Home Ideas

According to new Zillow research, olive green kitchens can significantly boost a home’s sale price.Potential buyers look for navy blue walls in the bedroom and dark grays in the living room.Zillow’s home trends expert explains the popularity of these colors in 2025. By now, it’s no surprise that all-white walls are on the outs and bolder, more nature-inspired neutrals are comfortably settling into homes everywhere. As a result, more and more homeowners and potential buyers are beginning to view those more lively yet natural colors as the new “modern” look.According to Zillow’s latest research, there are a few colors that can boost a home’s resale value, and they all play into the organic modernism trend that’s taking over interior design.Related StoryIn the kitchen, prospective home buyers are willing to offer over $1,500 more for olive green cabinets. In the bedroom, buyers are after navy blue walls, which can increase a home’s sale price by around $1,800.“Buyers view olive green and navy blue as contemporary colors, and that can have a halo effect on their perception of the entire home,” says Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert. “These shades of blue and green are associated with organic modernism, a value-driving aesthetic that incorporates sustainable materials like wood and stone. These nature-inspired colors evoke the same feelings of serenity and tranquility.” JZhuk//Getty ImagesIn the bathroom, browns like Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, are gaining popularity for their warmer tone. Sophisticated and lush yet still familiar, browns are becoming a go-to neutral for homeowners looking to get a bit more creative without going too colorful. And while whites may be less popular these days, dark grays are still in, especially in the living room. These stone-inspired tones remain a go-to living room shade, boosting home value by nearly $2,600.Now that you know what colors do sell, beware of which do not. As much as you should always embrace your personality through your home decor, Zillow’s study suggests playful, trendy colors might not be the way to go if you’re prepping to put your house on the market any time soon. Bright yellow kitchens and bright red bedrooms actually have the potential to shrink resale value by $3,915 and $1,987, respectively. With that in mind, paint accordingly!More Design TrendsLaura Millar (she/her) is the assistant lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com, where she covered everything from entertainment news to pop culture updates.  More

No home is complete without art, and vintage and antique art, in particular, is known to be full of character—even a few special older pieces layered with newer finds will transform your space in no time. Best of all, art is versatile and can move with you over time, meaning that favorite piece can easily take you from your city rental to your suburban family home. Any design pro will confirm that it all comes down to how you style it. If you’re new to the art of shopping secondhand for artwork, it’s important to establish clear expectations before driving over to a vintage store or antique shop. We spoke with Julia Collins, a London-based vintage and decorative art dealer and the founder of Collins & Green Art, who details six common mistakes people often make when purchasing antique art. Be sure to avoid these pitfalls to make the most of your art shopping experience. Julia Collins❌ Assuming you can find a similar piece elsewhere.It’s only natural to come across a piece of art at an antique or vintage store and wonder if you could source something similar on your own for less. It’s possible, but this may be a harder, more time-consuming task than you’d assume, explains Collins, who notes dealers put a significant amount of effort into procuring the most special items. “You would never guess the number of horrendously early mornings we face to get to the markets in time to find the treasures,” she says. “You have to kiss a lot of frogs in this business before you buy the prince!” ❌ Believing a dealer has majorly jacked up the price.The next time you experience a bit of sticker shock when shopping for antique art, try to shift your perspective a bit. “Don’t assume the dealer has bought it for nothing and you are being ripped off,” Collins urges. “The dealer will be making something on it, but you’re paying for their skill, eye, knowledge and time.” Julia Collins❌ Letting a so-so frame dissuade you.If you’re drawn to a piece of art, don’t let a frame that’s worn or doesn’t suit your style be a dealbreaker. “Vintage paintings often come in really attractive frames and often they don’t,” Collins