Aurelia Butler

Whether your home is cooled by a central air conditioning system or you have window units placed throughout, air conditioners — like humidifiers, refrigerators and vacuum cleaners — need routine cleaning and maintenance to last through years of use and keep you and your family cool and comfortable all summer long. Dust and dirt that build up on the filters and internal parts cause these important home comfort appliances to work harder and less efficiently, making them more likely to break down. Plus, who wants dust and allergens spewing back into the air your family breathes? Related StoriesAccording to Dan DiClerico, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab, “Seasonal top-to-bottom maintenance check-ups of a home’s central air conditioning condenser, coolants, ductwork and more are best left to professional services, but there are things you can do yourself to help keep your unit — whether window or central — pumping out cool, dry air all season.”Note: Before attempting to clean any air conditioner, check your model’s owner’s manual or the company’s website for cleaning recommendations and precautions to keep from voiding the manufacturer’s warranty on your unit. How to clean a central air conditionerWe checked the cleaning and maintenance recommendations of Carrier, a major manufacturer of central air conditioning systems. They suggest these cleaning steps to keep the exterior and interior parts of your home’s central air conditioning humming. How to clean the outdoor condenser and compressor It’s best to tackle this cleaning job at the very start of the season and then just clean away debris whenever you see it, such as after a storm.Cut back any shrubs or plants from around the unit that may be blocking the airflow. Two feet of clearance will allow air to circulate freely, giving the unit room to breathe.Sweep away any loose debris that’s accumulated around the base. Remove leaves, twigs or anything stuck in the grille slats with a shop vacuum, utility vacuum or brush.Turn off the circuit breaker and unplug the unit before undertaking any wet cleaning steps. Wash away dried, stuck-on dirt from the sides and top grilles with a brush dipped in a sudsy water solution. With a garden hose held at a 45-degree angle, rinse away the detergent from the outside and, without removing the outer grille, flush as much dirt as you can from the interior coils too. Note: Never use a power washer to clean the coils. The strong force can damage them. Some sites recommend removing the outer grille to better clean the coils and straighten any bent fins. We think this is best left to a professional. Serenethos//Getty ImagesHow to clean interior vents and filtersMake cleaning interior vent covers and swapping out filters part of your regular cleaning routine. Vacuum the slats of wall, ceiling and floor registers where the cool air blows into a room with your vacuum’s soft dusting brush tool. Check and replace the return-air vent filter (where the air from your house goes back out to be cooled) every three months or so, depending on your home and family needs. Active homes with pets or allergy-sufferers should replace it every month or two. Homes where the air conditioning isn’t constantly running or where heavier filters are installed can go longer, maybe even up to a year, between replacements.How to clean a window air conditionerAlways give window units a cleaning before installing them in the spring and again before storing them for the winter. Then, follow these steps mid-season as needed. Regularly vacuum the front grilles, body and control panel with a soft dusting brush tool to remove loose dirt. If needed, wipe areas clean with a slightly damp cloth. Check the foam filter monthly. If needed, vacuum it on low suction with the upholstery tool to remove dirt, lint and hair. If the foam filter is very dirty, dip it in warm, sudsy water to clean it and then rinse well. Allow it to air dry thoroughly before placing it back into the air conditioner. If your unit has a remote control, clean it regularly with a moist — not wet — cloth or disinfecting wipe. Remove the batteries before doing so and make sure no moisture works its way inside.This is also a good time to inspect the seals around the unit to make sure cold air isn’t escaping. Any leaks should be sealed with weatherstripping.The takeawayIn short, all air conditioners need regular maintenance and cleaning to work their best. Each spring and once or so mid-season, clear away exterior debris, vacuum or wash dirt from vents and grilles and change or wash filters as the unit’s manufacturer recommends. For more in-depth maintenance of central air conditioning systems or if anything malfunctions, it’s best to call a professional. Related StoriesCarolyn 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

