Aurelia Butler

Your dishwasher is constantly cleaning, so it must be one of the most pristine appliances in your home, right? Not quite. With regular use, your machine—and its hidden parts—accumulates bits of food, grease, limescale (that chalky-looking film you see as a result of hard water), and undissolved detergent. These things can interfere with how well it cleans, says Lynn Redmile, Testing and Product Review Analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Cleaning Lab.Thankfully, with a few simple strategies and the right products, taking care of your machine is easy. Here’s what the experts recommend.Once per month, use dishwasher cleaner to remove grease build-up and mineral deposits.[product contentProductId=’a1c0ed14-22f8-46ea-abe8-49b90564800f’ mediaId=’fcd4fd2b-62c6-4eeb-b861-945e1c226215′ align=’right’ size=’small’][/product]As mentioned, build-up of any kind can result in your dishes not being cleaned properly or lead to food residue, which can make your dishwasher smelly and unhygienic.To combat this, use a dishwasher cleaner, like Finish® Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid, approximately once per month, says Redmile. The process is low-effort—simply use as directed: Set an empty machine to the hottest cycle, remove the sticker on top of the bottle’s cap and turn it upside-down on the lowest rack, close the door, and start the dishwasher. As the cycle runs, the cleaning solution tackles all of that built up grease and limescale—even on hard-to-reach parts of the machine, like the filters, spray arms, and pipes.Scrape or wipe items before loading.[image id=’d92c0e9a-4246-4afe-ac83-71c75aca0628′ mediaId=’62e95079-64b2-41b8-b7f6-2dfbde9f6d6f’ align=’center’ size=’medium’ share=’false’ caption=” expand=” crop=’1×1′][/image]Simply scrape off any remaining food from your dishes—there’s usually no need to pre-rinse if using a high-quality detergent, like Finish QUANTUM. This step dislodges any bits of food that were hanging on before items go into the dishwasher, where detergent takes care of the rest.Face all items toward the center where the spray is strongest. As a general rule of thumb, always position the dirty side of any dish down or to the center of the machine to ensure that water can reach and effectively clean it, says Redmile. To load the machine properly, plates should go on the bottom rack with the dirty surfaces angled where the water spray is strongest, usually the center of the rack. Pots, pans, and casseroles should also go on the bottom rack, angled down for the best cleaning results. Glasses should go on the top rack and between the rack tines—not over them—to minimize water spotting and to prevent them from breaking. If your dishwasher has a flatware basket, place forks with the tines facing up, knives with the blade down, and spoons alternating, so they don’t nest into each other.Avoid overlapping items or blocking the spray arms.[image id=’2d799952-9385-4d87-bc49-cd5c3fb2f40b’ mediaId=’425a49f2-fc7d-4455-810c-016b3a1525dd’ align=’center’ size=’medium’ share=’false’ caption=” expand=” crop=’1×1′][/image]As tempting as it may be to cram dishes into the dishwasher that won’t fit, resist the urge. You should never stack items, because the water spray won’t be able to reach (or clean) the dish that’s on top, says Carolyn Forte, Director of Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Appliances and Cleaning Products Lab. Remember: “If the water can’t reach it, it won’t get clean,” she explains.Regularly clean the filter. If your dishwasher’s filter isn’t clean, you’ll have trouble getting your dishes as clean as they could be, says Redmile. And luckily, it’s not too hard to do. The easiest way to keep it clean is with regular use of a dishwasher cleaner, like Finish. But in between deep cleanings make it a habit of pulling out the bottom rack to look for and remove any leftover food that may have fallen into the well below the lower spray arm. It’s also a good idea—if your dishwasher has a removable filter—to give it a quick check from time to time. On most models, simply unlock and remove it (usually found below the bottom spray arm, though your owner’s manual can direct you further) and rinse it under hot running water, says Forte. Then, go over the mesh screen and plastic frame with a sponge or soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to remove any grease or particles stuck in the crevices. Then, just lock it back into place.Before calling it quits, you should also wipe around the door’s edges and rubber gasket with a wet cloth or sponge to ensure no grease or food particles are left behind, says Redmile.
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Clorox 2 for Colors Laundry Stain Remover and Color Booster
target.com