says. If taking your find to a professional frame shop is out of budget, Collins suggests trying another approach: “An alternative is to hang canvases unframed, which has a charm all of its own,” she says. ❌ Ignoring the artwork’s condition.Frames can be altered, but if a piece itself has imperfections (as many pieces of vintage and antique art often do), be sure you have a sense of these flaws before making your purchase. Characteristics like fine cracks or missing paint may be charming to some but irritating to others, Collins explains. “With vintage art, beauty really is very much in the eye of the beholder, but the dealer should make you aware of the condition if there’s anything major,” she says. Julia Collins❌ Being scared to ask questions.On the note of making yourself aware of any flaws, don’t shy away from asking an antique or vintage art dealer questions as you shop. “We are approachable and friendly,” Collins says. “Buying a painting is an investment and you should be able to ask as many questions as you like.” For instance, feel free to inquire about the artist, when the piece was created and where the seller discovered it. ❌ Thinking you’ll make money off of a purchase. Collins stresses the importance of shopping for art pieces for your current enjoyment as opposed to future resale. “There’s only one question which makes my blood boil and that is, ‘Will I make money out of this?’ The answer, unless you are very lucky, is ‘No,'” she says. “Buy what you love; there is no better reason to buy.” More Design TipsSarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more. More

People say a picture’s worth a thousand words, but an entire gallery wall of photographs or fine art can tell the unique story of your home. While many arrangements put spontaneity front and center—an amalgamation of different frame sizes, shapes and materials—grid walls are poised to become the next big decorating trend. Design: Nadia Watts; Photo: Emily Minton RedfieldUnlike the often hodge-podged gallery setups, grid walls favor uniformity: Identical frames are equally spaced along the wall, creating a grid-like pattern. So why is this gallery wall alternative all the rage these days? Bria Hammel says the look brings “order and symmetry” to a space. “They offer a perfect balance of structure while still allowing for personal expression and style,” the Minnesota-based designer explains. The matrix arrangement serves the best of both worlds: It creates visual intrigue, but the repetition is easy on the eyes like soothing wallpaper repeat. “There’s a quiet power in their order that truly anchors a room,” adds Nadia Watts, an interior designer based in Denver.As color-drenching, wallpaper and skirted furniture continue to grow in popularity, the design pendulum sits firmly on the maximalist (and slightly traditional) end of the spectrum. While disparate displays feed into that more-is-more mentality, a grid wall brings some decorum to busy digs.Design: Ramsay Nye; Photo: Robert PetersonMeanwhile, Danielle Domingues, who runs a firm in Central Florida called Collins & Co. Interiors, says the rise of the gallery wall refocuses the attention on whatever’s displayed in the frames themselves. “I think that our phones have taken away the lost art of family portraits,” she explains. “There is something so beautiful about displaying family portraits in a sophisticated and timeless way.”An orderly, artful edge is just the beginning of a grid wall’s perks. Turns out, it’s a pretty versatile trend, too. “They work great in modern, minimalist or traditional homes where symmetry enhances the space,” Hammel says. The designer also notes that once you have a solid foundation, grid walls are pretty easy to update. That said, it’s important to lay the groundwork. Before you bust out the hammer, Hammel recommends laying your frames on the floor to plan out the spacing. “Avoid overcrowding the frames, and stick to consistent frame sizes for symmetry,” she says. Design: Marea Clark Interiors; Photo: Stephanie RussoThough the layout will ultimately depend on your room’s needs—San Francisco designer Marea Clark grouped eight pieces close together to hang over a sofa while Tami Ramsay of Ramsay Nye in Athens, Georgia, spaced hers out to hover over an extra-wide headboard—the frames should be equidistant from each other. Precision is key, so every inch matters. If you ask Watts, repetition is equally important. “I typically create them using a group of four or more pieces, which helps the grid feel balanced and intentional,” she shares. “Using the same size frames establishes visual rhythm and structure.”Design: Collins & Co. Interiors; Photo: The Branded Boss LadyTo