Antiques never fail to inject a dose of old-school charm and character into a room. Whether it’s an oil painting above the mantel or a stylish console in an entryway, these secondhand furniture pieces have a way of taking any room from basic to unique. Antique shopping is more popular than ever as retro designs come back into style and consumers increasingly reject disposable home decor. With a heightened focus on sustainable living, more people are choosing to invest in quality pieces that are built to last a lifetime. But if you’re new to the world of antique shopping, you may have lots of questions: What should I look for in an antique? Can I negotiate the price? What should I never buy at a flea market? To help you find one-of-a-kind treasures and score great deals, we spoke to Patrick Dragonette, an antiques dealer and founder of Dragonette Ltd. “Knowledge is your best friend,” he says (and we couldn’t agree more).From conducting thorough research before venturing out to learning what to look for and how to negotiate the price, this beginner’s guide will tell you what you need to know.Design by Ashley Montgomery Design, Photo by Lauren MillerHow to Shop for Antiques✔️ Create a Shopping ListThe first step is to stay focused on exactly what you’re looking for. If you’re on the hunt for a piece of living room furniture or artwork for a specific spot in your home, take careful measurements and snap pictures of the space to reference when shopping. Browse inspiration online and take notice of various design styles, eras and color palettes that you’re drawn to. Sure, you may come across unexpected treasures while antiquing, but knowing your personal style and narrowing down your search is key.✔️ Do Your HomeworkYou’ll have better luck antiquing if you have a bit of background knowledge. For example, if you’re on the hunt for an Art Deco console table, educate yourself on the style, research popular furniture makers of the time and study distinguishing details that are characteristic to this specific piece of furniture. “In many cases, objects can have identifying marks, as can artworks, and if you understand the marks, that can make all the difference,” says Dragonette, who adds that these markings can help you expect what to pay.Inspired by CharmDraw inspiration from Michael Wurm Jr. of Inspired by Charm and create a gallery wall with vintage art in the living room.✔️ Shop AroundThere’s no shortage of places to find great antiques. If the piece you’re shopping for involves a significant financial investment, purchasing from a reliable and reputable dealer is essential. Here are some places to check out:✔️ Carefully Inspect the PiecePay attention to details, carefully eyeing pieces from every angle — and don’t rush a purchase. For example, if you’re checking out a bedroom dresser, look at every area including the back and the bottom — even if you have to kneel down and get a little dirty! Open cabinet doors and drawers, check hardware and look for potential damage, such as chips and cracks, as well as a signature, maker’s label and the year it was made. Careful inspection provides clues to whether the piece is an original or an imitation, reveals its condition and helps you make a more informed offer.As for finding labels, Dragonette says, “Sometimes it’s very direct and other times ciphers or coded marks can be used.” He explains that furniture can be a little trickier, since in many cases, it will not be marked. That’s where another piece of advice comes in handy — don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions. Lisa RomereinEnhance the look of a low-profile headboard by placing antique artwork just a few inches above it.✔️ Make an OfferUnlike buying clothes or groceries, shopping for antiques typically allows room for negotiating the price — a valuable skill that takes practice! While it’s not uncommon to offer a lower amount than the listing price, Dragonette says, “If there’s a big gap in the asking price and offer, it might be better to say something like, “I really like this but I’m afraid it’s out of my price range. What would you be willing to accept? I can pay cash.”If the seller accepts your offer, Dragonette advises against backtracking and saying you want to think about it. “My advice regarding negotiations is never make an offer if you are not ready to stand behind it.”Before making an offer, ask yourself the following questions: Is the price on par with similar pieces you’ve seen? What is the highest amount you are willing to pay?Is the item in good condition or will it require repairs that will cost additional money? Design by Mary Patton, Photo by Molly CulverAntiques You Should Never to Buy 🛑 Items That Potentially Contain LeadBecause regulations regarding lead weren’t put in place until 1971, there’s a chance it may be present in antique items such as ornately painted dishes, crystal glassware or a dresser with chipping paint. This can pose a potential health risk, especially if the items are cracked, chipped and used on a regular basis.