Home Ideas

When my wife and I embarked on the renovation of our 1882 Brooklyn brownstone, we knew the back terrace was a key piece of the puzzle, since outdoor living space was such a top priority for us. Unfortunately, the initial phase of the project — gutting and restoring the building’s top two floors — went over budget. So we had to hit pause on the terrace. About a year later, the pandemic struck and outdoor living space became even more critical, with our two kids stuck at home with us. Like many Americans, we weren’t spending on vacations or meals out, so we were able to save up for a full deck renovation. To help with the design and building, I called on my old friend, Mark Powers, who I met 20 years ago at This Old House magazine, where we both cut our teeth in publishing, writing about and researching home improvement. Besides being one of the most knowledgeable people in the business, Mark is a superb craftsman, not to mention lots of fun. I knew it was going to be a special project.

My Brooklyn deck prior to renovation.

I also knew it was going to be a learning experience, like any home improvement project is— even after two decades in the business. Here are my biggest takeaways from this one.
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The best outdoor living spaces connect with the indoors.Our home’s showpiece is the folding door system from NanaWall that separates the kitchen and terrace. When the doors are opened wide, the two spaces become one. Because of that, it was important to integrate them visually with the decking material. That helped drive the decision to install deck tiles from a company called DeckWise on the terrace, instead of the traditional deck boards. The rich hue of the ipe wood echoes the dark finish on our interior hardwood floors. Then we went one step further and arranged the tiles on the diagonal to echo the parquet pattern inside. That made the installation more labor-intensive — and hence more expensive — but it was worth it for the visual integration.GH Lab Tip: Keep in mind that wood decks need to be refinished to prevent fading and cracking. Our tests have found that composite decking is a low-maintenance option that looks more and more like real wood, especially high-end versions.

When the NanaWall is open wide, the terrace and kitchen become one space.
Yuzhu Zheng Photography

Shade is critical to safe, comfortable outdoor living.Given its southern exposure, the terrace is blazing hot in the summer. Without a source of shade, it would be off limits for much of the day during those months. There are so many excellent shade options out there, from statement pergolas to chic gazebos to patio umbrellas. We settled on a retractable awning for its compact design and easy operation. It’s also another design element, since the Para Tempotest fabric we chose has a striped pattern in platinum gray that coordinates nicely with the paint colors in the kitchen.We also installed an automated shade from Lutron on the interior side of the NanaWall. It’s made of a semi-opaque fabric that allows light to filter through but cuts the intense heat and glare of the summer sun. At night, it prevents others from seeing into the home. GH Lab Tip: Automated awnings with smart controls can be programmed to open and close to manage heat and light throughout the year, making your home more energy efficient.

The NanaWall’s interior features an automated shade from Lutron that helps to reduce heat and offer a sense of privacy.
Yuzhu Zheng

Premium outdoor appliances are worth the splurge.The outdoor kitchen is modest in size, consisting of an impressive grill and mini fridge with a soapstone top for an additional food-prep space. Even still, the appliances ended costing thousands because we went with professional-grade units from DCS that I know won’t be kicked to the curb in a few years, the way flimsy outdoor appliances often are. The 36-inch grill, which we use year-round, is built like a tank, with heavy-duty stainless-steel assembly on both the housing and grates and solid construction throughout. It’s held up well to the elements, though we have a cover for it during blizzards and other extremely harsh weather. Its features include built-in LEDs, a charcoal smoker tray, and a 14,000 BTU rotisserie burner that’s great when cooking for a crowd. The fridge, also from DCS, is perfect for stashing cold drinks or a marinating steak before tossing it on the grill.GH Lab Tip: When sizing a new grill, think about the number of burners. A 3-burner grill is great for small families, adding a fourth allows for zone cooking, and five or more is for homeowners who do a lot of blowout barbecues. Living privacy screens add visual interest.Because our terrace abuts the neighbor’s, it always felt like we were on top of each other when both families were outside. Mark and I workshopped the idea of replacing the existing metal railing with built-in planters, clad in the same tiles used for the deck. This adds to the built-in look of the terrace. An arrangement of ornamental grasses, flowering phlox and fothergilla, winterberry and evergreen shrubs create a sense of privacy while delivering four seasons of color and texture.

Since it doesn’t require nails or adhesives, the floating deck system was so easy to install that even my 8-year-old son could lend a hand.
Dan DiClerico/Good Housekeeping Institute

