Aurelia Butler

You may be more familiar with the idea of cross contamination when it comes to your kitchen — but as Jodhaira Rodriguez, Good Housekeeping’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab Reviews Analyst points out, the bathroom is a high traffic area where bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli and more can be found. No matter how diligent you are about cleaning, it’s an inevitable breeding ground for bacteria that can rapidly spread elsewhere. When harmful bacteria is transferred from one source to different surfaces, people, or spaces, it’s known as cross contamination. The area around the toilet is especially prone to the phenomenon, which has also been colorfully dubbed a “toilet sneeze”. “Close the lid when you flush. Germy water can spray across the room up to six feet every time you flush, settling on the floor, counters and bathroom doorknob and light switch,” warns Rodriguez.If that gross fact has you wondering what else you can do to help prevent the spread of bacteria from your bathroom, there’s plenty—especially since you can’t control whether guests and kids are staying on top of closing that lid! One is using Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray daily. The multitasking product’s ability to kill 99.9% of bacteria for up to 24 hours* impressed Rodriguez and her fellow experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab that it earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for effectiveness.If taking steps against cross contamination in the bathroom isn’t second nature yet, read on for more tips to prevent the spread. 1. Minimize and Neutralize the Toilet Flush Plume Though widespread understanding of the toilet plume— aerosolized droplets that contain bacteria and mix with the air and settle on surfaces — is fairly recent, scientific knowledge of the phenomenon actually dates to a 1975 study published in Applied Microbiology, which found that aerosol contaminants were present in the air up to 12 minutes after flushing. After a thorough review, which included paying a visit to the manufacturer’s lab, and conducting their own tests, the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab verified that Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray banishes bacteria that escape even in the tidiest bathrooms. Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing SprayMicroban 24 Hour Sanitizing SprayCredit: Microban“Microban’s 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray keeps killing 99.9% of bacteria for up to 24 hours on surfaces after proper application,” confirms Rodriguez. Making it a part of your daily routine is an easy way to fight bacteria — since there’s no need to wipe, just spray walk away to let air dry.2. Wash Your Hands ThoroughlyIt may be obvious, but it bears repeating: “Wash your hands after you go with a mild hand soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds to get rid of any germs you may have picked up in the bathroom,” says Rodriguez. While the pandemic has made us all more familiar with hand washing best practices, it can be easy to forget when you’re at home. 3. Use Your Cleaning Products Effectively It’s also important to keep your cleaning tools from becoming vehicles for bacteria to spread. Rodriguez recommends you keep a set of cleaning tools that you only use to clean the bathroom: “Never use these sponges, towels or cloths in any other part of your home, regardless of how well you clean them after each use.” Peter Dazeley//Getty Images4. Eliminate Bacteria Safe HavensIn your bathroom, any landing surface that isn’t cleaned and disinfected as part of your daily routine is at risk of becoming a hotspot. Keeping hard surfaces like tile, faucet handles, tubs, and light switches free of buildup and gives bacteria less to cling to.In addition to the Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray, the Microban 24 Hour Bathroom Cleaner is the best option to fight buildup and provide protection from bacteria for 24 hours on surfaces. When used as directed,”This spray will also prevent mold and mildew growth for up to seven days on hard surfaces,” says Rodriguez. Since the product, cleans, sanitizes and disinfects, it’s effective for quick and deep cleanings.Soft items like fabric shower curtains, washcloths, bathmats, towels, or face-washing headbands should be hung dry in an airy spot to dry thoroughly after each use, as bacteria is more likely to survive in moist environments. As a bonus, outside the bathroom, Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray can also be used on soft surfaces like couches, backpacks, or smelly gym bags, eliminating odors and initially killing 99.9% of bacteria.5. Don’t Ignore the Ick Factor of Phones “Keep phones and other electronics out of the bathroom. You are likely transferring bathroom germs onto the phone that you’re then using on the couch or even in bed after,” advises Rodriguez.This habit turns your device into a mobile microbial red flag. A comprehensive 2020 Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease review of 56 studies calculated that the average contamination rate of mobile phones was a whopping 68%. Regularly cleaning and sanitizing your device with a disinfecting wipe or according to the manufacturer’s directions is always a good idea.*When used as directed, effective against Staphylococcus aureus & Enterobacter aerogenes bacteria for 24 hours More

