Aurelia Butler

With summer travel is in full swing, it feels like I’ve barely spent a full week in my apartment. As a renter in Jersey City with window units, I can never decide if I should turn my AC off before I head out of town. Most people say it’s more expensive to turn the AC on and off, but I also feel guilty wasting energy while traveling. I tapped an expert to find the definitive answer. Short answer: Don’t turn off your AC when you’re away — but you should raise the temperature. Below, Dan DiClerico, director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, shares why you should NEVER turn your AC off and the ideal temperature to set your system while on vacation. Everything You Need to Do Before VacationIt’s never a good idea to turn off your air conditioning (it’s true, it can cost more money in the long run), but you should raise the temperature when you’re away. “A lot of people make the mistake of turning the AC on and off because they think it will save money,” explains DiClerico. In reality, the system has to work harder to bring the temperature back down to a comfortable level. “My standard advice is to set the temperature anywhere from 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit,” says DiClerico. “If it’s a long trip — say a week or more — you should be on the higher end of that spectrum, up around 85 degrees. If you’re just going away for the weekend, you can keep it at it 80 degrees, or even 78, so that the home will be relatively comfortable when you return.” Cost aside, too much heat and humidity can actually harm your house. Not only can steamy conditions invite mold and mildew, but it can create a fire hazard — especially if appliances overheat. “If it gets sweltering hot in the home, that can take a toll on electronics and large appliances,” says DiClerico. “For example, the refrigerator will have to work harder to maintain safe food-storage temperatures.”Don’t worry: DiClerico assured me the same rules apply for window units. Set them to auto, if your unit has that setting (one of my ancient AC units doesn’t, so I plan to set it to low on a higher temp). “Most modern window ACs have a built-in temperature sensor, so they’ll cycle on and off as needed to maintain the desired temperature. Depending on the weather, it might only kick on for a few hours during the hottest time of the day.”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

1There’s not enough food. Mike Bons//Getty ImagesAccording to Birds & Blooms, hummingbirds may eat up to three times their body weight in one day. As a result, they need to eat pretty consistently. “Probably the number one reason hummingbirds are not visiting is they don’t see your garden as offering enough food sources. If you are trying to attract hummingbirds without feeders, you need to have a good number of plants, and they should be blooming throughout the spring, summer and early fall,” says Alice Madar, executive director at International Hummingbird Society.2You need more tubular flowers.wulingyun//Getty ImagesHummingbirds have long, narrow beaks that allow them to reach deep inside tubular flowers for nectar. “Plant plenty of annuals, perennials and shrubs with tubular flowers, making access to the nectar source very easy,” says Shauna Moore, director of horticulture at Brooklyn Botanic Garden.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Your garden is lacking in native plants. real444//Getty ImagesNative plants are especially important for pollinators like hummingbirds as they offer a rich source of nutrients. “Ideally you are planting red-blooming, native species of penstemon, agastache and salvia. Hummingbirds also love trumpet vine and honeysuckle,” says Madar.RELATED: 18 Plants That Will Attract Hummingbirds to Your Home Garden4The feeder isn’t clean.Carlos Luis Camacho Photographs//Getty ImagesIf you’re going to incorporate feeders into your garden, it’s essential to care for them properly. “Feeders are a bit more of a pain to maintain. You can use one part table sugar in four parts water. You have to check them regularly — any black growths indicate fungus. Make sure to either boil the feeders in water or use a diluted vinegar to rinse and scrub them. Then rinse 3-4 times with water to wash the vinegar out. Hummingbirds can fall very sick and even die if they consume these fungi. So it’s better to avoid putting a feeder out if you cannot maintain the feeders well,” says Anusha Shankar, integrative biologist and physiological ecologist.RELATED: 7 Best Bird Feeders, Reviewed by ExpertsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5The timing is wrong. Prue Heron//Getty ImagesYou might be waiting for hummingbirds to visit your garden at the wrong time. Research their migration patterns to make sure you’re prepared when the time is right. “It’s always best to check the migratory pattern to know when they are coming. The change in climate and bloom time for some plants in the garden can have a gradual impact on their migratory patterns,” says Moore.RELATED: Find Out When Hummingbirds Will Reach Your Yard With This Interactive Map6You’re working with the wrong colors. Masahiro Makino//Getty ImagesLuckily, hummingbirds love colorful gardens, particularly ones with bright, hot shades. “Hummingbirds love red, orange and purple flowers. Increasing the number of flowering plants with these colors, with tubular corollas, will help attract more hummingbirds,” says Shankar.