Aurelia Butler

When it comes to household maintenance, there’s a lot that needs to be done — from the floors to the ceiling fans and everything in between, including tough spots, like toilets and nooks and crannies behind the couch. And while you might know a thing or two about the best vacuums or the best multi-purpose sprays to get the job done, the people who really know how to tackle a home in the most safe and efficient way are the ones who do it every day: professional cleaners. And according to the experts, some of the most common household cleaning mistakes — like sweeping up crumbs before clearing countertops — not only waste your time, but others can even be potentially hazardous, like mixing incompatible cleaning agents. Correcting even the most innocent of the bunch could add precious minutes back to your day, and we’re all about efficiency here.To help you get the job done the right way, we asked professional cleaners to dish on the top mistakes homeowners make and how to correct them. Using too much of a cleaning product“Many people think that using more cleaning solutions or sprays will lead to cleaner surfaces resulting in cleaner areas,” says Ryan Knoll, owner of Tidy Casa in Phoenix, Arizona. “Overusing cleaning sprays, solutions or bottled products can leave behind heavy residues on surfaces that may attract debris and dirt or cause streaks that you never want.” Mixing cleaning products”People often think that if one product works, mixing it with another one will make it even better,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab. But certain duos that can pose a serious threat to your health and the environment when mixed together. Take bleach and vinegar, for example. “Together, they produce chlorine gas, which even at low levels, can cause coughing, breathing problems and burning, watery eyes,” says Forté.PSA:Using the wrong cleaner for the wrong surfaceYou know how most carpet cleaning products come with a disclaimer that suggests you try a test spot before tackling a larger area? That’s because some cleaning products aren’t compatible with certain fabrics or surfaces and can cause irreparable damage. For example, when cleaning your laptop screen, you should never use a glass cleaner, says Forté. Another example? Though vinegar may sound like a gentle and all-natural cleaner, you should never use it to clean natural stone surfaces, as the acid can damage the stone, she says.Cleaning out of orderA lot of people take out the vacuum first, but you should really start at the top, says Knoll. Clean the curtains, the fan in the living room, the pictures, the TV, the entertainment center… everything else goes before the floor. Why? While you’re cleaning these spots, dirt will inevitably fall, littering your freshly vacuumed or mopped hardwood floors or carpeting, says Knoll. In the end, you’ll have to repeat a task you thought you’d already completed — a complete waste of time. FotoDuets//Getty ImagesNeglecting high-touch spotsHigh-touch spots are areas in the home that get touched by hands constantly throughout the day: door handles, light switches, remote controls, gaming controls, refrigerator door handles, microwaves, etc. These small areas may seem insignificant, so they often go overlooked, but can harbor a significant amount of dirt and bacteria because of how much they get used, says Knoll, who recommends cleaning these areas at least weekly. “Wipe them down with a solution of soap water, or disinfecting product or wipe,” he says. TOP-TESTED CLEANING PRODUCTSSteaming hardwood floorsEven though some steam mop manufacturers claim it’s safe to clean hardwood with steam, Forté does not recommend these appliances for use on wood (sealed, waxed or unfinished) and laminate floors — even on the lowest steam settings. Since most wood floors are not completely sealed, steam can penetrate the finish and warp the wood. When cleaning wood floors, we recommend a good old-fashioned wet mop instead. sefa ozel//Getty ImagesIgnoring nooks and cranniesWhen you ignore hard-to-reach spots — like the space behind the toilet — the dirt builds and may even get embedded into floors or woodwork, making it much more difficult to clean, says Joseph Passalacqua, CEO and owner at Maid Sailors Cleaning Service in New York. Buying into all of the cleaning hacks out thereYou could easily find yourself scrolling TikTok’s #CleanTok for hours on end, but our pros say you shouldn’t believe everything you see on the internet. Take laundry stripping, for example. While it is technically safe for sturdy white, off-white or colorfast fabrics, Forté says the process of laundry stripping can be time-consuming and inconvenient — and that there are other, better ways to avoid build-up in your fabrics. Using dirty cleaning toolsAlways clean your tools immediately after using and replace them as needed. Dirty cloths, mops, and full vacuum cleaner bags won’t effectively remove dirt and debris, Forté, who says you’ll end up working extra hard with minimal results to show for it. More of Our Latest Cleaning StoriesBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

