Aurelia Butler

Silicone baking mats have changed the way we bake. The versatile, non-stick mats not only make things easier and less messy—food effortlessly releases from the food-safe silicone after baking, roasting or freezing without the need for grease—but many of the best silicone baking mats also increase efficiency, thanks to a fiberglass core that promotes even heat distribution and improves structure. Over time, silicone baking mats are also less wasteful and more cost-effective than parchment or foil. And although they may collect grease and oil residue, they’re actually very easy to clean with a little dish soap, a sponge or cloth and warm water. How to clean a silicone baking mat by handSome care instructions may cite the dishwasher as a suitable cleaning method for their product, but our pros in both the Cleaning Lab and the Kitchen Appliances Lab strongly suggest hand-washing—especially since it’s so easy. “When washed in the dishwasher, silicone can sometimes take on the smell and taste of the detergent,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab. Plus, hand-washing may keep the mats in better shape and help them last longer.After use, wash silicone baking mats with a sponge and mild, grease-cutting dish soap, then rinse and hang dry or wipe dry on both sides with a clean dish towel. Though food doesn’t generally tend to stick to these mats, you can use a dish brush or delicate scrub pad on any stubborn spots, but avoid any abrasive or harsh cleaners. NEED A NEW ONE?If you insist on to sending it for a spin in the dishwasher, lay the mat flat across the top rack, taking care to ensure it doesn’t block the water from reaching other items. Make sure to dry the mat thoroughly if any water remains after the cycle. How to keep your silicone baking mat in good conditionIn general, silicone baking mats should be very easy to clean and require minimal care, but you can extend the usable life span of yours by following these tips: Cook at the appropriate temperature: In our tests, max oven temps varied from 446˚F to 550˚F. Check the temperature limit of the baking mat before cooking at higher temperatures. It’s also wise to note whether or not it’s freezer-safe.Avoid cutting on a silicone baking mat: Sharp knives, forks and other utensils can leave visible marks and damage silicone baking mats. Some also contain fiberglass, which could come into contact with food and pose a danger to you. Wash well after every use: To prevent grease and oil buildup that can lead to stains, wash with a mild, grease-cutting formula after every use. Avoid abrasive cleaners: Scouring pads and other harsh cleaners can scratch your silicone baking mat and affect its non-stick qualities. MORE BAKING MUST HAVESBrigitt 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

Most of us don’t think a lot about our water heater — until that chilly winter morning when you realize the shower’s been running for a few minutes and it’s still not getting hot. Then you can’t think of anything else.Another reason to pay attention to your water heater: it’s one of the biggest energy users in the home, accounting for nearly 20 percent of the average home’s total energy costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Our experts in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute pulled together this buying guide to help you get out in front of this critical purchase decision. The advice is based on our experience testing various types of water heaters in recent years, as well as interviews with industry experts, including contractors, home builders and service professionals. One thing all experts agree on: you don’t want to wait for your current water heater to conk out before replacing it, since you’re more likely to overpay or end up with a less-than-perfect model in that hurried scenario. “Signs that your water heater might be ready for replacement include age (lifespan is typically between 12 and 15 years), inconsistent water temperature, noises emanating from the tank, reduced water pressure and discolored or strange smelling water,” says Francis J. Dietz, Vice President, Public Affairs with the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI).If any of those conditions apply to your water heater, read on for the essentials. Types of water heatersWhile the market is still dominated by storage tank water heaters, even within that conventional category there are more options than ever. Plus, our experts say many newer, high-efficiency technologies might also be worth a look. Here’s how they all stack up.Storage Tank Water HeaterThe most common type of water heater used in about 90 percent of U.S. homes, these units consist of an insulated tank that stores heated water until it’s needed. A pipe at the top of the tank sends water to your home’s plumbing system, where it’s delivered to fixtures and appliances — showers, faucets, the dishwasher, the washing machine and so on. Water is heated either by a gas burner or an electric element, hence the market for electric storage tank water heaters and gas storage tank water heaters.Electric water heaters are less expensive and easier to install, since they don’t need to be vented to the outdoors, unlike gas water heaters, which produce harmful carbon monoxide. But electricity costs more than natural gas in most parts of the country, making electric water heaters more expensive to operate. If properly maintained, including annual tune-ups by a service professional, a storage tank