Pests can ruin any party.The mosquitoes out back can be unbearable in the summer. Insect sprays and citronella candles had offered temporary relief. But then I came across a permanent solution while testing insect repellants for Good Housekeeping. The LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System keeps mosquitoes and other airborne pests away by creating a barrier of heat-activated repellant. The wired system was simple to install and, in my case, consists of three cylinders placed around the deck. Fifteen minutes before we’re ready to head out back, we turn on LIV and it does its magic. It’s even WiFi-connected, so I can turn it on remotely, say on the way home from the market with all the fixins for a cookout.GH Lab Tip: Remember that the best way to reduce mosquitoes is to eliminate potential breeding spots by emptying anything that holds water at least once a week. That includes birdbaths, fountains, rain barrels and potted plant trays.Outdoor furniture is hard to settle on.My wife and I have struggled over furniture picks in the past. Somehow, I figured choosing outdoor furniture pieces would be easier. In fact, the opposite was true, maybe because scale is hard to assess in open-air spaces, without walls and a ceiling providing context. We almost dropped a few hundred bucks on a 30-inch round table we spotted online, not realizing how impractical and disproportional it would be.
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Instead, we decided to work with RH Interior Design, which offers free design consultations for RH members. Our designer chatted with us about our intentions for the space, then asked for precise measurements of the deck, as well as all objects that would go on it, like the grill and fridge. Next, she drew up several furniture plans, most of which revolved around a 48-inch round table, which was the right size for the deck and our needs. We settled on a teak round dining table, which goes nicely with a set of existing antique chairs. The matching teak chaise completes the furniture plan.GH Lab Tip: Exterior-grade rugs can be a great addition to an outdoor furniture plan, tying the space together the same way they do inside. Fortunately, they cost a lot less, as you can see from this roundup of expert picks for under $100.

A handy storage bench is the perfect spot for keeping outdoor essentials organized.
Yuzhu Zheng

A little storage goes a long way.Even after doing the built-in planters, we still had a bunch of deck tiles left over. Mark came up with the clever idea of building a five-foot-long storage bench that sits under the window section of the NanaWall. It’s the perfect place to stow potting soil, charcoal, garden tools and other items that would otherwise clutter up the terrace. And it’s another perch for guests during large gatherings — or, more often, a cozy spot for one of us during family hangouts.A version of this article appeared in the September 2022 issue of Good Housekeeping.

Dan DiClerico, Good Housekeeping Institute
Director, Home Improvement & Outdoor
Dan DiClerico has written about home improvement for more than 20 years, including countless how-to articles and reviews of products ranging from appliances to smart home technology.

