Home Ideas

Installing wooden fences, decks or siding can cost a small fortune (especially with lumber prices still sky-high) — which is why homeowners need these exterior features to last a long time. Enter wood stains, such as Benjamin Moore Woodluxe® line, which coat and protect outdoor wooden structures from the elements while enhancing the natural grain. In addition to preserving the integrity of the material and shielding boards from sun damage and frost, stains keep porches, fences and backyard chairs alike looking beautiful. But that protection doesn’t last forever, so applying a coat of stain should be a regular home-maintenance task, just like HVAC servicing or inspecting your roof. And selecting the right product for your job starts with understanding the different types on the market. So to help break down popular formulations and transparencies, we spoke to some experts.Benjamin MooreThe Components of StainStains consist of pigments or dyes suspended in a solvent. “The solvent gets the stain onto the wood, and then it evaporates,” says Caleb Roth, a Nashville-based stain expert and podcast host. Different types of stains utilize different solvents, such as water (more environmentally friendly) and chemicals like benzene and denatured alcohol.Then there’s the pigments, often made of iron oxide: Think of them as suntan lotion, says Roth. “If you have a little bit of pigment, it’s like SPF 10. If you have a lot of pigment, like in a semi-transparent or semi-solid stain, it’s going to be SPF 200. Generally, the more pigment a stain has, the longer life it’s going to have,” he says. Stain formulations also include a binder (such as resin), which helps the pigment adhere to the wood, and additives that serve other purposes including protecting wood from water damage.Benjamin Moore(SIDING) French Canvas OC-41, Element Guard, Low Lustre; (DOORS) Silhouette AF-655, Element Guard, Low Lustre; (TRIM) French Canvas OC-41, Element Guard, Soft Gloss; (PORCH CEILING) Hazy Skies OC-48, Element Guard, Flat; (COLUMN) French Canvas OC-41, Element Guard, Soft Gloss; (DECK) Leather Saddle Brown 2100-20, Woodluxe, WB Semi-Transparent Pick Your BaseWood stains come in three different formula types: Water-based, oil-based and hybrid. Typically, water-based stains are film-forming, “meaning that rather than going into the wood, they sit on top of the wood,” explains Roth. “They’re similar to paint in that they create a layer over the wood surface.” This is also one of their downsides: Since wood expands and contracts over time, film-forming stains are more prone to cracks that allow water to get inside, where it can create mold or start to rot the wood. On the plus side, water-based stains are a more environmentally friendly option. And they offer more color options, says Brian Shaunfield, a Charlotte, NC based hardware store manager. “They also dry within a few hours and clean up easily with soap and water.”Oil-based stains, on the other hand, penetrate deep into the wood and protect it from the inside out. “It’s sort of replacing the natural oils that are in the tree,” Roth says. “When you cut the tree down, there’s lots of natural oils there that dry out. And so if we can put oil back into the wood, the wood lasts longer and looks better.” Oil-based stains also tend to be more durable and let the wood breathe—meaning if water does enter a board, it can wick itself through, preventing water damage and warping. However, they are messier and trickier to apply, and take longer to dry. They require using chemicals for clean-up and are higher in volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, making them less environmentally friendly. If you’re going with an oil-based stain, Roth stresses the importance of looking for one with “low-VOC” on the label. Benjamin MooreFind Your Finish“Choose a level of transparency based on the look and protection you want,” says Shaunfield. Clear stains have, as you’d expect, zero color and let the wood’s beautiful natural grain take center stage, but they usually need to be applied annually — especially in four-season climates or harsh winters. While it does add protection against water and UV light, this option allows your wood to turn gray naturally for that coveted weathered look. Roth says clear stains are especially great if you are working with red cedar: “You can achieve that silvery look that everybody loves.” One tiny notch further on the color scale are transparent wood stains, which, according to Shaunfield, “have a slight tint and provide more protection than clear stains.” Semi-transparent stains are a bit more pigmented and work well for new or old wood. These types should be reapplied every two or three years. And semi-solid stains have even more pigmentation. “They work really well if you still want to see some wood grain, but maybe you’ve got really old wood or some mismatched boards,” says Roth. Finally, solid stains have rich color, hide most of the wood’s natural color and grain — so don’t use them on something made from beautiful or exotic hardwoods — and are a good option for seriously weathered boards. “They cover in a similar fashion to paint, and are best for fencing and outdoor furniture,” says Shaunfield. One more thing to keep in mind is that exterior stain colors are either pre-tinted or tintable. Pre-tinted ones are ready to use in traditional shades of brown, while the tintable options are available in natural colors as well as fun options like green and blue. Benjamin Moore’s Woodluxe stains conveniently come in oil- and water-bases, four opacities and thousands of rich colors — so that no matter your project, you can find a stain that matches your needs. More