water heater should last at least 10 to 12 years. ProsLow upfront costEasy to install, especially electric unitsFairly easy to maintainCons Supply of hot water is limited to the size of the tankRelatively short lifespanCost, including installation$900 to $1,800 Energy Star-qualified gas storage tank water heaters are eligible for a federal tax credit covering 30% of the project cost, up to $600Tankless Water HeaterAlso known as on-demand water heaters, tankless models consist of a coiled heat exchanger that produces instant hot water as needed. That means no waiting for the shower to heat up on cold winter mornings. Tankless water heaters are more expensive than tank models but they’re extremely efficient, since there’s none of the standby energy loss associated with heated water sitting in a storage tank. One important thing to note: the maximum flow of heated water tops out around 5 gallons per minute, which might not be enough for large household with multiple hot water draws — for example, a couple showers and the dishwasher all running at once.Tankless water heaters can be gas or electric. Both versions are more expensive than standard storage tank water heaters and installation is more involved, often requiring new water lines and electricals. Regular maintenance is essential, given the complexity of the equipment. But if cared for properly, a tankless water heater can last for more than 20 years, and they have easily replaceable parts that can extend their life even longer. ProsDelivers instant hot waterExtremely energy efficientLong lasting Cons Higher upfront cost and harder installationNot ideal for larger households with high hot water demandsCost, including installation$1,200 to $3,500Energy Star-qualified gas tankless water heaters are eligible for a federal tax credit covering 30% of the project cost, up to $600Heat Pump Water HeaterA relative newcomer to the category, heat pump water heaters are sometimes called hybrids, because they pair an air-source heat pump with a conventional electric storage tank water heater. Though they cost a lot more, they can be two to three times more efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters. Installation is basically the same, but because they capture heat from the air and transfer it to the water, they need to be installed in an area with at least 1,000 cubic feet of air space where the temperature stays between 40° F and 90° F.Heat pump water heaters are an innovative category, so many models feature Wi-Fi-connectivity and a companion app that allow you to monitor and operate the system remotely. A properly-maintained heat pump will last 13 to 15 years. ProsExtremely energy efficientRelatively long-lastingOften feature Wi-Fi connectivity Cons Higher upfront cost Must be installed in a large, open spaceCost, including installation$1,200 and $3,500Energy Star-qualified heat pump water heaters are eligible for a federal tax credit covering 30% of the project cost, up to $2,000Solar Water HeaterThese systems consist of a rooftop solar collector that absorbs energy from the sun and uses it to heat water in a storage tank. In an ideal scenario, where your roof gets plenty of sun throughout the year, a solar water heater could reduce your water heating costs by up to 80%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The systems can either be passive or active. With passive systems, water is heated in a tank located on the roof and then delivered directly to the plumbing system. They’re less expensive but only work well in warm regions that get a lot of sun. Active systems use water pumps and heat exchangers to send water to a storage tank in the home below and then on to fixtures and appliances. They are more complicated to install and maintain but can withstand freezing temperatures.Solar water heaters can only be used for water; energy from the solar collector cannot also be used to power appliances and electronics in the home. The systems are on the pricey side, but there’s no limit on the federal tax credit, unlike other water heater incentives, which are capped at $600 or $2,000, depending on the type of system. ProsExtremely energy efficientEasy to maintain, especially passive systemsCovered by a very generous federal tax credit ConsSteep upfront costs Roof needs to get plenty of sunCost, including installation$1,800 to $5,800Energy Star-qualified solar water heaters are eligible for a federal tax credit covering 30% of the project cost, with no cap on the savingsWhat to think about when choosing a water heaterRegardless of what type of water heater you’re considering for your home, you’ll have to sort through a variety of factors. Here are the main ones to think about.Start with capacityIt’s critical to choose a water heater that will provide enough hot water for your needs. “A reputable plumbing contractor will ask if there have been any changes in water demand in the household, such as children moving out or elderly parents moving in, in which case, demand would be lower or higher than before,” Dietz says.Tank water heaters (whether traditional, heat pump or solar) typically hold between 30 and 80 gallons. The capacity corresponds roughly to household size, for example:1 to 2 people: 30 to 40 gallons2 to 3 people: 40 to 50 gallons3 to 4 people: 50 to 60 gallons5 or more people: 60 to 80 gallonsBut a more precise gauge for determining the perfect water heater for your home’s hot water needs is first hour rating, or FHR, a spec listed on the yellow