Home Ideas

1Door Handles and Light SwitchesGrace Cary//Getty ImagesYour guests will likely be opening doors and turning lights on and off throughout the house, so it’s important to make sure these areas are dust-free and in good shape prior to their arrival, notes Steve Evans, the owner of Memphis Maids. “Mix equal parts of rubbing alcohol and water and wipe with a soft sponge, or with a slightly damp microfiber cloth,” he instructs.2The WallsKinga Krzeminska//Getty ImagesNo one wants to see any dust on the walls, either. “People often forget that dusting their walls is a major factor in keeping a clean and healthy environment,” says Vanessa Garcia, a Tasker on Taskrabbit. “You would be surprised how many households’ walls would change ‘hue’ due to the lack of dusting their walls,” she notes. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Your Tupperware DrawerDLMcK//Getty ImagesWhether you’re sending guests home with leftovers post holiday-party or are packing up a tin of goodies to give to a neighbor, it’s a good idea to keep your Tupperware drawer in good shape this season. “Nobody wants to wrestle with a jumble of mismatched lids and containers,” says Amy Berryhill, the owner of Spiffy Chicks. “Match lids to containers, recycle or toss anything without a mate, and ditch pieces that have seen better days.”RELATED: 50 Clever Kitchen Organization and Storage Ideas to Clear out the Clutter4The PantryMassimo Ravera//Getty ImagesWhile you’re in the kitchen, take some time to give your pantry a bit of a makeover, too. “With all the cooking, baking and snack-making happening around the holidays, your pantry is about to get a major workout,” says Rachel Rosenthal, organizational expert and Post-it® brand ambassador. She recommends going through your items and parting ways with expired goods, consolidating like with like and grouping similar pieces together in bins. “Label each bin for quick identification, and suddenly, your pantry goes from a cluttered maze to a well-oiled machine,” Rosenthal shares. RELATED: 30 Genius Pantry Organization Ideas to Tame Your ClutterAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below5Your Gift Wrapping StationIlja Enger-Tsizikov//Getty ImagesWrap gifts like a total pro this year by organizing your supplies and creating a command center you can utilize all month long, Rosenthal suggests. “Gather your wrapping paper, ribbons, scissors and gift tags in one place,” she says. “This way, when it’s time to wrap, you’ll be able to grab what you need quickly and easily.” RELATED: 50 Unique Gift Wrapping Ideas That’ll Save You Money6The Cabinet Under the Bathroom SinkYinYang//Getty ImagesThrowing a get-together this season? Don’t underestimate the importance of getting your bathroom ready for guests, Berryhill states. “When toilet paper runs low, guests will likely look under the sink,” she comments. “Spend 15 minutes decluttering this space—toss empty bottles, organize cleaning supplies and stock up on essentials like backup rolls (remove them from their packaging for a neat look).” A bit of quick prep will make all the difference mid-party!Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7The Linen ClosetAdShooter//Getty ImagesOvernight guests may need to check the linen closet for towels, sheets and the like while staying with you this season. “A cluttered linen closet can leave guests scrambling,” Berryhill says. “Give this space a refresh by clearing out old, stained or torn linens.” Here, baskets, stackable drawers and labeled shelves are your BFF, the organizer notes, adding, “A little effort goes a long way in creating a guest-ready space!”RELATED: 15 Genius Linen Closet Organization Ideas8Your Front PorchBrycia James//Getty ImagesYour front porch is your home’s chance to really make a first impression, notes Carolyn Forté, executive director of Good Housekeeping’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab. “Sweep away leaves and debris, get rid of clutter, put out a pretty doormat, and remove webs and dirt from light fixtures, the mailbox, front door and anything else guests will see,” she suggests. “Go out of your house and come back in like a guest and see what kind of impression it makes on you!”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9The Front EntrywayTom Merton//Getty ImagesThe front entryway is also a key area to spruce up prior to hosting guests. “It sets the tone for their entire visit, yet it’s one of the most commonly overlooked areas during holiday cleaning,” says Vanessa Terra Bossart, the founder of Green Terra Cleaning. “A clutter-free, polished entryway creates a sense of order and warmth as soon as guests arrive,” she says, and recommends giving the area a good vacuum, removing piles of mail and making space for visitors’ shoes and coats. 10The Living RoomMorsa Images//Getty ImagesWhether you’ll be hosting family throughout the month or just crave a space in which you can unwind after busy December days, don’t forget to give your living room a refresh. “Start by fluffing pillows, straightening throws and vacuuming sofas to remove crumbs or pet hair,” Bossart says, adding that you’ll want to give your space a good dusting as well. “Consider dim lighting and a subtle holiday scent to enhance the ambiance.” RELATED: 70 Beautiful Living Room Decorating Ideas That Are Worth RecreatingSarah 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.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Whether in the form of a morning walk, cup of coffee or piece of chocolate, we all search for simple moments of joy that keep us going throughout the day. This year, Pantone is honing in on those everyday pleasures we love to soak in. And there’s one color in particular that embodies that comfort: Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse.The global color authority’s 2025 Color of the Year is a bit more mellow compared to last year’s pink-orange choice, Peach Fuzz. Mocha Mousse, marking Pantone’s 26th pick, exudes a sense of warmth and familiarity while simultaneously feeling sophisticated and lush, especially when it comes to interior design. Pantone”It’s something you absolutely want to dip your spoon into and taste,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director, Pantone Color Institute. “What we describe this as is a mellow brown infused with a sensorial and comforting warmth. I mean, who doesn’t want to feel that way within the home?”Thanks to Pantone’s partnerships with brands like Joybird, Spoonflower and more, Mocha Mousse can be easily integrated into any space for a classy yet unpretentious feel that welcomes all who enter to indulge in what Laurie Pressman, vice president, Pantone Color Institute, calls a “mocha moment.”Pantone”What a mocha moment could be for you could be very different than it is for me, but we really like this whole idea,” says Pressman. “It’s just about reminding you to take that time, because it goes back to this quest for harmony and balance in our lives.” Color experts at Pantone offer a variety of potential palettes where Mocha Mousse fits in seamlessly, ranging from more vibrant collections with bright purples and blues to more subtle ones with creams and tans. Regardless of your own interior design style, Mocha Mousse brings a touch of balance, stability and elegance to home design. Who could ask for more?Shop Pantone x Spoonflower in Mocha MousseRelated 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