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Chemicals are deterring them. Sirisak Boakaew//Getty ImagesHummingbirds feed on insects as a source of protein, so be sure to avoid all sorts of pesticides and herbicides in your garden. “Insects and plants that have been treated with chemicals can pose an inherent risk to hummingbirds if ingested,” says Moore. 8You’re missing a water feature. pr2is//Getty ImagesGive hummingbirds a place to bathe and hydrate in your garden. “It’s important to have a shallow, slow-moving water feature in your yard — something like a bubbler or gentle waterfall. Hummingbirds also love water misters,” says Madar.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9There’s not enough protection.Dan Ripplinger / 500px//Getty ImagesDue to their small size, hummingbirds appreciate a safe atmosphere. “Hummingbirds don’t really like coming to an isolated food source in the middle of open ground. They’ll more easily visit areas which feel more protected — near some trees or a wall or some sort of continuous habitat,” says Shankar. 10Cats are scaring them off. nomadnes//Getty ImagesUnfortunately, hummingbirds do not get along with our furry friends. If you have cats in your yard, there’s a chance they’re scaring away hummingbirds (and other birds, too). “It is important to keep cats out of your garden. Estimates are that domesticated cats kill one billion birds in the U.S. every year,” says Madar.Laura 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. Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Some paint colors have a special way of exuding a vintage flair, and regardless of where you use them — a dining room, bedroom, living room — they feel relevant year after year. They add more charm to older properties and can even imbue newer homes with a sense of character. That’s why we decided to turn to the pros to find out the top vintage paint colors that are worth keeping on your radar for a home refresh. From rich green tones to earthy neutrals, keep reading for designers’ favorites. Green Tones ArtjafaraLean into the beauty of nature with shades of green. You can go moody (think forest green) or opt for olive hues for a vintage touch. “Green has always been a staple of historic interiors,” says designer Lauren Saab of Saab Studios. “It echoes the natural world, flatters almost every material and never feels trend driven.”A few of Saab’s go-to green paint colors include Benjamin Moore’s Saybrook Sage, “a quiet, olive-toned green that brings soft contrast without feeling trendy. It has the kind of softened depth you often see in historic interiors, especially when used on cabinetry or millwork.” There’s also Sherwin-Williams’ Rosemary, which the designer says is versatile enough to elevate spaces like pantries and home offices. “It’s a deep, moody green with an old-world richness that instantly anchors a space. It adds weight and dimension without overpowering the room.”For designer Heather Kirk of Kirk Riley Design, forest and Kelly green are worth considering and work well with wood tones as well as whites and cream colors. “They were huge hits in the 80s, and they’re back — just don’t pair it with mauve,” Kirk says. She also suggests the “fresh and crisp” pairing of dark green with light blue. If you’re up for color-drenching a room’s walls and ceiling, Suzanne Barrow of Barrow Interiors often turns to Farrow & Ball. “Farrow & Ball offers a range of paint colors inspired by vintage and rich historical palettes, and Green Smoke is an amazing, smoky color with a hint of blue that was popular in interiors during the late 19th century,” Barrow says. Deep PlumsYKvision//Getty ImagesThese days, designers are embracing purple hues, too. Stick to rich tones to give rooms a feeling of warmth and luxury. Designer Susan Petrie specifically favors deep plums. “The color is a nod to an iconic 1970s palette and offers a vintage vibe that is moody and sophisticated,” says Petrie, founder of Petrie Interior Designs. “It also creates a sense of depth that can be both dramatic and soothing at the same time.”Related StoryGreigeArtjafara//Getty ImagesAnother designer favorite is greige — a blend of gray and beige. Designer Lina Galvao of Curated Nest Interiors points to Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak as an example, since it complements both warm and cool shades. “We love how it looks with vintage decor or traditional decor, providing a hint of color, but serving primarily as a supporting character for other tones in the room,” Galvao says. BluesCourtesy of Farrow & BallCalming blues are another no-fail option for an old-world vibe. “One of my favorite vintage-inspired shades is Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball (No. 85),” says designer Peggy Haddad, who finds the blue-green hue to be a great match for navy. “Oval Room Blue has depth without feeling heavy, with a subtly aged quality, thanks to its black undertones, that make it feel like it’s always been there. In fact, it’s named after the