EnergyGuide label, or in product literature provided by the manufacturer. It tells you how much hot water the unit will supply per hour, starting with a tank full of hot water. FHR is impacted by such factors as tank size, fuel source and the size of the burner or element.Ideally, your water heater’s FHR will be close to your household’s peak-hour demand — for example in the morning when several family members take showers and the dishwasher and washing machine are both running. The Department of Energy’s Energy Saver website has a helpful calculator for getting these numbers just right.What about tankless water heaters? The key spec related to capacity with these units is gallons-per-minute, or GPM. This tells you how much hot water the unit can deliver in a set period. Small households might need a tankless heater with a maximum flow rate of 2 to 3 GPM, while larger ones might require a maximum flow rate of 4 to 5 GPM.Check the efficiencyThe type of water heater you choose will have a big impact on energy costs. There’s a range of energy efficiency within each category, too. That’s why it’s good to compare the uniform energy factor, or UEF, when shopping the market. UEF is the percentage of energy that is converted into hot water by the water heater. A higher number means less wasted energy and lower operating costs.The UEF of traditional water heaters starts around .6, while tankless units have EFs of .9 or higher. With heat pump water heaters, UEF ratings range from 3 to 4, which means they’re operating at an impressive 300 to 400 percent efficiency.Consider the featuresIt might be worth spending more on upgrades that enhance the convenience, usability or long-term durability of the water heater.Scale prevention. If your home has hard water, the buildup of mineral deposits in your water heater can shorten its lifespan. Some premium tank and tankless water heaters feature anti-scale technologies that not only extend the life of the unit, but also reduce how frequently the equipment needs to be maintained by a professional, saving you hundreds of dollars over the life of the unit.Technology upgrades. Premium water heaters, especially in the heat pump category, often come with high-tech enhancements that add convenience and peace of mind. Wi-Fi connectivity enables homeowners to monitor and operate the unit remotely through the companion app; users can also receive helpful maintenance reminders. Leak detection technology is another worthwhile upgrade, our experts say, since it can alert you to issues before they turn catastrophic.Warranty length. The length of any product’s warranty is a measure of how much the brand stands behind its quality. Our experts have found this to be especially true for water heaters, given how quickly a lower-quality model can fail. Warranties generally range from 3 to 12 years. A model with a longer warranty will have features like brass drain valves, which are more durable than ones made of plastic, as well as glass- or ceramic-lined tanks, which resist rust and corrosion better than plain metal tanks. What are the best water heater brands?There are dozens of water heater brands on the market. Here are five that our experts recommend, based on product testing and interviews with professional contractors who install the equipment on remodels and new home builds. ✔️ A.O. Smith: Water heating is core to the A.O. Smith brand, along with water treatment solutions. It’s a leader among hybrid water heaters and tankless water heaters, having won Good Housekeeping Home Reno Awards in 2023 and 2024 in both categories. A.O. Smith water heaters are carried by Lowe’s, making it a convenient brand.✔️ Bradford White: Founded in 1881, the company has expanded into just about every water heater category, often bringing new innovations to the equipment. All its products are manufactured in the U.S., though parts and supplies come from all over the world. ✔️ GE: The brand that started out as a lightbulb company has branched out into many product categories, including water heaters. It has brought many enhancements to conventional storage tank water heaters and more recently entered the tankless water heater space. ✔️ Rheem: Our experts have been impressed with the overall quality of Rheem water heaters, including a tankless unit that recently went through extensive field tests. It’s one of the few brands that makes every type of water heater — tank, tankless, heat pump and solar. ✔️ State Water Heaters: State is a brand of A.O. Smith Corporation, so it brings the same performance and reliability to its line of tank and tankless water heaters. It’s the go-to brand for a lot of plumbing professionals, who like its track record built up over more than 75 years of business. Why trust Good Housekeeping? I’ve been testing and writing about water heaters for close to 25 years. In that time, I’ve become familiar with all major brands in the category, so I know which ones have the best track records in terms of quality and reliability. I’ve also spearheaded numerous investigative reports on the topic of energy and water efficiency, working closely with outside experts from government, industry and the home services space. As Director of Home Improvement & Outdoor at the Good Housekeeping Institute, I oversee water heater testing in our Lab, as well as the continuous in-home, survey-based consumer testing that allows us to evaluate these devices in real-world conditions.For this water heater guide, our team pulled together insights from trade shows and industry events, like the International Builders’ Show, and interviewed various experts from the field. We also drew on our hands-on experience overseeing the installation of several water heaters in the homes of expert testers as part of our annual Home Reno Awards. This experience has given us broad insights into the installation process and enabled us to track performance and energy savings over time. The hands-on process has also helped us better understand issues around usage and maintenance. Related StoryHaving written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids. More