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Few features in the home combine form and function quite like flooring. You literally walk all over it, yet it’s also a crucial design element, every bit as visually impactful as paint colors and furniture. Then there’s the size of the investment, especially if you’re redoing the floors throughout your entire home. “It’s not far behind the cost of a new car or all new kitchen appliances, but most people aren’t armed with nearly as much information,” says Carol Swedlow, President of Aronson’s Floor Covering, which has been selling all manner of flooring out of its New York City showroom since 1867.The Good Housekeeping Institute has been around since 1900, and our experts have long appreciated the importance of flooring to a home’s look and functionality. We’ve rigorously tested timeless materials like wood and stone, along with newer alternatives like vinyl and engineered wood flooring, both of which came about in the 1970s. More recently, our experts have followed the rise in popularity of even more materials, including concrete and wood-look porcelain.Our ultimate flooring guide walks you through all the options, including pros, cons and basic pricing information for the best types of flooring for your home. Keep in mind that most houses feature multiple flooring materials, depending on the room and your needs. Our advice on that front hasn’t changed in over a hundred years: Spend more on the high-traffic, high-visibility areas of your home, and choose lower-cost, durable materials everywhere else. Hardwood FlooringSolid wood flooring confers warmth and authenticity.Getty ImagesThere are two main types of hardwood flooring: solid wood flooring, which as the name implies consists of a one solid piece of wood, and engineered wood flooring, in which a thin veneer of real wood is bonded to layers of structural plywood. Both types come in up to fifty species, with some of the most popular options being oak, ash, maple and walnut.Pros: The warmth and beauty of hardwood flooring explains its enduring appeal. Since the material can be sanded and refinished multiple times (especially solid wood versions) a well-maintained hardwood floor can last for decades, or even centuries.Cons: The biggest downside is cost. Though some species are less expensive than others, wood flooring tends to be the most expensive. It’s also subject to dents and scratches, plus solid flooring in particular will expand and contract with changes in humidity levels, leading to cracks, splinters and squeaky boards (engineered flooring does much better with moisture, making it suitable to kitchens and basements).Cost: Solid wood flooring, $5 to $10 per square foot, installed; Engineered wood flooring, $4 to $9 per square foot, installed. Laminate FlooringLaminate flooring adheres easily to subfloors.Leo Malsam / EyeEmLaminate is another engineered product, though instead of a veneer of wood on top, it uses a photo of wood (or stone or any other material) and adds a protective plastic coating. The substrate of laminate flooring typically consists of dense fiberboard. Pros: The plastic topcoat is extremely resistant to scratches and dents, making laminate one of the most durable flooring options. It’s also among the least expensive and it often comes as a DIY-friendly “floating” floor system, with planks that snap together, instead of having to be nailed or glued down.Cons: Not many people will mistake laminate flooring for real wood or stone. It tends to have a plastic feel and sound underfoot, and the repetition of patterns can give away its fakeness. Laminate can never be refinished, so it’s not a forever floor. And the use of formaldehyde and other chemicals in the manufacturing process makes it a less healthy and less sustainable choice.Cost: $3 to $7 per square foot, installed.Vinyl FlooringLuxury vinyl tiles are hard to tell apart from real wood.Artinun Prekmoung / 500pxAlso known as resilient flooring, vinyl is the fastest-growing category of flooring. It ranges from inexpensive, DIY-friendly peel-and-stick tiles to so-called luxury vinyl tile (or LVT, for short) which consists of multiple layers, including a design layer with a high-definition printed image, a durable top layer and several cushion layers. Pros: Entry-level sheet vinyl is very affordable. All vinyl resists stains, scratches and dents, plus its waterproof, making it safe for basements and bathrooms. Installation is easy, particularly for adhesive tiles and floating planks. LVT is a thick, sturdy tile that has the look and feel of real wood. In fact, our product experts often have trouble distinguishing LVT from solid wood in tests.Cons: Though patterns and color options have improved, even LVT is still a far cry from real wood or stone, so it will never pass muster with the purists. It can’t be refinished, meaning once it does begin to wear out, the only choice is a full replacement. LVT is also surprisingly expensive, often rivaling the cost of real wood.Cost: $2 to $6 per square foot, installed. CarpetCarpet softens any room, in the color of your choiceEonerenThough carpet has been losing market share to resilient flooring, it’s still the biggest flooring category in the U.S. Most carpet sold in this country is tufted, with small, usually nylon fibers poking up through a backing that’s typically made of polyurethane. Then there’s woven carpet, which is more common in Europe and is made by weaving lengths of yarn that is usually made of wool. Woven carpet is several times more expensive than tufted carpet. Pros: Carpet is the most comfortable and cost-effective flooring material and it’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns. It installs easily and carpet is easy to maintain, requiring just regular vacuuming. Stain-resistant versions are even easier to keep clean.Cons: The main knock against carpet is that it holds dirt and dust, which can be particularly unpleasant for allergy sufferers. Woven carpet is much better at resisting this, since its construction doesn’t create places for dirt to hide. Wool is also anti-static, so it doesn’t attract dust the way nylon tufted carpets will.Cost: $3 to $10 per square foot, installed.Stone Flooring Stone flooring can add value to your home.onurdongelLike wood, stone is another timeless flooring material that almost always adds value to the home. Three types of stone are used for flooring. Sedimentary stones like travertine and limestone are formed by layers of dissolved minerals and marine organism. Igneous stone like granite is the result of extreme heat and volcanic action. Metamorphic stone like marble and slate has changed from one state to another under extreme heat and pressure.Pros: Because no two stones are the same, stone flooring has tons of character and uniqueness. Stone is also a durable material that can withstand heavy foot traffic and fading under intense sunlight. It also keeps the dust and allergens at bay.Cons: You’ll pay a premium for most stone flooring and it requires professional installation. Stone floors aren’t soft underfoot and dropped dish ware is almost certain to break when dropped on it. Many types of stone floors require sealing to resist stains.Cost: $3 to $7 per square foot, installed.Concrete FlooringConcrete floors with a polished finish have a singular look.Andreas von EinsiedelThis basic building material has been seized by high-end builders and designers as a fashion-forward material for floors, as well as kitchen countertops. A poured-in-place concrete floor can be the expected shade of institutional gray or it can be colored with dyes. It can also take on different surface