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We surveyed 15+ interior designers on the latest design trends. Designers agree: ‘Refined Layering’ is the new style to look out for.Read on for more on the latest interior design style, plus ways to get involved. Grandmacore, nostalgia decor, and retro design trends—it’s clear by now that homeowners are seeking comfort through their interior design choices. And there’s another new style pro designers are noticing come to life. It’s called “refined layering.””Timeless, tactile, and deeply personal, it blends the warmth of traditional design with the clean lines of contemporary living. Think rich natural materials, heritage craftsmanship, and soulful vintage finds—balanced with technology-forward wellness features and modern comfort,” says Kerrie Kelly of Kerrie Kelly Studio, who coined the name of the style.To dig deeper into the latest design trends, we asked 15+ pro designers for their honest takes on what homeowners are craving in their spaces—and plenty agreed: Curated, collected spaces with a thoughtful mix of vintage decor and modern technology are here to stay. But what makes refined layering different from other vintage-inspired design styles? We spoke to three designers on what makes this new style stand out, plus how to nail the look.Refined Layering, ExplainedAccording to the pros, refined layering is about more than just nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. “It’s curation with a point of view. Instead of piling on patina, we thoughtfully edit. This way, heritage craftsmanship can meet clean lines, richer textures can complement restrained silhouettes, the room feels collected instead of cluttered, and timeless instead of ‘themed,'” says Kelly. Phil CrozierWhile the vintage look is certainly popular right now, we all want spaces that prioritize function and modern technology. “True layering comes from juxtaposition—the balance between old and new is what makes a space feel interesting and personal,” says Cathryn Erickson of Cathryn Lindsey Design.Refined layering isn’t about chasing one aesthetic. It’s about creating your own original look through careful curation of decorations, materials, and colors you love over time.How to Nail the LookBecause refined layering calls for creating your own aesthetic, it’s going to look different for everyone based on stylistic preferences and vintage finds. Follow these tips to get started, but remember, creating a carefully curated look takes time.Madeline Harper Photography✔️ Mix and match: “Display cherished vintage family heirlooms or flea market finds alongside more modern collections. Mixing the old and the new adds soul and individuality to a space, creating that layered, collected look,” says Alanna Dunn of Reena Sotropa In House.✔️ Contrast with texture: “If you already have lots of natural materials like wood, stone, or leather, mix in something sleek, like a lacquered table or glass accent, to add contrast and depth,” says Erickson. ✔️ Practice the 3–2–1 rule: “Three textures, two finishes, one statement color. It provides enough depth to feel layered, yet is edited enough to last,” says Kelly.More Design TrendsLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

If you’re dealing with an ant infestation in your home, you want those critters gone ASAP. We tapped a pest control expert to tell us how to get rid of ants in the house and how to keep them from coming back. The first thing you’ll want to do is identify what type of ants you’re dealing with: sugar ants, carpenter ants, or another type of ant. Then, you’ll want to get rid of them. We’ve tested the best ant killers, including several DIY methods that make use of items you probably already have at home. Once you’ve gotten rid of the colony, you’ll want to be extra tidy to ensure they don’t come back looking for spills or crumbs to feast on. Here’s everything to know about how to get rid of ants in the house. How to Identify AntsUnderstanding what type of ants you have in your home could tell you more about why they’re invading it in the first place and consequently, how to repel them. According to Zaccone, there are many different ant species that could make their way into your home, and you might need a magnifier in order to identify them. Here are a few of the most common types: Sugar ants: These tiny brown or black creatures are attracted to sugary substances as their name suggests. If you find ants in the kitchen or pantry where sweets have been left out in the open, you might be dealing with sugar ants. Note: The term “sugar ant” doesn’t refer to one specific species, but rather all sweet-seeking ants.Citronella ants: Citronella ants can often be identified by the odor they release when crushed. Hint: It’s in the name. “They’re light yellow to reddish brown and their presence can mean moisture issues. They’re usually found around the exterior foundation of homes,” says Zaccone. Pavement ants: Pavement ants are dark brown or black creatures that make their nests under pavement and enter through cracks in the home. Carpenter ants: “Carpenter ants are common too and can also mean that there’s a leak present somewhere causing moisture,” says Zaccone. Although these ants chew wood, they don’t actually eat it. Instead, they hollow it out so they can live in it. How to Get Rid of Ants If you already have an ant problem, the issue is unlikely to resolve on its own. However, there are a few ways you can get rid of these critters. Consider these effective solutions: Tooga//Getty Images1. Seal cracks around entryways. Ants