Many people admire the allure of open-concept layouts, often considered a hallmark of a modern interior. But, as a home editor, I’m noticing more designers lean into closed-concept floor plans — a trend that ties hand-in-hand with the desire for personalized interiors (and the downfall of minimalism). Think of it this way: It’s easier to go bold in the dining room, when it’s not attached to the kitchen or part of your home office. To feed my curiosity about the rise of closed-concept floor plans, I reached out to 11 interior designers and overwhelmingly, they all agreed: Homeowners are embracing closed-concept layouts.What’s Trending in Home DesignIn the years following the pandemic, people continue to spend more time at home. They crave personalized spaces that reflect their lifestyle and they’re turning to closed-concept floor plans. “Open-concepts have lost their luster a bit with clients,” says interior designer Allison Handler. “People want more designated spaces, with specific purposes, rather than just designated areas of a larger room.” Don’t worry: The open-concept layout isn’t dead (we’ll dive deeper in a few), but designers are seeing a clear shift. When asked whether homeowners are seeking closed-concept layouts, here’s what the pros had to say:”Yes! Across the board, we are finding that homeowners need separate spaces to break up and silo different functions of the home.” — Dan Mazzarini, principal of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE”Absolutely! Clients are requesting closed-concept layouts, or hybrid spaces, that offer flexibility to close off certain areas when needed.” — Danielle Chiprut of Danielle Rose Design Co. “Yes. While open concepts remain popular, many homeowners are recognizing the benefits of having more defined rooms.” — Krystal Reinhard of Old Soul Design StudioBrian Wetzel PhotoEnter through double doors to discover this dark and moody media room, designed by Krystal Reinhard. Photo by: Brian WetzelWhy do homeowners prefer a closed-concept layout?Designers find homeowners are leaning toward more traditional, closed-concept floor plans. Here’s why:There’s more design versatility. Closed-concept interiors can lead to major design moments. “With one big space, you only have one design move. With smaller spaces, you can have a bit more fun,” says Kevin Kaminski of Kaminski + Pew. Think floral wallpaper in the dining room, green cabinetry in the kitchen and a dark, moody living room. “The opportunity to bring different design aesthetics into each room allows us to make spaces feel really unique and personal,” adds Victoria Armour, co-owner of Stil James. “In a closed-concept layout, each room can have its own personality, empowering our homeowners to make bolder choices that could feel overwhelming in an open floor plan.”Not to mention, “more wall space allows for built-ins, art displays and other design elements that might not work as well in an open-concept space,” according to Gideon Mendelson, founder of Mendelson Group.Design: Stil James; Photo: Carolina AndradeIndividual rooms feel cozy and private. A closed-concept layout creates designated zones, giving each room a distinct purpose and function. Imagine this: The kitchen is intended for cooking, the living room is designed for relaxation and the playroom is reserved for quality time with family. Especially among families with children, homeowners want to close doors and step into private, personal spaces. And for those who work from home, “the ability to close an office door helps keep work life separate from personal time,” says Hillary Cohen of HCO Interiors.There’s less noise.With walls to absorb sound, open-concept layouts can feel loud and echoey. Homeowners often complain about the noise and distraction of a large, open area. “By creating closed spaces, it’s more difficult for sounds and noise to travel between rooms,” says Mark Schubert, founder of Phillip Harrison InteriorsIt’s easier to stay organized. Another disadvantage of open layouts is that all of your belonging are on full display, which can make it difficult to stay organized and clean up when expecting guests.”Even though the open concept is touted as effortless, in reality, it means everything in your whole house needs to be put away for it to look presentable,” says Peter Spalding, co-founder and chief creative officer of Daniel House Club. “Walls mean some rooms can be closed off when visitors come.”Adam Kane MacchiaThis bright dining room, designed by BHDM, is located off the kitchen. Photo by: Adam Kane MacchiaAre open-concept spaces going out of style?Short answer: No, open-concept layouts are still popular. “While open-concept layouts won’t disappear entirely, more people are starting to recognize their limitations,” says Chiprut, who sees the trend moving toward balance, where open spaces coexist with closed rooms. Designers say closed-concept layouts aren’t taking over completely — there’s an evolving preference for flexible layouts that can incorporate both open and closed elements. For example, expect to see media rooms, playrooms and home offices tucked behind doors. There’s also the option of pocket doors or archways for flexibility. Design: Stil James; Photo: Carolina AndradeHere, the dining room is separate from the rest of the house but an open doorway allows you to see into the kitchen for a semi-open feel. Photo by: Carolina Andrade”The trend has gone more to a semi-open concept rather than fully open or closed,” says Handler. “In this concept, the rooms are clearly defined and separated, but still opened with no doors, just trimmed openings to separate them.”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