keep visual clutter to a minimum, opt for simple frames that lets the art stand out. Domingues, for example, is partial to Pottery Barn’s slim 25-inch-by-25-inch frames. “By using large frames, we are able to keep a sleek, modern look,” she explains.As for what to display on your grid wall? Zoë Feldman is a big fan of black and white photography or art that is showcased in a diptych or triptych. “That kind of symmetry brings clarity,” the Washington, D.C., designer explains. “It lets the art speak without distraction.”Watts agrees, but counters some variation can add interest. “Consistency in color palette, subject matter or artistic style helps unify the overall look,” she adds. “It makes the grid wall feel thoughtfully curated.” Whether you go for pressed botanicals or personal Kodak moments, remember a grid wall should always tell your story. Related StoriesKelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos. More

The woven strip on a towel is called a dobby border.A dobby border helps a towel keep its shape and prevent it from fraying.A towel doesn’t need to have a dobby border to absorb, but it does offer additional perks. Throughout your home, there are several hidden mysteries within everyday items that you may not think to question. One of them? Why there are lines along bath towels and hand towels. The stripes are standard across the industry, meaning you’ll find it on high-end brands, like Matouk and Boll & Branch, as well as more budget-friendly brands, like Mainstays and Amazon Basics. Most liken the line to a design choice that gained favor among customers, making it a staple in the towel industry. But, there’s more to it.What’s the purpose of a towel line?To get to the bottom of this mystery, we tapped Emma Seymour, The Good Housekeeping Institute’s Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Associate Director, for her expertise. “It’s the dobby border, common on many bath towels,” says Seymour. “It helps the towel keep its shape because it offers more structure than if it was entirely terrycloth. It also helps prevent fraying.”What is a dobby border?A dobby border is a woven strip near a towel’s ends. It can appear as a single strip or multiple, but it is always located near a towel’s edges.According to Seymour, “Testers tend to like the look of the border, but most don’t comment on it if a towel lacks a dobby border,” meaning it’s not a make-or-break feature for most customers.Rahman Hidayat//Getty ImagesDo towels need a dobby border?Not necessarily. A towel without a dobby border will still absorb, as is its primary function. However, it may not have the same durability and longevity as one with a dobby border. It’s about weighing out what’s most important to you when shopping. If the price is right, and you like the look of a towel without a dobby border, buy it. There are other factors that contribute to a towel’s durability and performance, such as fiber content, fabric weight, construction and more, not just the dobby border. So the towel you select may still go the distance. If you like the look and function of woven ends, here are the dobby border towels Seymour recommends. Plus, a list of the best bath towels our lab technicians have tested.The Best Bath TowelsBest OverallFrontgate Resort Collection Bath Towels, Set of 6Credit: Mike GartenBest LightweightHydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry TowelCredit: Danielle Occhiogross DalySoftestPlush Towel CollectionCredit: Mike GartenAnswers to More Home MysteriesKate Franke (she/her) is an editorial assistant in the Hearst Lifestyle Group, covering for Woman’s Day and Good Housekeeping. She loves all things lifestyle, home, and market related. Kate has a BAJMC in Magazine Media and BA in Writing from Drake University. She is a proud ASME alum whose work has appeared in Food Network Magazine, The Pioneer Woman Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Farmhouse Style, Beautiful Kitchens & Baths, and more. Next to writing, Kate’s two favorite things are chai lattes and pumpkin bread! More