oval-shaped rooms of the late 18th century.”Saab is also drawn to Sherwin-Williams’ Daphne and recommends it for breakfast nooks or just about any room that can benefit from a timeless feel. “It has a powdery, vintage softness that brings instant nostalgia in the best possible way,’ she says. “It’s a muted blue with just enough gray to keep it subtle and serene.”Creams + Warm Whites Suchada Tansirimas//Getty ImagesFrom Benjamin Moore’s White Down to Farrow & Ball’s Slipper Satin, Saab says shades of cream and warm white make a room feel inviting. “They lend warmth without weight and have long been used to brighten spaces without losing character.”She suggests pairing shades like Slipper Satin with oak floors and unlacquered brass. White Down, a warm white, is a go-to for creating classic setups. It has “a creamy base and a soft depth that keeps it from feeling flat or sterile,” Saab says. Warm Neutrals + Earth Tonesnegoworks//Getty Images”Warm neutrals and earth tones draw from the materials that defined early interiors like clay walls, worn leather and raw wood,” says Saab. “They bring a sense of permanence and patina, grounding any space in something that feels storied and lasting.”Think a muted rose-beige such as Sherwin-Williams Renwick Rose Beige, which Saab suggests for powder rooms, bedrooms or a library with low, ambient light. “It has a sepia undertone that instantly softens modern lines and adds a touch of age and elegance,” Saab says. And for home libraries and offices with traditional details, Saab goes for a Benjamin Moore Davenport Tan, a muted gray. “It’s part of the brand’s Historical Color Collection and offers a deep, burnished brown that instantly adds depth and character to a space,” she says. More Paint Color 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

Some TikTok users claim trimming your broom will expand its life. Cleaning experts reveal whether it’s recommended, plus tips on how to store your broom.Social media is full of so-called hacks and advice, especially when it comes to cleaning. #CleanTok — TikTok’s hashtag for all-things-cleaning — has taken over feeds with everything from laundry tips to viral product recommendations and beyond.While some of it might be helpful, it can be difficult to parse through what’s not (and what might actually be causing more harm than good). As a home editor who has tested TikTok-approved products like the damp duster and electric cleaning brush, I always like to dig a little deeper before adding a hack to my cleaning routine. When I scrolled past a few videos of users trimming their brooms with just a pair of scissors, I was skeptical. The idea is simple — trim off the frayed or uneven ends so that your broom lasts longer. But is it actually recommended?To get to the bottom of the broom trimming debate, I spoke to a few cleaning experts. Read on for whether or not you should trim your broom, plus how to keep it in the best shape possible. Should You Trim Your Broom?The answer is both yes and no. According to Katie Kanopka, senior product manager for brooms at O-Cedar, you should not trim your broom, particularly if it’s made of synthetic fibers: “Most broom manufacturers, including O-Cedar, flag the ends of the broom’s bristles. Flagging means they split the ends of each bristle, similar to what you might imagine when thinking about split ends in your hair. Flagged bristles make the broom fuller, and therefore more efficient in each sweep, leaving less dust and debris behind. Unlike the split hairs on your head, you don’t want to trim these off of your broom, as you’ll lose sweeping performance.”Catherine Falls Commercial//Getty ImagesHowever, that doesn’t necessarily mean trimming is off limits for all brooms. Becky Rapinchuk, also known as Clean Mama, recommends the process only for natural fiber brooms. “Trimming removes damaged ends and helps maintain the broom’s sweeping efficiency. A well-maintained natural fiber broom can last years longer with occasional trimming,” says Rapinchuk. Tips for TrimmingIf you do choose to trim your natural fiber broom, keep these tips in mind before whipping out the scissors. Don’t trim too much: Rapinchuk recommends trimming only uneven ends. “Trim straight across to maintain an even sweeping surface,” she says. Use sharp scissors: For a clean cut, make sure to avoid dull shears. Rinse after trimming: Clean off any debris with a quick rinse. “Allow it to dry completely before using,” says Rapinchuk. How to Store a Broomsergeyryzhov//Getty ImagesAlthough you shouldn’t give synthetic fiber brooms a haircut, there are plenty of other ways you can keep them alive and thriving for longer. “Store it in a way that avoids bending or flexing of the bristles. We recommend hanging it from its handle or storing it upside down (head up). Occasionally clean your broom by combing out tangled debris and giving it a wash with mild soap and water,” says Kanopka.More Cleaning TipsLaura 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