treatments, from acid stains to rubber-stamp stencils, creating a truly one-of-a-kind effect. Pros: Besides its uniqueness, concrete floors are durable and easy to maintain, assuming they’re properly sealed during installation. The material conducts heat well, so concrete floors are a good option if you’re planning on radiant heating, whereby hot water tubes are embedded in the floors during the installation process.Cons: Since it’s basically a custom product, concrete floors are pricey and require professional installation. The rock-hard material is also unforgiving, and it needs to be resealed every year or so to prevent stains.Cost: $3 to $8 per square foot, installedTile FlooringWater-proof tile is ideal for bathrooms.Oscar WongThere are two main types of tile flooring: ceramic and porcelain. Ceramic is typically made from a mixture of water and sand, making it softer yet more affordable. Porcelain is made from a finer, denser clay and fired at a higher temperature, so it’s naturally harder and less porous. Pros: Tile floors have a classic look and they’ll available in countless colors and design configurations, from mosaic to large-format tiles with minimal grout lines. All tile is water-proof and low-maintenance. Porcelain tile is extremely hard-wearing and resistant to scratches and dents.Cons: Difficult installation is the biggest drawback. The tiles are typically laid in mortar over a smooth, stable substrate; unless you’re a very experienced DIYer, the project is best left to a professional. Porcelain tile is also on the pricey side, ab0ut the same as solid wood flooring.Cost: $4 to $15 per square foot, installed.Cork FlooringSoft, forgiving cork flooring is great for kids.Olga Khorkova / EyeEmAnother niche flooring product, cork is a renewable material that’s made from harvesting the bark of cork trees. It has its fans (Swedlow calls it “the best stuff on earth”), but it’s a category with a particularly wide range in quality, so it’s best to source it from a specialized flooring dealer who can help steer you to a top-performing line. Pros: Cork’s light, airy quality makes it one of the most comfortable flooring materials. It’s also water-resistant and doesn’t become slippery when wet, making it suitable to kitchens and bathrooms. Cork is non-toxic and eco-friendly.Cons: The material is prone to fading under intense sunlight. Cheaper versions will damage easily, showing scratches from heavy foot traffic, furniture and pets.Cost: $5 to $14 per square foot, installed.Linoleum FlooringA linoleum flooring with a checkerboard pattern has retro appeal.SpiderstockThis all-natural flooring is made from linseed oil and wood products. Like vinyl, it is sold in tiles or sheets, though it’s not nearly as common as its resilient cousin. “It tends to be a more sophisticated customer who is putting linoleum in their kitchen, bathroom, or maybe a new home gym,” says Swedlow. Pros: The sustainable appeal is a huge selling point, along with linoleum’s uniqueness and retro charm. The latest versions come in many more styles and colors than years past. Linoleum also has a softness underfoot that makes it very comfortable, and it resists fading from sunlight.Cons: Linoleum is not as durable as vinyl. It’s prone to wearing under heavy foot traffic and it can scratch and dent easily. Applying a wax finish will help protect the surface, but that adds to the maintenance.Cost: $3 to $7 per square foot, installed.How we chose the best flooringOur experts are always paying attention to the marketplace to identify the flooring materials you’re most likely to find at home centers, independent showrooms and online. We also regularly attend trade shows and industry events, including Surfaces, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), and the International Builders Show, to keep up with all the latest trends and innovations. To measure stain resistance, we apply mustard, chocolate, wine and more, leave them overnight, and then see how easily the stains wipe up with a cleaner and cloth. Philip FriedmanWhen it comes to hands-on testing, we focus on brands with a proven track record for performance and reliability. In our Labs, we run stain tests to determine how well a material resists mustard, wine and the like. We also run abrasion tests to make sure materials can withstand scratches and drop tests to measure their resistance to dings and dents. Our engineers review technical data from the manufacturers related to performance, safety and sustainability. Finally, whenever possible, we use the flooring materials for actual installations at consumer testers’ homes to see how they perform under real-world conditions.Our experts use an abrasion machine to test flooring’s scratch resistance. Philip FriedmanWhat to consider when choosing flooring for your home?Many homeowners focus on the look and price of flooring, without thinking through what it will be like to live with the material over the long term. Here are the factors you need to weigh to make the smart decision.✔️ Comfort: What will it be like standing on the floor for long stretches of time? Flooring materials that offer a softness underfoot, like cork and vinyl tile, will be much more comfortable than those that are rock hard, like concrete, stone and porcelain. Especially in rooms where you do a lot of standing — think kitchen and laundry room, for example —comfort is critical. ✔️ Maintenance: Most floors look fabulous when they’re first installed. How hard are you going to have to work to keep them looking that way for years and even decades? Vinyl, laminate and engineered wood are extremely easy to care for. Materials that need to be sealed, like stone and linoleum, are much higher maintenance.✔️ Health and sustainability: Some floors are better for you and for the planet. As a rule, the fewer synthetic materials they contain, the better. That’s why solid wood flooring is a better option than engineered or laminate. Likewise, all-natural linoleum and cork are superior to vinyl. Wood flooring certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative comes from responsibly managed forests. Resilient flooring with the industry’s FloorScore certification will off-gas relatively low levels of volatile organic compound, or VOCs. What’s the best place to shop for flooring?Flooring in all its various forms is primarily sold at home centers and specialty flooring retailers. If you’re working with a contractor or installer, it probably makes sense to purchase your flooring through them, since they’ll get it at a lower professional rate. Be sure to leave plenty of lead time. “Like most things these days, the flooring industry is experiencing some challenges with the supply chain,” says Brett Miller of National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). Inflation and supply chain issues are making it harder to price out the project. “Costs for hardwood flooring like oak and maple are still elevated, with manufacturers facing prices 38% higher than at the start of the pandemic,” explains Mischa Fisher, chief economist at ANGI, the home services provider. “Because of the price volatility, it’s always a good idea for consumers to shop around for multiple prices and quotes from installers. Periods of high volatility may produce a wide range of possible prices in the market.” Here are the top places to shop: ✔️ Home Depot: With some 2,300 locations nationwide, the biggest home center carries a wide range of flooring materials at competitive prices. Whether you want solid, engineered, laminate or faux-wood flooring, you’ll find it at the Home Depot, along with various financing options and installation services.✔️ More