Even if you have the very best washing machine and dryer on the market, there’s just something about a big pile of laundry that’ll send you running in the opposite direction. But the task is unavoidable, so you may as well equip yourself with tried-and-true strategies that can help make things a little easier — and possibly even prolong the lifespan of your favorite clothes. Take the “shake method,” for example. Here’s how it works: Shake each item of clothing before moving it to the dryer drum. It takes just an extra minute or so, but helps ensure no two items are clumped together or intertwined. Think about the way sheets inevitably twist and tangle in the washer—clothing is prone to this kind of tangling, too. If you’re in the market…Shaking your items is key for a few reasons, but primarily because it increases drying efficiency and decreases wrinkles. “If you shake everything out, it’s going to be less wrinkled and tumble better and more freely in the dryer,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. “When you have a dryer load that’s not all bunched up, the faster and more thoroughly it will dry,” says Forté. “Plus, think of all the ironing time it could save.” You’ve instantly reclaimed any time it took you to shake each item out.Catherine Falls Commercial//Getty ImagesShaking out your clothes prior to tossing them in the dryer also gives you an opportunity to put items back into shape, so sleeves and necklines don’t get stretched out and pants legs aren’t twisted or knotted before they go into the dryer — key for prolonging the lifespan of your favorite items. Shaking out towels also helps fluff the pile, so your favorites will be more fluffy and absorbent, says Forté. “And if you use dryer sheets, the more evenly softening and static-control ingredients will be distributed in the load.” Sounds like a win-win all around.INSIDE THE LAUNDRY ROOMBrigitt 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

Simply put, if you don’t wear it, remove it from your closet. Find a new home for clothing that is “itchy, uncomfortable or evokes a negative memory,” says professional organizer Bohne Leah, founder of the Be Organized Method. For clothes that fall into a middle category, reflect on which pieces you no longer feel happy wearing versus which pieces may be worth keeping if they come back in style. “I believe it’s important to maintain a wardrobe filled with pieces that you love,” says Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Associate Director Emma Seymour. If you have items that you want to keep but they don’t fit well, consider getting them tailored, suggests Seymour. For less than the price of buying something new, you can renew something you already have and love. RELATED: Best Closet Organization Ideas to Improve Your Morning Routine More

