any compatible app (if available). Many modern dishwashers now feature WiFi connectivity for cycle monitoring and automatic detergent reordering. We also assess the capacity and flexibility of racks, trays and baskets to ensure they can accommodate a variety of dishware. The best models offer adjustable racks, specialized holders for wine stems and third racks for utensils. Ease of use, loading and programming are also key considerations.✔️ Energy and Water Efficiency: An energy-efficient dishwasher is not only better for the environment but can also save you money in the long run. We evaluate and rate each appliance based on its energy consumption and efficiency. Look for Energy Star certification and wash options that optimize water usage while maintaining cleaning power.✔️ Quiet operation: No dishwasher is completely silent, but we prioritize models that clean effectively while operating quietly. Typically, we consider a dishwasher very quiet if it runs at around 40 dBA or below. Prior to testing the cleaning performance of various cycles, we uniformly apply, then bake-, dry- and burn-on mac and cheese, hamburger, oatmeal, egg yolk, milk and more to cookware, dishes, glasses and utensils.What should you consider when buying a dishwasher?✔️ Size and Configuration: Most dishwashers are 24-inch built-in, under-the-counter models. However, for smaller kitchens that can’t accommodate a full-size unit, some brands offer 18-inch models. If space is especially limited, a portable dishwasher is another option. These units, often on wheels, feature finished sides, water hookups that connect to a sink faucet and sometimes even butcher-block tops for added functionality. Countertop dishwashers are another small-space option.✔️ Dishwasher Tub: Dishwashers typically feature interiors made of either stainless steel or plastic. Both can be durable, but we generally prefer stainless steel, which is now standard in all but the most budget-friendly models. Stainless steel is superior because it retains heat for better drying, resists stains and odors and offers greater long-term durability.✔️ Rack Design and Adjustability: Many modern dishwashers feature three racks: the standard two plus a shallow top tray designed to replace the traditional flatware basket. This setup frees up space on the bottom rack, allowing for better spacing and more thorough cleaning. Some models also include fold-down shelves for stacking cups, adjustable or removable tines to accommodate large or oddly shaped items, stemware clips and even pop-up holders for vases and decanters.When shopping in a showroom, slide the racks in and out to check for sturdiness and smooth operation, and test how easily they adjust. If you have a specific platter or plate you want to ensure fits, consider bringing it with you to the store.✔️ Cycle Options: Basic models with a limited number of cycles are the most budget-friendly, but many dishwashers now offer a wide variety of wash options, including:Auto or Smart Wash: Dishwashers equipped with soil sensors will have cycles called “Auto” or “Smart Wash.” These cycles adjust the length of the cycle and the amount of water to better match how dirty the dishes are. Lightly soiled loads require less time and water, while heavily soiled dishes get a longer wash with hotter water for better cleaning.Heavy-Duty: Best for dishwasher-safe pots and pans that need extra scrubbing power.Speed Cycle: Ideal for lightly soiled items you need quickly, like extra glasses or flatware during a party. Many models offer a one-hour wash-and-dry cycle.Quick Rinse or Rinse Only: Useful when you don’t have enough items for a full load but want to prevent food from drying on dishes.Dry Boosting: Enhances drying, especially for glassware and plastic, to reduce spots and excess moisture. This feature may be labeled as Turbo Dry or Extra Dry on some models.Delay Start: Allows you to schedule the wash cycle for later, such as during off-peak energy hours or overnight when household water usage is lower.Sanitizing Cycle: Uses a high-heat rinse to kill bacteria, making it ideal when someone in the household is sick. Look for NSF certification to ensure the cycle meets proper sanitization standards.China or Delicate Cycle: Designed for fragile glassware and fine china, providing a gentler wash.Half-Load Cycle: Optimized for smaller loads, washing only items in the top or bottom rack to conserve water and energy. ✔️ Control Panel Design: Electronic touchpads not only offer a sleek look but are also easier to clean — just a quick swipe with a sponge removes smudges and spills. In contrast, push buttons can trap dirt and grime, making them harder to clean. (A good middle ground is rubberized mechanical touchpads, which function like buttons but have a flatter design for easier maintenance.)For an even more streamlined appearance, consider integrated or hidden controls that are only visible when the door is open. While typically found on higher-end models, these designs can be worth the investment for both aesthetics and ease of cleaning. Plus, hidden controls are essential for paneled dishwashers that blend seamlessly with cabinetry.