1Beetsistetiana//Getty ImagesBeets, like most root vegetables, are cool-weather crops, so it’s generally advised to plant them in milder to cold weather. However, planting them in June — before the peak of the summer heat — may be a good idea. After seeding, beets take 55-70 days to harvest, so you can start harvesting by late summer or early fall. Additionally, the soil is already warmed up by June, which promotes the germination of root vegetables and the sunny weather makes it a favorable time to plant this versatile vegetable.Another amazing fact about beets is that they’re a two-for-one veggie. While they mature, you can cut off a few of their leaves (beet greens) and enjoy them in a delicious salad. Just make sure you leave a few leaves after cutting so the roots continue to grow.2Carrots SimpleImages//Getty ImagesIn June, carrot rust flies, a garden pest that mainly affects carrots, are less common. Infestation usually occurs during spring, so planting them in early summer can work in your favor. Like beets, carrots are root vegetables and need a good amount of sunlight (at least six hours every day).Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3CucumbersSorin Banica / 500px//Getty ImagesCucumbers, a low-calorie fruit, are 96% water. Their high water content makes them a refreshing veggie for hot weather. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients like magnesium, potassium as well as vitamins C and K. Typically, cucumbers are vining plants, which require more support in comparison to shrubs (bushes). So, consider using trellises or stakes.4CornYulia Naumenko//Getty ImagesCorn thrives in full sun and when planted in well-drained soil, making it a perfect addition to your garden this June. This grain is a great source of fiber and antioxidants. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Butternut Squashediebloom//Getty ImagesLike most guards, butternut squash thrive in warm weather and full sun. They’re prolific growers, so when planting, make sure you give them enough space to grow and spread. 6Bell PeppersAmit Basu Photography//Getty ImagesBell peppers are another vegetable that will germinate best when the soil is warm, so planting them this month is ideal. They shouldn’t be grown in extremely high temperatures. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Zucchinifcafotodigital//Getty ImagesZucchini is a great addition to summer salads. All this summer squash needs to grow successfully is a warm, sunny location, moist soil and regular fertilization. 8Green Beans brytta//Getty ImagesGreen beans are relatively easy to grow with full sunlight and moderately rich soil. Green beans can be a delicious addition to summer salads and make wonderful side dishes. What’s more, they’re loaded with vitamin C, K and folate. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9TomatoesJoanne Liu//Getty ImagesTomatoes are warm-weather plants, making them one of the best crops for this month. Just make sure they’re getting plenty of sunlight and are watered properly. Keep in mind that they need lots of fertilizer and should be pruned regularly in order to thrive. RELATED: The 8 Biggest Tomato Growing Mistakes, According to Experts10Melonsalvarez//Getty ImagesMelons (watermelons included) thrive in warm weather, and it’s generally recommended that they’re planted when the soil temperature is 65° or above. They also need at least seven hours of sun. Because of their high water content (90-92%), melons are a great choice for a summer diet. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below11GrapesMuhla1//Getty ImagesSuccessfully growing grapes involves having a large, open space. If growing vertically on trellis, grapes need 50 to 100 square feet per vine. If growing horizontally in rows, aim for eight feet between rows. Additionally, they need seven to eight hours of sunlight daily. 12BlueberriesHispanolistic//Getty ImagesBlueberries require lots of sunlight and acidic soil to grow well. To measure your soil’s acidity, you can use testing strips, a digital meter, analog probes or a test kit you’d have to send to a laboratory.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below13StrawberriesWestend61//Getty ImagesStrawberries can grow in temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Most strawberries will not set fruit in temperatures over 80°F. Planting them this month, before the height of the summer heat, can work in your favor.14Blackberries Diana Miller//Getty ImagesBlackberries are high in vitamin C. Their peak harvest often falls in July and August. While it’s recommended to plant bare root blackberry plants in early spring, container-grown blackberry plants can be planted between early spring and late summer. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below15Raspberriesalvarez//Getty ImagesRaspberries are another delicious berry to grow this summer. Not only are they a source of fiber — they also contain vitamin C and are high in antioxidants. When planting, choose a sunny location and consider using support, like a trellis, to keep the fruit off the ground. Rosamelia is an Editorial Intern at Good Housekeeping. She’s also a graduate student in NYU’s Magazine and Digital Storytelling program. In her free time, you can find her reading and reviewing books on her bookstagram: amelias_biblioteca.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