Whether you love it or hate it, fluting has been popping up all over the design world. The vertical decorative grooves, with roots in Greek and Roman architecture, are often used on kitchen islands, cabinets, accent tables and even bathroom vanities. But fluted walls? Design pros say enough is enough. “Fluted is out and it became a trend so quickly. We saw it everywhere, from walls, to cabinets, table legs and even glassware,” says Brieanna Cunningham of C & C Partners.And she wasn’t the only one who felt strongly about saying goodbye to this trend. “There has been so much fluting and channeling going on, and it’s making rooms feel anxious and unsettled,” says Peter Spalding, CCO and co-founder of designer marketplace Daniel House Club. While designer Meridith Baer acknowledges that fluted panels are a “timeless design element,” she’s quick to note the style is a victim of too much of a good thing, and can make homes all “look the same.” BE IN THE KNOW“In the past few years, we’ve seen them in almost every new construction home,” Baer says. “Due to their popularity, fluted designs now appear everywhere — from home facades to interiors, and in every material type, ranging from the most luxurious to the most budget-friendly.” asbe//Getty Images“Fluted walls have become somewhat overused,” says designer Meridith Baer.Interior designer Robin Wilson raises another point some homeowners might not have considered — fluted walls can possibly put a damper on your cleaning routine. “Most people do not realize that walls are actually the largest surface in your home. Smooth walls are hard enough to keep dusted and clean, and fluted walls simply add to the challenge. With the sometimes deep crevices, there is only an increase in the surface area where dust can collect, thus triggering asthma and allergic reactions. Plus, it can also be a hiding place for insects.” So what’s replacing fluted walls? “There’s something to be said about fluted walls — it’s texture,” says Cunningham. “But we’re seeing it more with walls that embrace Roman Clay and/or limestone, grasscloth wallpapers or dimensional tile. You can run your fingers on the surface and feel what the eye sees.”Courtesy of C&C PartnersAccording to Brieanna Cunningham of C & C Partners, a design and construction firm, 3D tiles will become even more popular in 2025. Designer Sarah Storms thinks homeowners are open to design choices that fit more formal living setups these days, as well. “While fluted wall panels are on the way out, they are morphing into more elaborate crown molding, tall baseboards and wall molding treatments. There is going to be a real juxtaposition happening with elaborate molding and clean slab cabinetry in beautiful wood grains like walnut. The mixing of old and new is creating warmth and depth. Think about channeling Parisian apartments.” Wainscoting, board and batten and shiplap are the way to go for a more “lived-in sort of feel,” says Samantha Stathis Lynch, interior designer, Marshalls and TJ Maxx home style expert. “All three look absolutely beautiful painted in rich greens, vibrant blues and muddy pinks.” GET INSPIREDMonique 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 a young couple with two small children purchased a 1930s Spanish Revival property in Los Angeles, they weren’t set on transforming it into a super modern family home. Instead, they enlisted Candace Shure of Shure Design Studios to keep the “charming character” of the house intact, while updating the layout to reflect their active lifestyle. “That’s why they bought it in the first place,” Shure says. From preserving original features, including light fixtures and the living room fireplace, to turning the galley kitchen into a spacious cooking space fit for entertaining, every detail was considered. Keep scrolling for before and after images of the dramatic renovation that’s teeming with design inspiration. Separate rooms with a peninsula.Candace ShureMICHAEL CLIFFORDThe homeowners enjoy entertaining, so designer Candace Shure ditched the kitchen’s previous galley layout. She removed the wall between the kitchen and the dining area and installed an L-shaped counter that could be used as a serving area. “We painted it black to create a visual break between the two spaces,” Shure says. Embrace dark curtains.MICHAEL CLIFFORDThe couple, who share a 1-year-old and have a baby on the way, tend toward neutrals, so Shure chose dark drapery rods and window treatments to introduce depth and contrast. “We also punctuated the space with found objects and