Home Ideas

Sharing an apartment with my roommate’s yellow lab means I practically live with a lint roller in hand. And not just for my clothing. Approximately 10 minutes before guests arrive, you can find this dog auntie furiously lint-rolling the couch, the rug, the chair and any flat surface within arm’s reach (because no, a vacuum just won’t cut it). So when I scrolled across this Floor Lint Roller on TikTok, it was love at first sight. Equipped with an adjustable handle and an oversized adhesive roller, this viral lint remover can cover serious ground.Smart Design Smart Design Floor Lint RollerSmart Design Smart Design Floor Lint RollerRoll it across furniture and rugs to clean up pet hair left behind from your fur baby’s afternoon nap. And it’s good for way more than just cleaning up after pets. Roll it over your bath mat after brushing your hair or trimming your bangs. Or roll it across the floor to pick up dirt, dust bunnies, and small debris that sweeping leaves behind. Amazon reviewers rave that the aluminum tubing and extendable design make it so easy to tackle hard-to-reach messes.Shorten the handle, and it can be used to remove lint and pet hair from your clothing just like any standard lint roller. But unlike the one you snagged from the dollar store, this baby has extra-sticky adhesive sheets that are wider than the average lint roller, so it cleans more lint with each swipe. You’ll waste less time and arm strength rolling, and you won’t be left with a mountain of used sheets to throw away when you’re done. But take it from #CleanTok, there appears to be no limit to what this retractable lint roller can do. Users shared videos of themselves using the 2-in-1 tool to pick up glitter after a party, grab dust bunnies from beneath the couch, clear cobwebs from vaulted ceilings, prep the bathroom floor for mopping, remove crumbs from car interiors and sweep up shedding hair extensions.This TikTok-loved lint roller is available on Amazon for only $26. Though it already comes equipped with 25 removable adhesive sheets, I highly recommend stocking up on a two-pack of refill sheets from the get-go. Because once you start rolling, you won’t want to stop!Check out Firstfinds to shop more of the internet’s favorite products, including viral hits, home hacks, fashion essentials and so much more.Commerce WriterSarah Maberry is a commerce writer at Hearst Magazines, covering trending products in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and beyond. She’s obsessed with being the first to wear, try, watch, and buy what’s going viral. More

The perks of silk pillowcases are many: They can help reduce wrinkles, split ends and frizzy hair, to name a few. They often come with a high price tag though, so you’ll want to take care of them properly to ensure they will last. Sweat, germs, body oils, hair products and makeup (though you are taking off your makeup before bed, right?) can accumulate quickly in bedding, especially your pillowcase. We consulted with experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab for how to wash your silk pillowcase. First, always check the care label or manufacturer’s website for detailed care instructions. If there is one, be sure to follow it. Our favorite pillowcase brands like Fisher’s Finery, whose silk pillowcases impressed us enough to earn the Good Housekeeping Seal, usually have detailed care instructions for their pillowcases on their website. Though it’s not common, some silk pillowcases are dry clean only, so be sure to check before you start laundering. There are two ways to wash your silk pillowcase: on a gentle cycle in the washing machine or by hand. Most silk pillowcases can be washed in the washing machine as long as steps are taken to ensure a gentle wash. Washing by hand is the most gentle approach and allows you to take extreme care when washing — important when washing a delicate silk pillowcase. The same basic step-by-step process as washing clothing by hand applies here too; just make sure to use a gentle touch and never wring or twist your pillowcase. What You’ll NeedMesh laundry bagGentle laundry detergent Clean white bath towel How to wash a silk pillowcase in the washing machineMost silk pillowcases have care instructions for washing in the washing machine, so make sure to follow the care label if the instructions differ. More From Good Housekeeping Place pillowcases in a mesh laundry bag or turn inside out. Select a delicates cycle with cold water and wash with a gentle laundry detergent. If you have a center agitator in your machine, be careful as it can damage the fabric if not on the correct setting. Some brands allow for tumble drying on an air-only or low-heat cycle, but other brands recommend keeping out of the dryer, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. When in doubt: avoid the dryer. You can either gently squeeze (don’t wring!) the excess water from the pillowcase, or blot dry with a clean towel, and lay flat to dry. How to hand wash a silk pillowcase Hand washing your silk pillowcase is quite simple, and hand washing helps keep the fibers soft and shiny. Fill a clean sink or tub with cool water, and mix about a teaspoon of gentle laundry detergent. If there are any visible stains on your pillowcase, apply a few drops of detergent directly to the stain and gently work in with your fingertips. Agitate the water with your hands to create suds, then immerse the pillowcase and swish it around gently to help the water penetrate the fibers. Take care not to twist, wring or rub the fabric against itself as it can damage the fabric. Instead, just gently agitate the fabric (i.e., move it around in the water) with your hand to clean. Dump the water and refill the basin with cold water. Submerge the pillowcase again and agitate gently to get rid of any soapy residue. Repeat as needed, gently rinsing until the residue is gone. Gently squeeze out any excess water, taking care