Aurelia Butler

Even if an item’s label recommends machine washing, there are times you should think twice before doing so. We’ve all experienced that tragic moment of grabbing a favorite blouse, dress or throw blanket from the washer only to find that it has shrunk, torn or faded. Not to mention, there are certain items — think weighted blankets or spare coins — that can actually damage a washing machine.To help you do laundry the right way, we turned to Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, for her best advice. Below, we share clothes and linens that should never be machine washed — even on a delicate cycle. When in doubt, we recommend hand-washing in the sink or taking a trip to the dry cleaners. Related StoriesExtremely dirty itemsThings like sandy towels, blankets covered in pet hair and muddy clothes shouldn’t be thrown directly into the washing machine. Not only can a large amount of sand, dirt or pet hair damage a washer, but your clothing won’t get clean. Shake out very dirty towels, clothing and linens outside or over the trash can before machine washing them. You can also use a lint roller to remove a majority of dog hair. Solid Foam pillows Solid memory foam pillows provide great neck support, but they should never be machine washed. The machine’s agitation and high-speed spin can damage the foam. “They probably shouldn’t even be hand-washed, as the foam can tear from the weight of the water,” says Forté. Instead, invest in a machine-washable pillow cover! Damian Lugowski//Getty ImagesWeighted or very heavy blanketsSome large and weighted blankets may claim to be machine washable, but it’s important to consider the size and capacity of your washer. While extra-large home washers can often handle mixed loads of 22 to 24 pounds, a single 20-pound item can put a strain on your machine. Our experts recommend not washing a weighted blanket of more than 15 pounds, even if your washer can typically handle 20-pound loads. RELATED: How to Wash a Weighted Blanket — and How Often You Should Wash ItItems Labeled Dry Clean OnlyAlways check the care label before machine washing clothes. If the label reads “dry clean only,” you run the risk of damaging, shrinking or fading your clothes. Delicate fabrics (think silk, cashmere and leather), embellished items and formal attire, like suits and gowns, tend to be dry clean only. Certain blankets and pillows shouldn’t be machine washed either. RELATED: What Is Dry Cleaning and How Does It Actually Work? Our Experts ExplainVintage and delicate clothingVintage garments or modern clothing made from delicate fabrics (again: silk, cashmere, suede and lace) should not be machine washed. Instead, these items should be hand-washed with mild detergent in cold water or brought to a dry cleaner. We recommend dry cleaning for pleated skirts, leather clothing and any garments with embellishments like jewels, sequins, leather patches or detailed trims.gerenme//Getty ImagesItems with an unzipped zipperWhether you’re washing denim jeans, jackets or bedding, always make sure zippers are fully closed. The teeth of an open zipper can easily get stuck on fabrics and tear your clothing. Also, be sure to zip up mesh laundry bags before tossing them in the washer. Anything left behind in pockets As you’re loading the washer, always check pockets for stray items — like coins, keys, tissues, old receipts or lip balm. Not only can things like lip balms, paper receipts and tissues get all over clothing, but metal items (think coins and keys) can damage a washer. Leather clothingAs mentioned earlier, certain fabrics — like leather — should steer clear of the washing machine. When exposed to a wash cycle or high heat, leather can crack, wrinkle or shrink. Hand-wash leather jackets, pants or accessories, or simply spot-clean them as needed.Dark and bright-colored clothing that might bleedCertain dyes, especially reds and oranges, are known to bleed color in the wash — especially when the item is brand new. This can cause an entire load to stain. If you’re worried about color bleeding, it’s best to hand-wash the item separately. Related StoriesAlyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York. More

1Best for ReadersStorybook DIY KitAll readers understand how it feels to enter a new world. With this storybook DIY kit, you can create your own portal to another world between the books on your shelf. Simply assemble the puzzle pieces and turn on the mini LEDs for a beautifully lit bookshelf. “The kit comes with everything you need and is super easy to follow, making it a fun project to dive into together. Not only will you create something special, but you’ll also make lasting memories. If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on activity that’s both creative and rewarding, this is it,” says one 5-star review. 2Most DecorativeDouble Glass Frame for Pressed FlowersFinding the perfect piece of art can be exhausting and expensive. So why not make your own? Amazon’s pressed flower frame kit comes with dried flowers and double glass frames for a comprehensive pressed flower guide. And if you have your own flowers to preserve, go for it! “I really liked this sweet little kit,” says one Amazon customer. “I used the flowers that came with it and cut up the stickers into smaller pieces to help the flowers stick.