Sharing an apartment with my roommate’s yellow lab means I practically live with a lint roller in hand. And not just for my clothing. Approximately 10 minutes before guests arrive, you can find this dog auntie furiously lint-rolling the couch, the rug, the chair and any flat surface within arm’s reach (because no, a vacuum just won’t cut it). So when I scrolled across this Floor Lint Roller on TikTok, it was love at first sight. Equipped with an adjustable handle and an oversized adhesive roller, this viral lint remover can cover serious ground.Smart Design Smart Design Floor Lint RollerSmart Design Smart Design Floor Lint RollerRoll it across furniture and rugs to clean up pet hair left behind from your fur baby’s afternoon nap. And it’s good for way more than just cleaning up after pets. Roll it over your bath mat after brushing your hair or trimming your bangs. Or roll it across the floor to pick up dirt, dust bunnies, and small debris that sweeping leaves behind. Amazon reviewers rave that the aluminum tubing and extendable design make it so easy to tackle hard-to-reach messes.Shorten the handle, and it can be used to remove lint and pet hair from your clothing just like any standard lint roller. But unlike the one you snagged from the dollar store, this baby has extra-sticky adhesive sheets that are wider than the average lint roller, so it cleans more lint with each swipe. You’ll waste less time and arm strength rolling, and you won’t be left with a mountain of used sheets to throw away when you’re done. But take it from #CleanTok, there appears to be no limit to what this retractable lint roller can do. Users shared videos of themselves using the 2-in-1 tool to pick up glitter after a party, grab dust bunnies from beneath the couch, clear cobwebs from vaulted ceilings, prep the bathroom floor for mopping, remove crumbs from car interiors and sweep up shedding hair extensions.This TikTok-loved lint roller is available on Amazon for only $26. Though it already comes equipped with 25 removable adhesive sheets, I highly recommend stocking up on a two-pack of refill sheets from the get-go. Because once you start rolling, you won’t want to stop!Check out Firstfinds to shop more of the internet’s favorite products, including viral hits, home hacks, fashion essentials and so much more.Commerce WriterSarah Maberry is a commerce writer at Hearst Magazines, covering trending products in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and beyond. She’s obsessed with being the first to wear, try, watch, and buy what’s going viral. More

The perks of silk pillowcases are many: They can help reduce wrinkles, split ends and frizzy hair, to name a few. They often come with a high price tag though, so you’ll want to take care of them properly to ensure they will last. Sweat, germs, body oils, hair products and makeup (though you are taking off your makeup before bed, right?) can accumulate quickly in bedding, especially your pillowcase. We consulted with experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab for how to wash your silk pillowcase. First, always check the care label or manufacturer’s website for detailed care instructions. If there is one, be sure to follow it. Our favorite pillowcase brands like Fisher’s Finery, whose silk pillowcases impressed us enough to earn the Good Housekeeping Seal, usually have detailed care instructions for their pillowcases on their website. Though it’s not common, some silk pillowcases are dry clean only, so be sure to check before you start laundering. There are two ways to wash your silk pillowcase: on a gentle cycle in the washing machine or by hand. Most silk pillowcases can be washed in the washing machine as long as steps are taken to ensure a gentle wash. Washing by hand is the most gentle approach and allows you to take extreme care when washing — important when washing a delicate silk pillowcase. The same basic step-by-step process as washing clothing by hand applies here too; just make sure to use a gentle touch and never wring or twist your pillowcase. What You’ll