Living is messy business, and stains are nearly impossible to avoid. We all have that thing we do that results in a splatter or smudge — don’t deny it!
Whether you’re the one who is regularly taste testing in the kitchen (and dripping on that apron), or wrangling the dog in the backyard (with the grassy knees to prove it), there’s an easy trick that’ll tackle your signature stain: Clorox 2® for Colors Stain Remover & Color Brightener. Watch the video above to see how it works to keep your clothes clean after any muddy moment.
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Freeing up space and organizing closets, drawers and other cluttered rooms and spaces can sometimes be so overwhelming, especially in today’s busy world. Even if you’re able to put in the extra effort it takes to clean your home, spaces that are disorganized rarely feel clean. And it’s no secret that a more organized home improves the wellbeing of everyone who lives there. That’s why organizing tips, ideas, inspirations, and stories are among Good Housekeeping’s most popular, and with that in mind, we set out to find the best, most useful, most innovative, and most well-designed organizing products, tools and devices.
Meet the Experts

How We Tested
To select these 34 top-performing products for our first Good Housekeeping Storage Awards, our experts sorted, stacked and sifted through over 140 submissions from the world of organizing products to assess performance, durability, flexibility, versatility, ease of use, aesthetics, size and other criteria. We looked at organizers both big and small — for closets, garages, home office, kids’ supplies and artwork, shoes and accessories, photos, travel, kitchen supplies and food storage and beyond. With over 60 combined years of testing experience in the Good Housekeeping Institute and organizing know-how, you can trust that we can spot a great organizer when we see it!
Super-Streamlined Kitchen

Top-Shelf Sorter
3-Tier Organizer
Copco amazon.com
$8.99

Stop struggling to see what’s way in the back of your pantry. At 10 or 15 inches wide, Copco’s tiered stand gives cans, bottles and spices a lift so everything on a shelf is easy to spot and grab.
LAB RESULTS: Nonslip treads help items stay securely in place. And it’s a cinch to wipe clean.

Brilliant Baking Tools
Nest 9 Plus Bowl Set
Joseph Joseph amazon.com
$50.00
$32.49 (35% off)

Our judges loved this space-saving Joseph Joseph stack of nesting cooking essentials. The set includes a large bowl, a small bowl, a colander, a sieve, measuring cups and a tablespoon, and it comes in different colors.
LAB RESULTS: Every piece was designed for maximum usefulness, and the set won’t hog storage space. In tests, the mixing bowl handles doubled as pouring spouts.

Hold-It-All Cookware Rack
StoreMore Adjustable Cookware Rack
YouCopia amazon.com
$24.47

Sheet pans, trays and lids can make organizing bakeware and cookware a real challenge. With YouCopia’s adaptable rack, you place the wire dividers where you need them.
LAB RESULTS: Its slim frame is sturdy, and the nonslip feet keep it in place when you remove or replace items.

Stylish Stacking Bins
Vertica Wire Stacking Bin
Container Store containerstore.com
$18.99

These attractive, durable baskets from The Container Store are perfect in the pantry or pretty on the counter for holding fruit, veggies, snacks and more.
LAB RESULTS: The large openings make the contents grabbable without unstacking, and the bins can be used all around the home.

Fridge All-Stars

Stellar Spinner
FridgeView Turntable with Non-Slip Mat
YouCopia amazon.com
$19.09

YouCopia’s turntable keeps sauces, snacks and fridge and pantry items within reach. Or use it under a bathroom sink for toiletries or on a desk for supplies. 
LAB RESULTS: Its removable nonslip mat and its rim keep everything in place as it turns, and at 11 inches wide, it holds a lot.

Better Bin
Storage Organizer Bin
Copco amazon.com
$13.99

Clear bins are an organizing must-have, and this Copco one is a winner. Use it in — or on top of —the fridge, in a pantry, in a closet or wherever you need order.  
LAB RESULTS: Seeing inside it is effortless; a nonslip mat adds stability; handles make it grabbable. 

Slim and Trim Caddy
RollOut Fridge Caddy
YouCopia amazon.com
$14.99

At only six inches wide, YouCopia’s wheeled caddy brings items from the back of the fridge (or in deep, narrow cabinets) front and center.
LAB RESULTS: The adjustable dividers keep things organized and in place. There are handles for lifting the entire container and non-slip feet up front for stability. 