✔️ Child Lock: This feature prevents accidental starts or setting changes, ensuring the dishwasher operates as intended.When we test dishwashers, we assess the capacity and flexibility of all the racks, trays and baskets and evaluate how easy each dishwasher is to use, load and program.Which brand of dishwasher is most reliable?When it comes to the best appliance brands, LG, Miele, Bosch and GE Profile are all well-known for their reliability. These brands have proven to perform well in Good Housekeeping Institute testing, excelling in areas such as capacity, ease of use, loading, drying performance, energy efficiency, noise levels and more.Best Overall Miele Top Control Dishwasher with AutoDosBest ValueGE Profile UltraFresh Dishwasher with MicrobanNow 28% OffBest Under $500LG Front Control Dishwasher with SenseCleanNow 29% OffHow do I know if a dishwasher is energy-efficient?Appliances earn the Energy Star label from the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency when they significantly exceed minimum government standards for energy and water efficiency. This designation indicates that the appliance conserves resources and costs less to operate over time.Another way to gauge energy use is by checking the Energy Guide label, which estimates the model’s annual energy cost for both electric and gas water heaters. It also shows how the model compares to similar ones in terms of energy efficiency.Some dishwashers also include water-saving features to reduce waste. These may include:Rinse-and-Hold Cycle: Eliminates the need to pre-rinse dishes by hand.Hard Food Disposer: Prevents food particles from clogging the system, reducing the need for extra rinsing.Upper/Lower Rack Wash: Directs water to specific sections of the dishwasher, conserving both water and energy when washing smaller loads.What is considered quiet for a dishwasher?Unlike many other appliances, dishwasher manufacturers disclose the decibel (dB) rating of each model based on standardized testing. If you don’t see this information in-store, check the manufacturer’s website. The quietest dishwashers — typically higher-end models — operate at 40 dBA or below, ensuring minimal noise disruption in your home.How much should I expect to spend on a dishwasher?You can find a basic dishwasher with a standard finish and a few essential cycles for under $500. However, at this price point, you’ll likely miss out on features like a wide variety of cycles, sleek controls, adjustable racks, a panel-ready design that blends with cabinetry or ultra-quiet operation. For these premium features, expect to spend between $1,000 and $1,500.When is the best time of year to buy a dishwasher?You’ll find the biggest appliance sales around major holidays like Presidents’ Day and Black Friday, when retailers offer deep discounts on appliances. These events often include extra promotions beyond the standard rebates available throughout the year.The worst time to purchase a new appliance is when you’re in a rush — like when your old one suddenly breaks. If you notice your dishwasher is nearing the end of its lifespan, start shopping proactively to take advantage of the best deals.How long do dishwashers last?A well-maintained dishwasher typically lasts 10 to 15 years with proper use and care. Most manufacturers provide a one-year full warranty, covering both parts and labor. For repairs, it’s best to use a manufacturer-authorized service to ensure proper parts and avoid potential warranty issues.Beyond the first year, many brands offer limited warranties on parts like electronic controls and racks, often for five years or more, while some provide lifetime coverage for stainless steel tubs and doors against rust. Before your full warranty expires, test all cycles and features to ensure everything functions properly. Always review a model’s warranty terms before purchasing.Related StoriesBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York. More

There’s no doubt that spring has officially arrived. Days are brighter, temperatures are warmer, rain is nourishing the soil and blossoms are opening for the first time since last year. But that doesn’t mean gardeners are in the clear just yet for spring planting.The Old Farmer’s Almanac, a centuries-old weather predictor, just released its forecast for the last spring freeze across the United States, and gardeners may want to take note. Some regions are expected to see frost as late as June 24, while others have likely already experienced their last freeze. Find more information on your particular region below. Why does a frost map matter?An idea of when the last frost may occur in your area can be a good indicator of when to plant your fruits, vegetables and flowers for the most successful harvest. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, frost may damage or completely kill your crops. Planting prematurely may cause tender plants, such as tomatoes, cucumbers and watermelons, to die. Whereas, heartier plants such as kale, broccoli and parsely are likely to withstand a light freeze. For the most successful garden, it’s best to break ground after the last freeze or plant produce that can endure a dip below 32°F.Frost Date MapThe Old Farmer’s AlmanacWhile frost estimates do not guarantee a freeze within a set timeframe, they can act as an indicator of when temperatures may drop and affect your garden. You can head to the Old Farmer’s Almanac’s website and type in your exact zip code to get yours. Black Squares: Seen in regions with polarizing highs and lows, such as those in the Rocky Mountains and Florida Keys, black squares symbolize our country’s coldest and warmest regions, where the temperature is too extreme to predict the last frost.Dark Green Circles: Deep evergreen hues, found along the Rocky Mountains and northernmost regions of the United States, signify a June frost. While most of these areas are expected to see frost during the first week of the month, a few locations in Idaho, Colorado and New Mexico may see frost as late as the end of June. Green Shaded Circles: Moss-like circles covering much of the West, from Montana and Colorado to eastern Oregon and Nevada, are expected to see a mid-to-late May frost between the dates of May 16 to 31. Green Circles: Similar in color to that of a grassy lawn, light green circles, marking much of the northern Plains and New England, indicate an early May frost between the dates of May 1 to 15.Light Green Circles: Mint green in nature, pastel green circles, covering much of the nation’s corn belt in Iowa, Indiana and Ohio, symbolize a late April frost that could occur from April 16 to 30. Pastel Green Circles: Dots with the faintest hue of green, peppered across much of the southern Midwest, including Missouri and southern Illinois, are set to see an early April frost between the first and 14.Cream Circles: Areas sprinkled in a whitish cream, namely the upper half of the South, such as west Texas, Arkansas and North Carolina, are expected to have passed freezing temperatures, experiencing their last frost in late March.Light Purple Circles: Locations marked in a lavender hue across much of east Texas, Louisiana and the Florida panhandle are said to have experienced their last chill in early March. Purple Circles: Regions covered in a mid-tone purple, such as those near the Louisiana coast and around the Los Angeles area, are predicted to have seen their last frost or dip in temperatures in February.Dark Purple Circles: Those covered in a rich purple hue, like the circles around southern Florida and the desert region of California, are said to have experienced their last freeze in January.More Spring Garden InsightsKate Franke (she/her) is an editorial assistant in the Hearst Lifestyle Group, covering for Woman’s Day and Good Housekeeping. She loves all things lifestyle, home, and market related. Kate has a BAJMC in Magazine Media and BA in Writing from Drake University. She is a proud ASME alum whose work has appeared in Food Network Magazine, The Pioneer Woman Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Farmhouse Style, Beautiful Kitchens & Baths, and more. Next to writing, Kate’s two favorite things are chai lattes and pumpkin bread! More

If you’ve ever swooned over a quintessential Joanna Gaines room — layers of neutrals, natural materials and cozy textures — you’re in for a treat. The author and founder of Magnolia is giving fans a unique opportunity to learn more about her signature home style with a class on MasterClass that takes you behind the scenes of her design process. The key, says Joanna, is to get creative with your furnishings and layout so that you have a “story instead of stuff.” In light of her new launch, we reached out to the design star for her best tips for refreshing your home for spring. Joanna tells Good Housekeeping: “Spring is when everything comes back to life. It’s when nature reawakens and light pours in again throughout the house. It’s such a fresh-feeling season and I always want my home to reflect the shifts that are happening out in nature, so for me, the ideal spring decor is always going to come from a place of embracing nature and bringing the outdoors in.”Keep reading for Joanna’s best spring decorating advice.Related StoryClear the clutter.”Spring, more than any other season, feels like this fresh page, this blank slate—so I typically let that feeling inspire a bit of early spring cleaning around the house,” she says. “For me, that looks like decluttering, getting rid of all the non-essentials we’ve accumulated in the last year, paring back the decor and cleaning out drawers. It can feel a bit daunting at first, but I love the result.””Our home feels like it has space to breathe, and