NeedMesh laundry bagGentle laundry detergent Clean white bath towel How to wash a silk pillowcase in the washing machineMost silk pillowcases have care instructions for washing in the washing machine, so make sure to follow the care label if the instructions differ. More From Good Housekeeping Place pillowcases in a mesh laundry bag or turn inside out. Select a delicates cycle with cold water and wash with a gentle laundry detergent. If you have a center agitator in your machine, be careful as it can damage the fabric if not on the correct setting. Some brands allow for tumble drying on an air-only or low-heat cycle, but other brands recommend keeping out of the dryer, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. When in doubt: avoid the dryer. You can either gently squeeze (don’t wring!) the excess water from the pillowcase, or blot dry with a clean towel, and lay flat to dry. How to hand wash a silk pillowcase Hand washing your silk pillowcase is quite simple, and hand washing helps keep the fibers soft and shiny. Fill a clean sink or tub with cool water, and mix about a teaspoon of gentle laundry detergent. If there are any visible stains on your pillowcase, apply a few drops of detergent directly to the stain and gently work in with your fingertips. Agitate the water with your hands to create suds, then immerse the pillowcase and swish it around gently to help the water penetrate the fibers. Take care not to twist, wring or rub the fabric against itself as it can damage the fabric. Instead, just gently agitate the fabric (i.e., move it around in the water) with your hand to clean. Dump the water and refill the basin with cold water. Submerge the pillowcase again and agitate gently to get rid of any soapy residue. Repeat as needed, gently rinsing until the residue is gone. Gently squeeze out any excess water, taking care not to twist or wring the fabric in any way. Lay the pillowcase on a clean, white towel and roll up, gently squeezing to further dry the pillowcase. Lay flat to dry, preferably away from sunlight to protect from fading and discoloration. If there are wrinkles in the fabric after drying, you can either gently steam the pillowcase or iron on the lowest heat setting. Make sure to flip the pillowcase inside out and place a pressing cloth or clean piece of fabric between the iron and pillowcase.How often should you wash your silk pillowcase?”Silk pillowcases should be washed as frequently as regular cotton ones, which is once per week,” says Carolyn Forte, Director of the Home Care and Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. If you have cotton sheets but silk pillowcases, make sure to place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent the fibers from tearing and try to avoid letting them go through the spin cycle. If all your bedding is silk (lucky you!) then you can follow this same guide for sheets too.How to treat stains on silk pillowcasesAccidents happen to everyone, so if you find a stain on your silk pillowcase it’s best to act fast as the longer the stain sits, the harder it can be to get out. To treat stains, work a small amount of mild detergent directly onto the stain gently with your fingers and allow to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, wash the pillowcase following either of the above instructions. Pro Tip: Avoid using any stain treatment or detergent with bleach as it will break and discolor the fibers. How to remove wrinkles from silk pillowcasesBe very careful with heat around silk, as the high temperatures can hurt the fibers. If your pillowcases or sheets are wrinkly, either iron on the lowest setting with a pressing cloth, or bust out a steamer for a more gentle option. What You’ll Need to Wash a Silk PillowcaseTide Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent Credit: TideEgyptian Cotton 6-Piece Bath Sheet Towel Set Credit: Home DepotFisher’s Finery Mesh Wash Bag with ZipperCredit: Fisher’s FineryAssistant to the General ManagerIn addition to her job as the assistant to the general manager of the Good Housekeeping Institute, Abigail is also currently working toward her master of science in publishing in digital and print media at NYU. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she worked at LSU Press and The Southern Review. In her free time you can find her quilting, knitting, cross-stitching or working on any manner of craft. More