🛑 UpholsteryUnless you are planning on reupholstering the piece or it’s been refurbished, stay away from upholstered furniture like sofas, armchairs or upholstered headboards. Along with antique textiles such as decorative pillows or rugs, upholstery may contain bed bugs, mold and mildew. 🛑 Baby FurnitureNever buy an antique crib or cradle, unless its purpose is decorative only. Mandatory crib safety standards went into effect in 2011, and antique cribs are likely to pose a safety risk for babies. In fact, be wary of all secondhand baby items, especially anything that’s over 10 years old. 🛑 Anything With a Suspicious Price Tag “If the deal seems too good to be true, it most likely is,” Dragonette warns. Just as a surprisingly low price tag is suspicious, so is an excessively high one. “Remember, just because you see something on the internet at a high price, doesn’t mean it will sell for that amount,” Dragonette adds. In addition to helping you recognize makers and avoid imitations, being armed with knowledge is key to gauging an item’s value. Related StoriesMaria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.  More

Let’s talk tables. In the dining area, the table is the centerpiece. In the living room, sofas get all the glory, but the coffee table is the unsung hero that really makes the room work. And accent tables? They hold your drink, catch your keys, provide a perch for your lamps … they’re pretty much indispensable. But how do you pick these fundamental pieces of furniture? And be sure that they’ll all work together so your home feels harmonious? Your journey begins, as so many do, on this vast frontier known as the internet, and one easy way to navigate the thicket of choices is to head over to The Home Depot. The home-improvement giant isn’t only a go-to for screwdrivers, sandpaper and step ladders — it’s also a decorating destination, offering on-trend furniture, rugs and accessories like lamps, pillows and mirrors. What’s more, the selection is comprehensive, so you’ll find an array of pieces to suit your decorating style.Oh, wait. You’re not entirely sure what your decorating style is? We’ve got you covered. Take the quiz below to zero in on the look that suits you best. Plus, we’ve selected some corresponding options from The Home Depot—dining, coffee and accent—to help you put together a home with tables that can’t be topped. More

For some, ending a hectic day by watching television in the comfort of bed is non-negotiable. It’s a chance to binge-watch buzzy shows (America’s Got Talent, anyone?) or escape for a while with a feel-good Hallmark movie (the summer schedule is out now, by the way). Believe it or not, there’s a cohort of talented interior designers who think certain TV models detract from a bedroom’s overall design aesthetic — not to mention they can potentially wreak havoc on one’s sleep routine. The case for skipping a TV“The focal point in any bedroom should be the bed,” says designer Rayman Boozer. “The chronic issue with televisions is that when they are off, which is most of the time, they look like black boxes. Unless your decor theme is black and white or some combo of black and another color, that black box is distracting. That said, I don’t think watching TV in bed is wrong. Now, we have other options like laptops and iPads, which don’t need to be displayed or integrated into the decor.”Get Some InspoFor San Francisco-based designer Regan Baker, it’s also about how a television’s presence can impact the true purpose of the space. “It’s intended to be a peaceful and serene place, where you’re able to prioritize rest, respite and sleep,” Baker says. “TVs in the room make it hard to activate that serene environment and can take away from your ability to prioritize sleep on a day-to-day basis.”Designer Marie Cloud agrees. “I firmly believe that the bedroom should be a sanctuary dedicated to rest, relaxation and intimate moments,” Cloud says. “Introducing a TV into this sacred space can disrupt the tranquility and purpose of the room. The bedroom should be a haven where one can unwind, sleep peacefully and foster personal connections without the distractions of screens. By keeping the bedroom TV-free, we honor its true essence, ensuring it remains a retreat that nourishes both body and spirit.”But there are exceptions…On the other end of this bedroom design debate, designers acknowledge that TV models have come a long way. People no longer have to settle for unsightly brands in their spaces. Since its release in 2017, Samsung’s impressive The Frame TV has been all the rage in the design world. When it’s not in use, you can showcase a piece of art from a particular period, artist, color scheme, you name it. “I personally love getting cozy in bed at night and watching a show before I fall asleep, so I can’t judge my clients if they want a TV in their bedroom,” says designer Kirsten Blazek, who regularly recommends The Frame TV to clients. “The Frame has a very slim profile and a variety of wood and color options to choose from that frame it. The end result