If you’ve beautifully decorated every corner of your home, but left your refrigerator — well, the inside of your refrigerator we should say — out of the equation, you’re missing out. At least that’s what many people who have discovered “fridgescaping” seem to think. With fridgescaping, instead of just putting their weekly food haul away, social media users are taking the time to curate it into an impressive display. Sure, it’s aesthetically more appealing, but some argue that organizing their refrigerator this way makes it easier for them to grab what they need — not to mention, the process itself sparks joy. What is fridgescaping?Although the term has grown popular recently (the hashtag has garnered thousands of views across TikTok and Instagram) it’s not a new concept. Blogger Kathy Perdue of Good Life of Design coined the term in 2010 as a play on tablescaping. “Why not put your everyday food items in pretty containers and have something pretty to look at when you open the door?” she wrote on her blog at the time. Now, however, “pretty containers” are just one step in the process. Today’s fridgescapers focus on arranging produce in a mix of stylish wicker baskets, patterned dishes and glass storage. Household essentials, like milk, eggs and butter, get transferred into decorative pitchers, storage trays and antique butter dishes. And beyond creative food storage, fridgescaping might involve fresh flower arrangements and unexpected home decor accessories, like small picture frames, vintage sculptures and ornate trays. Related Story”I’ve been able to turn a task that’s usually very mundane into something that I genuinely enjoy. Thanks to the maximalist that I am, it’s slowly turned into something bigger and bigger,” says Lynzi Judish, known as @lynziliving online, who has turned fridgescaping into an entire series, even experimenting with different themes (think an “enchanted forest” them or a look inspired by the film Practical Magic.) Lynzi LivingJudish has been experimenting with fridge themes, including one inspired by the hit Netflix show Bridgerton, which she’s dubbed “Fridgerton.” Is fridgescaping worth a try?If you’re looking for an easy way to romanticize your daily life and keep your kitchen organized, give the trend a try! It might take up a little bit of extra time, but fridgescaping can help you keep track of the contents inside your fridge. “Historically, I’ve definitely let food go to waste in my refrigerator, because I have forgotten about it altogether,” Judish says. “With this process, I see every single thing in my refrigerator, and it’s made me more excited about meal planning. I never realized how often I’m in and out of the refrigerator until I started fridgescaping.” Things to keep in mindNot all decorative containers are food safe. Antique storage items, like glass pitchers and metal bowls, may contain traces of lead. You can try investing in lead test kits.Some produce stays fresh longer in store-bought containers. “I love the idea of transferring ingredients to another container because it can help you understand how much you have of something and remind you to consume it, but food often comes packaged in containers that help extend their shelf-life,” says Nicole Papantoniou, the director of Good Housekeeping Institute’s Kitchen Appliances & Culinary Innovation Lab. “The key is to keep things within eyesight so you’re constantly reminded about what you should eat before it goes bad.”It takes a conscious effort to maintain the aesthetic — from the whole household. Juddish says, “I worry about women trying this with kids or a husband that isn’t on board and feeling frustrated that the refrigerator doesn’t stay as beautiful as expected.” Get inspired with some fridgescaping decor below:Related Stories 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. More