1Zapping curtain static with hairspray. John keeble//Getty Images2Soaking your shower head in vinegar overnight.picture alliance//Getty ImagesGrandma isn’t completely wrong here. However, we’d like to offer a modification to the process of cleaning your shower head with vinegar. “Overnight is a bit long, and I think it may damage some high-end fixture finishes. It’s best to just scrub the head with a brush dipped in vinegar,” says Forté.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Storing linens with waxpaper.AdShooter//Getty ImagesCreating a wax paper barrier between linens might sound like a good idea to prevent color from transferring. However, any exposure to high temperatures, and there’s a chance the wax could melt and transfer to your linens. If you’re concerned about color transferring, try acid-free tissue paper instead just to be safe. 4Running air vent covers in the dishwasher. KangeStudio//Getty ImagesThe dishwasher can work wonders on a variety of surprising items. However, there are certain things that, although might technically be safe to throw in there, aren’t necessarily recommended. Forté says that as long as the vent covers aren’t uncoated aluminum, there’s no harm. “But it’s a bit gross,” she adds. Plus, the excess dust and debris could clog the dishwasher’s filter. We think it’s worth passing on this one. Sorry, grandma!Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Wiping down windows with newspaper. Nastasic//Getty Images6Soaking clothes in salt water to prevent color fading. Omar Shamsuddin//Getty ImagesThe Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab has tested the theory that soaking clothes in salt water or vinegar can prevent color fading. Unfortunately, the results were not in grandma’s favor. According to Forté, if your fabric color runs, it’s probably because the item was not finished properly. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Using club soda to remove stains.Halyna Romaniv//Getty ImagesIn Good Housekeeping Lab tests, club soda did not work any better than plain water in removing stains from clothing. If you’re looking for the best products to remove stains, check out our Lab-tested winners. 8Cleaning wood floors with vinegar. T3 Magazine//Getty ImagesAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below9Vacuuming ruins carpets.urbazon//Getty ImagesIf grandma has told you too much vacuuming can ruin your carpet, don’t worry. “Regular vacuuming removes the gritty dirt that can abrade carpet fibers and helps fluff the pile and remove dust,” says Forté.10Running vinegar through your iron to clear clogged holes. Ekaterina Goncharova//Getty ImagesWhile relying on trusty-old vinegar to unclog holes in your iron may sound like a safe bet, our cleaning experts don’t recommend it. “Putting anything other than water inside an iron or garment steamer can damage the internal parts,” says Forté.RELATED: The Genius Ironing Tip You Were Never TaughtLaura 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.Expert consulted:Carolyn FortéHome Care & Cleaning Lab Executive DirectorCarolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

As a design writer, there’s nothing I love more than a luxury hotel stay. I can’t get enough of the comfy sheets, spacious bathrooms and plush robes, all of which can take an ordinary, hectic travel day and make it feel like a relaxing spa getaway. I appreciate that hotel rooms are pared down when it comes to stuff, but they offer plenty of eye candy nonetheless. It’s fun to stay in a room that closely reflects a property’s natural surroundings or history or simply has a welcoming, vibrant energy. Luxury hotel rooms are by no means cookie cutter and always appear both elevated and elegant, thanks to the inspiring color palettes and materials present.Considering how often I visit hotels (I’m usually on a plane at least twice per month, if that gives you any sense of how much I travel!), I can’t help but to find decorating inspiration for my New York City apartment—or future home down the road.Below, I’m sharing eight key design takeaways from recent trips to top hotels across the globe. There’s something for everyone, no matter your design style, home size or color preference. Don’t Shy Away From Pattern MixingCourtesy of Riggs Washington D.C. The Riggs in Washington, D.C., proves that there’s no reason not to go a little bold with pattern mixing. As soon as I set foot in my guest room, I was blown away by the stunning marbleized wallpaper behind the bed as well as the colorful headboard that complements the print perfectly. So much of the time, we’re hesitant to try a daring bedroom look, but in my opinion, establishing a focal point in