like we’ve made a way for fresh inspiration and creativity to move in. After that, I’ll light a candle and then head out to the garden to snip a few stems. If the only thing you do is edit a single room, you’ll love what happens to your perspective. With a little more breathing room, you’ll get to see the things you chose to keep and love with fresh, grateful eyes—and that’s a really beautiful place to start a new year.”Embrace nature.”Whether it’s through new plants and florals, I swap out my blankets and throw pillows for lighter fabrics like cotton and linen in a softer color palette or delicate pattern,” Joanna says. “Then I incorporate any natural elements, like woven baskets and ceramic pots, into different spaces. Texture that feels heirloom, like it was always there, has a way of warming up a space in a really natural, organic way.”Donna Ward//Getty ImagesIntroduce “small, simple swaps.””Making seasonal changes in your home should never feel like this big overhaul. It’s more about small, simple swaps that will cue you and those you live with to the changes happening in nature, and then intentionally making space to celebrate those changes in your home,” Joanna tells GH. “In our house, seasonal shifts look like swapping in seasonal stems and branches, bringing in colors and textures that reflect what’s happening in nature, and always a scent that defines the season we’re ushering in. For spring, it’s our Fresh Start and Linen candle at Magnolia.”Look to your yard. “The simplest thing you can do, especially in spring, is go forage in your own yard for early blooms or branches and give them a place on your dining table or kitchen counter in a vase that you love. It costs nothing, and I promise you’ll have so much fun getting outside and letting yourself be curious and creative,” she says. Don’t feel the urge to try every spring decor trend.”Like with most design and styling choices, balance is key. While I love the rhythm of swapping in a few new pieces each season, I never want my home to feel like this drastic shift is taking place,” Joanna says. “That can get costly, and feel fleeting. For me, it’s about keeping the heart of my home timeless and choosing furnishings that I know will be long-lasting, and then when it’s time to usher in a new season it’s fun to look for those small moments around my home where I can sprinkle in seasonal flourishes—maybe a new vase with freshly snipped stems, a new tea towel in my kitchen or playing up a pattern that feels reflective of the season. In spring, I’m always looking forward to ways I can bring in hints of gingham, stripes or block-print florals.”And consider Joanna’s class on MasterClass, which has decorating gems like this…Masterclass Joanna Gaines: Designing a Home That Tells Your Story”I really believe in this idea of creating “micro moments,” which are small vignettes in your home—think the top of a console, corner of a countertop or a single shelf—that you curate with your favorite things to create this incredibly meaningful little moment in your home. In my kitchen, I have this little micro moment by my sink. It’s a simple marble tray that I’ve styled with a few stems from the garden that I swap out seasonally, a tiny lamp and whatever “treasure” my son, Crew, has found that day. It’s so small that you might not even notice it at first glance, but when I’m standing there washing dishes, I can look over at that little slab of marble and my heart just swells. I just love the reminder that meaningful design doesn’t have to be grand or expensive. It’s those smaller moments of intention—a spring flower you love, art that speaks to you, a sentimental souvenir—that make all the difference.”Related StoriesMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

Summer homes often call for an open-door, barefoot vibe that permits both sandy daytime beach trips and elegant nighttime hosting. To maximize functionality, it’s key to properly pair the two, seamlessly integrating comfortable indoor entertainment spaces with stunning outdoor porches and patios.That’s exactly what the owners of this charming Cape Cod beach house requested of designers Peyton Lambton and Sarah Waldo of Washashore Home. Constructed by A3 Architects and Bannon Custom Builders in 2019, the beachfront abode exudes a coastal vibe, but with a twist. “It was such a fun project because it’s in Chatham, which is a very traditional part of Cape Cod, and the exterior has a very distinct look. She wanted it to be a little bit more unexpected on the inside. She really wanted this bright, fun and relaxed vibe where friends and family come to visit,” says Lambton. Tasked with adding an element of playfulness throughout the home, Lambton and Waldo went to work. The duo relied on pops of color, wood accents and mixed textures to bring it to life. Relax indoors in the living room, or head out for some sun.Dan CutronaSip your morning coffee on the comfort of your own couch or take it outdoors