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Amazing Origami KitTest your origami skills with this all-inclusive kit. With 13 custom paper designs and a 64-page booklet with instructions, this kit is perfect for experimenting. “It’s a great learning tool,” says one 5-star review. “The amount of paper and the diversity is incredible. It also gives you craft ideas on how to use some of the patterns.”4For the FoodiesDIY Rainbow Bagel Making KitIf crafts aren’t necessarily your thing but you still enjoy the process of making something from scratch, why not go for some tasty rainbow bagels? For just $35, you can create picture-perfect bagels that are as pretty as they are delicious. According to Williams Sonoma, the kit includes “baking mix, yeast, and liquid gel food coloring to create any (and all!) colors of the rainbow.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Sculpd Pottery Kit for BeginnersIf you’ve never tried pottery before, give it a go with Sculpd’s all-in-one kit. It even comes with all the materials you need to paint the sculpture once it’s done. “I am so impressed! The clay and finished products feel nothing like typical air clay,” says one 5-star review. “This clay is heavy and so is the finished product.”6Fun for the FamilyLEGO Message BoardLet’s face it: Legos are not just for kids. What better way to get in on the fun than with a family message board? Write a message to your family or guests and then switch it up and build something new whenever you’re bored. You can even create fun emojis to include! The kit comes with instruction posters that explain how to create certain letters — all you have to do is put them together.RELATED: The Best Lego Sets for AdultsAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Best for GiftingBirth Month Flower Paint-by-Number Kit Paint-by-number kits have become super popular among adults looking to get a bit more creative in their downtime without doing too much work at once. Because all of the materials are included and all you have to do is follow the numbers, paint-by-numbers eliminate any of the stress that may come with crafting. Plus, this kit in particular comes in 12 different birth month flower designs. “This is a high quality paint-by-numbers kit. The size makes it easy to complete. The canvas is quality and the paints are great — just the right consistency,” says one 5-star review. 8Natural Dye Indigo Kit We’ve all made tie-dye shirts during our childhood. Why not take it one step further with a natural dye kit? Add color to your favorite white tote bag or plain T-shirt. “This kit makes indigo fun, easy and accessible. I’m obsessed! The directions are wonderful and the pigment is gorgeous,” says one 5-star review. “If you’re interested in learning how to indigo dye, this is a good place to start!”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Best Diamond ArtBoho Diamond Art DIY Coaster KitDesign your own coasters using this DIY diamond art kit. The coasters come with corresponding numbers that match certain colored diamonds in the kit. Just stick them on to create the colorful, sparkly designs. “These coasters are very colorful and look beautiful! I made them as a gift and I will be proud to give them,” says one Amazon customer. “Holder is a perfect bonus! Very happy I bought these!”10Stained Glass Kit Now 30% OffCreate your own stained glass design with this DIY kit that comes with it all. Recreate one of the patterns in the kit or make your own stained glass design with the colors and materials included. You can even reuse any old glass jars or bottles if you’re looking for upcycling ideas. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Best for PaintersScented Rock Art Kit While you might not think you need a kit to paint rocks, trust us, you do. Take away all of the work that comes along with finding the perfect rocks and buying the correct type of paint. This all-in-one rock art kit includes a book with step-by-step instructions to recreate the designs on the box, three rocks, paint and paintbrushes and two different scents you can apply to the rocks once you’re finished. 12American Crafts Scrapbook KitChoose a topic or time period of your life and start scrapbooking. Not only can you get creative with all of the different stickers and colorful sheets of paper, you can also relive your favorite memories through photos with loved ones. “Choose from a variety of colorful sheets and pair with stickers, washi tape, and more to customize your projects,” the product description states. Just print out some of your best snaps and pair them with the included materials for a nostalgic, heartwarming project. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Fun for Plant ParentsDIY Macramé Kit for AdultsCalling all plant parents! This one’s for you. Hang plants from your ceiling with this simple DIY project. If you’ve never tried macramé before, don’t worry — this kit is made specifically for beginners and comes with all the instructions and materials you need to be successful. 14Crystal Soy Candle DIY Kit This DIY candle kit comes with two scents, rose tea and lavender vanilla, and makes four travel size soy candles. With all the materials included, all you’ll need is a microwave or stovetop. “I got this kit for my mom for Mother’s Day and she absolutely LOVED it,” says one 5-star review. “We had so much fun and the scents smell so good. We will definitely be purchasing again.