antiques in darker tones,” she says.Add tile to an original fireplace.Candace ShureMICHAEL CLIFFORD”To give the room’s focal point more presence, we widened the footprint and replaced stone with decorative tiling,” says Shure. The tiles are from Mission Tile West in South Pasadena, CA.Frame a window with sconces. Candace ShureMICHAEL CLIFFORDThe adjustable lights add a touch of quirky romance. “We love moving the rotating arms and shades to cast light around the space,” Shure says. The sconces are from Architects Design, a Turkey-based Etsy seller.Linen, velvet and fur — oh my!MICHAEL CLIFFORDIt’s what cozy bedrooms are made of. Sherwin-Williams’s Web Gray in a flat finish completes the “restful cocoon.” “The richness was exactly what the room needed to create that moody vibe,” Shure says. A variety of subtle patterns and sumptuous textures enhance the space.A version of this feature appeared in the November 2023 issue of Good Housekeeping.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.”Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant 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 product reviews to pop culture updates. More

Somewhere along the way, you were probably told that regularly flipping your mattress is a key part of maintenance to improve the longevity of your bed, plus keep you more comfortable at night (so long, saggy spots!). But the advice that once held true for the innerspring mattresses of yesteryear doesn’t hold up for more modern mattresses like hybrids and popular mattresses in a box. “When everyone had a plain innerspring mattress and box spring, flipping and rotating was recommended to even out the wear,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “Mattresses have come a long way — many newer models have pillow tops, foam layers and more that shouldn’t be flipped.” Ultimately, whether or not you should flip your mattress is really on a style by style basis, says Emma Seymour, associate director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab. But some of the best mattresses — including our top picks from brands like Saatva, Tempur-Pedic and Bear — are one-sided.Name the Mattress, We’ve Tested ItSometimes called “no turn mattresses,” these types of beds are constructed in very specific layers of support, typically firmer on the bottom and softer on the top for maximum support and comfort. When flipped, your mattress won’t be as comfortable and may even be prone to premature wear. What to do instead of flipping your mattressOn the flip side (get it?), the vast majority of mattresses — innerspring or more modern hybrids and foam mattresses — can, and should, be rotated regularly to prevent uneven wear and maintain support over time. Mattresses with zoned support are an exception to the rule, since these are specifically designed to offer targeted support to certain areas of the body. Again, it’s helpful to check the care information provided with your specific mattress. No, Seriously, We’ve Tested Them All…If your mattress can be rotated, our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles Lab recommend rotating it 180-degrees every six months. (An extra set of hands makes quicker work of this task!) But remember: All mattresses will eventually wear out — generally within about 8 to 10 years, says Lexie Sachs, executive director of Strategy & Operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “If you notice that your mattress has lumps or indents, that’s a good sign that it has lost its support and needs to be replaced rather than rotated or flipped.” NEED A NEW MATTRESS? Here Are Our Top PicksBest Overall MattressSaatva Classic MattressBest Memory Foam MattressTempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud®Best Mattress Under $500Allswell Luxe HybridBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. More

Professional organizers tend to believe if you’re not using something, you should get rid of it immediately. The first step in creating an organized home is to purge items you don’t love and no longer use, but some things — like those that hold sentimental value — shouldn’t be thrown away. “If something is important to you, make a home for it,” says Ashley Murphy, co-founder of NEAT Method. “That being said, I recommend setting a limit for yourself.”Whether it’s vintage books, letters from a loved one or a family heirloom, these items are worth keeping — especially if you have an emotional connection to them. Of course, moderation is key. “My trick is to decide how many storage bins full of sentimental items you feel good about storing in your space and then edit down to that quantity,” adds Shira Gill, organizing expert and author of Minimalist. “No negotiating. No buying more boxes. No exceptions.”Related StoriesMeaningful books Whether it’s a beloved childhood favorite, a