There’s nothing like putting on a brand-new pair of white sneakers for a crisp, fresh look. But a quick walk through the park later, you’ll notice scuffs and stains already starting to form on the rubber outsoles and sides of your favorite slip-ons. No matter how careful you are, wearing anything white (think jeans, shirts or shoes) can sometimes feel like a disaster waiting to happen. A drop of coffee during your morning commute or unexpected rain on your way home from the park and poof! Like magic, your white Vans have gone from bright white to dingy gray. And if you’re brave enough to skateboard in a pair of white high tops? You’ll definitely want to keep this step-by-step guide from the Good Housekeeping Institute cleaning experts handy. We’ve tested store-bought and DIY shoe cleaners to find the best way to clean all kinds of shoes, mastered the art of cleaning another much-loved white shoe, the Converse All Star Low Top Sneaker, and have even taken on the smelly task of testing tons of shoe deodorizers.This step-by-step guide will have all of your white Vans looking like new again. Best of all, most of the products our pros recommend you likely already have at home.How to clean white canvas VansWhat You’ll Need:Soft brush (or your vacuum’s round dusting brush)Baking soda Hydrogen peroxideToothbrush Microfiber cloth Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Remove loose dust or dirt. To avoid making a bigger mess of your white canvas Vans, remove the laces and use a soft brush or the round dusting brush on your vacuum to remove any loose dust or dirt on the surface of the shoes. Mix up a thin paste of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and warm water. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, ½ tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and ½ tablespoon of warm water until it forms a thin paste. The hydrogen peroxide acts like an all-fabric bleach to whiten the canvas fabric and the baking soda helps scrub away scuffs and stains. Gently scrub your shoes with the paste. Dip an old toothbrush or soft brush into the paste and gently scrub your shoes in a circular motion. Wipe the surface of your sneakers with a clean, wet cloth to rinse them. Dip a clean cloth into water and wring it out until it is just damp. Thoroughly wipe your sneakers with the cloth, being careful to not to saturate the material. Clean the rubber outsoles with the same paste or GH Seal Star Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. If using the same baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and warm water paste, follow the steps above. To clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean. Allow to air-dry. Set your canvas Vans to air-dry in a cool spot, away from the sun. How to clean white leather VansMost of the steps to clean white leather Vans are the same as above, with some small, but very important adjustments. What You’ll Need:Soft brush (or your vacuum’s round dusting brush)Baking soda Toothbrush Microfiber cloth Leather conditioner Remove loose dust or dirt. Remove the laces and use a soft brush or the round dusting brush on your vacuum to remove any loose dust or dirt on the surface of the shoes.Mix up a thin paste of baking soda and warm water. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda and ½ tablespoon of warm water until it forms a thin paste.Gently scrub your shoes with the paste. Dip an old toothbrush or soft brush into the paste and gently scrub your shoes in a circular motion. Wipe the surface of your sneakers with a clean, wet cloth to rinse them. Dip a clean cloth into water and wring it out until it is just damp. Thoroughly wipe your sneakers with the cloth. Clean the rubber outsoles with the same paste or with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. If using the same baking soda and warm water paste, follow the steps above. To clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean. Allow to air-dry. Set your leather Vans to air-dry in a cool spot, away from the sun. Apply a leather conditioner to the shoes. For extra protection, apply a leather conditioner, like GH seal holder Furniture Clinic Leather Protection Cream, to help keep the leather soft and supple. How to clean white suede VansSuede shoes are notorious for how easily they can get stained — water, dust and dirt can all cause unsightly stains on the material. Suede shoes that have been caught in a rainstorm should be allowed to dry in a well ventilated area overnight, with paper towels or shoe trees stuffed inside to keep their shape. To treat fresh or old stains and restore the suede nap of a pair of suede Vans, follow the steps below. For suede Vans with fresh stains:What You’ll Need:Blot the stain. Using a clean paper towel, blot (don’t rub) the stain on the shoe’s surface.Sprinkle baking soda over the stain. Allow the baking soda to sit and soak up the stain overnight, then lightly brush away the powder. If a stain still remains, use a suede cleaner. Our experts recommend the Kiwi Suede Cleaner. Gently brush the shoes to restore the suede nap. The key here is to brush in the direction