Smart & Sustainable Food Fixers

Most Versatile Glass System
Brilliance Glass Set of 6
Rubbermaid target.com
$24.99

Nothing beats glass for food storage, but these gems from Rubbermaid do more. Airtight clear lids make stacking simple, and they eliminate messy leaks. Plus, they’re microwave-safe — just lift the latches to expose the vents.
LAB RESULTS: Their modular design makes organizing the fridge or freezer a breeze.

Super Dry Goods Saver
Good Grips 5-Piece Airtight POP Container Set
OXO amazon.com
$99.94

These are the clear space savers that started the pop-top canister craze. OXO has sizes to hold everything from cereal to snacks, beans, pasta and more. And they can be configured to fit any space on a pantry shelf. Buy them in sets or as single units.
LAB RESULTS: The no-twist push-button lid creates an airtight seal when you press it down; just pop it up to open. We love that you can attach a scoop underneath the lid — no more digging into the sugar to find the scoop!

Happy-Pet Food Bins
3-Piece Airtight Pet Food Storage Container Combo
IRIS USA, Inc. amazon.com
$27.99
$24.99 (11% off)

Storing pet food in an airtight resealable container not only helps it last longer but also keeps insects and other critters out. Iris’s BPA-free combo includes 12- and 33-quart containers and a two-cup scoop.
LAB RESULTS: The large bin holds about 25 lbs of food and is on wheels, so it’s maneuverable, and the locking lids prevent spills.

Take-It-Anywhere Food Keeper
Twist and Seal 5 Piece Dry Storage Set
Zyliss amazon.com
$49.99
$35.99 (28% off)

Zyliss’s see-through containers have unique twist-locking lids for an airtight seal. They’re stackable and neat to tote, and their rounded edges ensure mess-free pouring.
LAB RESULTS: They are dishwasher-safe. In tests, they stayed well-sealed and were fast to clean.

Genius Grocery Bags
Trolley Bags 4-piece
Lotus Sustainables amazon.com
$49.99

These machine-washable Lotus bags (including a hand-washable insulated cooler bag) attach  together and hang like file folders in your cart. They keep your haul sorted while you shop and check out, then roll neatly to be tucked into your car trunk.
LAB RESULTS: Each durable bag has pockets, holds more than most reusable bags and helps eliminate plastic and paper grocery bags. They can even be used without rods for a picnic or a day at the beach.

Best Reusable Bag
Mega Reusable Silicone Stand-Up Bag
Stasher amazon.com
$29.99

Who needs a lid? Stasher’s easy-to-clean, reusable silicone bag stands up while you fill it, and seals with just a pinch. It’s especially good for keeping cleaned salad greens and herbs fresh.
LAB RESULTS: Airtight, leak-free (if sealed correctly) and microwave-safe, it also comes in smaller sizes.

Wow-Worthy Closet Tools

Superior Shoe Organizer
Over the Door Shoe Organizer
Made By Design target.com
$20.00

Twenty-six see-through mesh compartments in Target’s hanging organizer keep shoes (even larger sizes) paired and off the floor. Or, use it for storing scarves, knit hats, gloves, clutch purses and more.
LAB RESULTS: Hanging the unit and filling the pockets is so straightforward, you’ll want one in every bedroom. 

Customizable Storage Rack
Adjustable Wall and Door Rack
ClosetMaid amazon.com
$64.28
$33.99 (47% off)

Mount this ClosetMaid rack on a wall or hang it over a door for installation. Use it in a linen closet, bathroom, bedroom or pantry. One tester raved, “It’s a game changer!”
LAB RESULTS: We found it no problem to set up, and the deep and shallow baskets can be placed with any spacing you choose for a custom fit.

Coolest Accessory Case
Hanging Organizer for Glasses and Jewelry
Great Useful Stuff amazon.com
$41.99

This Great Useful Stuff hanging space saver frees dresser and drawer space. It holds up to eight pairs of sunglasses and has 16 pockets on the back for jewelry and other small items.
LAB RESULTS: We like that it does double duty and gets bulky glass cases out of crowded drawers.

Masterful Closet System
Elfa Classic 6′ Closet Kit
Container Store containerstore.com
$375.20

Big or small — Elfa’s system allows you to create the closet of your dreams with shelving, rod, drawer and accessory solutions for nearly every budget and type of space.
LAB RESULTS: Elfa’s easy-to-install, customizable system is always a winner in GH tests. It’s so versatile.