Regardless of your interior design style, there’s no denying that there’s one director who nails home design in her films every time. From coastal chic to cozy cottage, Nancy Meyers — director of films like The Holiday, Something’s Gotta Give, The Intern and many, many more — simply knows how to design a home we all love looking at (and sometimes even pretending we live there) for hours at a time. While Meyers seems to have covered every design style under the sun throughout her filmmaking career, there are still aspects all of her interiors seem to share. They make us feel comfortable, welcome and even at home, transporting viewers into the lives of her characters through superb design. But even though many people seem to feel this way (“Nancy Meyers decor” has almost 12 million posts on TikTok), it’s difficult to put into words exactly what makes these interiors so loved. That’s why we asked a few interior designers to uncover the key design choices in some of Meyers’ most well-known films. Read on for their tips on how you can pull off the Nancy Meyers aesthetic in your own home. Embrace a “lived-in” home. Warner Bros., Warner Bros. PicturesThe InternFirst and foremost, forget the idea that your home should look spotless all the time. Although we all know that’s unrealistic, it can still be hard to push that thought aside, especially when you’re hosting. However, when in doubt, look to Nancy Meyers. “A Nancy Meyers home looks like someone actually LIVES there,” says Jeanne Barber of Camden Grace Interiors. “You can envision people putting their feet up on the ottoman, guests drinking wine at the kitchen island, kids jumping on sofas. Her spaces are layered and collected, reflecting a life well-lived.”Just take the kitchen from The Intern, for example. The island is full of food, the shelves are stocked with glassware and Anne Hathaway’s character, Jules, is pouring coffee. The home reflects the character’s fast-paced life and ambitious personality, and she doesn’t need to hide that with an overly tidy space. Just keep reading. Sony Pictures ReleasingSomething’s Gotta GiveWhen asked what comes to mind when they hear “Nancy Meyers interior,” each designer mentioned books in one way or another. Nancy Meyers’ interiors are chock full of them, and for good reason. Books add character, texture and color to a home. Plus, there’s nothing cozier than snuggling up with a good read. Instead of hiding them away when you’re done reading, try leaving books out as decor like Diane Keaton’s character, Erica Barry, does in Something’s Gotta Give. Your book collection can say a lot about you, so don’t be afraid to display them for added charm.Related StoryEmbrace your personality. Sony Pictures ReleasingThe Holiday While all of Nancy Meyers’ interiors are gorgeous in their own right, they all take on different styles that match the character they belong to. “The interiors feel so well aligned with Nancy Meyers’ characters. Of course, Kate Winslet’s bookish character lives in the most charming cottage while Cameron Diaz’s character fits in perfectly among her modern interiors and fancy motor-operated window treatments,” says Meghan Jay of Meghan Jay Design.In other words, Meyers uses interior design as a character development tool. You (as a real person and not a character) can use it to express yourself. Find the pieces of furniture and decor that feel true to who you are. The result will be a unique, authentic home that communicates your personality to all who enter. Experiment with texture. Universal PicturesIt’s Complicated Meyers’ films embrace layered textures in every room, whether that’s through slipcovered sofas paired with soft throws in the living room or sleek black chairs with fabric cushions in the dining room. The mix of materials in each interior helps create that not-so-perfect look that feels welcoming. These spaces no longer feel like sets; they feel like home.”There is always an element of softness to her spaces,” says Gates. “A cafe curtain, pleated drapes, throws and worn woods. Even in the more modern sets, you feel cozy.”Collect, but don’t clutter. Buena Vista Pictures DistributionFather of the Bride While collections add charm and personality to a home, clutter can quickly take that all away. Meyers is a master of collections, whether it’s a couple of old-school antiques, an assortment of books or a few framed pieces of artwork like the ones seen here in Father of the Bride.”Pay attention to the details, but don’t let clutter overtake your space,” says Gates. “Collections are great, clutter is bad. Let your home show personality but also restraint.” Keep it warm.Universal PicturesIt’s Complicated Whether you’re a fan of neutrals or tend to go for bolder picks, the homes in Meyers’ films often incorporate warm tones that invite us in.”Her interiors are very neutral but warm and layered — stick to creamy, warm neutral paint colors, natural wood and stone, soft, tailored (often slipcovered style) furniture, lots of different lighting types and lots of books, throws, plants, pillows and, of course, antiques,” says Erin Gates of Erin Gates Design.The warmth of Meyers’ interiors are part of the reason you might feel like you’re there just by looking at them. If you can practically smell Jane’s mouthwatering cooking in It’s Complicated from here, you’re not alone.Focus on feeling.Sony Pictures ReleasingDiane Keaton in Something’s Gotta GiveSticking to a certain interior design style or aesthetic can be important when decorating your home, but that doesn’t mean it should be the only factor. While Meyers tends to showcase a certain style for each of her character’s interiors, they aren’t perfect. And that’s the point.”Maybe you don’t remember a specific furniture piece or the wall color, but you remember the way the interiors made you feel,” says Jay. “As designers, we’re so focused on aesthetics and how elements look together, but it’s also helpful to consider how our designs make people, particularly our clients, feel.”Just like you can feel the salt on your skin by simply looking at Erica’s desk with a beach view in Something’s Gotta Give, you, too, can invent a feeling in your home that’s unique to you and your character. 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

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