of the fibers, not back and forth or in circles. This can cause further damage to the suede. If you used a suede cleaner, wait until the shoes are completely dry to brush the fibers. Clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean.Apply a suede protector. A suede protector will help prevent further stains or other damage to your suede Vans. For suede Vans with old stains:What You’ll Need:Gently brush or scrape the stain from the shoe’s surface. Using a special suede brush (or a toothbrush) is your best bet for completing this step without causing any damage. Brush in the direction of the fibers. If this doesn’t work, you can try dabbing a suede eraser on the stain to remove it. Steam the matted area for a few seconds. If the stain is gone, but has left behind a patch of matted fibers, use your favorite garment steamer on a low setting to lightly steam the area, then brush in the direction of the fibers with the suede brush. If the stain is still there, take your suede Vans to a shoe repair shop so a pro can take a look at them. Clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean.Apply a suede protector. Can I put my white Vans in the washing machine?We think it’s safest to wash any pair of shoes by hand, especially when they’re new. But we get it, sometimes you might be tight on time. If you want to give it a try, only canvas Vans should ever be put into the washing machine. Note that the washer can cause your sneakers to shrink or lose their shape. Here’s the best way to wash your shoes in a washing machine: Place your sneakers in a mesh bag to help them keep their shape and toss in some old white towels to balance and buffer the load. Select a delicate cycle on your machine, cold or warm water, and a low or moderate spin speed.Skip the dryer. Instead, stuff the wet Vans with white paper towels and let them air-dry away from heat and sunlight.Should I bleach my white Vans?No! Keep the bleach away from your Vans! Bleach is too harsh for use on white Vans — especially leather and suede ones. Many people even note that after using bleach to clean their white shoes, they found that the shoes took on a yellow tint instead of being restored to their original white. Why do white Vans turn yellow after washing?A few things can cause your white Vans to turn yellow after you wash them. As mentioned above, many people find that using bleach causes yellow staining on white shoes after they are dry. Drying freshly washed shoes in direct sunlight can also cause discoloration. Additionally, residue from shoe cleaners that are not properly rinsed from white shoes can leave behind a yellow tint.Tips to keep your white Vans in tip-top shapeBefore your first wear and after every cleaning, spray Vans with a water and stain repellent spray to help them stay cleaner longer. The GH Cleaning Lab likes Kiwi Sneaker Protector for both leather and canvas shoes. The brand also has a suede and nubuck protector.Keep white Vans stored away from direct sunlight and out of humid, moist environments to prevent yellowing.Clean stains and remove light dust as soon as you spot them. The longer they sit on your Vans, the harder it will be to remove them later.Sometimes all your Vans need is a quick wash of the laces to look like new. Remove the laces and wash them separately in a mix of mild soap and warm water. Rinse and let them air dry before re-lacing your shoes. Before using any cleaning products on your white Vans, carefully read the instructions and test it on a small inconspicuous area of the shoe to make sure it does not cause any damage. Shop for Vans Cleaning SuppliesArm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda Credit: Arm and HammerSwan Hydrogen PeroxideCredit: SwanAmazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning ClothCredit: AmazonBasicsMr. Clean Magic Eraser Extra DurableCredit: Mr.CleanHome Care & Cleaning Lab Executive DirectorCarolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.Home 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

Today’s vinyl floors are a far cry from the shiny, plastic-looking sheet or tile floors your grandmother might have installed in her home. Although yesterday’s were prone to tears, scratching and scuffing and looked so artificial, today’s feature more durable matte finishes and more realistic, natural designs that get installed as click-together planks. They’re the newest members of a category called “resilient flooring,” and because they come as individual planks, replacing damaged sections is easier too. For these reasons, modern vinyl plank flooring has become a popular alternative to wood floors in homes across the globe, especially in areas like kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. These floors are not only