Gold Medal Jewelry Box
Stackers Premium Stackable Jewelry Box
Container Store containerstore.com
$27.99

Add as many trays as you need to store gems and other precious pieces neatly and safely in this velvet-lined jewelry box. Trays vary in depth and design to suit your needs.
LAB RESULTS: We like the flexibility of this system over other jewelry boxes. Store the layers in drawers or pack them in a suitcase for travel.

Under-Sink Space Savers

Versatile Turntable
Non-Skid Under Sink Organizer
Copco amazon.com
$21.99

Under-sink cabinets can feel like black holes: Who knows what’s back there? Copco’s 18-inch turntable puts frequently used cleaners and tools within reach.
LAB RESULTS: Its nonslip liner and high sides mean things stay put while you spin it. Side handles make it quick to lift out.  

Convenient Caddy
RollOut Under Sink Caddy
YouCopia amazon.com
$29.99

Reaching deep into a cabinet can be challenging, especially under a sink. With items on wheels, you won’t lose anything again.
LAB RESULTS: YouCopia’s dividers are adjustable for a custom fit, and the high sides add stability. The extra basket on the back is removable. 

Sensational Family Gear

Easy Peasy Photo Books
Monthly Mini Softcover Photo Books
Chatbooks chatbooks.com
$5.00

With a monthly subscription, Chatbooks creates a kid-friendly mini book of 30 images each month. Just choose your fave photos from your phone’s camera roll and upload them to the app (iOS and Android only). Other book options are available.
LAB RESULTS: Our testers confirmed that the printing is high-quality; they suggest upgrading to the hardcover option for long-lasting results.

Fan Favorite Kids’ Table
Flisat Children’s Table
IKEA ikea.com
$49.99

We love this versatile IKEA kids’ table and stool set. Use it as a sensory table, convert it into a LEGO tabletop building center or use it as an arts and crafts station. It’s so versatile, everyone will want to be at the kids’ table!
LAB RESULTS: Add the Trofast accessory storage bins that fit under the top, and you’ll have space to stash toys and craft supplies that kids can grab when they want them and (hopefully) put back when they’re done.

Parent-Friendly Tote Organizer
Original Bag Organizer
ToteSavvy totesavvy.com
$65.00

This ToteSavvy removable organizer, with many pockets and a washable changing mat, keeps baby supplies close at hand. It opens flat so it can be packed and unpacked easily, then folds to fit in your tote.
LAB RESULTS: It has an insulated pocket to help keep a bottle warm or cool, and the open-pocket design lets you see inside without digging.

Hardworking Command Center
The Brooke Command Center
1Thrive 1thrive.com
$169.00

A low-tech message solution, the 1Thrive wet-erase board and corkboard will help organize your family’s menus, homework, chore reminders and more. Plus, it keeps important papers handy.
LAB RESULTS: Smooth to set up and customize, it lets you choose a vertical or horizontal layout and add accessories, including hooks for keys and more.

Superb Artwork Collector
Artwork Book or Mosaic
Artkive ArtkiveApp.com
$95.00

What parent doesn’t want to save all their kid’s artful creations? But there isn’t space. Enter ArtKive. The company sends you a box to fill with your child’s drawings. Then it professionally photographs them and has you proof the images before turning them into a hardcover book.
LAB RESULTS: Digital images are shared with you, and the books are not hard to store.

Multitasking Marvels

Beautiful Basket Tower
Harbor 3-Tier Floor Standing Storage Basket
Gourmet Basics by Mikasa amazon.com
$79.99
$69.74 (13% off)

Mikasa’s freestanding baskets are so pretty, you’ll want them for fruits, veggies, hand towels, pet toys and more.
LAB RESULTS: It’s simple to set up, has a small footprint and baskets are removable for greater flexibility.

Ingenious Swivel Hooks
Good Grips 3-Piece ClipHanger Set
OXO amazon.com
$9.99

You’ll find many uses for OXO’s clip hooks, like hanging kitchen towels or other wet items to dry.
LAB RESULTS: The nonslip grip holds heavy items, and the hook swivels to any angle. 