first-edition novel or a book passed down from a loved one, sentimental stories deserve a spot in your home. “Books aren’t just for reading, they can be a beautiful part of your home decor,” says Nikki Boyd, professional organizer and author of Beautifully Organized. “A well-placed stack of meaningful books can add warmth and personality to any room.” Helpful tip: If the cover of a book doesn’t match your aesthetic, swap it for a cover that does.Important documentsNever discard financial and personal documents, including marriage and death certificates, adoption papers, custody agreements or the deed to your house. “Use a filing system or fire-proof safe to safely store important papers like a birth certificate, car title, vaccination records, etc., so you don’t accidentally throw them away,” says Murphy.Keep in mind: You can toss old credit card statements, tax-related documents and utility bills, but you should shred documents that contain confidential information, like your social security number or home address. Yevgen Timashov//Getty ImagesPhotographs, kids’ artwork and letters from loved onesMost people enjoy looking back on family photos and reminiscing over handwritten notes or their children’s artwork, but these things can lead to messy piles. Keep a few of your favorite or most cherished items, then digitize the rest. “Take a photo and make a digital or printed album of items that don’t make sense to store,” says Lisa Zaslow, founder of Gotham Organizers. “Digital photo frames are a great way to keep the memories visible.””You don’t need to keep physical things to retain memories, meaning or connection — all of that exists inside you,” adds Gill. “Make a memory book filled with sweet stories and anecdotes that you can share and pass onto other family members. Trust me: they would much rather have a lovely book to look through than a dozen dusty cardboard boxes filled with miscellany.”Beloved baby blanketOne thing professional organizer Rachel Rosenthal will never toss: “my daughter’s blanket that I brought her home from hospital in.” Most people form an emotional connection to their baby’s first blanket, so it’s perfectly normal to keep it. Rather than letting it sit in a box untouched, let your child play with it or upcycle it into something useful, like a pillow or quilt. Andreas von Einsiedel//Getty ImagesVintage pieces”Family heirlooms and vintage pieces are treasures that deserve to stay in the family,” says Boyd, who finds a way to use precious items in her daily life, rather than letting them sit in storage. “In my home, we love using the quilts my grandmother made in our media room. We love the thought that all her hard work still brings us so much joy today.”Just because something is vintage, doesn’t mean you need to keep it forever. “Only hold onto heirloom pieces that are important and of value to you,” says Murphy. “Don’t feel pressured to keep something simply because it’s old. Say goodbye and let someone else give it new life.” Items that don’t belong to youWhen decluttering, never get rid of something that belongs to a family member. “Throwing away items without the owner’s consent is just a path to arguments and mistrust,” says Ann Lightfoot, founding partner of Done & Done Home. “Never throw away something behind a loved one’s back. We’re not talking about something like your toddler’s puzzle with missing pieces, but rather your husband’s collection of concert T-shirts.” Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography//Getty ImagesHigh-quality cookwareWhile some professional organizers argue that seasonal cookware isn’t worth holding onto, Boyd believes “these items can become a valuable part of your family traditions.” Find an intentional place to store your fancy dishes and serving pieces, so you can break them out when family comes over. If you rarely use meaningful cookware, you can also find ways to give it new purpose — like turning an antique bowl into a planter. 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

1Tudorpeterspiro//Getty ImagesWith pointy roofs, beautiful chimneys and brick exteriors, Tudor houses bring a sense of old-school charm to a neighborhood. Originally developed in England and Wales, this classic style now presents itself in the Northern U.S., typically in suburbs. RELATED: Inside a 1907 New Jersey Tudor Filled With Original Architecture2Art DecoNicolasMcComber//Getty ImagesArt Deco design, made popular in the 1920s, is characterized by bold colors and geometric shapes. In New York, the Art Deco style became popular in skyscrapers first — think about the Empire State building, Rockefeller Plaza and the Chrysler Building. Although a bit different when translated to home design, the style still encompasses those same striking features.