for some much-needed sunlight. Either way, these areas work together to create one cohesive space the homeowners can enjoy.”The focus on the back was having this whole indoor-outdoor feel. So, if you wanted to lay on a lounge chair to get some sun, you have that option as well.”Stay protected from the elements in the screened-in porch.Dan CutronaDan CutronaTake a step further into the dining room to experience another example of the flawless integration between the indoors and outdoors. Dine at the table, or spend time in the covered deck area. “The sliders could be opened to the screened-in porch so that you’re protected from the elements,” says Lambton.Texture — particularly wood accents — was also important to this home’s bright, beachy vibe. “We wanted to layer textures not only with the fabrics, mixing solids and prints, but then also adding in different layers of wood with the table,” she adds. Enter the coastal blue kitchen.Dan CutronaWith blue cabinets already integrated into the kitchen, the design team at Washashore Home had to think outside the box in order to take this classic coastal kitchen to the next level.”We were able to bring in that really fun Walter G. Tangier Denim Linen fabric on the stools just to give it a punch. You see blue kitchens in coastal homes all the time, but we wanted to take it up a notch. It’s the unexpected elements in this house that made it stand apart from other Cape homes we’ve done,” says Lambton.Watch the sunrise or doze off at sunset.Dan CutronaDan CutronaAlthough they each have their own distinct vibe, both bedrooms still feel coastal in their own right. The primary bedroom, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, is all about comfort and texture, pairing a charming woven bed frame with a cozy, lightweight waffle comforter. “You can wake up to these stunning views, but then you can also sneak away with a book or a cup of coffee in the corner and watch the sunrise,” says Lambton.In the guest bedroom, the focus was on the bold blue bed frame the homeowners already owned. Not willing to conform fully to typical all-blue coastal design, Lambton and Waldo went for an unexpected wallpaper choice.”Adding in the Anna French Cairo green and white wallpaper was the perfect way to kind of break up the blue but still make it coastal and interesting. The print on the wallpaper gave it a little bit of a traditional yet tropical vibe in there,” says Lambton.Host friends in the bunk room.Dan CutronaEveryone wants to visit a beach house. So when it comes to sleeping arrangements, it’s always helpful to have as many beds as possible. Enter, the bunk room.”It was one of my favorite bunk rooms we’ve done, just because the wood that was chosen really felt like drift wood. It had this worn feel that wasn’t brand new, slick, shiny wood. The builder was so strategic with where to put storage because there was just a very small closet in that room,” says Lambton.Dan CutronaRelated StoryLounge around in the bonus room. Dan CutronaDoubling as an at-home yoga studio and game room, the homeowners wanted an area everyone could enjoy for their own purposes. Whether guests are just looking to take a step away from the high-traffic areas of the house or simply want to take in another view of the ocean, this is the space to be.”The plan there was to put two day beds that can pull out into full beds. I love to have a space that can be whatever you need it to be. This can be a place for somebody to sneak off and have a nap. It can be a place for someone to do yoga, because it opens up onto another porch with a beautiful view of the water. This room was a lot of fun because it can serve so many different purposes,” says Lambton. More Beautiful HomesLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

As much as I try to stay organized, it always seems like my kids’ toys take over the house. LEGO bricks somehow find their way to the living room floor. A pile of Squishmallows regularly end up in a corner of my son’s bedroom, and it’s not uncommon for our ever-growing stash of board games, cards and jigsaw puzzles to overflow in a storage bin or two. Whether you share a small apartment or a spacious home with your children, I’m pretty sure you can relate. That’s why I checked in with professional organizer (and fellow mom), Tonia Tomlin, to find out exactly how to declutter toys, so you and I can get our homes in order once and for all. “Decluttering kids’ toys not only creates a more organized space, but it also fosters a sense of responsibility, focus and calm in children,” Tomlin says. “It helps them understand the importance of taking care of their belongings and creates a more peaceful environment for learning and playing.”Keep reading for all of Tomlin’s helpful decluttering tips. Streamline Your HouseBegin with a clean slate. Be it the playroom or a spot in the family room, you need to start fresh and decide on a dedicated area for your children’s toys. “Before