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15For Beginner ChefsArtisan Rainbow Dumpling KitAnother food-related craft kit, this DIY dumpling set is great for beginner chefs. According to Uncommon Goods, the kit includes “bread flour, four plant-based dyes (red, yellow, purple, and green), round dough cutter, rolling pin, instructions, and QR codes with video links.” The best part? There’s enough ingredients to make 80 dumplings. 16Best Under $10Clay Beads Jewelry Making KitMake your own stylish bracelets with this $7 clay bead jewelry kit. Spell out your name, an inspirational saying or simply create a colorful pattern with gold accents. Plus, the beads and lettered charms are neutral-colored, offering a sophisticated look. This kit proves DIY bracelet making is about more than just confirming BFF status — it can be for adults too!Advertisement – Continue Reading Below17Crochet for BeginnersFred the Dinosaur Crochet KitLearning how to crochet can be intimidating, especially if you’re brand new to the art. But don’t fear, Fred is here. This kit comes with all the materials and step-by-step instructions you need to create Fred the dinosaur. According to the site, the tutorials included “are designed to take the stress out of starting your project and make it easy for new crafters to dive straight into the fun.””This did NOT disappoint,” says one Joann customer. “The videos are great and easy to follow. I have very much found a new hobby, and I’m excited to do another one!”18Best for Nature-LoversThe Art of National Parks Coloring BookThere’s nothing more calming than coloring and being in nature. So why not do both? This adult coloring book includes all 63 national parks with designs from the famous W.P.A. posters of the 1930s. “This coloring book is absolutely beautiful,” says one 5-star review. “For any artist or nature lover in your life, get this book!”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below19Pizza Party Gift CratePizza party time! Learn how to cook the perfect pizza with Williams Sonoma’s pizza party crate. This kit comes with a cookbook, pizza seasoning, two different types of sauces and pizza crust mix that’s ready to bake in less than 30 minutes. 20DIY Crochet Kit Available in three different sizes, this crochet kit for beginners will meet you wherever you are in your crochet journey. However, if you’re looking for a more extensive crochet kit with an illustrated book of designs, go for the premium package. It even comes with a tote so you can take your hobby to go! 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

1Mainstays Farmhouse Fireplace TV StandThis electric fireplace feels just as cozy as the real thing — it provides continuous heat so you still get the warm and relaxed atmosphere of a crackling fireplace, but without all the mess and maintenance.2Better Homes & Gardens 4-Piece 400 Thread Count HygroCotton Sheet SetThere’s nothing like the feel of new sheets, so treat yourself to this moisture-wicking set that gets softer and more breathable after each wash. Get ready to be enveloped in peaceful serenity and slumber.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Beautiful Drew Chair by Drew BarrymoreNow 23% OffCan’t you just see yourself curled up with a good book in this gorgeous, cushiony chair? The stain-treated boucle upholstery is plush to the touch, while the included pillows offer comfort and support — and the sage color makes this the perfect subdued statement piece.4Better Homes & Gardens Wyatt Velvet SofaFall also signals the start of the holiday season, and for many of us, that means visits from out-of-town guests. This padded velvet sofa is the perfect way to upgrade your living room or finished basement in time for game and movie nights with loved ones.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Better Homes & Gardens Bryant Dining TableThe amazing thing about farm tables like this one is how a simple, classic design can have such big visual impact. This solid wood piece can comfortably seat up to six adults for your next holiday party. 6Home Decor Collection Ceramic Table LampIf you ask us, you can never have too much ambient light in a room. This modernist-style ivory lamp will fit in with any room’s decor, and at 18 inches high, it’s the ideal size to place atop consoles, side tables, mantels or any nook in need of a little extra glow.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Mainstays Ogee Kitchen MatSometimes it’s the simple swaps that make a room pop. This colorful foam-filled mat will add a farmhouse feel to your kitchen while also giving your feet cushion and support as you wash dishes or cook family meals.8Beautiful Barrymore Accent Chair by Drew BarrymoreIf you’ve been dreaming of upgrading your living room furniture but aren’t ready for an entire sofa redo, let us introduce you to this accent chair. With shearling fabric in a warm neutral shade, it will undoubtedly become a snug sanctuary year-round.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Thyme & Table 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware SetThe deep, lush green shade and simple ceramic design (both microwave and dishwasher safe) will make mealtime that much more comforting and inviting.10Comfort Canopy ThrowNow 75% OffCooler days and nights mean snuggle time under blankets — and this super-soft throw, with its chunky knit, is just the right combo of style and cozy warmth. Made of hypoallergenic acrylic, it also comes in pale pink, light blue, ivory and light gray, so it can blend in with just about anything.