Unbeatable Clear Drawers
Acrylic Case 3 Drawer
MUJI muji.us
$28.00

These see-through Muji drawers are ideal for stashing mail and items like journals and stationery.
LAB RESULTS :They stack easily and slide in and out smoothly.

Great Roving Cart
12-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart
Honey-Can-Do amazon.com
$90.00
$66.67 (26% off)

There’s plenty of space in Honey-Can-Do’s 12 plastic drawers for all your craft, office and art supplies, and the top is a work surface too.
LAB RESULTS: It takes less than five minutes to assemble. 

Genius Gadgets

Ultimate Label Maker
Pt-D202 Home Personal Label Maker
Brother amazon.com
$51.30

Any organizing pro will agree that a label maker is a must-have. Use Brother’s machine to label pantry bins, storage containers of holiday decor, file cabinets and even leftovers.
LAB RESULTS: We found it quick to set up and were wowed by its many custom font and layout options.

Smart Scheduler
Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) with Motion
Amazon amazon.com
$249.99

Access your grocery and to-do lists, get appointment reminders and manage smart home devices like lights and thermostats right on the Echo or with voice commands. Its great sound and 10-inch HD swivel screen (an upgrade from the Echo Show 8 we featured in our print magazine) make viewing and chatting a pleasure.
LAB RESULTS: We love that this simple-to-use all-in-one device helps you organize your life and enjoy it, as it allows for movies, musical entertainment and video calls.

Double-Duty Valet Charger
CATCH:3
COURANT staycourant.com
$175.00

This elegant powered tray is the perfect addition to a nightstand or an entry table. Unlike most wireless chargers, the Courant has a valet section for corralling small items like jewelry and earbuds, and it comes in an assortment of pretty colors.
LAB RESULTS: Our testers liked the idea of one product that would tackle more than one clutter issue, and this does that nicely. No more misplaced keys!

Multi-Device Charging Station
Original Multi-Charging Station
Great Useful Stuff amazon.com
$39.99

Corral messy tech clutter with this Great Useful Stuff vertical charging station. It holds up to three phones and two laptops or tablets, and comes in many colors and finishes.
LAB RESULTS: Our tech experts were impressed by its ability to hold large devices and how it kept phone alerts visible and cords neatly stashed for tangle-free charging.

Neatest Cord Bundlers
Cord Bundlers
Command walmart.com
$5.48

Cords for lamps, electronics and appliances can become a tangled mess, not to mention a tripping hazard. These holders keep them tidy and off the floor or counter. They secure to a wall with Command’s adhesive backing, which holds well and can be cleanly removed.
LAB RESULTS: These nifty bundlers work for most cord sizes and won’t ruin your paint job when you take them off the wall. More

As part of our new GH Stitch Club, we’re showing beginners all the basic techniques for knitting! And the first thing you need to do to get started on any project (FYI: we have a bunch of great options to choose from here), is to learn how to cast on a.k.a place your stitches on your needle.

Join the Good Housekeeping Stitch Club

There are a few different techniques for casting on, including provisional, frilled and long tail, but we advise using the backwards loop method as seen in the video above, especially if this is your first knitting project.
It’s super simple and can be done in just a few of steps:
Step 1: Make a slip knot
Make a loop with your yarn and slip it on one of your needles. Then, tighten it just a bit, making sure it’s not too stiff.
Step 2: Cast On
Take your yarn and loop it around your thumb. Thread your needle underneath, and create a loop on your needle, again making sure it’s not too tight.
Step 3: Repeat
Depending on how many stitches your project requires, you’ll repeat step 2.
Before you know it, you’ll be on your way to knitting like a pro!

PICK YOUR PATTERN

Garter Knit Scarf
yarnspirations.com

Jiffy Cowl
yarnspirations.com

Chunky Crochet Beanie
yarnspirations.com

Twisted Crochet Headband
yarnspirations.com

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If you’ve been toying with the idea of knitting lately, you’ve come to the right place. As part of our GH Stitch Club, we’re creating easy tutorials that will walk you through the most important components of knitting, including how to cast on and how to cast off.