Despite being a popular organizing method, making a “maybe” pile can lead to overwhelm, stir up decision fatigue and slow down the decluttering process. Four professional organizers share their advice and concerns about keeping a “maybe” pile.There are rare instances where a “maybe” pile might be beneficial, according to experts. Decluttering the entire house is hard work, and there’s no single way to do it. There are countless decluttering methods — some involve setting timers, tackling one zone at a time or separating items into designated piles. No matter how you get your house in order, a few professional organizers warn against one common decluttering habit that can slow your progress and create indecision. If you can’t decide whether or not an item has a place in your home, you might add it to a “maybe” pile with plans to return to it later. The problem? This popular technique can be counterproductive. Instead of successfully decluttering the house, you’ve just created a pile of items you’re unsure about. Decluttering Methods We’ve TriedShaniece Jones, decluttering expert, never suggests clients create a ‘maybe’ pile when decluttering. “‘Maybe’ piles lead to hesitation instead of resolution.” Instead, she recommends quick decision-making. Try placing items into piles that communicate clear next steps, like keep, donate, trash or recycle and repair. “While some organizers see ‘maybe’ piles as a helpful middle ground, I’ve found that they often prolong the process and create a breeding ground for indecision,” Jones adds. “Hear me out: ‘Maybe’ piles equate to indecision, indecision leads to overwhelm, then you are right back where you started when you began decluttering in the first place.” Why should you avoid the “maybe” pile? You inevitably have to return to it. If you aren’t making an immediate decision about the fate of your items, you’re essentially creating a task for your future self. “It’s a decision delay tactic,” says Jones. “It keeps you stuck in a mental loop and undermines the clarity you initially are trying to create.”You might end up creating more clutter. Jones calls it a form of “clutter shuffling.” Moving things from one place to another might feel like progress, but it’s not true productivity. “It’s a temporary payoff because it feels like you cleared a space, but you still have not made the decision.” It can lead to overwhelm. “While it’s tempting to hold onto everything ‘just in case,’ that approach isn’t practical and often leads to overwhelm,” says Susan Guraj, founder of VS Organized Interiors.It delays decisions: “When you decide to keep the ‘maybe’ pile for later, you are stirring up decision fatigue, which can cause you to avoid the pile altogether,” Jones says. You may end up keeping items you don’t care about. If you avoid going through the pile, you may take the easy way out: Decide to keep it all. “Creating a ‘maybe’ pile can allow items that aren’t truly needed to be kept anyway,” says Emily Mass, owner of Spaces By Emily. Is there a right time to keep a “maybe” pile?The “maybe” pile can be helpful in certain situations, but it should always be a temporary solution. It’s important that you address items in the pile during the same decluttering session. “I actually like to reframe it as a ‘Revisit’ pile,” says Jones. “It’s a small shift, but it sends a clear message: This isn’t where things go to sit forever — it’s just a pause before a real decision gets made.” Here are two instances where a “maybe” pile might work:If you’re warming up to decluttering. Victoria Tran, founder of Sorted, sees the benefit of a “maybe” pile when you’re early in the process. “Once you see the progress and realize what you truly need and love, that ‘maybe’ pile almost always turns into a ‘no’ pile — so don’t shy away from using it when needed, but always aim to move through it with confidence and clarity.”If you’re not the sole decision maker, for example “when sorting sentimental items or items that require input from a family member who isn’t present,” says Tran. “But ideally, try to avoid deferred decisions. Every item should have a clear destination by the end of your decluttering project.”More Advice From Pro OrganizersAlyssa 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