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11Style House White Waves Aiden PillowAdd texture to your living space with a plush, decorative pillow, like this one with a modern embroidered design.12Mainstays Fall Black Ceramic Vase with Artificial Brown Floral FoliageA bouquet of faux fall foliage adds a seasonal accent to a tablescape or coffee table. This harvest-themed arrangement comes housed in a stylish black vase.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13Thyme & Table Ribbed Stackable Mug SetSometimes peace and harmony come from nothing more than seeing your kitchenware neatly stacked and in its place. This mod, neutral-toned stoneware set makes that harmonious state a given. 14Better Homes & Gardens Springwood Cane TV StandIf glassware, electronics, linens or practically anything else in your house needs a proper home, this console may be the answer. It has adjustable shelves behind each door and comes in a light honey or charcoal shade to elevate any space.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Safavieh Braided Calvin Area RugNow 12% OffDuring the chillier months, you’ll be happy to bring the warm color of the sun into your bedroom, den or entryway with this round 100% cotton rug.Naomi Barr is a freelance writer living in New York.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1Cookie Cutter Napkin FoldMike GartenMore a roll than a fold, this napkin technique is great for beginners. Simply roll a napkin, place a cookie cutter around the center and you’re all set. Feel free to use different shapes throughout the table or stick to a specific one depending on the holiday. Your guests will love this subtle touch. SHOP COOKIE CUTTERS2Bow Tie Napkin FoldThe House That Lars BuiltSimple yet sophisticated, these bow tie napkins suit any occasion. Fold a napkin accordion-style and pinch in the center. It’s as easy as that! For a holiday look, use red or green napkins. You can go pink for Valentine’s Day, pastels for Easter or orange and black for Halloween. Get the tutorial from The House That Lars Built »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Tassel Napkin FoldMike GartenGather tassels and feathers for this elegant napkin design. Simply fold a napkin into a rectangle shape and carefully pinch the center. Tie a gold tassel around to hold it in place. In the center, there should be a shallow pouch. Stick a feather or pom-pom in for a stylish touch. 4Playful Napkin Ring FoldDesign ImprovisedAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Rabbit Nose Napkin FoldIt All Started With PaintPossibly the cutest napkin fold ever, these bunny years require a bit of rolling and folding. Using an all-white napkin to mimic the look of a rabbit, roll the napkin and then fold it in the middle so that there are two ears of equal length. Tie the middle using burlap string or raffia ribbon with a wooden bead for the nose. SHOP RAFFIA RIBBONGet the tutorial from It All Started With Paint »6Envelope Napkin FoldSarahli WilcoxAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Christmas Tree Napkin FoldMike GartenFold a cloth napkin into the shape of a Christmas tree, then top it with miniature ball ornaments. Get creative with colors or stick with a green napkin to keep it realistic. Hint: Use a fringe napkin for added texture and try to lay the pieces of fringe in spots where it resembles pine sprigs.SHOP FRINGE NAPKINSGet the tutorial »8Bow Knot Napkin FoldKyla MalkaniGo for a timeless look with a simple bow knot napkin, versatile enough for any occasion. Once you learn this easy technique, you can use it time and time again — just swap the napkins to pair with the current season or holiday. Get the tutorial from @Kyla.Malkani »Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Eight-Pointed Star Napkin Foldmike garten//20th Century StudiosThis clever star shape adds elegance to any occasion, no matter what color scheme you choose. Go bright with a festive red or green, or keep it calm with a pastel pink or warm orange. Start with a standard 20″ cloth napkin, fold it in half and then press it with an iron to create a crease. Continue folding and pressing until you’ve created a trapezoid shape. Tip: Use paper clips to keep the sides together as you go. More

Ever since my husband and I visited Norway in May, I’ve been obsessed with the Scandinavian sleep method. If you haven’t heard of it, this approach simply means that instead of a couple sharing one duvet, they each have their own. We have those classic couple issues: My husband likes to be super warm while he sleeps, while I prefer to be cool. And one of us inevitably hogs the sheet while we sleep, leaving the other catching a major draft. But after one night in Norway sleeping with my own duvet, I was hooked. We both had the best sleep of our lives. Related StoryWhen we got home, I was eager to try it. There was just one issue: I didn’t want our bed to look like a wild animal had just made itself at home. Luckily, I’d seen different ways people styled it, like layering the duvets or folding them neatly in half. Illustration by Melissa GeurtsI recently gave our room a full-on color drench in the most serene blue hue (Benjamin Moore’s Van Deusen Blue — so dreamy!) so I figured it was the perfect time to level up my bedding situation, too, including not one, but two new duvets. Instead of just winging it, I dove into creating a mood board of my ideal color palette and patterns. I love getting lost in Pinterest rabbit holes for inspo, and always stalk my go-to retailers for their latest drops. Since my bedroom