As we close in on the end of summer and start making plans for one last hurrah over Labor Day weekend, one thing is certain: We’re officially looking forward to curl-up-and-watch-Food-Network season (including the new show Ree is hosting). 🥰 And thanks to the latest launch from The Pioneer Woman Collection at Walmart, we are ready.Just in time for our most necessary cuddling expeditions, Ree’s brand-new line of plush reversible throw blankets and decorative pillows has arrived at Walmart. They’re even cozier than they look… and they look pretty darn cozy.

The Pioneer Woman Sweet Rose Reversible Throw

Available in different shapes and beautiful patterns, the pillows from Ree’s summer collection feature bright colors, fun designs, and even adorable sayings (like “Howdy Darlin’!”). Toss one onto your couch or bed for an instantaneous room revamp or pick up a couple to mix and match for your own unique style.The new throw blankets are just as necessary for your home décor collection. Of course, you’ll want to cuddle up with them, too! Made of ultra-soft polyester, they’re offered in four beautiful new designs, including a few of Ree’s signature prints (Sweet Rose, Sweet Romance, Fancy Flourish, and her newest addition, Evie Floral). Each blanket offers darling details like fringed edges. They’re also reversible, allowing you to easily switch up the look of your home or coordinate with the changing of seasons. Hello, upcoming fall favorites! And guess what? This latest batch of charming home goods comes with several other launches from The Pioneer Woman Collection! The Sweet Romance Mini Dutch Oven Set along with the Sweet Romance Blossoms Ceramic Nesting Bowls. You’ll also find new accessories like a rolling pin and flour sifter. It’s a cuteness bonanza—and the perfect time to stock up on all things Ree!

Shop The Pioneer Woman Throw Blankets and Pillows

The Pioneer Woman Evie Floral Reversible Throw

The Pioneer Woman Fancy Flourish Reversible Throw

The Pioneer Woman Sweet Romance Reversible Throw

The Pioneer Woman ‘Kick Back’ Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman ‘Happiness Blooming’ Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman ‘Bless This Mess’ Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman Coral Floral Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman ‘Howdy Darlin’ Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman Bluebirds Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman ‘Love Lives Here’ Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman Pickup Truck Decorative Pillow

The Pioneer Woman ‘Blessed’ Decorative Pillow

Macie Reynolds
Assistant Editor
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.

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A great electric kettle lets you prepare a cup of hot, healthy tea or quickly boil water for an iced tea maker when you want a cool drink instead. Electric kettles heat quickly and efficiently, saving you from turning on a stove, and cooks have figured out that it’s a fast way to boil water when you’re making a quick pasta dish, too.In general, electric kettles are very low-maintenance. But one thing to watch for is mineral buildup — namely calcium and magnesium from your local water supply — settling on the inside. This buildup can affect how long the kettle takes to boil water. Removing this mineral buildup is known as “descaling,” and how often you descale your electric kettle will depend on how “hard” your water is. Hard water contains more mineral deposits, so you’ll need to descale more often. In general, you may want to clean it once a month, or per the manufacturer’s directions. If your kettle is glass and you can easily see the bottom, you can simply eyeball when buildup occurs and clean accordingly.Some manufacturers sell descaling solutions specifically for this process. The best DIY way to do it, however, is with distilled white vinegar. You can also use lemon juice, citric acid or baking soda — it’s the acid that does the trick. We’ll walk you through the three main DIY methods for descaling a kettle and provide some tips for cleaning the outside of your electric kettle as well.Method 1: With VinegarThis is a thorough way to descale the inside of your electric kettle as recommended by the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. If you’ve ever cleaned a Keurig coffee maker, it should look familiar.Combine one part white distilled vinegar and three parts fresh water in the kettle. Our experience has shown that you don’t need to fill the kettle more than a third full. For a 1-liter electric kettle, use 1/4 cup of vinegar and 3/4 cup of water. If your electric kettle is larger, try 1/2 cup vinegar and 1 1/2 cups water.Bring the water and vinegar to a boil, turn the kettle off then let it sit for 20 minutes. Rinse it out several times with fresh water to flush away the buildup. If the buildup was heavy, you can use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe the inside of the kettle as well. To ensure any lingering vinegar taste is gone, you can optionally refill the kettle with water only, boil and discard.Method 2: With Lemon Juice or Citric AcidThe acid in lemon juice can also descale an electric kettle, and since tea and lemon pair naturally you won’t have to worry about any unappetizing lingering tastes. Alternatively, you can use citric acid powder, which dissolves in water and then breaks down gunk in the same way as lemon juice. Citric acid powder is often sold alongside spices in grocery stores and is used in canning and preserving. It’s also a natural preservative listed on plenty of food labels. For this method:Combine 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or 1 tablespoon of citric acid with enough water to cover the bottom of your kettle. Bring the liquid to a boil, turn off the kettle and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Dump out the mixture and rinse the kettle thoroughly with fresh water.

Amazon

Method 3: With Baking SodaBaking soda is a tried-and-true cleaner and works well for descaling light deposits in the bottom of your electric kettle. Use it this way:Scoop 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda into the kettle, then add water to at least the halfway mark. Boil, turn the kettle off and let the mixture sit for 20 minutes.Rinse the kettle with water and wipe the bottom with a sponge or soft cloth. Rinse again to be sure you’re rid of all traces of baking soda.Tips for Cleaning the Inside of an Electric KettleIf the buildup is especially bad or you’re cleaning for the first time in a year or more, you can let your cleaning solution — whether you’re using vinegar, lemon juice, citric acid or baking soda — sit overnight before you rinse.Cleaning methods are the same whether your electric kettle is made of glass, ceramic or stainless steel.If your electric kettle has a filter, most manufacturers recommend that you remove it and run it under water to clean it, then wipe it with a clean cloth.You don’t need to use dish soap inside a kettle. Most manufacturers only recommend an electric kettle for boiling water, so you shouldn’t have grease or food stains inside to worry about. Also, you shouldn’t use an abrasive brush inside, because you want to protect the heating element. Bottom line: Be gentle!How to Clean the Outside of Your Electric KettleWe suggest wiping down the outside every so often, and especially if your electric kettle gets splattered with grease or sauce during the course of cooking. Dip a cloth into a sudsy mix of dish soap and water, wring out so that it’s just damp and not soaking wet and wipe the kettle clean. Repeat the process with clean water to rinse the soap. Do not place your kettle under running water. You should not immerse it or put it in the dishwasher either. This could damage the electronics.