can make their way into your home through the tiniest of cracks. That’s why it’s so important to properly inspect all entryways around your home, especially when you’ve noticed ants inside.”You can reduce ant activity by checking for holes and gaps around the house. Inspect around windows and doors,” says Zaccone. “You can use silicone or caulk. You can put door sweeps on the bottom of exterior doors.”2. Invest in bait traps. Instead of going straight for pesticides, invest in ant bait. While pesticides often leave unwanted residue around the house, ant bait stays contained in the trap. When worker ants discover the bait, they bring it back to their colony to share it, making it more likely to wipe out the whole colony. Terro Indoor Liquid Ant KillerNow 12% OffRaid Ant Killer BaitsCombat Indoor and Outdoor Ant Killing GelNow 16% Off3. Keep the house clean.This one is especially important if you’re dealing with sugar ants in particular. Make sure to keep all food in airtight containers and wipe down counters and floors as much as possible. 4. DIY your own ant repellent.There are a couple of homemade recipes you can try involving dish soap, essential oils and white vinegar. Here are the ratios:Dish soap: Fill a spray bottle with 10% dish soap and 90% water. Spray it directly on the ants and wipe them away. Essential oils: Add 10 drops of peppermint, thyme or citrus to a cup of water. Mix and fill a spray bottle. Spray any surfaces that ants seem to be attracted to. White vinegar: Add equal parts water and white vinegar to a spray bottle. Similar to essential oils, white vinegar acts as a repellent. Spray on any surfaces you’ve spotted ants. Just be sure to avoid using this spray on natural stone. 5. Hire a professional. If you’ve tried everything without much success, it’s time to seek out professional assistance. “As a professional, we use a gel bait in key areas where activity is present. We also apply an exterior treatment of the foundation with a pesticide. With the use of gel bait inside and an exterior treatment along the foundation, this usually eliminates the ants,” says Zaccone. How to Prevent Ants Once the ants are all gone, take these preventative measures to ensure they don’t make their way into your home again. PATSTOCK//Getty ImagesCut off all food sources: If ants can’t find food, they’ll be less likely to invade your home. Eliminating all food sources means cleaning up any spills, putting all food away after meals and keeping everything in airtight containers. Landscape your home: Lining your home with rocks or pebbles could help deter ants that don’t want to cross those barriers. Wipe off all surfaces: This includes crumbs, sticky floors and countertop spills. Make it a habit to wipe off all surfaces before bed.Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates. Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter. More

Spending time in the kitchen can be joyful, but there’s no denying that it can also be messy. Food splatters and greasy fingerprints can make your cabinets look a little grubby, but don’t worry. If you’re wondering how to clean kitchen cabinets of grease stains, we’ve got expert-backed advice that makes it easy. Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, has tested dozens of methods and degreasers to find the most effective way to clean your kitchen cabinets, whether they’re made of finished wood, glass, laminate, or something else. Here’s everything to know about cleaning kitchen cabinets, from how often you should do so to which products to use. How often to clean kitchen cabinetsDaily: Wipe spills and splatters with a damp cloth as soon as possible. Cleaning as you cook will make the need for a deeper clean less frequent.Weekly: For a quick touch-up, wipe the outside of the cabinets once per week using a cabinet cleaner and microfiber cloth.One to two times per year: For a deeper clean, empty cabinets completely and clean both the inside and outside of every cabinet, paying attention to grooves and trim where grime may hide.izusek//Getty ImagesHow to regularly clean cabinetsWhether your cabinets are finished wood, laminate or painted wood, these simple steps will keep your kitchen looking clean and bright. Apply a safe, but grease-cutting all-purpose cleaner or a mixture of dish soap and water to a cloth. Ensure the cloth is damp, but not overly wet.Wipe both sides of the cabinet door, paying special attention to knobs and drawer pulls where you’ll likely find greasy fingerprints.For stuck-on grime (likely for cabinets above the stove), wrap a delicate scrub pad in a cloth and wipe clean.Use a damp cloth to rinse the cabinet doors until there’s no soap or cleaner residue. Buff dry with a microfiber cloth. If you’re using a cabinet cream for finished wood cabinets, buff afterward but also, read label directions. RELATED: The Best All-Purpose Cleaners, According to Cleaning Experts How to deep clean cabinetsYou should regularly wipe cabinet doors and knobs. Don’t neglect the inside of kitchen cabinets and drawers as they can accumulate crumbs, dust and stains. Once or twice a year, a deep clean is in order. Starting from the upper cabinets and working your way down, begin emptying each cabinet and drawer. Tip: You can go one-by-one or empty a few at a time, but avoid emptying them all at once. Dampen a microfiber cloth with a mild all-purpose cleaner or dish soap mixed with warm water. Wipe down the inside of the cabinet, including any shelving and the back of the cabinet door. Optional: If you have glass-front cabinets, wipe down glass with a microfiber cloth and a top-tested glass cleaner.Don’t forget to clean any hardware, grooves or trim where dust and grease can build-up. If your cloth can’t reach small crevices, use a small brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the area.Rinse and buff dry with a microfiber cloth.What You’ll Need to Clean Kitchen CabinetsAlyssa 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.Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter. More