The bags are packed, the mail is on hold and you’ve enlisted a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on things while you’re away. But before you leave for the big vacation, run through the following home security checklist, from our experts in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Then you can sit back and relax, knowing your home will be just as you left it when you return.Set the thermostat. Though you don’t want to waste money cooling your home when you’re away, an excessive build-up of heat and humidity can invite mold and mildew. Steamy conditions can even create a fire hazard, for example if the refrigerator or other large appliance overheats from working too hard. Setting the temperature between 80 ° F and 85° F will prevent dangerous conditions without eating up too many energy dollars. Smart thermostats make it easy to program temperatures for your home, and you can also control and monitor the device remotely through the smart phone app, in case you forget to set the temp before leaving. Temperature control is even more critical during winter trips, because freezing conditions inside the home can lead to frozen pipes. Set the temperature to at least 55° F to stay safe while you’re on the ski slopes or tropical island.Arm the security system. After you lock the windows and doors, be sure to check the security system. It’s a good to get in the habit of arming the system every time you leave the house, even if you’re just running to the supermarket. If you have a professional security system, notify the company with your plans. If you’re going to be away for a few weeks or longer, let the local police department know as well.Don’t have a security system? Consider one of the DIY-friendly smart home security systems available to consumers. Our experts were impressed by the ease and efficacy of SimpliSafe, which invented the category 15 years ago. The Ring Alarm Pro won a Good Housekeeping Home Reno Award on the strength of its comprehensiveness, protecting against not just break-ins, but also floods, freezing temperatures, fires and more. ecobee Smart Thermostat PremiumCredit: Ecobee Tp-link Kasa Smart Plug Ultra Mini Credit: Kasa Ring Spotlight Cam ProCredit: RingUnplug electronic devices.Plugged-in devices pose a serious fire hazard, since a sudden power surge can cause them to overheat. Many electronics also use electricity when they’re not in use (“vampire power,” as it’s known), so you’re losing money by leaving them plugged in.Rechargeable batteries, like those used for e-bikes and power tools, are among the most dangerous devices, so be sure to unplug them and store them at room temperature. Heat-generating small appliances, including toaster ovens and electric kettles, are also on the must-unplug list.Related StoryPut the lights on a timer.One of the oldest tricks in the book is still tops at deterring would-be burglars, by making the home appear occupied. Our experts are big fans of smart plugs and smart bulbs, both of which let you program lights to turn on and off at random times of the day — unlike mechanical timers, which tend to be more predictable, turning lights on and off at the same time every day.Safeguard the yard. Store any valuables, like expensive patio furniture or outdoor speakers, in the garage or shed. Our experts also recommend putting away lawn chairs, outdoor toys, and any other items that could become airborne in heavy winds, say if a hurricane or tropical storm blows through while you’re away.Make sure any outdoor security cameras are fully charged. If you don’t own any, now is a good time to make the investment. Studies show that the mere presence of an outdoor camera is enough to make burglars think twice about hitting your home. Related StoriesHaving written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, you know all about the challenge of choosing the best kitchen cabinets for your style, budget and layout. There’s so much to consider. Custom, semi-custom or stock. Shaker or glass fronts. The rustic charm of stained wood or a classic paint color choice for a fresh look. The dizzying array of hardware options. And don’t forget about all the bells and whistles, be it Lazy Susans in corner cabinets, a pull-out coffee station or that chic decorative molding you’ve admired on Pinterest for so long. Since the design possibilities are endless, we turned to the pros to find out the top kitchen cabinet trends of 2025. Here, they share what’s really worth keeping on your radar for a stylish kitchen design. Related StoryMinimal Upper StorageCalifornia-based kitchen designer Caren Rideau says more and more clients are opting to ditch upper wall storage for a cleaner look. “To complement this aesthetic, we are seeing a rise in the use of heavier woods such as cherry, walnut and deeper oak stains,” says Rideau, founder of Kitchen Design Group. “These materials add warmth and depth to a kitchen, additionally the cabinet hardware continues to shine as the jewels of the space.” Accessible Design Features Kitchen renovations are pricey, so it’s important to consider how you’ll use your space over time. For this reason, Erika Hollinshead Ward of Erika Ward Interiors prioritizes accessible design features. “As someone living in a multigenerational household, I’ve become more aware of the smart design choices that make aging in place easier and more comfortable,” says Hollinshead Ward. “Homeowners are now opting for features like wider drawer