easier to maintain than traditional hardwood floors, but they’re more moisture-resistant too, so they’re better equipped to withstand heavy traffic — ideal for families with kids and pets. But that doesn’t mean vinyl floors don’t need routine TLC. Even these fuss-free, wear-resistant floors need a proper cleaning once in a while, so it’s a good idea to incorporate the task into your regular cleaning schedule. We checked in with Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, for the best cleaning tips and advice. More From Good Housekeeping How to clean vinyl plank flooring after installationFirst things first: If your vinyl flooring product was installed with glue, you may notice excess glue seeping to the surface. Avoid cleaning this mess or walking on the flooring for at least 24 hours to give the adhesive time to set properly. Once set, you can safely remove the excess product without damaging your brand-new floors by following these steps: Gather the proper tools: You’ll need a scraper, a spray bottle and a floor stripper or an acetone-based nail polish remover to help loosen the excess glue. Spray the floor: Put the cleaning solution into a spray bottle, then spritz a small amount on the glue you intend to remove. Let it sit for a few minutes. Scrape up the glue: Once the glue begins to soften, position your scraper so that the blade is parallel to the floor and apply gentle downward pressure to carefully remove the adhesive. (You want to get under the blob of glue to gently lift it up off the floor.)Wipe clean with water: Once the glue is gone, rinse the area with water using a damp microfiber cloth. Then dry the area with a second clean cloth. Alternatively, you can mop the area for a deeper clean.How to regularly clean vinyl plank flooringVinyl plank flooring may be low maintenance, but there are a few things you should know to help extend the life of this surface. Namely, dust, sand and other gritty particles are “the enemy,” according to the World Floor Covering Association. As such, it’s important to sweep or vacuum frequently — and especially if there’s visible debris on the floor. Remove dust with a soft broom, a microfiber mop or a good vacuum cleaner designed for hardwood floors. Use your vacuum’s soft-bristled oblong floor brush or fluffy roller attachment if you have them, or at least switch off the vacuum’s rotating brush. Avoid using stiff scrubbing brushes or your vacuum’s beater bar (the rotating brush attachment that vibrates to loosen dirt from carpeting), as these cleaning tools can damage the surface of the floor.Wet-clean the floor using a damp mop and a vinyl-safe floor cleaner once you’ve eliminated any dry dirt and debris.If needed, rinse after mopping, being careful not to over-wet the floor. Let it air-dry.How to clean spills from vinyl plank flooringThough vinyl floors are moisture-resistant, it’s not a good idea to let spills set. And you should never use a steam mop on these surfaces. The high temperature combined with excess moisture and pressure can seep into the cracks, loosen adhesive and cause the floor to swell. Here’s what to do instead:Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe up spills as soon as they happen. For tougher stains, you can use a soft nylon brush and a baking soda paste (combine baking soda and enough water to form a paste). Simply use the brush to gently rub the paste into the affected area, then wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth.Alternatively, you can use a mild cleaning solution made with equal parts vinegar and water. There are also cleaning products, like Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner, that are specifically manufactured for this type of flooring. No matter what you use, it’s good practice to test your cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the flooring. How to remove scuffs from vinyl plank flooringOccasional scuff marks from shoes or furniture are unavoidable, but thankfully there’s an easy way to get rid of these unsightly spots:Dip a microfiber cloth into a sudsy mix of dish soap and water and use it to buff the area. Then, rinse clean with a damp microfiber cloth or a mop.For stubborn scuffs, try a lubricant like WD-40 or Goo Gone. Put a small amount on a towel and rub the affected area until the scuffs clear. Then, follow the cleaning steps above, using baking soda, vinegar and water or another cleaning product marked safe for vinyl floors to remove any remaining lubrication.The Best Cleaning Products for Vinyl Plank FlooringO-Cedar PowerCorner Pet Pro Broom & Step-On Dust PanNow 30% OffCredit: O-CedarSwiffer Sweeper 2-in-1 Dry + Wet Starter KitCredit: P&GBona Hard-Surface Floor CleanerNow 10% OffCredit: BonaGoo Gone Original Goo & Adhesive