the room like this one is an excellent way to anchor the space. Keeping the bedding white and minimalistic allows these two graphic patterns to shine, while ensuring that the overall result doesn’t appear too visually overwhelming. Courtesy of Riggs Washington D.C.Go for a Loud Wall ColorThe remainder of this room at The Riggs pulls from the coral bolster pillow on the bed; this color is carried over onto the walls, drapery and even the rug. Again, there is nothing wrong with making a daring choice in a bedroom as long as you keep clutter, decor and furniture to a minimum, as shown here. Upgrade Your Bed With a Canopy Gleneagles TownhouseGleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland, proves that canopies are back in a big way, and they aren’t just for children’s sleep spaces. Consider placing one behind your bed alongside (or in lieu of) a traditional headboard. It’s an excellent way to add a pop of color to any bedroom while evoking a grand, timeless look, even if you leave yours tied back most of the time. Add Dimension to the Walls With MoldingAdditionally, don’t underestimate the power of two-toned walls. If your bedroom features picture frame molding, paint it in a statement hue. The dark green shade used here at Gleneagles has a sophisticated flair and adds dimension to the room. Picture frame molding can be renter-friendly, too. You can add picture frame molding to your space as well! Cut molding strips to size and adhere them to the walls with double-sided mounting tape for easy removal down the line. You could also choose to paint inside of the molding in order to create a different kind of two-toned look, as seen here at The Plaza New York in New York City. The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed HotelAnother option is to place wallpaper inside of picture frame molding boxes, as seen in this Plaza suite. This is a great way to embrace pattern on a slightly smaller scale. The end result here is reminiscent of classic chinoiserie panels. The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed HotelTry a Lengthy HeadboardThe Ingalls Who says your headboard can’t span an entire wall? This fabric-covered beauty at the Austin Proper Hotel in Austin, TX, not only looks cozy, but also adds a welcome layer of texture and pattern to this airy guest room. Not only do oversized fabric-covered headboards of this nature look cool, but they also can serve an excellent functional purpose: blocking sound. If you live in close quarters and share walls with roommates or noisy neighbors, you may consider making a DIY headboard like this. With some MDF board, foam and the fabric of your choosing, you could easily replicate this look, all the while enjoying a custom piece that doesn’t break the bank. Lean Your ArtRosewood MayakobaArtwork doesn’t need to hang on the walls to make a statement. The leaning approach looks chic and casual in this room at the Rosewood Mayakoba in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, but it’s also an excellent solution for renters (or those who like to redecorate often, myself included!). There’s no need to worry about hammering nails into the wall (or determining how to mount a sizable piece like this one). Simply lean framed work on a table, floating shelf or ledge (or even on the floor, if it’s large enough) and it will still look right at home in your space. Make Your Nightstand MultifunctionalJérôme GallandAs a small-space dweller, I’m always inspired by how others make the most of a room with minimal square footage. One way to pull this off is to take a cue from La Fantaisie in Paris and opt for a petite end table next to the bed instead of a traditional nightstand. The top of the table still offers plenty of surface space to accommodate a phone, water glass, book and more at night, but by day, it can easily transform into a desk or vanity as needed. Simply tuck a pretty ottoman underneath as seen here, and you’re golden! Pattern Drench Like a Pro100 Princes StreetWhy not go all in with one singular pattern for a maximalist look? Take a cue from the concept of color drenching, which entails applying one shade (or a few related tones) to the entirety of a room and do just that with pattern instead. At 100 Princes Street in Edinburgh, Scotland, a beautiful green and blue tartan makes its way from the bedding to the wallpaper to the curtains in this guest suite.100 Princes StreetIn order to prevent a room like this from appearing too busy, it’s important to keep the remainder of your color scheme consistent. Here, furniture and decorative pieces rooted in black and gold help to ground the space throughout. Painting the ceiling a solid white ensures that the room does not appear too dark despite the presence of so many deep, saturated colors. Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more. More