It’s not the most pleasant task, but it’s important for keeping everyone in your home healthy. We asked cleaning experts about the best way to clean and disinfect a toilet, and they gave us plenty of helpful tips. According to Carolyn Forté, the executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, many people don’t allow disinfectants to sit on the surface for long enough to be effective. So be sure you read the labels on your cleaning products to understand how long it takes for them to kill germs and bacteria. We’ve tested plenty of toilet bowl cleaners and different methods for tackling the toilet. Keep reading to find out more about the best way to clean and disinfect your toilet. What You’ll Need to Clean Your Toilet Before you get started, you need to be well-equipped for the job. Forté recommends keeping a separate set of cleaning supplies in your bathroom for the job (that aren’t used on other surfaces across your house). How to Clean Your Toilet the Right Way Wattanaphob Kappago / EyeEm//Getty ImagesClean the Toilet Bowl: When you clean your toilet, start with the bowl first so you can give the cleaner time to work while you tackle the remaining surfaces. Put on your rubber gloves.Coat the toilet bowl’s entire interior, starting underneath the bowl’s rim, with a product formulated to clean and disinfect, like Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach.Use your toilet brush to scrub away stains and deposits. “Be sure to scrub well, with the cleaner, around the inside of your bowl, the toilet bend if possible and underneath the rim of the bowl,” Forté explains. Let everything sit for five minutes, then flush it away.If you run out of toilet bowl cleaner, the next best thing to use is actual bleach, Forté says. Simply measure out half a cup’s worth of bleach and pour it into your toilet bowl. Use your brush to scrub the sides and beneath the bowl’s rim, also allowing five minutes to pass before you flush it all away. Clean the Outside of the Toilet: To clean the outside of the toilet, Forté recommends using an all-purpose bathroom disinfecting spray, like Lysol Power Bathroom Foamer, which sanitizes hard surfaces in 30 seconds and disinfects them in 10 minutes. Tackling one area at a time, spray the cleaner on the tank, outside of the bowl and the sides, and let it sit for 10 minutes.Wipe each area thoroughly with a sponge or cloth, then rinse well before moving on to the next area, Forté says. Don’t forget to clean the small area between the toilet seat and the tank.Remember, surfaces need pre-cleaning before they can be disinfected and need to stay wet for the recommended time on the label to effectively kill germs. If you don’t want to leave the cleaner on for as long as recommended to disinfect — 10 minutes in some cases — after the toilet is clean and dry, go over all the surfaces again with a disinfecting wipe or apply a disinfecting spray, like GH Seal star Microban 24 Hour Sanitizing Spray, making sure they stay wet for the required time to kill bacteria and viruses.Clean the Toilet Seat: Finally, don’t forget to clean the seat, then give your toilet one final flush.Use the bathroom cleaner to clean both sides of the lid and toilet seat thoroughly, as you did with the tank and outer surfaces. Remember: the surfaces need to remain wet for the time recommended on the product label to be properly disinfected.Lower the seat back on top of the bowl once you’ve finished.Give the toilet flush handle — a high-touch spot — an extra pass with a disinfecting wipe and allow it to air dry. In between cleaning sessions, it’s also a good idea to use a disinfectant wipe to rub the handle down.How Do I Clean My Toilet With Vinegar and Baking Soda? Andrei Zonenko//Getty ImagesGive your toilet a simple yet effective refresh using a white vinegar and baking soda mixture. According to Forté, vinegar is best for removing hard water stains. First, drain the water out of your toilet bowl. Pour enough cups of white vinegar into the bowl to cover the water line, “so the vinegar dissolves the minerals that build up there,” Forté notes. Close the seat and let the vinegar sit overnight. Then, pour one cup of baking soda into the bowl and add more vinegar, if needed, to create a fizzier solution. Throw on a pair of gloves, then start scrubbing inside the bowl. When done, flush and repeat the process, if needed, until the stains are gone.You can also quickly clean the toilet bowl without scrubbing by simply stirring the vinegar and baking soda solution with your toilet brush. Flush to rinse everything out. How Often Should I Clean My Toilet?bymuratdeniz//Getty ImagesForté says you should try to clean your toilet as often as possible, but that you should fully disinfect it every two to three days if someone is sick in your home. Outside of flu season, once a week — or biweekly, depending on how frequently the toilet is used — should suffice.Charles Gerba, Ph.D., a professor of epidemiology and biostatistics in the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Arizona, explains that viruses, in general, can live on your toilet’s