pulls, easier-to-access cabinetry pullouts and hardware that’s both stylish and functional. In 2025, we’re seeing even more thoughtful upgrades—like soft-close drawers with integrated lighting, touch-to-open cabinets and lowered countertops—that help create a home that works beautifully for every generation.” Related StoryDesign: Gruver Cooley; Photo: Laura Metzler PhotographyA Focus on GatheringThe kitchen is the heart of the home, so it’s only right that homeowners are keen on designs that are set up to enjoy the company of family and friends. “One of the kitchen trends I’m loving right now is the return of true gathering spaces within the kitchen—especially the integration of breakfast nooks,” says Cathleen Gruver of Northern Virginia-based design firm Gruver Cooley.The designer recommends a cozy banquette tucked under a beautiful window or a built-in nook that wraps around the kitchen island, creating a layout that feels “intimate and intentional.” “It’s a subtle but powerful shift back to the idea that the kitchen is a space to slow down and be together,” she says.Rounded Cabinet DetailsSometimes, the most simple design choices can take kitchen cabinets to the next level. Going round is just one example. “Rounded cabinet profiles add a soft, playful touch to the kitchen—something clients often assumed could only be achieved through bold color contrasts,” says Maggie Goodrich of Third Street Architecture. “Now, we’re seeing more people embrace shape and silhouette as a design feature in itself. Cabinet details are having a moment, and it’s exciting to see that shift.” Warmth and Texture”For 2025, kitchen cabinet trends are leaning into warmth and texture, with natural wood finishes taking center stage and a shift away from the all-white or heavily painted look,” says Corinne Ekle of c2Design Co. The designer is noticing a shift towards hues like cream and mushroom — soft earth tones that “bring a sense of calm sophistication to the space.”Tehilla Bennett of Teela Bennett Design has also noticed that warmer tones are trending when it comes to color palettes and materials. “I’m also seeing, and absolutely embracing, a trend toward mixing materials, which adds rich visual interest without feeling overwhelming. The layering of textures and tones brings depth and warmth to a space in a really organic way.”Design: Erika Ward Interiors; Photo: Rustic White Interiors/Robert PetersonWalnut and MarbleChristopher Boutlier of Christopher Boutlier Interiors is embracing the beauty of walnut and marble in kitchen projects, but the focus is on unexpected places such as appliance garages and lining the interiors of drawers. “These are small, private details that you might only notice when you reach for your espresso cup, but they make the experience of using the kitchen feel elevated,” says Boutlier. “It’s like wearing a beautifully tailored jacket with a silk lining. No one else sees it, but you feel it.” Countertop Cabinets”Lately, I’ve been drawn to kitchens that feel less like utility spaces and more like curated rooms. There’s a move toward cabinetry that feels custom, quiet and deeply considered. One detail I’m loving is when upper cabinets extend all the way down to the countertop. It creates this hutch-like silhouette that feels architectural and grounded. It’s functional, yes, but it also reads more like a built-in piece of furniture than standard millwork.” – Christopher Boutlier of the Washington, DC based Christopher Boutlier Interiors Design: Christopher Boutlier Interiors; Photo: Constance GauthierBold Colors Earthy hues are trending, but don’t be afraid to experiment with more energetic colors, too. Take it from Third Street Architecture’s Maggie Goodrich, who is partial to a bold Zellige tile backsplash or colorful, sculptural hardware. “These small, intentional moments of personality can totally transform the space.” Wood Tones”While white oak has dominated the kitchen design conversation for the past decade, I’m starting to see a shift towards deeper wood tones, especially dark walnut, which brings warmth and richness to a space,” says Kate Hartman of Kate Hartman Interiors. The designer prefers the look of dark cabinetry with aged bronze hardware, or if you want to make even more of a statement, the designer suggests unlacquered brass. Designer Kristen Scharer of Kristen Scharer Interiors appreciates warmer wood tones that “bring an elevated, traditional and timeless charm to kitchens, infusing the space with a sense of comfort and enduring style.” Think soft oaks and rich walnuts for a cozy vibe. “The natural grain and warmth of wood add texture and depth, softening modern designs while grounding with classic aesthetics,” the Ohio-based designer explains. “This versatility fosters a serene, inviting environment, encouraging gatherings and evoking a sense of nostalgia.”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