Whether on a four-inch beam at the Olympic Games or at home with her husband and kids, Shawn Johnson East has perfected the art of balance – and her design choices are no exception. Like all parents, the Olympic gold medalist has come to terms with the fact that a family-friendly abode cannot always be saved from unexpected messes. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t still be sophisticated. Collaborating with Wayfair in the retailer’s latest installment of their “House to Home” series, Johnson East opens the door to her Nashville home and shares how she finds both function and style in her furniture and decor. With a mix of neutral colors, textured upholstery and patterned rugs, she has transformed her home into a stylish yet functional haven that reflects her family’s lifestyle. The former Olympic champion is bringing those family-friendly finds to you through her new Wayfair home collection, which is available to shop now.SHOP THE COLLECTION“Everything beforehand didn’t feel like a reflection of our family, character or personality, and now it feels warm, welcoming and homey,” says Johnson East in Wayfair’s “House to Home” series. Shop the Shawn Johnson East x Wayfair CollaborationLike many families, the heart of Johnson East’s home is the kitchen. In order to make it more functional, she brought in a large table with ample chairs for hosting. When it came to designing the dining room, Johnson East wanted a more casual setup. By taking away her traditional dining table, she converted the room into a cozy, quiet space with comfortable seating where her family could relax. Browse through the Olympian’s contemporary Nashville home below.Although we all know her for her gymnastics career, Johnson East now takes pride in being a wife and mom of three. Like many families with young children, building a home that works for everyone can be a difficult task.See Shawn Johnson East’s Nashville Home TransformationOpen Gallery “We have toddlers who are constantly coloring on everything, so I wanted it to feel like a space you could truly live in and use, and you didn’t have to tippy-toe around,” says Johnson East.If you’re looking for a practical yet modern home refresh that works for everyone, the Shawn Johnson East x Wayfair collection consists of family-friendly favorites for every room in the house. Plus, there are tons of items on sale. Go ahead and shop while there’s still time!Related Stories Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates. More

When it comes to our favorite clothes, many of us are extra careful loading the washing machine. Checking tags, separating colors and choosing the right temperature are all great laundry practices to follow. But if you’re just using your machine to wash clothes and linen, you’re making a big mistake. Experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab have uncovered a few surprising items that can actually be safely washed in your machine — along with the best cycle, temperature and settings to use for each. Whether your reusable grocery bags have begun to look a bit ragged or your favorite white sneakers are showing signs of wear, we’re here to help. Read on for detailed instructions on how to safely wash items that you may have previously considered non-washer safe, ensuring they come out of the machine clean and intact. Just remember to always follow any care label instructions that come with the item. 1. Shower Curtain LinersLaura MillarLike most things in your home, shower curtain liners need a good cleaning every once in a while. Whether you’ve tried soaking and scrubbing your liner, spraying it with a homemade cleaning spray or even replacing it all together, we’re here to tell you that there’s an easier way. “Select a warm, delicate cycle or for very dirty liners a hot, short cycle adding in some bleach (for clear or white liners) and some old towels for scrubbing action,” says Forté. “At the end of the cycle, place the liner in the dryer on low heat for only a few minutes to remove excess moisture so you can carry it back to the bathroom without dripping. Do not leave the dryer unattended with the liner inside. Re-hang the liner to smooth it out and finish drying.”Related Stories2. Reusable Grocery BagsThere are lots of different types of reusable grocery bags, so before washing, just be sure to take note of the fabric. “For bags made totally of washable fabric, turn them inside out and wash them in warm water on a gentle or normal cycle depending on the construction. If safe, tumble dry them on low or hang them to air dry,” says Forté.3. Canvas ShoesLaura MillarAlmost everyone has had a light-colored pair of canvas shoes they wish they were a bit more careful with. But when it comes to cleaning, canvas shoes can actually be thrown in the washer as long as they’re in a mesh bag.”Slip out any removable insoles and hand wash them separately. Put shoes into a mesh bag and wash them in warm water on a gentle cycle,” says Forté. “Air dry or, if safe, tumble dry low. Some dryers have a rack for drying items, like shoes, without tumbling.”Related Story4. Oven Mitts and PotholdersLaura MillarOven mitts and potholders are especially susceptible to food stains, and while that’s expected given their role in the kitchen, that doesn’t mean they have to stay dirty permanently. If you notice your oven mitts have been doing a little extra work