RemoverCredit: Goo GoneHow to keep vinyl plank flooring clean longerWhile regular maintenance is vital, there are a few steps you can take on a daily basis to keep your vinyl plank floors cleaner and in better condition, reducing the frequency of deep cleans and repairs. Place a doormat or an area rug in front of the entryway to your home, since this will minimize the amount of dirt and debris tracked in.Attach felt or rubber pads to furniture legs — especially items that regularly move, such as barstools and dining chairs.Put down a protective floor covering whenever you are doing heavy home-improvement work — rearranging furniture or repairing and painting drywall, for example.Contributing WriterBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in creating SEO and e-commerce content across a range of lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She also has significant experience creating native and branded content.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

After completing any crochet project — whether it’s a stocking, basket, hat or scarf — weaving in the ends is crucial to prevent your stitch from unraveling. This process can be tricky for those who are new to the world of crocheting. But don’t worry! Good Housekeeping’s Design Director and crochet maven, Mariana Tuma, explains how to fasten off in crochet. While basic crochet stitches can take a few days to learn (the single crochet being one of the shortest of all the stitches), more advanced techniques may take longer. That’s why it’s important to tie off your crocheting properly to ensure that all of your hard work doesn’t go to waste. Follow the quick step-by-step video above for this easy how-to, then take a look below for our written guide. And if you want even more trendy DIYs, ranging from knitting to macramé, join the GH Stitch Club for patterns and tutorials to try at home (this daisy granny square is just one example). Happy crafting!Related StoryHow to Fasten Off in Crochet Liudmila Chernetska//Getty Images Step 1: When you’re ready to end your project, work your last stitch, cut the yarn from the ball (leaving about 6″ to 8″) and then pull the tail through the loop on your hook. Slip Stitch: a basic crochet stitch used to add decorative elements or join pieces together. Step 2: Now it’s time to weave in the loose ends with your crochet hook. Insert the hook into an adjoining stitch and pull the tail through.Step 3: Repeat the process until you’ve worked through a few stitches and you’re ready to cut the tail, leaving it hidden inside one of the stitches. Step 4: Go to your beginning tail, where you started your project. Weave the yarn through your work (repeating the process from step two) before cutting the end. Assistant EditorMariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master’s degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She’s also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work. Mariana is the Design Director of Good Housekeeping.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

With a $5,000 budget and only 24 hours, interior designer Kerrie Kelly and her team reimagined a primary bedroom and the adjoining walk-in closet in for Good Housekeeping’s very first episode of Designer for a Day, available on the VeryLocal network.Homeowners Jennifer and Jason of Roseville, California, hadn’t upgraded their primary bedroom in about 13 years. Excited for the redesign, Jennifer was looking for a “cozy farmhouse style,” while Jason hoped to turn their bedroom into a “modern, hotel-like oasis.” Kerrie chatted with the couple about their preferences, then got to work on crafting an aesthetic that married the two.Homeowners Jennifer and Jason live in Roseville with their two children: eight-year-old Kayla and six-year-old Cayden.Very LocalReimagining a space in a single day doesn’t come without challenges. “It takes lots of planning to successfully install a design project in one day,” says Kelly. “Everything must go right — from moving to painting, closet installation, furniture assembly, drapery hanging and finishing touches.”Kerrie sits down to choose finishes, textures and colors.Nick Franco PhotographyTo map out her design, Kerrie starts by sketching the primary bedroom.  