is a television that looks more like art than a regular television.”Designer Karen Nepacena, who is lauded for her ability to “merge beauty and practicality” also appreciates the Frame TV. “We’re actually putting more TVs in bedrooms now that people don’t feel like they see a big black box as an eyesore,” Nepacena says. She reveals that quality TVs and entertainment centers are especially important to clients who value high-definition and beautiful cinematography. “They almost want movie theater-quality,” she says.But be warned. That model, and many like it, are pricey. When the experts in our Good Housekeeping Institute Media and Tech Lab tested it first-hand, they found that if you’re not planning on using it to display artwork, it might not be worth the price tag. Related StoryHow to make it workRegardless of whether a designer thinks a TV is a good choice, one thing is undeniable: most of their clients want them. “Despite the taboo around showcasing TVs in bedrooms, the reality is that 90% of our clients desire them. Personally, I cherish the simple pleasure of unwinding in bed with a good show,” says Ali Budd, star of Hulu’s House of Ali and principal designer at Ali Budd Interiors.Ways to integrate a television into your bedroom more seamlessly:Be intentional about the design. Ali stresses that TVs should be woven into a room as seamlessly as possible. “Just as you would carefully integrate a TV into your family room, the bedroom can also benefit from thoughtful design considerations: optimal height, concealed wiring and sleek aesthetics.”Carve out a dedicated spot for it, if possible: “Create a specific zone or concealed sitting area that can be used for watching TV and that is not in close proximity to the bed,” Baker says. “This will keep a clear distinction between where you relax and enjoy TV, and where you rest and sleep.” Think of ways to hide it. “I think it’s personal, but from a design perspective, there’s definitely ways to hide them,” says designer Libby Rawes. Boozer has a chic way to keep TVs under wraps. “Use a TV lift cabinet at the foot of the bed, which seamlessly reveals and hides the screen; these models often come unfinished, so you can choose your own great paint color!”Bottom line? While I’m personally opposed to TVs in bedrooms (it just doesn’t work for my family and I take my Zzs too seriously), it all depends on your lifestyle and sleep habits. 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

While your decorative mirror may not accumulate dust or greasy fingerprints for a few weeks, your bathroom mirror likely takes the brunt of water splatters, toothpaste globs and sticky hair products. Cleaning a mirror isn’t difficult, but there is a right way to do it. Can we agree there’s nothing more frustrating than a freshly cleaned mirror that looks hazy or full of streaks?Whether you prefer a homemade vinegar solution or one our top-tested glass cleaners, here’s how to clean a mirror with ease. Follow this expert cleaning advice from Carolyn Forté, Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab. First, Find a Glass Cleaner The best glass cleaners are not only easy and neat to use, but are effective at cutting grime and eliminating streaks. In GH’s cleaning lab, experts test how cleaners tackle greasy fingerprints, lipstick marks and other everyday stains (think the toothpaste splattered on your bathroom mirror). Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our top-tested options, but you can also make a homemade vinegar spray if you prefer to go the DIY route. Homemade Glass CleanerKeep in mind: If you live in an area with hard water, consider using distilled water in your homemade glass cleaner. Invisible Glass CleanerHOPE’S Perfect Glass CleanerNow 18% OffE-Cloth Window Cleaning KitHow to Clean a MirrorSpray glass cleaner directly on a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel. Foaming glass cleaners may be applied directly to the mirror, but most sprays will drip down the mirror’s surface before you have the chance to wipe it. Wipe your mirror with the damp cloth or towel using an S-shape motion, starting from the top and working your way down. Never wipe in a circular motion, which generates static that attracts dust. “I prefer a microfiber cloth, because they’re super absorbent and wipe away streaks fast,” says Forté, who suggests the E-Cloth Window Cleaner Kit, which includes a cloth for cleaning and one for polishing.Optional: For stuck-on spots, like crusted toothpaste or hairspray, spray glass cleaner on a scrub sponge and scrub the problem area. Then repeat steps one and two. Use a dry microfiber or polishing cloth to buff the surface and remove any remaining streaks. Expert tip: While decorative mirrors can be cleaned every three to five weeks, bathroom mirrors need more frequent attention and should be cleaned at least once per week.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.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