doesn’t get much light, I knew I needed to warm things up with brighter sheets and maybe throw in some classic stripes or checks to make it feel extra cozy for fall. A little collage magic later, and voilà — mood board complete.Collage Melissa GeurtsSHOP THE MOOD BOARD: Striped Duvet + Pillow Shams | Blue Checkered Quilt | Blue + Tan Sheets | Cedar Quilt | Gingham Sheets | Brown Checkered Duvet For extra pops of color and playful patterns, why not mix contrasting hues for a bold statement? Picture a dusty blue paired with a rich burnt orange, or a soft blush balanced with a deep forest green — total vibe shift. And if you and your partner are material opposites (because, let’s be honest, who isn’t?), you can totally work with that too. Linen on one side, flannel on the other? Perfect for winter! The beauty of the Scandinavian sleep method is that each side of the bed is its own little world, so you can both create your perfect sleep setup. Collage by Melissa GeurtsContrast: Green Sheets + Pink StripesNatural: Nature Duvet Cover + Green QuiltPrints: Navy Sheets + Block Print Duvet Cover Tonal: Orange Sheets + Bright Orange and Green QuiltThe Search for the Perfect Bedding As a hot sleeper who’s all about natural fibers, I naturally gravitated towards Brooklinen’s sheets (I mean, they did just earn the Good Housekeeping Seal, so how could I resist?). For the duvets, I went with two Buffy comforters — another top pick from the Good Housekeeping Institute. Now, about the top sheet? I ditched it — controversial, I know! But honestly, it was just one layer too many to deal with when making the bed. Who knows, maybe I’ll bring it back someday, but for now I’m loving the simplicity.Melissa Geurts To tie everything together, I went with a gorgeous navy-striped duvet cover from The Company Store and added a cozy quilt for extra texture. The stripes perfectly camouflage where the two duvets meet, and the size fits like a dream on my queen bed. I love when sheets almost skim the floor, so having two twins lets me customize the length just right. I also always size up to a king for quilts or coverlets — it gives that perfect drape and a romantic, effortless look. The duvet covers from The Company Store? Absolute heaven! I’m obsessed with the button closures and corner ties—if you’re stuffing a duvet (twice!), you’ve gotta make sure it stays put. And the quilt at the foot of the bed? It’s basically my secret weapon to keep the cats from turning bedtime into their nightly parkour training.Melissa GeurtsI always look for hidden button enclosures for a tidy look!Melissa GeurtsCorner ties are essential to keep the duvet from shifting, especially after double-stuffing. At first, I gave Buffy’s comforter a shot — my husband was a big fan—but as a hot sleeper, I needed something a little lighter. In hindsight, I should’ve gone straight to Emma Seymour, our Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Associate Director. She’s a wealth of knowledge. She recommended The Company Store’s Premium Alberta Down Light Warmth Comforter, and explained that the higher the feather content, the fluffier it is. Plus, since down is a natural fiber, it’s way more breathable than down alternatives. Total game-changer. I felt like I was wrapped in a cloud but stayed cool as a cucumber all night long.Recreate Melissa’s BedA Month Later: My Honest Review of the Scandinavian Sleep MethodMelissa Geurts Pros:Personalized comfort: No more late-night blanket tug-of-war!Stylish aesthetic: Layered bedding gives your room a designer look .Improved sleep quality: Individual temperature regulation? Total game-changer.Customizable length: If you love sheets that graze the floor, two twin duvets let you tweak the length just how you like it.Cons:Laundry day doubles: Twice the duvet covers, twice the laundry.Making the bed takes practice: Getting those duvets to look just right takes a bit more effort.No top sheet: Could be a dealbreaker for the top-sheet lovers out there.Melissa Geurts. Painting by Lars Tveit.But all things considered, I’m a convert! This method not only ended our duvet battles (finally) but also gave our bedroom a serious style upgrade. And it doesn’t look messy at all—actually, it’s a total vibe. Plus, I’m sleeping better than ever. It even matched my Norwegian art above the bed, so it feels like it was meant to be! I’ve been telling everyone about it. Yes, making the bed takes a little extra time, but trust me, it’s worth it when you’re falling asleep wrapped in your own personal cloud. I stay cool, my husband stays toasty—it’s the best of both worlds. The Scandinavian sleep method is honestly a sleep revolution. It’s like hygge, but with bonus sleep benefits. Time to hit the hay — with our own duvets, of course!Build Your Perfect Bed More