lately, take them for a spin in the washer.Forté recommends washing them in warm water on a normal or gentle cycle. Then, tumble dry them on low. However, if your oven mitts are torn or have any holes where the padding is exposed, it’s best to hand wash them.5. PillowsWhile we all wash our pillowcases, sometimes our pillows need a little extra love, too. Luckily, most pillows can be pretty easily washed if they’re made with down, down alternative or shredded foam filling. Just make sure to remember to fluff and turn them as you dry. “Wash on a gentle or bulky bedding cycle with an extra rinse added in” says Forté. “Tumble dry low with dryer balls, fluffing and turning them often.”However, stear clear of washing any pillows made with solid foam.Related Story6. Plush Toys Laura MillarWhile many don’t think to wash their kids’ toys out of fear of damaging them, it’s actually totally safe as long as you follow the correct steps. “​​Place toys in a pillowcase or mesh bag and wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle,” recommends Forté. “Fluff or reshape them and air dry or, if safe, tumble dry low.” If your child’s toys are are torn, have decorative trims, are not colorfast or are especially old or valuable, avoid machine washing them.7. Bathtub MatsAlthough you may be washing your bath mat, you may not be washing the one that goes inside your tub.Using a gentle cycle in warm to hot water is the key to washing your bathtub mat. Once it’s done in the wash, air dry your mat. 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.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

1. Look for a neutral silhouette.Transitional style often gets a bad rap for being unexciting, but the flip side — and the reason it always remains so popular — is that it’s supremely versatile. A sofa like the StyleWell Winnick in Oyster Beige, with its clean lines and simple arm and cushion shapes, will work in any room and play nicely with just about any other furniture you place around it. So if you decide to redo your mid-century modern living room to reflect your new love of, say, farmhouse style — this baby will roll with it.2. Opt for subtle design details.If you’re absolutely sure that you’ll never grow tired of a certain look — like a classic rolled arm — you can indulge your desire for iconic details and still have a piece that will age gracefully by staying away from exaggerated versions. The gently rolled arms on the StyleWell Briarwood Classic Rolled-Arm in Sand Beige make the stylistic point without shouting “English country house”— which in turn means it can work in any house.3. Consider leather (real or faux).It’s a classic for a reason. Leather looks right on an ultra-modern stainless steel-framed sofa, and on a traditional button-tufted Chesterfield. You’ll also have a piece that easily coordinates with any color scheme. The mid-century-leaning StyleWell Goodwin Square Arm in caramel faux leather is flexible enough to suit minimalist living rooms and traditional, men’s-club-style dens alike.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below4. Take dimensions into account.It goes without saying that you should never buy a sofa you don’t find comfortable — but remember that length, height and depth have design implications as well. In particular, pay attention to the floor-to-seat measurement, which in sofas can be as short as 15 inches and sometimes as tall as 28 or 29. The former makes for a low-slung look that really works best in super-casual or very contemporary rooms. The latter might be a little more versatile visually, but it can be hard to find coordinating chairs and tables that look appropriate with that height. All the options shown here from The Home Depot — including this subtly modern StyleWell Doherty Flared-Arm — measure between 18 and 20 inches from floor to seat, a nice middle ground.5. A word about durability.No, this isn’t a design tip, but if you’re going to the trouble to choose a sofa that will feel stylish for years, then you also want it to last for years. This upholstered version of the StyleWell Goodwin is covered in a microfiber fabric that looks and feels luxurious but can stand up to some pretty serious wear and tear. Opting for synthetic blends or other high-performance fabrics over mohair, silk and the like can extend your sofa’s lifespan significantly.Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