When you think of classic prints, chances are polka dots come to mind. Recently, fashion designers ranging from Carolina Herrera to Prabal Gurung showed their love of the timeless pattern on runways, and now polka dots are popping up in the interior design world. Whether you’re in search of stylish rugs, throw pillows or statement wallpaper, the pattern seems to be everywhere right now. “Polka dots are a classic, but at the same time, they have a nostalgic and playful quality to them,” says designer Sasha Bikoff. “The great thing about polka dots is that there are so many variations in terms of color and scale, which make the print completely versatile and useful in many settings.”Refresh Your Space”Polka dots are a classic and comfortable, much like a stripe,” says designer and artist Rebecca Atwood. “I do think classics that have a bit of a ‘90s spin are feeling fresh again, especially in fashion, so it makes sense that this would happen in home as well.”Designer Joy Williams of Joyful Designs Studio also appreciates the print: “I love polka dots because I think design should be fun. It also feels geometric to my eye, so there’s interest there, especially black and white variations or something tone on tone.”Design: Joy Williams; Photo: Daniel Green Architectural + Interiors PhotographyHow to Nail the TrendIf you’re stumped on how to incorporate polka dot prints into your space, try these designers’ tips and tricks:✔️ Pick the right one. “Polka dots can easily feel a bit cutesy, so look for them in unexpected materials, sophisticated colors or slight twists,” says Atwood, noting her Embroidered Dot Sheers fabric. ✔️ Pair the print wisely. “Polka dots are a graphic-shaped design, so they pair well with something completely different like a floral,” says Bikoff. ✔️ Decide whether to go big or small. “You can either have them be center stage and incorporate them on a larger basis, such as with carpeting or wallpaper. Otherwise, it also is fun as a smaller accent in throw pillows or on an upholstered chair,” says Bikoff. ✔️ Aim for contrast. “For a more whimsical or quirky take, two high or low contrasting colors work well with polka dot patterns, but it should not be a one-off. You need to move it around the room to make an impact when you’re using the pattern in more whimsical ways,” says Williams.✔️ Consider simplified color palettes, too. “Think natural linen with white pigment print, or an indigo resist-dyed fabric,” says Atwood. ✔️ Experiment in small layouts. “I love this print for a powder room because it’s the whole idea with packing a lot of punch into a smaller space,” says Bikoff. 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

‘The Old Farmer’s Almanac’ recently released a chart breaking down the most common garden pests, how to identify them and how to treat them. Different pests target different plants.Many pests can be lessened by handpicking them off, adding row covers or spraying plants with a water and soap mixture.Like many hobbies, gardening is a labor of love. You prep your space in spring, buy seeds, plant them and nurture them as they grow, watering and weeding — all for the end goal of a beautiful bounty you can enjoy. However, many gardeners never make it to that point. Sometime between prep and harvest, their garden is overtaken by insects. Instead of plump tomatoes, they see large holes, missing leaves or worse. To catch the invasion before it’s too late, The Old Farmer’s Almanac released a chart of garden pests, ascribing certain plant damages to specific bugs.Here’s what you need to know. What is The Old Farmer’s Almanac? Dating back to 1792, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is an annual booklet filled with long-range predictions, recipes, astrological insights and more. These predictions are made using findings from three specific areas of study: solar science, climatology and meteorology. The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac Trade EditionNow 25% OffBased on the data acquired via these methods, The Old Farmer’s Almanac shares insights about temperatures, peak planting times, rain forecasts, etc. that are particularly helpful for farmers, gardeners, outdoorsmen and chefs. Garden Pest GuideFor the casual hobby gardener, it can be hard to identify which pests cause what harm, especially if you can’t catch the culprit in action. So the Farmer’s Almanac created a chart/guide, breaking down what characteristics to look for on plants, based on the habits of common garden pests. Recognizing that your garden has become an insect haven is the first step; identifying what type of bug has taken residence is second. The last step is treatment. The graphic reveals the seven common garden pests and how to get rid of them organically:Aphids: Spray leaves with soapy water or dust leaves with food-grade diatomaceous earthPest Caterpillars: Add row covers or hand removeJapanese Beetles: In the morning, handpick beetles off plants and spray plants with neem oilLeaf Miners: Add row covers, remove affected leaves and spray with neem oilSpider Mites: Spray with neem oil or water Flea Beetles: Add row covers or use food-grade diatomaceous earthSlugs & Snails: Tend to your garden at night and pick them off, create beer traps or use copper tapeOf course, these aren’t the only pests that might make their way into your yard. You can check out the Farmer’s Almanac’s Garden Plant Pest and Disease Control Library to see all of its recommendations for dealing with little critters. More Plant CareKate 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