Decluttering your entire home is a difficult, timely and personal process, especially when it involves parting with sentimental items you’ve collected over the years. Whenever you’re editing or organizing, remember to give yourself patience and grace — the process can quickly become overwhelming if you take on too much at once. The good news? Once you set up practical organizing systems, it should be easy to keep your house tidy. From time management and impulse shopping to getting distracted by social media aesthetics, we’re sharing the common mistakes professional organizers are sick of dealing with. Plus, they’re offering simple solutions for avoiding these major no-nos. Organizing Advice From the ExpertsTrying to Declutter in One DayFrom cluttered entryways and crowded kitchen cabinets to overflowing closets, clutter may accumulate quickly — but it takes time to declutter and organize. “Many times, clutter stresses people out to the point where they feel like they need to get rid of it immediately,” says Sarit Weiss, founder and lead organizer at Neat & Orderly. “Organizing is a process of planning, decluttering and implementing, which can take longer than expected and cause people to burn out and abandon the project altogether.”SOLUTION: Start with small, achievable tasks and take regular breaks. Create an organization schedule that involves tackling one room at a time. Tidying up Clutter Instead of Tossing It Always start by decluttering, which allows you to purge your belongings and free up space. “Many people try to organize without getting rid of unnecessary items first, and it can end up being a waste of time and feel very frustrating,” says Elsa Elbert, organizing expert and founder of Composed Living. “If you constantly feel like you’re picking things up and relocating them, it might be because tidying doesn’t work without organizing first,” adds Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban OrgaNYze. “Tidying is helpful for daily maintenance, but without an organizational plan, it becomes a draining, never-ending cycle.” SOLUTION: Address the root of your challenges first, whether it’s eliminating unwanted items or investing in storage solutions. You’ll find that daily tidying becomes far less exhausting. Sean De Burca//Getty ImagesTo avoid overwhelm and decision fatigue, work with one drawer at a time.Taking Everything out of Drawers, Closets, Etc. While clearing out a closet or all of your kitchen cabinets can be helpful for categorizing, it can also create stress. “Many people believe they need to empty everything out of the space they are organizing,” says Nichole Gehman, professional organizer and founder of Organize by Designe. “This applies to linen closets, bathroom drawers, dresser drawers, master closets, etc. This can be a huge mistake because they become overwhelmed, quit, then feel like a failure. SOLUTION: “Try focusing on just one drawer or shelf at a time. This approach helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed, allowing you to accomplish more,” says Gehman. Focusing Too Much on AestheticsBefore shopping for chic organizational products your favorite influencers are promoting online, consider if they’ll actually improve your everyday routine. “While social media can offer eye-candy-like inspiration, it’s crucial to ensure those ideas truly fit your daily needs and intuitive habits,” says Kinsella. “Organizing is a deeply personal process that requires understanding your own routines, challenges and preferences to create systems that are intuitive and easy to maintain over time.”SOLUTION: Create practical organizing systems that enhance your daily routine, then make those systems as aesthetically pleasing as possible.Courtesy of Urban OrganyzeOnly invest in storage solutions that maximize and improve your space.Rushing to Buy Organizers”We often see clients purchasing bins, baskets or other storage solutions before understanding exactly what needs to be stored,” says Elbert. Without a clear sense of what you’re organizing, these items will end up adding to the clutter rather than solving the problem at hand.”I see this all the time — I’ve even done it,” adds Bohne Leah of Be Organized Method. “It’s so common to rush out and buy the organizational product when we get the urge to organize… Then we get home and find we have too little or too much stuff to fit, or we simply didn’t get the right thing.”SOLUTION: Declutter and categorize before shopping for storage solutions, like bins, baskets and organizers. Once you are ready to invest in organizing products, always measure to ensure they maximize your space. Creating Systems That Are Hard to MaintainWhether it’s an overly complicated bathroom organizer (hint: way too many sections) or heavy bins at the top of your closet, organization systems don’t work long-term if they’re difficult to maintain. Items you use regularly should be accessible, so it’s easy to quickly put them away — even when you’re in a rush.Especially when it comes to your closet, pantry or kids’ spaces, you should always anticipate getting more items. “A big mistake is not planning for future growth,” says Janelle Lam of Straighten Up Home. “Your space needs to be flexible enough to accommodate more items down the line” — or else you’ll get stuck in a cycle of constantly re-organizing.SOLUTION: Invest in the proper storage solutions, considering your current lifestyle and whether they can grow with you in the future. Make sure everyday items are accessible and easy to put away when you’re done.Sara Liggoria-TrampCreate space for everyday essentials, like your skincare routine in the bathroom, just as designer Emily Bowser does here.Not Giving Items a Practical “Home”Again, a big part of maintaining an organized home is organizational systems that actually work long-term. It shouldn’t be a hassle to store your makeup after getting ready in the morning and it shouldn’t take long to return spices to the kitchen cabinet. “Make sure the place you designate for your items is the most advantageous place for them,” says Weiss. “For example, if you keep your pots and pans at the far end of the kitchen away from the stove top, it can be impractical to walk each pot to the stove.” SOLUTION: When designating a home for every item, make sure that item can be quickly and easily returned “home” — especially if you use it on a daily basis. Letting Clutter Accumulate, Again”Organization is not a one-and-done task, but an ongoing lifestyle,” says Kinsella, who periodically rethinks her organizational systems, especially around the holidays. “If your space feels overwhelmed and categories start overflowing, it’s a clear sign it’s time for an edit. Respecting your space’s limits and reassessing boundaries as new items enter keeps everything manageable.”SOLUTION: A daily reset is so important! Once you have everything in place, spend a few minutes each day putting things back where they belong.