1Lancaster Whitewash by Benjamin MooreCourtesy of Benjamin MooreAdd a soft glow to any space with this yellow-tinged neutral. “It’s a bit of a historic cream, but it bounces light extremely well,” says Sondra Zabroske, architect at Four Brothers Design + Build. “Lancaster Whitewash is light and happy but somehow cozy and moody at the same time.”FIND THE SHADE2Tallow by Farrow & BallCourtesy of Farrow & BallLift a dark space with Farrow & Ball’s Tallow, a pale cream with slight hints of yellow and pink. “Tallow is my favorite cream tone, as it’s not too deep or too yellow,” says designer Julia Chasman. “It’s complementary white is Wimborne White, which is my nomination for the best all-purpose warm white.”FIND THE SHADE3White Flour by Sherwin-WilliamsCourtesy of Sherwin-WilliamsIf you’re hunting for a shade that’s more white, but still feels creamy and warm, try Sherwin-Williams’ White Flour. “It’s such a pretty, slightly creamy white — perfect if you want a white that’s in between a bright white and a true cream,” says designer Emily Henderson.FIND THE SHADEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below4Pearls and Lace by GliddenCourtesy GliddenWhether on walls or trim, this soft cream adds a touch of refinement to modern or traditional interiors. “The gentle warmth of the beige undertones adds depth and richness, making it an ideal choice for creating a serene and inviting atmosphere,” says Ashley McCollum, Glidden color expert. FIND THE SHADE5Vanillin by HGTV HomeCourtesy of HGTV Home by Sherwin-WilliamsVanillin, a white hue with warm undertones, makes it easy to cultivate a cozy interior. “It provides the perfect amount of pigment while still remaining a subtle backdrop for any aesthetic,” says Ashley Banbury, color marketing manager at HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. “Vanillin pairs well with both warm and cool colors.”FIND THE SHADE6Mushroom by Sherwin-WilliamsCourtesy of Sherwin-WilliamsOpt for a rich hue like Mushroom, a warm beige with gray undertones. “It’s a beautiful color to carry throughout the home while adding bold pops of color or pairing with darker beiges and browns for an earthy vibe,” says Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. “This hue is especially well-suited for a bedroom thanks to its light neutral quality that provides an airy yet cozy getaway.”FIND THE SHADEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below7Pointing by Farrow & BallCourtesy of Farrow & BallNamed after the color of lime pointing used in traditional brickwork, this fresh cream brightens and softens interiors. “I use Pointing in almost every project,” says Alex Yeske of Alex Yeske Interiors. “It’s a perfect ivory tone that doesn’t go too yellow and looks good in nearly every space.”FIND THE SHADE8Painted Sands by Benjamin Moore Courtesy of Benjamin MooreFor a more intense cream, try Benjamin Moore’s Painted Sands. “This paint color features a soft orange undertone, providing a warm and comforting feel without overpowering,” says Theresa Butler, principal and founder of Theresa Butler Interiors. It pairs beautifully with white or black accents. FIND THE SHADE9Shoelace by BehrCourtesy of BehrThis creamy, off-white is a versatile choice for living spaces. “With a dusty yellow and brown undertone, Shoelace pairs well with dark wood furniture, metallic decor, knitted textures and earth tones from plants and greenery,” says Erika Woelfel, Behr’s VP of color and creative services.FIND THE SHADEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below10Cashmere by Dunn-EdwardsCourtesy of Dunn-EdwardsWith subtle undertones of peach and pink, this light creamy neutral feels versatile and timeless. “The hues of Cashmere strike a perfect balance between warmth and neutrality,” says Lauren Hoferkamp, head of color and design at Dunn-Edwards. “Its gentle, soothing qualities make it particularly well-suited for spaces where relaxation and comfort are paramount, such as living rooms, bedrooms and dining areas.”FIND THE SHADE11White Dove by Benjamin MooreCourtesy of Benjamin MooreWith just the right amount of warmth, White Dove is a clean and classic white. “We tend to use creams that have a gray or beige undertone, rather than a strong yellow undertone,” says Julia Lauve of Workshop Studio. “White Dove pairs nicely with a charcoal black, as well a rich navy, sage or cedar green.”FIND THE SHADE12Slipper Satin by Farrow & BallCourtesy of Farrow & BallTaking its name from the delicate color of silk used in traditional ballet slippers, this chalky off-white is a timeless neutral. “Slipper Satin has long been a favorite of ours — it keeps the right balance between white, off-white and gray,” says designer Lucinda Sanford. FIND THE SHADEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below13Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore Courtesy of Benjamin MooreIf you’re searching for a brighter shade with creamy and yellow undertones, try Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee. “Swiss Coffee is my go-to neutral white,” says Giana Castelli Garrigan, founder of Garrigan Design Group. “It works with both warm or cool color palettes and serves as a perfect base for layering colors and textures.”FIND THE SHADE14Shadow White by Farrow & BallCourtesy of Farrow & Ball Soft white with a hint of gray, Shadow White takes its name from the soft tone created when whites are used in shaded areas. This timeless color “suits those who feel more comfortable drifting seamlessly around their home — those quieter in personality