Every year, there seems to be dozens of new holiday decorating trends (most of which call for purchasing more and more decor), and it feels almost impossible to decipher which are truly worth the time, money and effort. Luckily, we called in the real experts, Drew and Jonathan Scott, because who better to share some wisdom on the subject than the two brothers bringing us stunning home products and new hit television shows like Don’t Hate Your House With the Property Brothers? Not to mention, the duo loves the holidays.“This is absolutely our favorite time of the year because who do you think taught the elves to build stuff? The Property Brothers,” says Jonathan. The pair stopped by Good Housekeeping’s New York office to share their best decorating advice for the holiday season. So whether you’ve been attempting to decode the latest decor trends on your own or simply can’t decide between a real or artificial tree this year, read on for Drew and Jonathan’s best advice.Tatiana Sviridova//Getty ImagesBe careful when decorating with glass ornaments.Although Jonathan admits that he decorates his tree entirely with glass ornaments, Drew recommends being extra careful, especially if you have kids or pets. “Just move the glass ornaments up away from where the kids can get to them,” he says.If you’re really into glass ornaments but have small children, Jonathan has a more creative solution: “We boxed out the tree at the bottom with little artificial gifts and that kind of keeps them back.”Don’t feel obligated to decorate with strictly red and green.While red and green are, of course, the most classic Christmas colors, that doesn’t mean you need to decorate with them all the time. “Whatever your personality is, bring it out in your holiday decor,” says Drew. Decorate With PersonalityStay away from excessive signage.Whether it’s “Ho Ho Ho” or “Let It Snow,” it’s not necessary to spell out all of your favorite holiday messages in your home. Instead, try designing a space that evokes the magic of the holidays naturally. “You have to make sure it’s classy. You don’t want something tacky. It can get real cheesy, real fast,” says Jonathan.Go with flameless candles. Although candles can be great for setting the mood and creating a cozy atmosphere, the Scott brothers agree that there’s too much at stake when it comes to using real candles for holiday decorating. “Flameless candles are the way to go,” says Drew. Say goodbye to all-things-glitter. While Jonathan doesn’t have much of an issue with glitter, Drew says it’s a hard no: “Do what you want in your own house, but don’t send someone else a decor item that has glitter because you can never get it out of your home.”Artificial trees all the way. If Drew and Jonathan agree on anything, it’s the fact that artificial trees are far superior to real trees. Messy pine needles, dying branches and manual light stringing are not worth the hassle, according to the experts. “Artificial trees are the way to go because one, you don’t have to cut down a tree. Two, they last as long as you want to keep them,” says Jonathan. “And the greatest part: trees that come with the lights already strung. And the ones we design, when the pole attaches to the different sections, it auto illuminates. You don’t have to do anything.”Visit Good Housekeeping’s TikTok for more design advice from the Property Brothers!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

When it comes to cleaning your home, there is a right way and a wrong way to do it. Take, for example, mixing lights and darks on laundry day. You already know that’s a great way to end up turning your favorite white T-shirt a rosy shade. But there are some less obvious cleaning faux pas the pros say they see all the time. Some of these slip-ups simply cost you extra time, while others may actually do damage to your home and the things inside of it. Here are cleaning habits the experts — professional cleaners who are in and out of messy homes every day — say you should quit ASAP. Not reading the instructions. Sure, there are plenty of great multi-purpose sprays out there that can safely be used on a variety of surfaces, but it pays to always double-check the package instructions. And if you’re using DIY cleaners, be sure you’re schooled on what solutions are compatible with the various surfaces in your home. For example, you shouldn’t use dish soap or vinegar on natural stone, says Chris Willat, founder of Alpine Maids in Denver. FYI!Using too much cleaner. More isn’t better, either, says Ryan Knoll, owner of Tidy Casa, a cleaning company in Phoenix. “Overusing products, especially on floors, leaves sticky residue that can actually attract dirt,” he says. “A small amount goes a long way, and it’ll help your surfaces stay cleaner longer.” Mixing different cleaning products.A duo of bleach and ammonia might sound like a powerhouse for a tough mess, but this combo creates dangerous gasses, says Knoll. “Leave the chemistry experiments to the pros.”Another Good Thing to KnowOverloading the dishwasher.Many think they’re saving time, water and energy by cramming their appliance full of stuff, but dishes need some breathing room for a sparkling clean finish. “A good rule of thumb when loading the dishwasher is if the water can’t reach it, it won’t get clean,” says Carolyn Forté, the Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Cleaning Lab. Vacuuming without changing the filter.“A lot of people forget to clean out the filters, but a clogged filter sends dirt back into the air and around the home,” says Knoll. It also reduces suction power, increases energy consumption and can even ruin your machine over time. “Replacing the filter or washing it out only takes a few minutes and will get the vacuum working like new again,” says Knoll.Leaving wet towels or clothes in a pile.When wet, towels — or any fabrics for that matter — are breeding grounds for mold, especially in humid climates. Hang towels or other laundry up to dry after use to prevent that musty smell and keep bacteria from multiplying.Mopping without sweeping first.Yes, even if you don’t see visible dirt, you need to sweep or vacuum prior to mopping. “Routine sweeping and vacuuming prevents grit from scratching up your floors,” says Knoll. Not maintaining your cleaning tools.“All supplies should be taken care of as soon as a clean is completed,” says Joseph Passalacqua, CEO and owner at Maid Sailors Cleaning Service in New York. “Rags should be cleaned, bottles wiped off (this is especially true if using bleach-based cleaners and vacuums cleaned out.” It’s not just a good habit — it keeps everything in good, working order and even extends the life of your supplies. MORE FROM OUR PROSBrigitt 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