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3TownhouseGrace Cary//Getty ImagesBack in the day, townhouses were usually secondary homes to wealthy families who also owned country houses that they would spend most of their time in. Nowadays, this style can be seen all over cities in the U.S., especially New York City. Although on the smaller side, townhouses are best known for their prime location in major urban areas. 4ContemporarySteven GrayA contemporary house exterior is pretty similar to a contemporary interior. Think clean lines, a minimalist style and neutral color palettes as seen in this home by Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail Interiors. Contemporary homes are usually built with sustainable materials like wood and stone.Photo by: Steven GrayAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5SaltboxKenWiedemann//Getty ImagesIf you’re a New England native, you’re definitely familiar with the quaint saltbox style. As you may notice by looking at its shape, saltbox homes are two stories on one side (the side with the traditional roof) and one story on the other (the side with the steep-pitched roof). But what is a saltbox? These homes get their name from what used to be a popular way to store salt. In colonial America, salt was valuable. Settlers would store their salt in a box with a slanted lid. This shape also worked well for homes in New England, where winter weather would put a lot of pressure on the roofs of homes. 6BungalowPatricia BurkeAlthough these cute homes can be seen across the U.S. today, bungalows actually originated in India when the country was under British rule during the 1800s. The British wanted to build low-cost homes on a quick timeline, resulting in this popular style. Photo by: Patricia BurkeAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7ShinglePieter Estersohn//Getty ImagesShingle-style homes are often found in beachy New England towns like Cape Cod, Newport and even a bit south of the region — the Hamptons. Somehow traditional yet modern in appearance, these asymmetrical abodes give off a relaxed feel (which is perfect for hitting the beach).RELATED: Inside a Dreamy East Hampton Retreat8Cape Codjhorrocks//Getty ImagesPerhaps the most easily recognizable house style in the U.S., a Cape Cod home exudes symmetry, simplicity and sophistication. With a central door, rectangular shape and classic dormer windows, it’s no wonder kids typically draw this style when asked to sketch a home. Another house style that originated in the colonies, Cape Cod homes date back to the late 1600s. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9ItalianateBarry Winiker//Getty ImagesModeled after farmhouses on the Italian countryside in the early 1800s, Italianate-style homes stand out for their grand stature. This style made its way to the U.S. in the 1850s, overtaking suburban neighborhoods. Although the style has mostly waned in the states, you still may be able to spot one while driving down an old-school Main Street. 10ColonialTidbits & CompanyAs implied by the name, Colonial-style homes were first built in the U.S. in the 1600s and 1700s by British colonists. Using the materials they had access to and ideas from the house styles they were used to seeing back in their country, colonists created the Colonial home. As a result, this classic style is a combination of a few other styles, including Georgian and Federal. Now, Colonial-style homes, like the one seen here by Tidbits & Company, are seen most commonly in the Northeastern U.S.. However, they’re also present throughout any states that were formerly part of the original 13 colonies. RELATED: Step Inside This Revived Connecticut ColonialAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below11FederalThe Turquoise HomeThink brick exteriors, grand white columns and iron railings — those are just some of the key features of federal-style homes like the one seen here by The Turquoise Home. Inspired by Roman architecture, this style was developed in the U.S. after the American Revolution, when the colonies became a federation of states. 12Pueblo RevivalTom Hineman//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Queen AnneAriel Skelley//Getty ImagesPart of the larger Victorian architectural style, Queen Anne homes became popular in America in the late 1800s and early 1900s. These elegant homes typically feature a variety of building materials and different shaped shingles, according to National Park Service. 