surface anywhere from a few hours to a few days. “Most cold and flu viruses survive from a few hours to up to nine days, [depending] on temperature and relative humidity,” he says. Forté also recommends factoring in time to actually disinfect your cleaning supplies. A toilet scrubbing brush can grow mold on its own if it’s left in a watery holder. Forté says you should periodically clean the brush after you’ve finished scrubbing the toilet bowl and surfaces. To do so, spray it thoroughly with a disinfectant spray, and let it air dry by placing it between your toilet seat and the bowl itself (allowing the scrubbing head to hang above the water in the bowl). For gloves, sponges or any other plastic cleaning supplies, you can make sure they’re germ-free by soaking them for five minutes in a solution of three tablespoons of bleach mixed in one quart of water. Air-dry afterward.Zee Krstic is a content strategy manager for Hearst Magazines, leading audience acquisition and affiliate revenue growth for Country Living, House Beautiful, ELLE Decor and VERANDA. He previously served as Health Editor for Good Housekeeping between 2019 and 2023, covering news, wellness trends and executing product reviews in conjunction with the Good Housekeeping Institute. Prior to joining Hearst, Zee fostered a background in women’s lifestyle media with seven-plus years of digital editorial experience, including as a site-wide editor at Martha Stewart Living. Zee currently produces design and lifestyle service content as a contributor; he has written about food and dining for Time, among other publications.Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master’s degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She’s also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.  More

It’s a problem no one wants to deal with, but it’s unfortunately pretty common. If you’re wondering how to remove mold from house surfaces, we’ve got step-by-step instructions on how to banish mold from walls, bathrooms, and other surfaces in your home. We’ve tested plenty of mold and mildew removers and tried different methods to determine the best way to eliminate it from your home (and keep it from coming back). Certain types of mold, like Stachybotrys chartarum a.k.a. “black mold” can cause allergy symptoms like sneezing and skin rashes, so it’s important to get mold issues handled quickly. Here’s how to remove mold from any surface and create an environment where it won’t grow back. How to prevent mold growth It’s always ideal to stop mold before it starts. The key to prevention is controlling the moisture inside your house, be it fixing small leaks, investing in a dehumidifier or properly ventilating your house. Follow these tips to create an environment where mold can’t grow: Bring in a dehumidifier or two. Humidity levels should not exceed 50%. Be sure to run a dehumidifier that’s right for the area you’re treating. A dehumidifier with a 10-pint removal capacity is ideal for a 500-square-foot room. You’ll need an additional four pints for every additional 500 square feet.Vent moisture-generating sources to the outside. Bathroom fans and clothes dryers should have vents to the outside.Open doors and windows during showers. This will aid your bathroom exhaust fan during and after showers by allowing moisture to escape. Keep your shower open after showering. When your curtain or door is closed, moisture takes longer to evaporate and dry. You should also partially stretch out the shower curtain, so it dries faster. Reseal bathroom tile grout lines. Repeat the sealing process every year to help waterproof your walls and floors.Avoid storing items in damp places. Keep linens, books and furniture out of your basement or attic if air-tight storage containers aren’t an option. How to get rid of mold in the showersdominick//Getty ImagesMold breeds in warm, wet conditions, making it possible to grow on shower tiles, grout and plastic curtain liners. With the right cleaning solution, it’s easy to save your shower from unsightly mold spots.Take safety precautions. Wear protection on your eyes and hands and if you are particularly sensitive to fumes, consider wearing a mask. Open the window and flip on the bathroom fan for proper ventilation.Spray cleaner on mold spots. Apply a grout cleaner or mold remover according to the manufacturer’s directions. For the curtain liner, spray a mold cleaner that’s safe for plastic, like Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover, while it’s hung up. Wait up to five minutes for the stains to disappear. Mold spots should start to fade quickly. Make sure to move to a well-ventilated area while the magic happens. If spots persist, use a non-scratch scrub sponge or grout brush to scrub the spots away. Use a handheld showerhead to rinse the entire shower with hot water. If you don’t have a handheld sprayer, fill a cup with water and pour it on shower walls, in all corners to rinse grout and the length of your plastic curtain liner.Leave the shower curtain halfway open to air dry. Position the curtain or liner so there are loose folds, which allows the surface and the shower itself to air dry completely.Expert Tip: You can wash plastic shower curtains and liners in your washing machine. Choose the delicate or short normal cycle with warm or hot water, then add laundry detergent and fabric-safe bleach. Wash it with some old towels to help with scrubbing. Place it in the dryer on low heat for only a few minutes (never leave it unattended), then re-hang it to finish drying.How to get rid of mold outdoorsWhether