You’re walking into your new home without any furniture when your dream couch arrives. Now, it’s time to figure out furniture placement. Where does it go?Chances are you’re already imagining a couch pressed up against a wall. While that may seem like the best idea to create more space, it can actually cause more harm than good. “People often believe they’re adding space to a room, but instead, they may make it feel smaller and disjointed,” says Gabriela Eisenhart, founder and principal designer of Silo Studios. “Flow space is incredibly important when laying out a room. You want to make sure there is enough open area around furniture for energy to move freely.”If this goes against everything you once thought about space planning, you’re not alone. We spoke to several interior designers, and most agreed that pushing furniture up against the wall is just a natural instinct. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be broken. Below, design pros share the reasons why you shouldn’t always push your furniture against the wall, along with tips on how to change your layout for the better. It can limit conversation.Design by Studio Seva, Photo by Coley StevensIf you place your couch and other seating against the walls, you might unintentionally create a more distant atmosphere where conversation doesn’t flow as well. “Creating space between the furniture and the walls promotes better flow and a more functional floor plan, says Steph Schlegelmilch, founder and creative director of Studio Seva. “As long as there’s adequate walking room, it allows the space to breathe and feel more open while also creating an intimate and conversational setting.” Moving around the house might be more difficult. Floating furniture in the center of a space doesn’t only apply to living rooms. Think about the dining room, for example. Although dining nooks or booths in the corner of a room can work well for smaller spaces, it often makes most sense to enhance the flow of a space by allowing for more room around the table. “Your dining room is used every day, and it’s so important that people can move comfortably around the table,” says Victoria Armour of Stil James.When you think about any space, keeping furniture pressed up against the wall, although it can create more space in the center, limits pathways around the house. There’s only one way to get to the other side of the room, and that’s through the middle of everything. It can throw the space off balance. Design by Silo Studios, Photo by Marc MauldinThis smaller space designed by Silo Studios creates balance by floating different elements throughout. Photo by: Marc MauldinSometimes, especially in small spaces, you simply might not have enough room to float furniture away from the walls. In that case, it’s all about balance. If your couch or television console is pushed against the wall, try floating smaller pieces throughout the room. “In a smaller living space, it’s perfectly fine to place a couch against the wall. Sometimes you don’t have an option. Just try to balance it with other elements and float the accent chairs in the space so everything isn’t hugged up against the wall,” says Eisenhart.However, if you have a larger space to work with, designers recommend maintaining that distance, even if it’s just a few inches, to keep the room balanced. Related StoryYou could have an awkward space between furniture.Although it might not sound possible, there is such a thing as too much space, especially in a large living room. “With all of the biggest furniture volumes pushed up against the wall, the room ends up feeling like it has a void in the center. Also, so often the sofa ends up awkwardly far from the coffee table, from armchairs, etc.,” says Amelia Strat and Anna Kroesser of Kroesser + Strat Design.If you can’t reach the coffee table from where you’re sitting, your first instinct might be to move the table closer to your couch. Instead, try pushing your couch inwards. The result will be a centered, balanced room without any awkward space. Your furniture might sink into the background.Read McKendreeInstead of being tucked into a corner, the floating accent chair acts as a statement piece for all to admire. As a homeowner, the last thing you want to happen after spending money on furniture is for all of it to sink into the background. We intentionally purchase pieces we love so that we can admire and use them every day. Why not do all we can to make each one stand out? “Resisting the urge to push furniture against the walls can transform a room from being stiff and boxy to warm and dimensional, ” says Sarah West of Sarah West Interiors. “And as a bonus, by floating key pieces, like a sofa or an armchair, it lets each piece of furniture shine on its own, turning the space into an engaging, layered experience rather than a single, static view.”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