Join the Good Housekeeping Stitch Club

In this post, we’ll be focusing on how to knit stitch, which is the most basic stitch in knitting. Depending on your project, you may also need to learn a purl stitch or stockinette stitch, but if you’re a beginner, you’ll likely be using a knit stitch for most of your creations.
How to Knit Stitch
Step 1: After you cast on, insert your needle from left to right into the first loop.
Step 2: Wrap the yarn over your needle from left to right.
Step 3: Pull the yarn through the first loop on your left-hand needle, creating a loop on your right-hand needle.
Step 4: Slide off one stitch from your left-hand needle. This will give you the first knit stitch on your right-hand needle.
Pro tip: You’ll want to be able to slide your stitches down your needle easily. To do that make sure you’re not pulling the loops too tight.
Step 5: Repeat steps 1 through 4, until all of your stitches are on your right-hand needle.
Step 6: Switch hands and continue on in knit stitch.
Once you’ve created rows, you’ll be working in garter stitch.

PICK YOUR PATTERN

Garter Knit Scarf
yarnspirations.com

Jiffy Cowl
yarnspirations.com

Chunky Crochet Beanie
yarnspirations.com

Twisted Crochet Headband
yarnspirations.com

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After you’ve finished a knitting project — whether it be a scarf, gloves or blanket — it’s so important to make sure you properly cast off (a.k.a create an end to your knitting). If you’re a beginner knitter, this part might be a little tricky! As part of our GH Stitch Club, we’re breaking down the steps to help you learn how to cast off when knitting (and if you need, take a look at our tutorial on how to cast on for a refresher).

Join the Good Housekeeping Stitch Club

In the video above, we will walk you through casting off (sometimes also called binding off), step by step, ensuring your stitches are safely and neatly sealed off.
How to Cast Off
Step 1: Insert your needle to knit, and then knit your first and second stitch.
Step 2: Pull the first stitch over your second stitch. Your first stitch will then be wrapped around your second stitch. Pull your second stitch through so it’s solo on your needle.
Pro tip: To avoid curling when casting off, make sure you don’t pull too tightly at the stitches.
Step 3: Knit your third stitch. Pull your second stitch over your third stitch so that your third stitch is solo on your needle.
Step 4: Repeat this process until you get to the end of your row.
Step 5: Once you get to the end, cut the yarn away, leaving just a small tail.
Step 6: Pull the tail through the last loop on your needle and tighten.
Step 7: Using a darning needle, follow the lines of your knitting and weave the tail in and out of the stitches.
Step 8: Cut off an excess yarn.
Now you can rest assured there will be no unraveling!

PICK YOUR PATTERN

Garter Knit Scarf
yarnspirations.com

Jiffy Cowl
yarnspirations.com

Chunky Crochet Beanie
yarnspirations.com

Twisted Crochet Headband
yarnspirations.com

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Alberthe Buabeng, known by most as Albie, is a Washington-based interior design content creator and all-around idea machine. Her passion for decoding spaces is the culmination of nearly a decade of working in the retail visual merchandising and marketing industries, sprinkled with a lifetime of experiences. With a background of space design and storytelling, paired with her real-life lessons, Albie creates content to connect her decor-obsessed audience with beautiful and functional design inspiration.
Her desire to contribute to the design community has also manifested in adapting the #SharetheMicNow Instagram initiative for the home industry; self publishing Curate The Home You’re In, an anecdotal and aspirational home book, and hosting The Design Influence, a podcast and community dedicated to supporting other interior designers in the digital space.
In 2020, the home industry, like much of the world, was shaken by the death of George Floyd. As discussions arose on the topic of inequality, diversity and inclusion within the design business, it felt like more of the same conversations, followed by little to no action. By the time the “black boxes” that were intended to symbolize a need for change emerged on Instagram, there were all kinds of panels and lists put together to showcase Black designers and architects, but I’d yet to see one that could trigger sustainable conversations for change.
Inspired by the original Share The Mic Now campaign on June 10th — founded by Bozoma Saint John, Luvvie Ajayi Jones, Glennon Doyle and Stacey Bendet — I decided that this could be the beginning of something truly powerful in the home industry. A week later, we hosted the inaugural Share The Mic Now: Home Edition, featuring more than 100 participants across two weeks of Instagram takeovers for candid and sustainable discussions about diversity and inclusion in the home industry.
Celebrating the first Black History Month since organizing the #SharetheMicNowHomeEdition initiative, paired with all of the events of 2020, which led to the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, I am hypersensitive to how much still hasn’t changed. As a first generation Haitian American, married to a Black man and raising a young Black daughter, I am acutely aware of how discriminatory our society can be and has always been. While also mourning George Floyd, I also painfully remember the attack on Abner Louima more than 20 years ago. After getting bombarded with emails committed to “change” and “equality”, it was time for me to write the words you’re now reading. Last summer, I posted this statement to my white peers on Instagram in an effort to pitch the #sharethemichomeedition initiative:
“What if we could translate momentary sharing into a longer conversation by allowing Black creators to get in front of the audiences of their white counterparts ‘in person’?”
It was one of the most uncomfortable yet freeing comments I’d ever publicly made about the state of the interior design industry — one that has often made me feel like an outsider in need of someone else’s validation.