you’re dealing with a humid climate or areas of your exterior that tend to collect moisture, you may notice mold growing outside the house. This may look like mold stains on concrete floors, sidewalks, siding or wood decking. The best way to treat mold outdoors will depend on the surface you’re treating. Put on protective gear, which is equally as important when working outdoors. You should also move nearby furniture or decor that may get damaged as you spray or scrub.Spray equal parts bleach and water directly to concrete floors, siding or sidewalks to tackle mold. Use a scrub brush and move in a circular motion to remove mold stains. If you prefer a store-bought solution, we recommend Jomax house cleaner for siding and Mold Armor concrete cleaner for sidewalks, patios and concrete. Apply an outdoor cleaner to delicate surfaces, such as outdoor furniture and deck flooring. We recommend Carbona’s Outdoor Cleaner, which is safe around children and pets and has a built-in brush applicator.Rinse the area throughly with the hose or a bucket of clean water. You can also use a power washer for a deeper clean or rinse. How to remove mold from walls Ekspansio//Getty ImagesIf you spot mold on walls or ceilings made of sheetrock or plaster, you can make them disappear without replacing any materials. But if mold appears on a very porous surface, such as a ceiling tile, it’s best to replace it right away. Expert Tip: It’s important to wear eye protection to prevent cleaners from splashing in your eyes when removing mold from ceilings or overhead areas.Clean the surface. Apply your protective gear and make sure the area is well-ventilated. Mix a little dish detergent, like Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid, and water. Use a sponge or brush to apply the solution in small circular motions. Rinse and let dry. Clean the sponge thoroughly, then dip it into clean water and wring it out well before wiping the surface clean. Let it air dry completely.Follow with a solution of water and bleach: Mix ¾ of a cup of chlorine bleach with a gallon of warm water, or 3 tablespoons of bleach in 1 quart of water for smaller spots. Wearing rubber gloves, apply the water-bleach mixture to the stains with a sponge or cleaning brush.Let sit for five minutes, then scrub. Give the water bleach solution time to penetrate the moldy spots, then move the sponge or brush in small circles to gently agitate the area. Rinse completely and air dry. Use warm water to wash the area clean and blot dry with a clean cloth before letting it air dry.How to remove mold from wood In areas where there’s higher humidity and poor ventilation — such as the kitchen, bathroom or basement — you may discover mold on cabinets, vanities, furniture or paneling made of wood, especially if the surface is losing its finish or seal.Vacuum up any loose spores. Apply your protective gear and make sure the area is well-ventilated. Using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, go over the spots a few times with the soft brush attachment.Sponge on a soapy solution. Mix a few drops of dish detergent with some water and dab the solution onto the surface with a sponge, being careful not to saturate the wood. Rub gently to remove mold spots.Rinse with a clean, damp cloth. Dip a cleaning cloth into clear water and wring it out well before wiping the surface clean.Follow with a clean, dry cloth. You don’t want the wood to stay wet for long, which could damage the finish, so work quickly and wipe dry any remaining moisture.How to get rid of mold on fabricmrs//Getty ImagesWhen clothing, towels or stored fabrics are exposed to humidity or dampness for a prolonged period, mold can appear and flourish. Follow these steps when you find mold on fabric items that are machine washable. Expert Tip: If you find mold on fabric that is not machine washable, take it to your dry cleaner for help removing these stubborn spots.Brush off the excess mold. First, bring the item outside to prevent excess mold spores from getting inside your home. Apply protective gear, then gently move a dry cloth, brush or paper towel back and forth a few times over the area to loosen and free any mold from the surface. Treat spots with liquid laundry detergent. Rub a drop or two in with your gloved fingers. Wash it in the washing machine on the hottest setting that’s safe for the fabric, adding chlorine bleach or non-chlorine bleach, as specified by your item’s care instructions. (Check the care label to be sure.)Air dry. Avoid tumble drying the item until you are certain the mold spots are removed. FAQWhat’s the difference between mold and mildew?Mildew is typically more visible during early stages and pops up as white or gray powdery dots. It may turn yellow or brown, but generally remains pretty flat. Mold appears darker, often in shades of red, green or black and can have a fuzzy texture. While mildew is typically less dangerous than certain types of mold (think black mold), both microscopic fungi can cause health problems and damage to your home. While the mold and mildew can be treated in similar ways, read our guide to getting rid of mildew if you suspect that’s the issue at hand.What are natural remedies for removing mold?If you’re looking for a natural solution to remove mold, hydrogen peroxide and vinegar are two options to try. Keep in mind, though, that they may take more time to work than bleach and may not remove stains or be as effective on all types of mold or on all surfaces:Hydrogen peroxide: Pour a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub the mold away.Vinegar: Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle and apply to the moldy area. Let it sit for an hour, then wipe the area clean with water and allow it to dry.When do I need a mold removal company?If the moldy area is widespread and larger than approximately a 2-foot by 2-foot area, call in a pro to have it removed safely. When you’re contending with more than a few mold spots, it could be a sign of a bigger moisture problem. Call a contractor who specializes in water damage restoration or waterproofing to assess and address the issue. Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing. She has held leading roles at both mid-size consumer goods companies and one of the most notable and largest apparel brands in the world. Jamie has contributed to several of the GH Institute Labs, including Kitchen Appliances, Media and Tech, Textiles and Home Appliances. In her free time she enjoys cooking, traveling, and working out.Alyssa 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

This organizing pro swears skipping laundry day can actually help you declutter.She calls it the “lazy girl laundry test.”Read on for how the method can help you clear out your closet.Almost every morning, I struggle deciding what to wear. While my closet is basically packed to the brim with clothes, it feels like half of my wardrobe is invisible to me. A few minutes go by, and I end up wearing one of my “go-to” outfits once again. Finally, someone has come up with a solution to the common dilemma that actually helps you clear out the clothes you don’t reach for. Organizing pro Dr. Regina Lark of A Clear Path calls it the “lazy girl laundry test”—and it’s actually genius. Ahead, Lark shares how and why the decluttering method works, plus what to do with your unwanted clothes after the fact. The Lazy Girl Laundry TestThis method doesn’t involve any difficult steps or active decision making. No “donation” baskets or “get rid of” piles are required. It simply asks you to live your life as you would, wearing the clothes you normally wear. There is one rule though, but we’re pretty sure you’ll like it: Don’t do your laundry.”The ‘lazy girl laundry test’ is my favorite no-effort organizing trick! You simply stop doing laundry until you’ve worn everything you truly love. Once you’re left with the ‘meh’ pile—the pieces that never leave the hanger—that’s your visual cue. It’s based on reality, not intention. You learn what you reach for, and that’s the most honest version of your wardrobe,” says Lark.Organize With UsWhy It WorksRather than adding yet another task to your daily to-do list like most organizing methods require, this one actually takes one chore away (and it happens to be one most people dread). Plus, it’s also based on real-life decisions and data rather than emotions.”It’s a gentle, judgment-free way to see what you actually wear. You are making decisions about what to keep in real-time. Your daily choices create the data for you to make analytical decisions about what to keep, rather than emotional decisions about what you think you love. The process also helps you separate comfort favorites from ‘someday’ clothes. And truly—this will work for anyone who’d rather live their life than organize it,” says Lark.Without the emotional pressure of deciding on the spot what to keep versus what to get rid of, people are able to better assess their clutter based on simple passive observations of what’s left in their closet once they feel like they have “nothing” to wear. From there, you might be inspired to wear something you’ve gone “blind” to or actually missed. Or, more likely, you’ll realize you’ve been holding onto clothes you clearly wouldn’t miss.Next Stepsjuanma hache//Getty ImagesOf course, there may be some pieces you haven’t worn because they’re not seasonally appropriate. Once you separate those items from your “meh” clothes, the process of decluttering should feel less overwhelming. “If they no longer fit your life or your body, release them to someone who’ll enjoy them. Selling or donating turns your closet clutter into someone else’s treasure—and gives you back energy, space, and a wardrobe that actually feels good to live with,” says Lark. And while you may have enjoyed completely eliminating the chore the past couple of weeks, once the process is over, you should probably do your laundry.Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

Life can be a mess: bloody noses, scraped elbows, unexpected periods, and the list just goes on from there. The good news is after testing tons of methods and products, we know exactly how to get blood out of clothes. We tapped Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab for her advice on getting blood out of clothes. While it’s easier to remove blood from fabric when it’s fresh, it is still possible to get dried blood out of cotton, denim, linen, and other fabrics.Here are step-by-step instructions on getting blood out of clothing items, according to cleaning pros. How to get fresh blood out of clothesLike most other stains, blood is easiest to remove when it’s fresh. The steps below are the same for most types of colorfast fabrics, including jeans and white cotton tees, and will even work well for removing blood stains from sheets. As soon as you notice blood on your clothes, head to your medicine cabinet and laundry room to gather supplies, and then get to work by following these steps:What you’ll need:Bar soapHydrogen peroxideFabric-safe bleachLaundry pre-treaterEnzyme-containing liquid laundry detergentWant even more from our