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Designers often take pride in using antiques and thrifted items to bring personality into a home. Not to mention, thrifting and antique shopping can sometimes be a more affordable and sustainable option than relying on traditional retailers. But before you fill your home or car with second-hand items, keep in mind: There are some things you should never buy at a thrift store — no matter how tempting the price tag. Textiles like mattresses, stuffed animals and bedding could harbor bed bugs, while older furniture and electronics can pose a safety risk — especially to children. “We love a good treasure hunt, but there are a few things we’ll always leave behind,” says Amy Leferink, owner and principal designer of Interior Impressions. Below, two pro designers share the items they always avoid at the thrift store.More Expert Thrifting AdviceMattresses”Anything that can’t be thoroughly cleaned or disinfected — like used mattresses — is a no-go,” says Amy Leferink. A second-hand mattress will likely lack support, plus they might harbor dust mites, bed bugs, bacteria, mold and allergens.Electronics and appliances Vintage speakers, antique lighting and old televisions may look charming, but thrifted electronics could have faulty wiring, which could pose a fire or electric shock risk. “Anything involving electrical wiring — like old lamps or appliances — are a hard no for me,” says Honey Collins, founder of Honey Collins Interiors. “Safety comes first, and there’s just no way to guarantee those items are up to standard, no matter how beautiful or nostalgic they may appear.” Functional cookware or glasswareBe weary of using thrift finds in the kitchen. Regulations regarding lead weren’t put in place until 1971, so painted dishes and crystal glassware may contain traces — especially dangerous if the items are cracked or chipped. “When looking for kitchen items at thrift stores, we usually prefer to focus on decorative pieces rather than functional cookware such as dinnerware, serving dishes, glassware or antique cookware that can elevate your kitchen or dining room’s aesthetic,” says Leferink. Certain items, like cast iron and enamelware, may be safe to use on a regular basis, but “always inspect carefully for cracks, chips or peeling coating,” adds Collins. anzeletti//Getty ImagesBaby furniture “While thrifting accessories and artwork for a nursery can be fun, it’s best to steer clear of baby furniture,” says Leferink. “These items can become outdated, and their warranty lifespan might have passed. Since baby furniture safety standards are continuously updated, purchasing new pieces is the safest option.”Second-hand baby furniture might not meet current safety standards or could have hidden damage, such as cracks, loose parts or missing hardware. “A sweet old crib may look darling, but it could pose a real risk — it’s not worth the gamble,” says Collins.Car seats and strollers A thrifted car seat or stroller could have hidden damage that presents a safety risk, and there’s no way to guarantee the model meets current safety standards. Keep in mind, car seats should be replaced if they’re involved in an accident and have expiration dates. HelmetsNot only can thrifted helmets carry lice and other potential infections, they’re likely unsafe. After significant impact, you must replace a bike helmet — even if it doesn’t look damaged, because the foam lining could be compressed. Baloncici//Getty ImagesStuffed animalsEven if you machine-wash a second-hand stuffed animal, odors and allergens can linger. Not to mention the risk of bedbugs, bacteria and dust mites — it’s just not worth it. BeddingSimilarly, thrifted bedding — like sheets, comforters and pillows — could harbor bed bugs, dust mites and allergens that are difficult to clear completely. That doesn’t mean you have to stay away from all textiles, according to Collins. “It depends on the piece and your tolerance for a little elbow grease. Vintage rugs? Yes, absolutely — if they’re in good shape and can be professionally cleaned. As for upholstered items, I look for good bones — with plans to reupholster. Linens and pillows, though? I’d pass.” Damaged rattan or wicker furnitureThink twice about buying those worn woven chairs, cabinets or side tables that you spotted on a thrift store run. Rattan and wicker furniture can be difficult — and very expensive — to restore, so it’s best to avoid it, even if the price seems right. Wood cutting boardsDon’t waste money on a thrifted wood cutting board, unless you plan to use it as decor. Even with a deep clean, it can be challenging to remove bacteria embedded within the wood’s pores. Baby toysBabies and small children outgrow toys quickly, so it’s not a bad idea to source second-hand items — but it’s crucial to consider hygiene and safety. Don’t thrift any baby toys that can’t be throughly washed and sanitized. Diligently check for any broken or loose parts that could be dangerous for little ones. 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