albieknows

albieknows

Typing some of my most controversial thoughts made me proud. Making my peers uncomfortable made me proud. I’m talking about abolishing the establishment so that we could all thrive based on merit equally.
Why should I need to request a longer conversation to address our longstanding not-so-secret professional segregation? Why request permission from a peer to speak to an audience deserving what I already know I bring to the table? Why ask that someone else’s mic be shared with me?

Mariah Texidor

danielle carson

How can we, as designers collectively, be charged with designing and decorating beautiful spaces when our own interiors are rot? What looks like an industry that’s all-inclusive, all-embracing, is more alienating than accepting. Who are we, as “designers,” to uphold what is beautiful when we’ve for so long ignored the ugliness within our own elitist, exclusive walls?
Who are we, as consumers and creators, kidding when we “amplify” voices for a day? A week? A month? A season?
When behind closed doors the opportunities are riddled with bias—the bias of privilege at best, and ignorance at worst?
Skimming the pages of shelter magazines, browsing the line up of home TV networks and scrolling the social media of brand campaigns has long shown a clear void — a lack of depth resulting from a lack of diversity. We tap-dance around the who, what, when, where, why and how of it all, but the conversations we have ad nauseam don’t yield solutions … just more conversations.
We’re supposed to be the curators of beauty for the world, but is that beauty with an asterisk? What were we really saying when we shared our mics? What did we hope people hear? I have heard a lot of the same, with some sprinkles of seeds for change. I have heard “allies” commit to learn and change and grow. I have heard promises for equity and inclusivity. But what have I seen?
Words.
Requests.
Apologies.
Excuses.
More of the same.
But little to no action.
The hyper visibility has turned to unanswered emails, lost contacts, unbirthed opportunities, “fatigued” allies. Little did we know being “woke” still had a bedtime.
Allies, I’ve been amplified. Do you hear me now?
Are you an ally or an amplifier?

Danielle Carson

Danielle Carson

The irony…
The benefactor of the inequity needs to be the one to intensify the effort to close the divide. How fitting that black boxes become a symbolic social gesture for allyship…black boxes, synonymous with usually the only surviving element of a crash to investigate the cause.
Ladies and gentleman, we’ve crashed, and the black boxes have spoken.
But the season for conversation, and learning, and processing has come to a close.
We’ve seen the truth — an ugly, not-so-new naked truth — and to pretend otherwise is more egregious than having never said anything at all.
Calling all gatekeepers, educators and decision makers, amplification is reactive. It’s time for proactive change. Look at your teams — to your left, to your right, above you and below you. Does everyone look like you or do they look like me too? Do they look like the least of us … the rest of us … the best of us? Not to check a box but to reflect the true beauty of the world around us?

Danielle Carson

Make the marginalized the majority. On-air talent. Writers. Editors. Producers. Photographers. Cover Features. Hosts. Authors. Brand Ambassadors. Product Innovators. Hashtag All The Things. Because the lack of talent isn’t for lack of talent.
Put down your mic. No more talking. We’ve passed the mic. We’ve made the requests. We’ve said all that needs to be said. We don’t need amplification. We demand representation. We would like to see diversity, but require inclusivity.
The talent on the covers of our magazines, hosting the shows on our screens, and securing the licensing deals of our products should look like us…all of us. The richness of the industry shouldn’t be contained within the four walls of client residences. Clients should see themselves in us. Consumers should feel amplified.
Collectively, we are the mic.
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