cleaning experts? Sign up for Good Housekeeping’s FREE pop-up spring cleaning newsletter!InstructionsSoak the stain in cold water as soon as possible. If the stain is super fresh, place it under cold running water and try to flush out as much of the fresh blood as you can.Treat the stain with hydrogen peroxide or rub bar soap into the stain. Apply the hydrogen peroxide to a cloth and then use the cloth to blot the stain. For very heavy stains, and only if the fabric is colorfast, carefully apply the hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain or soak the stain in a small bowl of hydrogen peroxide. Scrub the stained garment by hand with bar soap in cold water.Apply a laundry pre-treater or rub in an enzyme-containing liquid laundry detergent. Machine wash the garment in warm water with a fabric-safe bleach. If your garment can’t tolerate chlorine or non-chlorine bleach, try a stain treater like Carbona Stain Devils #4. Always spot-test new products first by applying a small amount to an inside seam or hem of your garment.If the stain remains, repeat the steps above. Refrain from putting the garment in the dryer until the stain is completely gone. toncd32How to get dried blood out of clothesJust because you waited to remove a blood stain doesn’t necessarily mean it’s permanent. Instead, all you need is a little patience and a heavy-duty stain remover. Follow these steps:What you’ll need:Stain-removing laundry soakerBar soapFabric-safe bleachEnzyme-containing liquid laundry detergentAmmoniaLaundry pre-treaterInstructionsPresoak the garment. Prepare a mixture of cold water and one to two teaspoons of liquid laundry detergent or a stain-removing product like Carbona Oxy Powered Laundry Soaker. Allow the garment to soak in the mixture for several hours or overnight.Pretreat with a laundry pre-treater, or rub the stain with bar soap. Then, launder in warm water with fabric-safe bleach.If that doesn’t work, repeat the presoaking step. Presoak for a longer period of time, or mix one quart of water with one teaspoon of laundry detergent and one tablespoon of ammonia and let the garment soak in the solution. (This may take several hours, depending on the severity of the stain.)Pretreat the stain and launder the garment.Tide Ultra Oxi Liquid Laundry DetergentNow 29% OffCredit: Amazon Clorox Splash-Less Liquid BleachCarbona Oxy Powered Laundry SoakerCredit: CarbonaClorox 2 Laundry Stain RemoverCredit: CloroxWill vinegar get blood stains out of clothes? Some find that distilled white vinegar can be an effective at-home hack for removing blood stains from fabric, especially when the stain is fresh. But Forté says, “I’ve never found white vinegar particularly effective on blood stains.” Not to mention, undiluted vinegar might break down the fabric’s fibers over time. Is toothpaste useful in removing blood stains?While toothpaste can treat blood stains, it’s not the recommended method since it can’t be used on unwashable fabric. It can further stain the garment and leave it with an unpleasant smell, so it’s best to stick with tried-and-true methods. Does Dawn remove blood stains?Dawn dish soap can be a powerful stain-fighting tool — especially for grease stains — and it may help wash away some fresh blood stains. But for set stains, you’re better off rubbing the fabric with an enzyme liquid laundry detergent that’s specifically formulated to remove protein stains.How to get blood stains out of clothes with saltSalt may absorb some fresh blood, but you have to get to it quickly, says Forté, noting the pantry staple isn’t likely to remove set-in blood stains. How to get blood stains out of clothes with baking sodaThough it’s not our top-recommended method of removing blood stains, a baking soda paste (two parts baking soda, one part water) may help — particularly if nothing else has. Simply work the paste into the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes before laundering. Expert tips to keep in mindThough it’s easy to assume differently, period blood can be removed from clothing using the same steps and products as blood stains from a scraped knee, nicked finger or cut on your ankle.When removing blood stains from jeans, turn the jeans inside out to apply stain remover directly to the spot that is stained.Never use hot water on blood stains to avoid setting the stain into the fabric. If you’ve forgotten and already washed a blood stain in hot water, you can try the steps above, but you may not be able to completely remove the stain from the fabric.Though we’re all searching for a quick fix, remember that blood stains are tricky and often require pre-soaking and a lot of time to remove. There really aren’t any speedy remedies, and unless you’re dealing with a small, light stain, repeated attempts are often needed. Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter.Cailey Lindberg (she/her) is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience covering products, lifestyle, entertainment and food. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, she was a staff writer at USA Today’s shopping network, Reviewed.com.  More