Jessica Hartshorn
Jessica Hartshorn (she/her), a freelance writer covering parenting gear for Good Housekeeping, has several decades of experience evaluating consumer home products, writing lifestyle content, judging new toys and parenting gear and testing kids’ skincare, sleep helpers, back-to-school supplies and pet products.

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The Scrub Daddy made waves when it appeared on Shark Tank in 2012. Who knew a smiling sponge would become such a blooming success? The brand is in on the holiday fun as well, so you can upgrade the cleaning product to be in on the festivities. While certainly not new, Scrub Daddy has Halloween sponges for a limited time.

Halloween Sponges

Scrub Daddy

The spooky sponges come in three Halloween-approved designs: Frankenstein’s monster (green), a ghost (white), and a pumpkin (orange). They’re all temperature-controlled, so its FlexTexture foam is firm in cold water, which is ideal for tough scrubbing, and soft in warm water, for light cleaning. So whatever you’re up against, you’ll be able to easily tackle it with this durable kitchen sponge.The Scrub Daddy is especially handy to wash utensils, thanks to the holes for the eyes and mouth. Plus, even when it’s firm, it’s safe to use on 25 different surfaces, such as glass, stainless steel, cast iron, nonstick coatings, leather, and more, without worrying about scratching it up.The non-scratch scrubbers were designed to use on dishes and around your home. You can get them in a pack of three, one of each character, on Amazon for $14.99. They’re sure to make washing those nightly dinner dishes just a little bit better.The limited-edition designs are only available as we lead up to Halloween, so don’t miss out on bringing the ghoulish vibes to your cleaning products.

Caitlyn Fitzpatrick
Senior Editor
As the senior editor of social and social news, Caitlyn covers the tastiest, coolest, and strangest products for BestProducts.com, and she is the lead of social strategy for Popular Mechanics, Runner’s World, and Bicycling Magazine; her work has also appeared in POPSUGAR, InStyle, Stylecaster, among others.