Courtesy of Kerrie KellyKelly’s big piece of advice: “Remain flexible — every project has its hiccups and there is always a solution if you stay open-minded.” BEFORECourtesy of Kerrie KellyThe first task for any space Kelly designs? Decluttering. “The key to any room upgrade is to edit, edit, edit,” she says. There’s also the opportunity to breathe new life into your existing pieces: reframe artwork, re-orient rugs, move furniture and paint or reupholster buffets, hutches and chairs. Finally, take advantage of simple upgrades like adding wallpaper, swapping out lighting fixtures and upgrading hardware. Tip: If you’re tight on budget or timeline, find creative ways to repurpose what you already own. AFTERCourtesy of Kerrie KellyLumbar Throw Pillow CognacCredit: TargetArea RugCredit: SARRANTFaux Leather BenchCredit: HomepopTo save money, Kelly decided to stick with the couple’s original bed frame. She put it on an entirely different wall, making the space almost unrecognizable. She also elevated the look with a headboard wall, adding trim pieces for architectural design and painting the accent wall in Sherwin-Williams’ Grizzle Gray SW 7068. She placed a bench at the foot of the bed, increased the height of the curtains to create a sense of drama and layered in textures with throw pillows. BEFORE & AFTER: THE WALK-IN CLOSETCourtesy of Kerrie KellyCourtesy of Kerrie KellyWhen Kelly realized that a refurbished vintage console table that was intended to be a statement piece of the bedroom wouldn’t arrive in time, she had to practice quick thinking. She kept the couple’s original dresser and, with money freed up in the budget, turned her attention to the walk-in closet — tapping into the expertise of the Good Housekeeping Institute and Good Housekeeping Senior Home Editor Monique Valeris for inspiration and advice. “Storing your clothes is important to keeping them looking their best,” said Valeris, who suggested that Jason and Jennifer start by editing their closet, donating unwanted items to a local thrift shop. To save time and energy, Kelly went with a white reach-in closet from the Container Store to achieve a custom look. She then added in decorative touches, like an accessory stand, to give the walk-in closet a “shoppable” feel.HOW TO EDIT YOUR CLOSET Pull everything out of your closet and put each item into one of three piles: keep, toss or donate.Categorize your collection by color. For example, arrange pieces from light to dark.For visual harmony and space-saving benefits, use a consistent thin hanger such as white wood or slim, non-slip black velvet wire hangers.Take advantage of vertical space. For example, place a rolling cart with pull-out baskets on the floor.Repurpose baskets and boxes to corral bulkier, less used items. Stream the full episode of Designer for a Day for free on the Very Local app, available on smart TVs (Roku, Amazon Fire TV) and mobile apps.Associate Lifestyle EditorAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

When you’re a DIY’er, nothing’s more satisfying than finding crafty ways to add personality to everyday items like handbags, blankets or holiday packages (’tis the season). One of our favorite ways to give humdrum items a little flair? Yarn tassels!As part of the GH Stitch Club’s goal to teach the joy of crochet, knitting, macramé and more to craft lovers, we’re sharing an easy step-by-step guide on how to make a yarn tassel. The video above is less than four minutes and explains exactly how to embellish all kinds of items with a simple yarn tassel. And the best part is that it doesn’t require a ton of time or money to bring this fun project to life. Only four basic supplies are needed — and you may even have some of them already at home. In addition to the video tutorial, follow the written instructions below for more details on the process. Related StoryHow to Make a Yarn TasselWhat You Need:YarnCardboard Scissorspet hair brush (or any brush) Step 1: Cut your cardboard. Cut the piece of cardboard into a rectangle. Make sure it’s the desired length of your tassel. Step 2: Wrap the yarn.Wrap your yarn around the tallest part of your cardboard. Keep wrapping until you have the desired thickness for your tassel. Cut the end when finished. Step 3: Secure the tassel.Cut a small piece of yarn from the ball and tuck it underneath your tassel. Tie it into a knot at the top to keep everything secure.Tip: Make sure your knot is tight so nothing unravels. Step 4: Remove the cardboard.Cut the bottom threads so the tassel is no longer attached to the cardboard. Step 5: Make another knot.Take another piece of yarn from the ball. Wrap it around the tassel about one inch down and tie a knot. Step 6: Fluff the ends and cut.After trimming the ends, use a pet hair brush (or any brush you have on hand) to fluff up the fibers. Depending on the yarn you use, the results will be different. If preferred, do one last trim for a cleaner look. Tip: We’re using rover yarn: a thick, bulky yarn that is not twisted or plied.Assistant EditorMariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master’s degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She’s also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work. This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More