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

There are so many great cleaning tools out there — from autonomous robot mops to powerful carpet cleaners — but a hardworking vacuum is one we’d be hard-pressed to live without. The versatile cleaning tool can be used both indoors and out to rid your space of dirt, dust, allergens, pet hair, and other debris. Some of the best vacuums equipped with HEPA filters can even help improve the overall air quality inside your home. But what you might not realize is your vacuum can do more than clean your floors — so much more. Vacuums, particularly those equipped with multiple attachments and various suction levels, can be used in virtually every room of the house for other tasks like dusting blinds, refreshing mattresses and keeping appliances in check. And doing so can help you keep your entire home cleaner in a fraction of the time you’d spend on other methods. First, Do You Have the Right Vac?To help you speed through your cleaning routine in record time, our pros explain how to make the most of your go-to vacuum cleaner. 1. BlindsYou can clean all types of shades and blinds using your vacuum cleaner. For Roman and cellular shades, use your vacuum’s soft dusting brush attachment on low suction. Sheers and panel track shades are similar — simply glide your vacuum dust-brush tool over them on the lowest setting. For aluminum and vinyl blinds, pull the blinds slightly away from the window, keeping it taut. Then, attach the soft dusting-brush tool to your vacuum cleaner and vacuum a few slats at a time, using a side-to-side or top-to-bottom motion.Related Story2. MattressesKeep your bed dust- and odor-free using your vacuum’s upholstery and crevice tools. Using the upholstery tool, go over the top and sides of the mattress and as much of the box spring as you can access, pressing down firmly to draw out dust beneath the surface. Then, use the crevice tool to get into any grooves in the quilting, along the edge welting and where any pillow top is attached. If your mattress has any lingering odors, you can sprinkle baking soda onto the mattress, brush it in lightly, wait 15 to 30 minutes, then vacuum.3. Ceiling fansAfter turning off the power source, you can remove caked-on dust from the blades of your ceiling fan by using the extension wands and soft dusting brush on your vacuum cleaner — no step stool required. If your vacuum comes with a bendable elbow attachment, pop it on between the wand and brush to more easily clean the entire surface of the blade. If any fine particles remain, use a damp microfiber cloth with a grease-cutting all-purpose cleaner and wipe down both sides of the blades. For this, you’ll need a step stool.4. Molding and baseboardsFor floor-to-ceiling woodwork, your best bet is a vacuum that comes with multiple attachments — particularly a machine that comes with a hose, extension wands and either a small round dusting brush or a clean bare floor brush. Working from top to bottom, vacuum molding and baseboards with the brush to remove dust. Then, tackle any lingering spots using a wet cloth lightly sprayed with water or an all-purpose cleaning solution. 5. TVs and other electronicsTo remove dust from vents, ports and cable connections on your TV, computer or other electronics, use your vacuum’s soft dusting brush on low suction. Just be sure to turn off and unplug any devices before cleaning.6. Air vents and filters To help improve the indoor air quality in your home, vacuum the slats of any wall, ceiling and floor registers with your vacuum’s soft dusting brush attachment as part of your regular cleaning routine.7. Window AC unitsTo keep your window unit running efficiently, regularly vacuum the front grilles, body and control panel with your vacuum’s soft dusting brush tool to remove any loose dust and debris. You should also check the foam filter monthly for dirt, lint and hair. If needed, vacuum on low suction with the upholstery tool. Related Story8. Clothes dryerFor regular maintenance, use the crevice tool on your vacuum to quickly remove lint from down inside the lint filter chamber. We also recommend a deeper clean once per year. Pull your dryer away from the wall, disconnect the duct and use the hose of your vacuum cleaner and crevice tool to reach as far into the duct and back of the dryer as far as you can. 9. Yoga matSweat and natural body oils can cause bacteria to breed on your favorite yoga mat. To absorb oils and give the oft-used surface a refresh, sprinkle and rub baking soda on the surface of your mat. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, then vacuum up the excess. Related Story10. Pet bedsSimilar to your mattress, you can clean and deodorize your pet’s sleeping spot by sprinkling the surface with baking soda, letting it sit for 15 minutes and then vacuuming it up.Related StoryBrigitt 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