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Native to South Africa, the jade plant is popular for its tree-like appearance. Its smooth, oval-shaped leaves and strong, woody stems are a symbol of friendship, luck and prosperity — making the jade plant one of the best Feng Shui houseplants for good energy.If you’re wondering where to place the jade plant in your home, they do best in bright indoor spaces — like a south- or west-facing window. Depending on its size, go for a raised planter in a bright corner or a small pot in the windowsill. Jade plants also grow well outside, as long as you take them inside during cold fall and winter months. With proper care, this resilient houseplant can live for more than 50 years.Jade plants, also known as crassula ovata, are found in many varieties with slightly different characteristics: crassula ovata “Gollum” has red-tinted and tubular leaves, crassula ovata “Hummel’s Sunset” has leaves with red and yellow edges, crassula ovata “Pink Beauty” has clusters of star-shaped pink flowers. But, don’t worry: you can care for all jade plants in the same way. Keep scrolling to learn how to keep this sun-loving succulent healthy — plus, how to grow even more jade plants. ⚠️ Warning: The jade plant is mildly toxic to humans when consumed, and extremely poisonous to dogs and cats. Jade Plant Care Tips SunlightKeep your jade plant in bright light for at least six hours per day, according to Almanac. While mature plants can handle direct sunlight, younger plants require a bright space that’s free of direct rays. Without proper sunlight, your jade plant will stop growing, or it’ll grow tall and leggy. TemperatureJade plants do best at room temperature, between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, during the day. They prefer a cooler temperature at night, between 50 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter months, it’s important to keep your plant away from cool drafts or icy windows. Note, if you keep your jade plant outside, it should be kept inside when outside temperatures drop. WateringYou should only water your jade plant once the soil is completely dry, according to Gardener Report. Check the soil around the roots to be sure. Your jade plant will need a generous soak about every 14 days, although the frequency in which you have to water your plant will depend on the season. Jade plants need more water in the summer and much less in the winter. Andrey Nikitin//Getty ImagesTake note: More often than not, jade plants die because of improper watering. FertilizingUse a standard liquid fertilizer at half strength every several weeks during the growing season (hint: that means spring or summer). The best fertilizers for jade plants have a 10-20-10 ratio. The soil should be moist before applying fertilizer to avoid damaging the roots. Soil Your jade plant needs well-draining soil. According to Petal Republic, the best combination is a 2:2:1 blend of cactus potting mix, coarse sand and perlite or pumice. To save yourself time, you can find a soil that’s been specifically blended for jade plants. RepottingYoung jade plants should be repotted every two or three years, while adult plants should be repotted every four to five years in the early spring. Keep in mind: If you like the size of your plant, jade plants don’t mind being root bound. Common Problems With Jade Plants to Avoid Yellow Leaves: The primary cause of yellow leaves is overwatering or poor drainage. Keep in mind that jade plants don’t like being too wet. Be sure your planter has drainage holes, and you’re emptying excess water from the saucer.Root rot: Be careful not to overwater your jade plant, as they are susceptible to root rot. If you notice soggy soil or soft, squishy leaves (a telltale sign of overwatering), you should repot your jade plant immediately. Shriveled Leaves: This could be a sign of both overwatering and under-watering, but wrinkly and shriveled leaves are likely the result of too little water. If the soil is dried out completely, give your plant a good watering and the leaves should bounce back to health.Leaf drop: Overwatering or poor drainage can result in a loss of leaves. Any sort of stress to your plant, including a lack of sunlight or a sudden drop in temperature, can also be the cause.Pests: You may be dealing with mealybugs (the most likely culprit), root mealybugs, spider mites, scale or aphids. Depending on the insect, you can treat your plant with insecticidal soaps or Neem oil; you may also have to remove the little pests by hand, according to Petal Republic.Firdausiah Mamat//Getty ImagesHow to Propagate Your Jade PlantIf you’ve never propagated a plant before, the jade plant is a great place to start. There are two simple ways to grow a new plant: either from a cutting or a single leaf. To use a cutting, start with a cut that’s at least three inches long and allow the cutting to dry out for a few days in a warm, dry place. Place the cutting into a potting mixture and water sparingly (the soil should only be damp). If you’d rather use a single leaf, or there isn’t a healthy cutting available, you can start by laying healthy leaves onto your potting mixture. As you water the leaves sparingly, they will start to grow roots and, soon enough, tiny plants. Once there are visible plantlets, you’re ready to pot your new plant. Related StoriesAlyssa Gautieri is an experienced writer and editor who joined Good Housekeeping in 2022 as the Associate Lifestyle Editor, covering all things home and design. She has over six years of experience writing about home design at brands including Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes and Brylane Home. Her personal home style includes a mix of industrial, minimalist, mid-century modern — and anything pre-approved by her dog Skye. This content is imported from OpenWeb. 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The money tree plant, which is also known as pachira aquatica, is a tropical wetland tree that’s native to Central and South America. The tree will typically grow between six and eight feet tall when kept indoors (it can grow over 60 feet tall in the wild). Shockingly, that braided trunk you love so much isn’t actually a natural feature of the plant; most money trees on the market are actually multiple plants that have had their trunks braided together during growth. One of the best Feng Shui plants for good energy, the money plant is believed to bring luck, wealth and prosperity to its owners. Each stem has five shiny green leaves, which are said to symbolize the five elements of balance: earth, fire, water, wind and metal. While some stems will likely have six leaves, seven-leaves stems are said to bring extra luck to your home. Grow a Green Thumb:The money tree is one of the best indoor trees and best indoor plants, because it’s relatively easy to keep healthy — plus the braided trunk and large green leaves pair well with most home styles. Keep reading for tips and tricks that will help you keep your money tree looking its best all year round. Money Tree Care TipsSunlightBright, indirect sunlight is best for a healthy money tree — which makes it easy to find the perfect spot for your plant. Consider a plant stand in the living room or on the floor of a home office, as long as the areas doesn’t receive too much direct sunlight. Your plant may adjust to lower lights (although too little light will slow growth and cause the leaves to turn yellow), but direct sunlight will quickly scorch the leaves. TemperatureYour money tree will grow best in a space that’s between 60- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit, according to West Coast Gardens. Keep your plant away from heat and air conditioning vents, as well as any drafty windows or doors. Socha//Getty ImagesWateringWhen it comes to money plant care, overwatering is one of the most common mistakes that plant parents make, according to Just Add Ice. Water your money plant once every one to two weeks, or when the soil volume is 50 to 75% dry. The plant will likely need water more frequently during spring and summer months. Be sure that your planter has drainage holes, so the roots aren’t sitting in any excess water.Don’t forget: Rotate your tree every time you water it to ensure even growth. FeedingUse a liquid houseplant fertilizer at half strength once a month during the summer months (the money tree’s growing season). PruningIf your money tree is growing out of control (it’s becoming too tall or too wide for your space), you can trim the leaves. Cutting brown or wilted leaves will actually promote healthy growth.RepottingThe best time to repot your money tree is during the spring, but it’ll only need to be repotted every two to three years. Find a pot with good drainage that’s one or two sizes bigger than the current one. If you want to keep using the same planter, you can trim some root growth (be careful not to trim more than 25% of the roots) and place the plant back with fresh soil. When buying fresh soil, keep in mind that money trees prefer a well-draining potting mix. The best soils might include sand, pebbles or per lite, or you can find a soil that’s made specifically for money trees.Matthew Lloyd//Getty ImagesCommon Problems With Money Tree Plants to AvoidYellow leaves: You may be overwatering your plant, or it may be getting too sunlight. Try sticking to a consistent watering schedule or moving your planter into more indirect sunlight.Leaf drop: You’re watering your plant too much or too little. It’s important to water your plant on schedule and not to wait until the soil has dried out completely. Temperature fluctuations, too much sunlight or insect infestations can also be factors. Note that some leaf loss is normal during growth.Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot. If you notice leaves becoming droopy, the trunk becoming soft and slimy or an unpleasant smell, act quickly before the root rot becomes fatal. Repot your plant quickly!Insect infestation: Aphids, spider mites and mealybugs are particularly fond of money trees. If you notice an insect infestation (yellow leaves are a telltale sign), you can use an insecticidal soap with warm water to help eliminate the tiny pests. How to Braid Your Money TreeIf you bought a mature money tree, chances are the trunk is already braided. If you have young money trees, it’s relatively simple to braid the money trees yourself. You’ll need anywhere from three to six money trees that are young and healthy (a young money tree should have shoots that are about 15 to 16 inches tall). Gently, slowly and loosely braid the trunks together just as you would hair. Use string or tape to keep the ends together. Continue this process as your money tree grows, but note that it may be several months until your tree needs to be braided again.Don’t Have One Yet? Shop Money TreesAlyssa Gautieri is an experienced writer and editor who joined Good Housekeeping in 2022 as the Associate Lifestyle Editor, covering all things home and design. She has over six years of experience writing about home design at brands including Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes and Brylane Home. Her personal home style includes a mix of industrial, minimalist, mid-century modern — and anything pre-approved by her dog Skye. This content is imported from OpenWeb. 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Taking a party outside makes everything more memorable, whether you’re hosting a family reunion barbecue or an al fresco birthday dinner with a restaurant-worthy menu and drinks. For some quick inspiration, we’ve rounded up seasonal ideas for making your backyard feel like a destination for friends and family. From warm lights you can program for custom illumination to an easy way to bring fresh herbs into everything you serve, these tips will have your guests asking one question: When can we come back? 1. Use a Smart Plug for Outdoor Lighting