14ModernGokcemim//Getty ImagesFlat roofs, large windows and open floor plans are essential to modern architecture. Simple yet polished, the modern house style puts an emphasis on materials like glass and concrete while steering clear of decor and adornments. Instead, the focus is on function and minimalist design. RELATED: 50 Modern Living Room Ideas to Try in 2024Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Modern FarmhousePatricia BurkeThe modern farmhouse has quickly become one of the most desired house styles around, and for good reason. Inspired by past traditional farmhouse exteriors, the modern take on the design combines old-school elements like steep-pitched roofs, shutters and front porches with more contemporary features like clean lines, large windows and neutral colors for a practical yet stylish exterior like the one seen here by Patula Builders.Photo by: Patricia BurkeRELATED: 25 Farmhouse Decor Ideas That Perfectly Blend Modern and Rustic Styles16Craftsmanhikesterson//Getty ImagesWhile Victorian houses highlighted innovations made during the Industrial Revolution, Craftsman-style homes focused more on simplicity and handmade touches. This style emerged during the British Arts and Crafts Movement, which was led by those who believed machines were putting human labor in danger. In the U.S., similar movements began to crop up, leading to this simple style. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below17Gothic RevivalfotoVoyager//Getty ImagesEye-catching and grand, spires play a key role in the Gothic Revival movement. Meant to draw your eye up, these vertical lines and pointed arches are a tell-tale sign of Gothic Revival architecture, which became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.18BarnPatricia BurkeBarn-style homes usually give off a rural, rustic feel using natural materials like stone and wood. Recently, homeowners have been purchasing “barndomoniums,” or barns that have been converted into open floor plan living spaces. These trendy spaces have generated a ton of buzz on social media, with over 50k posts on TikTok related to the term. Photo by: Patricia BurkeAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below19Midcentury ModernScott Van Dyke//Getty ImagesAfter World War II, American families began prioritizing family and leisure time, particularly outdoors. Midcentury modern homes, which became popular during this time period, seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces through floor to ceiling windows and easy entryways into the yard. 20Greek RevivalThomas Kelley//Getty ImagesWhen you think about classical architecture, all white exteriors with stately columns probably come to mind. The Greek Revival movement sought to bring back those elegant design elements used to build ancient Greek temples. In the US, Greek Revival took over in the 1800s. These homes are usually symmetrical with large white columns and intricate moldings. Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant 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 product reviews to pop culture updates.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

When buyers are hunting for a house, an upgraded kitchen is a major selling point. Whether it’s stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors or new cabinets, homebuyers are drawn to modern kitchen designs — and, they’re willing to pay more for one. Renovations, both big and small, can drastically improve your home’s value. According to Remodeling’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, the average return on investment for minor kitchen remodels (think walls, hardware or lighting) is 96 percent, while major remodels (like new cabinets) yield an ROI of about 50 percent. The hard part? Not every kitchen project is worth the investment — and sometimes, it depends on the condition of your current space. Below, we ask real estate agents which kitchen upgrades are most appealing to potential buyers and when you’re better off skipping the renovation. Related StoriesKitchen Upgrades Worth the Investment (Always) New floors Replacing old floors — like damaged hardwood, outdated tile or stained carpet — is a great way to increase the value of your house. “Floors are always worth the investment,” says Amber Ludwinek, broker and owner of Realty ONE Group Optima, who finds that beautiful flooring will wow buyers as soon as they enter. “Nothing hurts a house sale more than having multiple different floorings or bad carpet, even if the seller is offering a carpet concession.”Buyers prefer when flooring feels seamless, whether that’s hardwood throughout the entire house or smooth transitions from room to room. When choosing a new floor, always consider your space as a whole, but most realtors agree hardwood (or wood-look) floors are the most requested flooring type among today’s buyers. Jess Isaac; Designed by Lucas Browning DesignA fresh coat of paint”The best money you can spend getting your house ready for sale is on professional paint,” says Grace Wagenman, interior designer and Realtor with Parks at Home. “Refreshed and neutral walls and trim throughout a home helps buyers more easily picture themselves putting a personal touch on a space.”Think gray, off-white