sorting toys, clear the area entirely,” Tomlin says. “It will give you a good perspective on what you have and make it easier to assess what to keep, donate or toss.”Sort and purge.Once you clear the area, start by categorizing all the toys by type. For instance, put stuffed animals together, building blocks together and educational toys together. “This will help you see the overall quantity and variety,” Tomlin says.This is also a good time to examine each toy, separating any that are broken or no longer appealing to your kids. Tomlin recommends keeping duplicates to a minimum, too: “Keep one or two of each type of toy, unless they serve a specific developmental purpose.” You can donate the rest if they are in good condition. Roberto Jimenez Mejias//Getty ImagesLet your child participate.”Depending on your child’s age, allow them to be part of the process,” Tomlin says. Kids enjoy feeling a sense of independence, so it’s a good idea to give them an opportunity to take part in the decision-making. Let them share what toys they want to keep and those they’re comfortable parting ways with. “It encourages mindful thinking about what to keep, which can also help them develop skills in letting go and prioritizing what truly matters.” Consider donating unwanted toys.Every child outgrows toys as their interests change over time. If you happen to have toys in good condition that they no longer use, go ahead and donate them to charity. “This helps others in need and prevents the clutter from taking over your home,” Tomlin says.Incorporate clear storage bins.Using clear storage bins that can be easily stacked and labeled is a simple way to help keep your home in order. You can even take it a step further by using color-coded bins to organize different types of toys. “This way, your child will know where everything goes, making cleanup easier,” Tomlin says. “I also like to use my photo printer and add photos of the toys to the bins — kids love this.”Rotate toys regularly.Any parent knows that kids tend to get bored quickly. One minute they’re obsessed with a toy, the next minute, they never want to see it again. The fix? “Instead of keeping every toy out at once, rotate a selection of toys every few weeks. This keeps playtime fresh and prevents overwhelm. Plus, it makes toys feel ‘new’ again, so they’re more exciting to your child.” Take advantage of vertical space. Small-space dwellers, this is especially important for your setup. Using shelves and wall-mounted racks to organize toys are great ways to maximize vertical space. “This keeps items off the floor and creates more space for playing,” Tomlin says. Weave in double-duty furniture.Don’t underestimate the convenience of multipurpose furniture — it’s essential if you live in a small space. Shop for ottomans with built-in storage or a toy chest that’s complete with cushioned seating kids can use. “This hides the clutter but keeps toys easily accessible,” Tomlin says. Teach clean-up habits early. “As your child grows, encourage them to clean up after playtime,” Tomlin says. “You can make it fun by turning it into a game or singing a clean-up song.” Once they get used to cleaning up after themselves, they’ll come to appreciate maintaining an organized space on a day-to-day basis. Plus, according to Tomlin, “a well-organized space can even enhance creativity and imaginative play.”Shop wisely for new toys. Once you’ve decluttered the toys in your home, be mindful of the new ones that come into your space. “When gifting toys, ask friends and family for experiences or practical items instead,” Tomlin says. “If new toys are received, make sure there’s space for them by removing old ones first.”Simplify your toy collection. “Fewer toys can actually encourage more imaginative play,” Tomlin says. Aim to make their toy collection as manageable as possible. Your child will feel less stressed and find it easier to stay organized after each and every play session. “This will help everyone in the family enjoy a tidier, more functional space.” Related StoriesMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More

No matter the circumstances, selling your house is stressful. It’s a time-consuming process that involves complex paperwork and important financial decisions, like when to list your house and how to market it to find the right buyer. But there’s one thing you do to score a bigger check from homebuyers: Sell your house in the spring.A new Zillow analysis of 1.6 million home sales in 2024 found that homes listed in the last two weeks of May sold for 1.6% more — about $5,600 on the average U.S. home. More in Real Estate”Spring is when most buyers are out shopping,” says Amanda Pendleton, home trends expert at Zillow. “The weather is mild, so it’s easy to get around to open houses and showings. Flowers are blooming and homes look better when the front yard isn’t covered with snow. But most importantly, a spring purchase allows a homebuyer to get settled