When the sun sets, having plenty of outdoor illumination is a must for both visibility and atmosphere — just think about the way a string of twinkling lights or a whimsical rainbow instantly makes the evening feel special. With the GE CYNC Outdoor Smart Plug, you can control your outdoor lighting setup via your phone or a smart home assistant. It’s easy to adjust on the fly or to set a schedule, with lights getting dimmer or brighter as the night progresses. The smart plug also makes it easier to control multiple strands of fairy lights without having to walk around unplugging them all at the end of the night.2. Serve Garden-Inspired DrinksAn on-theme interactive bar setup helps guests break the ice and lets everyone customize their own cocktail or mocktail for kids and nondrinkers. Fresh herbs add depth and flavor to even the simplest drinks — pick three herbs for garnishes and place them near the drink station in a bright set of outdoor planters for a pop of patio color, then add a farmer’s market-style chalkboard sign announcing what each one holds. Invite guests to pick their own fresh herbs and invent on-the-spot signature recipes, like lemonade with a sprig of lavender or iced green tea muddled with fresh mint or basil leaves.3. Set Up A Fire Pit To Gather Around There’s something about a backyard campfire that just beckons gatherings and making group memories. Upgrade a scrappy DIY setup without comfortable seating in favor of a simple stone fire pit that won’t take up a ton of space, and add Adirondack chairs in a durable waterproof material. This more inviting area will not only make for a more appealing hangout, it also elevates seating for an outdoor living room vibe. 4. Add Colorful Lights for Different Moods

Craig Brown

Color goes a long way towards creating an atmosphere. The GE CYNC Full Color Direct Connect Outdoor Smart Bulb shines bright in a full spectrum of vivid colors, allowing you to make endless combinations. They sync with an easy-to-use app, to allow you to customize the intensity, duration, and, of course, vibe. The GE CYNC App can also act as a single control for all of your smart home products, giving you total control from your phone. Use it to adjust to smart bulb to red, white, and blue for the 4th of July, or use soft pinks and purples to highlight architectural elements of your house during a housewarming.5. Take Your Kitchen Outside Amp up your offerings and the interactivity factor with the addition of a crowd-pleasing pizza oven. Everyone will love coming up with their favorite topping combinations from your spread — classic pepperoni and mushrooms, pesto with grilled chicken. Award prizes to the winners and establish a new annual tradition. If Southern-style barbecue is your thing, invest in a smoker and invite guests to choose different proteins for a monthly group cookout. 6. Create a Living Photo Backdrop

Craig Brown

A dedicated spot for selfies, group photos, and other share-worthy snapshots automatically makes a party more fun. Create a living photo backdrop using hanging planters for a leafy alternative to a two-dimensional hanging backdrop. Display a few in different sizes from your pergola or patio roof, or set up a table with seasonal accessories like leafy garlands in the fall to use as props. Don’t have a green thumb? Try a faux-boxwood wall, and illuminate it from below using a CYNC smart plug and bulb combo to create golden lighting that looks far more expensive than it is. When the party’s over, the wall can add lasting ambiance to your patio or section off a quiet nook for reading and napping.

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