or cream paint colors that will brighten and soften the interior. “New paint is a must, even if the existing colors are neutral,” adds Ludwinek. “New paint makes the home feel move-in ready.”Related StoryNew or painted kitchen cabinetsNot only do kitchen cabinets determine a kitchen’s functionality, but they have a major impact on the overall aesthetic. “Refreshing cabinets with new fronts or a professional paint job, rather than replacing the entire cabinet, is a great way to save money, time and hassle,” says Wagenman. Affordable upgrades, like installing soft-close hardware, can also make a kitchen feel more expensive. In some cases, it might be worth installing new cabinets, especially if you’re already planning to invest in other expensive kitchen upgrades. “If you choose to put new countertops over existing outdated or low-quality cabinets, even if you paint them, the cabinets will stand out more — which could actually negatively impact the investment,” says Ludwinek. “Replacing cabinets may not be that much more expensive and can have a greater resale impact on a home,” adds Ludwinek, who suggests lower-cost cabinets from retailers like IKEA. Read McKendree Cabinet hardwareFor cabinets that are in good condition, new hardware is “the best cheap investment,” says Ludwinek. Swapping outdated hardware for a modern style will make the space feel more expensive, and you can easily find options that don’t cost more than $100. AppliancesFor a few thousand dollars, a set of new appliances will give the kitchen a streamlined style. Realtor Caroline Gau says, “new appliances look good in photos and are of value,” especially if the current appliances are cheap or old. According to Houzz’s 2024 Kitchen Trend Study, stainless steel remains the overwhelming favorite appliance finish — with 77% of homeowners choosing stainless steel during kitchen renovations. “Most importantly, appliances should match in finish and brand whenever possible,” adds Wagenman. Sink faucetA modern faucet, especially one with high-tech features, like touch-free activation, will make a kitchen feel newer. Since installing a new kitchen faucet is budget-friendly (it’ll likely cost between $100 and $400), realtors agree it’s a worth-while renovation. “It can be an inexpensive way to update a kitchen,” says Wagenman. “If you’re just updating the finish but keeping the same setup (like a one-hole faucet), that’s going to be the easiest and most budget-friendly option.”Kitchen Upgrades Worth the Investment (Sometimes)Modern light fixturesKitchen lighting has the power to transform a space — not to mention it’ll make food prep, cooking and cleaning easier for the future homeowners. “Upgraded lighting is like adding beautiful jewelry to a basic outfit, says Ludwinek. “It makes the whole look feel high-end and designer.”While it’s likely worth parting with old fluorescent light fixtures or unattractive flush mounts (we’re talking the dreaded “boob light”), it may not be worth replacing newer fixtures. If the current fixtures are in good condition, don’t swap in pricey, custom lighting that may or may not align with the homeowners’ future style. “Updates, like lighting, may be valuable to a buyer, however, depending on the customization, may not bring a return on the investment,” says Gau. Keyanna Bowen A new kitchen islandMany buyers dream of a functional kitchen island. They provide extra space for food prep and often serve as a gathering area, especially when there’s room for a few bar stools. “I haven’t met a buyer who didn’t love a kitchen island for the extra counter space, storage and flexibility,” says Gau. As for whether it’s worth building a kitchen island, it depends on your kitchen layout. “If adding an island in your home will inhibit the flow of the kitchen or limit storage and seating options, skip it,” says Wagenman. Instead, you can buy a rolling kitchen island to create a similar effect for a much lower cost.Kaitlin Green, Design by Emily Henderson Quality countertopsWhen it comes to replacing countertops, realtors share mixed reviews. Ludwinek argues that “bad, cheap or non-matching countertops will make the main parts of a home look outdated and in need of a renovation.” Whereas others find that the majority of homeowners aren’t deterred by old-fashioned countertops. “Buyers know countertops are an easy upgrade they can tackle and choose on their own,” says Gau. Consider the quality and material of your current countertops. A quality countertop, even if the style is outdated, is always better than an old, inexpensive material that homeowners know they’ll need to rip out immediately. “It’s a good idea to upgrade your countertops if you have laminate, but if your countertops are in good shape but perhaps not the most on-trend style, you can usually elevate the overall look with complementary paint and styling,” says Wagenman. BacksplashIf the current backsplash is worn or outdated (think small mosaic tile), it might be worth replacing. And if your house doesn’t have a backsplash at all, it’s definitely worth installing one. When selecting a kitchen backsplash, it’s best to stick to neutral designs — as anything too bold or bright can deter buyers. According to Houzz, the most popular backsplash material is ceramic or porcelain tile, followed by engineered quartz. 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