before their summer vacation and the new school year begins.” It’s no surprise that a home will sell for more money when more buyers are competing for it. If they know others are interested, a buyer is more likely to make a competitive offer and act quickly to avoid a bidding war. Country wide, the second half of May was the best time to list in 2024, but Zillow’s research found the ideal time can vary widely by metropolitan area. It was as early as the second half of March in San Diego and Austin, and as late as the second half of November in Phoenix. For many cities, the first half of May was best: New York City, Denver, Orlando, Las Vegas and Kansas City. Other major cities found the highest prices in April: Los Angeles, Dallas, San Fransisco and Washington, D.C. “While there are some exceptions, real estate typically heats up in the spring, slows down slightly by late summer, sees another brief window of activity in the early fall and then cools off in the winter,” says Pendleton. Keep in mind: Zillow’s research is based on 2024 home sales and it’s not certain this year’s spring home buying season will follow last year’s pattern. The reality is most sellers don’t have the luxury of waiting for the right time to sell. “They might be experiencing life events that can’t wait — they’re starting a new job or have a new baby on the way,” says Pendleton. “An experienced local real estate agent will be able to help buyers find the best sale strategy, no matter the season.” Related StoriesAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries. More

Gray has long been a go-to color choice in the design world. It’s a safe pick for walls, furniture, rugs, decorative accessories, you name it. But now? Interior designers say enough is enough. Gray is on its way out! It makes sense since so far, 2025 has been a year of living boldly. More and more people are taking the opportunity to express themselves freely through color. Considering this shift (and the fact that I follow design trends for a living), I couldn’t help but poll some interior designers to find out exactly why they’ve had enough of all things gray. severija//Getty ImagesWhy is gray no longer trending? The answer is simple for interior designer Gail Davis of Gail Davis Design. “While gray is a neutral and soothing for some, we live in color,” Davis says. “I want to live where color saturates a space, and I share this with clients. Color is exciting, and we should be excited to live life.”Tiffanni Reidy, founder of Reidy Creative, shares a similar sentiment, noting that “exciting design choices are making a comeback” and homeowners are no longer afraid of choosing bold interior colors, even if they intend to move or sell their property down the road. “People were hesitant to personalize their space, ignoring tiles they were excited by, cabinets they preferred and furniture in colors they love because of a future ‘what if.’ The all-gray aesthetic is used by teams that renovate homes to sell, and developers constructing new homes. The idea that if a home is entirely gray it can be for anyone, is akin to the idea that if a home is painted black it’s suddenly ‘modern.’ The argument simply doesn’t hold up.””Gray has been a neutral, versatile color in design for nearly a decade,” adds Autumn Pochiro of Autumn Dawn Design. “However, the hue has overstayed its welcome as a foundational color for walls, furniture and cabinetry.”Related StoryWhat do designers prefer instead of gray? Designer Blair Britt of Bella B Home Designs says people are leaning into colors that are “warmer, cozier and more dramatic, such as warm neutrals, browns, olives, even pops of color.”Stephanie Brown has noticed the move to earth tones as well — but not just when it comes to paint color choices. “The shift towards these warmer shades has been noticeable in everything from marble and tile selections to rugs, furniture and decor.””The cool gray neutral base is being replaced by a warmer palette of creams, blues and greens, accented by a striking contrast of color,” says Pochiro.If you’re really up for experimenting, designer Matthew Williamson says pink is a visually appealing option. “I’ve been using a soft plaster pink on the walls at home, and I find it to be the perfect balance. It’s warm without being overwhelming, and it offers a level of sophistication and depth that gray lacks. This soft, neutral pink feels like a fresh alternative, more interesting than beige and white but still incredibly versatile. It’s a new neutral for today’s interiors.” But if you just can’t bring yourself to part ways with gray, by all means feel free to use it in your space. After all, your home is about you and what you really love. “If gray complements the overall aesthetic of a space, I will use it regardless of trends,” says Amy McCoy of McCoy Design Studio.More Design InspirationMonique Valeris is the home design director for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More