Wondering how to hand-wash clothes in the sink? We’ve got step-by-step instructions from Carolyn Forté, the executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab on how to hand wash dresses, shirts, underwear and more in your sink. Tossing hand-wash-only items in the washer is one of the most common laundry mistakes, so it’s worth taking the time to hand-wash certain items. Knowing how to hand-wash clothes can help extend the life of your favorite garments and keep them from getting torn, stretched out, or discolored. And if you’re ever in a situation without access to a washer — like on a vacation or staying at someone else’s house — knowing how to hand-wash your items and keep things fresh will be helpful. Here are expert-backed step-by-step instructions for how to hand wash your clothes in the sink. How to Hand-Wash Clothes This step-by-step guide will work for most garments, including dresses, although they can be more cumbersome to handle. Save time by washing like items together, whether they share the same color or fabric type. Kinga Krzeminska//Getty ImagesCheck the care label and select a laundry detergent. A typical liquid or powder detergent should work, but keep in mind that more delicate fabrics may require a more gentle detergent — think free and gentle detergent, fine fabric detergent or mild dish liquid.Pre-treat stains. Work laundry stain remover or liquid detergent into the stain with your fingertips, avoiding vigorous scrubbing to prevent the stain from spreading or setting in deeper. Rubbing the strain too hard can also abrade and damage the fabric. Fill the sink with water. Use lukewarm or warm water depending on your garment’s care label, but note that wool, silk and bright colors clean best in cold water. While the water is running, add the recommended dose of detergent and swish around to dissolve. Soak the garment. Place it in the sink and gently press down to fully submerge. While it soaks, squeeze the sudsy water through the garment several times. If the water changes color, don’t worry — it’s most likely the result of excess dye and shouldn’t affect the garment’s color.Optional: Pay extra care to dresses. Make sure to support the bottom of long items, especially knit dresses, when wet to keep them from stretching.Rinse thoroughly. If you have a sprayer on your faucet, place lightweight garments like sheer tights and swimsuits in a colander and rinse clean. Otherwise, fill the sink with cool water, immerse the garment and squeeze the water through to rinse. Repeat as needed. Remove excess water. Wringing out wet, delicate fabrics can cause damage, so carefully lift the garment and gently squeeze out as much water as possible. Lay it flat on a towel and roll the towel and garment together until the water is absorbed. Lay it flat to dry. Reshape the damp garment, especially knits, to its desired shape and lay it flat to dry. Once the front is dry, flip it over.How to Hand-Wash Bras and UnderwearHand-washing your bra is the best way to ensure that it maintains its shape and fit. It’s also the safest method for washing some underwear styles — like those made of lace or silk. Follow the steps below for a gentle yet thorough way to clean undergarments. Beeldbewerking / Getty ImagesFill the sink with water. Unless the undergarment’s care tag specifies a different temperature, use lukewarm water for bras and warm water for underwear. As the water is running, add a gentle detergent and make sure it dissolves completely before adding the undergarments.Let the undergarments soak. Carefully place bras or underwear in the water, gently pressing them down to submerge and swishing the detergent in the water to work it into the undergarments. Let bras soak for 15 minutes and underwear for up to 30 minutes. You can wash multiple pieces simultaneously if they’re the same color and fiber type.Rinse thoroughly. If you have a sprayer on your faucet, place the bras or underwear in a colander and rinse them clean. Otherwise, fill the sink with cool water, immerse the undergarments and gently squeeze the water through to rinse.Gently squeeze, reshape and dry flat. Remove excess water by gently squeezing the bra’s straps, back and cups or pat them dry with a towel. Similarly, gently squeeze excess water out of underwear then blot with a towel. Once you’ve removed as much water as possible, reshape the undergarments and lay them flat to air dry.How to Hand-Wash SweatersThere’s a common misconception that sweaters must be dry cleaned. However, that’s not always the case. Check the care tag first, but if it only says “dry clean,” it may be safe to hand-wash. If it’s marked as “dry clean only,” err on the safe side and drop it off at the dry cleaner.Maliflower73 / Getty ImagesCheck the sweater’s care tag. Review the sweater’s care and fiber tags to determine the recommended water temperature. For most sweaters, lukewarm water and a gentle detergent or mild dish liquid should work. Pre-treat stains. Use a laundry stain remover or liquid detergent to pre-treat stains. Gently work the product into the stain with your fingertips but don’t scrub the area to prevent the stain from spreading or the fabric from damaging. Fill your sink with water. As the water is running, add detergent and make sure it dissolves completely before placing a sweater that has been flipped inside-out in the sink. Let it soak for at least 10 minutes; every few minutes, you can squeeze and work the sudsy water through the fabric as it soaks.Rinse thoroughly. Fill the sink with cool water, immerse the sweater and squeeze the water through to rinse.Remove excess water. Gently squeeze the sweater to remove as much water as possible, then lay it flat on an absorbent towel and gently roll the towel and garment together until the water is absorbed. Air dry the sweater. Lay the sweater on top of a dry towel and let it air dry. Once the front is dry, flip it over.Maria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle. Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter. More