1Cozy NookMadeline HarperHere, Anastasia Casey, founder of IDCO Studio, creates a charming guest room by tucking a bed into a small space. From floor to ceiling, the tiny nook is painted a calming sage green, which pops against bright white bedding. Photo by: Madeline Harper2Pops of SageChristopher Lee FotoNot ready to paint your walls sage green? Take note from Christine Costa Zippert and weave in the earthy shade with furniture (think a bed frame) and plush textures in the form of pillows and blankets. Photo by: Christopher Lee FotoAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below3Modern CottageBless’er HouseBoho meets modern in this teen girl’s bedroom, from the shiplap walls painted a subtle sage and wicker accents to functional furniture (like the metal bed frame).See more at Bless’er House »4Soothing ShadesMadeline HarperAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Accent WallThe English Den6Farmhouse StyleCourtesy of Dunn-EdwardsThis sunny bedroom features wood paneling painted in Dunn-Edwards’ Desert Sage, which pairs beautifully with a plaid upholstered headboard and light wood accents. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Colorful BeddingSara Liggoria-TrampSpruce up a neutral bedroom with a sage green duvet cover and an assortment of throw pillows. This blogger even draws a “headboard” using green paint and a black line detail. See more at Style by Emily Henderson »8A Dose of Pinkcourtesy of Little GreeneThis cheerful color combination (pale pink and sage green) makes this bedroom feel like spring. The walls and picture frame molding are painted in Little Greene’s Pea Green and the geometric wallpaper inside each frame adds to the room’s visual appeal. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Vintage FlairMadeline HarpterFrom the plaid upholstered bed and velvet armchair to the patterned area rug, this quaint bedroom draws on vintage style. Anastasia Casey, founder of IDCO Studio, paints the wood paneled walls a moody sage green.Photo by: Madeline Harper10Industrial StyleCourtesy of GliddenPaint the entire room sage green, specifically Glidden’s Light Sage, including an exposed brick wall. Warm up this industrial design with a warm wood bed frame, leather accent chair and layered area rugs. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Paired With PlaidAmanda West//InstagramIf you haven’t noticed by now, sage green and plaid make a charming combination. In this kids’ bedroom, the wainscoting is painted an earthy green and plaid wallpaper adorns the upper walls. See more at According to Mandy » 12Bright and LightPatti WagnerAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Traditional DetailsCourtesy of Farrow & BallIn an historic house, sage green walls complement a white fireplace and metal bed topped with crisp bedding. Depending on the time of day, Farrow & Ball’s Green Blue changes from soft green to cool blue.14More is MoreMonica Wants ItWhen paired with wood tones and white accents, sage green can act as a calming neutral. Or, mix sage green with bright florals, animal prints and oversized art for maximalist style. See more at Monica Wants It »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Beautiful Built-InsMark MauldinCoat built-in cabinetry in a cheery blue-green, just as designer Theresa Butler does in this teen’s bedroom. When it comes to bedding, an area rug and accent wall, don’t shy away from pattern.Photo by: Marc Mauldin16Dark and CozyHaute’XposureOpt for a deep, earthy sage in the bedroom, like this cozy look from Christine Schumacher of Localia Interiors. Play up the moodiness with a black-and-white floral wallpaper behind the bed.Photo by: Haute’XposureAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below17Floor-to-Ceiling SageJan Baldwin; Courtesy of Farrow & BallGo monochromatic and don’t stop at painting your walls sage green. Extend the inviting shade to the ceiling. This rustic kid’s bedroom flaunts Farrow & Ball’s Lichen, a muted green with blue undertones. 18Modern WainscotingEllie LindstromAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below19Warm Wood TonesCourtesy of Glidden20Two-Tone Wallscourtesy of Little GreeneAlyssa 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.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More