who prefer not to be challenged,” says Joa Studholme, colour curator for Farrow & Ball. FIND THE SHADE15Creamy by Sherwin-WilliamsCourtesy of Sherwin-WilliamsWith soft yellow undertones, this bright white is a great choice for older homes. “It’s what I’d refer to as a chameleon color,” says Emily Winters Posselt for Peabody’s Interiors. “It changes in intensity and warmth, as it relates to the colors it’s placed with, making it look spectacular with both warm and cool tones, dark and light tones.”FIND THE SHADEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below16Cream Silk by Benjamin Moore Courtesy of Benjamin MooreWith hints of lemon and lime, this breezy pale shade brightens any interior. “It adds a touch of personality without being overwhelming, making it an ideal choice for spaces that need a subtle yet uplifting boost,” says Hannah Yeo, senior manager of Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore. Keep in mind, lemon-lime undertones pair beautifully with blue and lavender hues.FIND THE SHADE 17Natural Choice by Sherwin-WilliamsCourtesy of Sherwin-WilliamsTry this creamy, yet cool shade on interior walls or as a welcoming exterior color. “Natural Choice is a neutral white with a welcoming warmth that is creamy and not at all too stark,” says Brad Ramsey, principal and founder of Brad Ramsey Interiors. “It’s a great way to add just a dash of color and warmth into a space.”FIND THE SHADE18Techno Gray by HGTV Home by Sherwin-WilliamsCourtesy of HGTV Home by Sherwin-WilliamsCan’t decide on gray or cream for your walls? Find a neutral shade, like Techno Gray, that blends warm and cool tones. This paint color feels inviting, yet moody — depending on your home style. FIND THE SHADEAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below19Seapearl by Benjamin MooreCourtesy of Benjamin MooreWith cool gray undertones, this fresh white feels cozy and timeless. “I love Seapearl by Benjamin Moore,” says interior designer Caroline Kopp. “Cream walls are soft and relaxing and look amazing in an all-neutral color scheme.”FIND THE SHADE20Heavy Cream by BehrCourtesy of BehrInspired by homemade vanilla ice cream, this luscious white is bright and inviting. The neutral off-white has umber undertones, giving it a deeper shade.FIND THE SHADEAlyssa 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.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

If you’re trying to decide between purchasing a fabric or woven hamper or a plastic basket, Forté recommended considering the size and shape of both. “Hampers hold more, are deeper and are a place to toss in dirty laundry until you can wash it,” she said. You can also consider the design of each, especially if you prefer separating colors or certain items: “Some [hampers] are divided to help with sorting, meanwhile with a laundry basket, everything is mixed together usually,” Forté explained. She also pointed out that hampers typically have lids while baskets don’t — making hampers better if you’re storing laundry in your bedroom, rather than a laundry room or closet. However, a laundry basket can be a better choice if you want to purchase a one-and-done item. A baskets is a strong, functional container for carrying laundry around the house, whether it’s dirty or clean and folded. It’s a more practical option that gets the job done, even if it’s not the most appealing design-wise. They each have their pros and cons, with different strengths for different situations.” Baskets should be easy to carry and store and hampers should be attractive if left out in a room,” Forté said. More

Aloe has won over many home gardeners with its hardiness and tolerance of infrequent watering. Stoffo recommends “well-draining soil so that when they are watered, the soil doesn’t retain too much water and rot the roots.” Your best bet is to mix equal parts sand and potting soil or buy a special succulent mix. The terracotta also dries faster than other plastic or glazed containers.Place your aloe in a bright, sunny place. Otherwise, it will go dormant and stop growing. Water the plant heavily about once every two weeks, waiting until the soil dries out fully. Since this is a desert species, keeping the dirt moist will cause the roots to rot. Limp or brown leaves also signal you’ve overdone the water.If you like, you can move the potted plant outdoors for the summer, but don’t put it in direct sunlight right away. Gradually place it in a brighter spot every few days to prevent overexposure.If you live in a warm climate year-round (Zone 10 or higher on the USDA Plant Hardiness Map), you can nurture your aloe outside. Freezing temperatures will kill the leaves, but you really have to worry about frozen soil, as that will kill the roots and no new sprouts will grow.When picking a spot, look for a well-drained bed. You won’t need to water your aloe with the exception of droughts. If it hasn’t rained in months, give it a good soaking and then let the soil dry out again. More