It’s officially time for pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin picking and, most importantly, fall decorating. While it’s always a thrill to transform your home for the crisp autumn weather, it can be difficult to find decor that doesn’t focus on a certain holiday or theme but instead matches your existing design style.”There’s a way to be design-conscious that incorporates cohesive color and patterns to create an inviting fall vibe,” says Katie Schroder of Atelier Interior Design.Whether it’s embracing a fall color scheme, setting out decorative gourds to spruce up your porch or arranging a holiday table that will impress guests, interior designers have tips and tricks to capture the essence of the season. Just keep in mind that when it comes to fall decorating, what’s actually more important is what not to do. But don’t worry — design pros are here to share the most common fall decorating mistakes you may be making when that chill hits the air. The Most Common Fall Decorating Mistakes 🛑 Taking the theme too farWhile there are tons of decorative signs and welcome mats out there with sayings like ‘Sweater Weather’ and ‘Oh my Gourd,’ there are more subtle ways to showcase the beauty of fall. “One of the biggest mistakes we see with fall decorating is the urge to spell out that the season has arrived! Instead of displaying signs that read ‘Harvest’ or ‘Fall Is Here,’ consider making your home warmer by adding simple touches, including layered blankets and throws,” says Diane Rath of The Rath Project. Erin KestenbaumThis living room designed by Diane Rath of The Rath Project pairs fall colors with cozy blankets and pillows for a warm, inviting space. Photo by: Erin Kestenbaum🛑 Focusing only on holiday-themed pieces Instead of going literal with fall decor and incorporating pieces that are specific to certain holidays, try weaving in designs that show off colors and patterns that feel right for the season.Patricia BurkeIn this space, designer Sarah Coleman uses fall greenery and fruits to show the season is here. Photo by: Patricia Burke”Rather than sourcing Halloween or Thanksgiving-specific decor, I prefer to find fall-inspired pieces that feel relevant and festive for the entirety of the season. Our family loves going apple picking, so I always have a large bowl of apples (in various hues) on our kitchen island. It’s such a simple thing and yet it feels so cozy and festive,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Designs. 🛑 Abandoning the little thingsWhile it may seem like there’s a lot of fall decorating tasks to handle, designers suggest keeping it simple by highlighting the small things.”A signature holiday scent, candle light, fall-colored throws and a beautiful frame holding that ‘hand turkey’ your kid painted when they were five can go a very long way,” says Shroder.Jonathan RossThis tablescape designed by Jessie Sierra Ross showcases smaller design touches — like candles and small pumpkins — that contribute to an overall fall mood. Photo by: Jonathan RossEmily Minton RedfieldYou can even use comfy seating and interactive board games to create a warm autumn mood. “Putting out a few poufs by the fireplace and adding books and games to your coffee table for the fall is a way to decorate by bringing people together,” says Rath.🛑 Being afraid to go moody”Color is so important to seasonal storytelling: Summer is often filled with shades of light blues, sunny yellows and playful corals. Fall is a bit moodier; one of the best ways to make sure your fall home transitions with impact is to incorporate that richer palette,” says Jessie Sierra Ross, author of Seasons Around The Table.Ross suggests looking to fall foliage for inspiration, incorporating “golden yellows, fiery oranges and deep reds.” But if these colors are too much for you, try offsetting them with lighter tones. Sarah BakerDesigner Kimberly Schutz incorporates fall foliage in this beautiful home. Look to colors in nature to inspire bold hues throughout the season. Photo by: Sarah Baker🛑 Forgetting about textureDecorating for fall is more than what we see around the house. It’s also about what we feel. “Fall is about warmth, so incorporating different textures (like soft throws, wicker and natural elements) can enhance the cozy vibe,” says Miranda Cullen of Inside Stories.Ross suggests going for one of her favorites — velvet decorative pumpkins. You can also try piling up some cozy throw blankets and pillows on the couch for a warmer, more inviting environment. 🛑 Overlooking your existing home decorWhile decorating for any season is a chance to add new life to your home, don’t overlook the design decisions you’ve already made. Try matching fall decor with your home’s personality for a more cohesive look. “It’s always important to stay true to your personal design aesthetic, no matter how maximalist or minimalist you are,” says Samantha Stathis, Marshalls and T.J. Maxx Home Style Expert.Sarah BakerThat means not being afraid to embrace your style, regardless of whether you’re into sleek, modern design or bold, patterned eclectic decor. Have fun choosing fall-related pieces that complement your interior design preferences, and enjoy the season!Related StoriesLaura 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