not to twist or wring the fabric in any way. Lay the pillowcase on a clean, white towel and roll up, gently squeezing to further dry the pillowcase. Lay flat to dry, preferably away from sunlight to protect from fading and discoloration. If there are wrinkles in the fabric after drying, you can either gently steam the pillowcase or iron on the lowest heat setting. Make sure to flip the pillowcase inside out and place a pressing cloth or clean piece of fabric between the iron and pillowcase.How often should you wash your silk pillowcase?”Silk pillowcases should be washed as frequently as regular cotton ones, which is once per week,” says Carolyn Forte, Director of the Home Care and Cleaning Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. If you have cotton sheets but silk pillowcases, make sure to place them in a mesh laundry bag to prevent the fibers from tearing and try to avoid letting them go through the spin cycle. If all your bedding is silk (lucky you!) then you can follow this same guide for sheets too.How to treat stains on silk pillowcasesAccidents happen to everyone, so if you find a stain on your silk pillowcase it’s best to act fast as the longer the stain sits, the harder it can be to get out. To treat stains, work a small amount of mild detergent directly onto the stain gently with your fingers and allow to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, wash the pillowcase following either of the above instructions. Pro Tip: Avoid using any stain treatment or detergent with bleach as it will break and discolor the fibers. How to remove wrinkles from silk pillowcasesBe very careful with heat around silk, as the high temperatures can hurt the fibers. If your pillowcases or sheets are wrinkly, either iron on the lowest setting with a pressing cloth, or bust out a steamer for a more gentle option. What You’ll Need to Wash a Silk PillowcaseTide Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent Credit: TideEgyptian Cotton 6-Piece Bath Sheet Towel Set Credit: Home DepotFisher’s Finery Mesh Wash Bag with ZipperCredit: Fisher’s FineryAssistant to the General ManagerIn addition to her job as the assistant to the general manager of the Good Housekeeping Institute, Abigail is also currently working toward her master of science in publishing in digital and print media at NYU. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she worked at LSU Press and The Southern Review. In her free time you can find her quilting, knitting, cross-stitching or working on any manner of craft. More

There’s nothing like putting on a brand-new pair of white sneakers for a crisp, fresh look. But a quick walk through the park later, you’ll notice scuffs and stains already starting to form on the rubber outsoles and sides of your favorite slip-ons. No matter how careful you are, wearing anything white (think jeans, shirts or shoes) can sometimes feel like a disaster waiting to happen. A drop of coffee during your morning commute or unexpected rain on your way home from the park and poof! Like magic, your white Vans have gone from bright white to dingy gray. And if you’re brave enough to skateboard in a pair of white high tops? You’ll definitely want to keep this step-by-step guide from the Good Housekeeping Institute cleaning experts handy. We’ve tested store-bought and DIY shoe cleaners to find the best way to clean all kinds of shoes, mastered the art of cleaning another much-loved white shoe, the Converse All Star Low Top Sneaker, and have even taken on the smelly task of testing tons of shoe deodorizers.This step-by-step guide will have all of your white Vans looking like new again. Best of all, most of the products our pros recommend you likely already have at home.How to clean white canvas VansWhat You’ll Need:Soft brush (or your vacuum’s round dusting brush)Baking soda Hydrogen peroxideToothbrush Microfiber cloth Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Remove loose dust or dirt. To avoid making a bigger mess of your white canvas Vans, remove the laces and use a soft brush or the round dusting brush on your vacuum to remove any loose dust or dirt on the surface of the shoes. Mix up a thin paste of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and warm water. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda, ½ tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide and ½ tablespoon of warm water until it forms a thin paste. The hydrogen peroxide acts like an all-fabric bleach to whiten the canvas fabric and the baking soda helps scrub away scuffs and stains. Gently scrub your shoes with the paste. Dip an old toothbrush or soft brush into the paste and gently scrub your shoes in a circular motion. Wipe the surface of your sneakers with a clean, wet cloth to rinse them. Dip a clean cloth into water and wring it out until it is just damp. Thoroughly wipe your sneakers with the cloth, being careful to not to saturate the material. Clean the rubber outsoles with the same paste or GH Seal Star Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. If using the same baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and warm water paste, follow the steps above. To clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean. Allow to air-dry. Set your canvas Vans to air-dry in a cool spot, away from the sun. How to clean white leather VansMost of the steps to clean white leather Vans are the same as above, with some small, but very important adjustments. What You’ll Need:Soft brush (or your vacuum’s round dusting brush)Baking soda Toothbrush Microfiber cloth Leather conditioner Remove loose dust or dirt. Remove the laces and use a soft brush or the round dusting brush on your vacuum to remove any loose dust or dirt on the surface of the shoes.Mix up a thin paste of baking soda and warm water. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda and ½ tablespoon of warm water until it forms a thin paste.Gently scrub your shoes with the paste. Dip an old toothbrush or soft brush into the paste and gently scrub your shoes in a circular motion. Wipe the surface of your sneakers with a clean, wet cloth to rinse them. Dip a clean cloth into water and wring it out until it is just damp. Thoroughly wipe your sneakers with the cloth. Clean the rubber outsoles with the same paste or with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. If using the same baking soda and warm water paste, follow the steps above. To clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean. Allow to air-dry. Set your leather Vans to air-dry in a cool spot, away from the sun. Apply a leather conditioner to the shoes. For extra protection, apply a leather conditioner, like GH seal holder Furniture Clinic Leather Protection Cream, to help keep the leather soft and supple. How to clean white suede VansSuede shoes are notorious for how easily they can get stained — water, dust and dirt can all cause unsightly stains on the material. Suede shoes that have been caught in a rainstorm should be allowed to dry in a well ventilated area overnight, with paper towels or shoe trees stuffed inside to keep their shape. To treat fresh or old stains and restore the suede nap of a pair of suede Vans, follow the steps below. For suede Vans with fresh stains:What You’ll Need:Blot the stain. Using a clean paper towel, blot (don’t rub) the stain on the shoe’s surface.Sprinkle baking soda over the stain. Allow the baking soda to sit and soak up the stain overnight, then lightly brush away the powder. If a stain still remains, use a suede cleaner. Our experts recommend the Kiwi Suede Cleaner. Gently brush the shoes to restore the suede nap. The key here is to brush in the direction of the fibers, not back and forth or in circles. This can cause further damage to the suede. If you used a suede cleaner, wait until the shoes are completely dry to brush the fibers. Clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean.Apply a suede protector. A suede protector will help prevent further stains or other damage to your suede Vans. For suede Vans with old stains:What You’ll Need:Gently brush or scrape the stain from the shoe’s surface. Using a special suede brush (or a toothbrush) is your best bet for completing this step without causing any damage. Brush in the direction of the fibers. If this doesn’t work, you can try dabbing a suede eraser on the stain to remove it. Steam the matted area for a few seconds. If the stain is gone, but has left behind a patch of matted fibers, use your favorite garment steamer on a low setting to lightly steam the area, then brush in the direction of the fibers with the suede brush. If the stain is still there, take your suede Vans to a shoe repair shop so a pro can take a look at them. Clean the rubber outsoles with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Wet the pad, squeeze out the excess water and rub on the outsole until they are clean.Apply a suede protector. Can I put my white Vans in the washing machine?We think it’s safest to wash any pair of shoes by hand, especially when they’re new. But we get it, sometimes you might be tight on time. If you want to give it a try, only canvas Vans should ever be put into the washing machine. Note that the washer can cause your sneakers to shrink or lose their shape. Here’s the best way to wash your shoes in a washing machine: Place your sneakers in a mesh bag to help them keep their shape and toss in some old white towels to balance and buffer the load. Select a delicate cycle on your machine, cold or warm water, and a low or moderate spin speed.Skip the dryer. Instead, stuff the wet Vans with white paper towels and let them air-dry away from heat and sunlight.Should I bleach my white Vans?No! Keep the bleach away from your Vans! Bleach is too harsh for use on white Vans — especially leather and suede ones. Many people even note that after using bleach to clean their white shoes, they found that the shoes took on a yellow tint instead of being restored to their original white. Why do white Vans turn yellow after washing?A few things can cause your white Vans to turn yellow after you wash them. As mentioned above, many people find that using bleach causes yellow staining on white shoes after they are dry. Drying freshly washed shoes in direct sunlight can also cause discoloration. Additionally, residue from shoe cleaners that are not properly rinsed from white shoes can leave behind a yellow tint.Tips to keep your white Vans in tip-top shapeBefore your first wear and after every cleaning, spray Vans with a water and stain repellent spray to help them stay cleaner longer. The GH Cleaning Lab likes Kiwi Sneaker Protector for both leather and canvas shoes. The brand also has a suede and nubuck protector.Keep white Vans stored away from direct sunlight and out of humid, moist environments to prevent yellowing.Clean stains and remove light dust as soon as you spot them. The longer they sit on your Vans, the harder it will be to remove them later.Sometimes all your Vans need is a quick wash of the laces to look like new. Remove the laces and wash them separately in a mix of mild soap and warm water. Rinse and let them air dry before re-lacing your shoes. Before using any cleaning products on your white Vans, carefully read the instructions and test it on a small inconspicuous area of the shoe to make sure it does not cause any damage. Shop for Vans Cleaning SuppliesArm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda Credit: Arm and HammerSwan Hydrogen PeroxideCredit: SwanAmazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning ClothCredit: AmazonBasicsMr. Clean Magic Eraser Extra DurableCredit: Mr.CleanHome Care & Cleaning Lab Executive DirectorCarolyn 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.Home Care & Cleaning Lab Reviews AnalystJodhaira (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab, where she tests and writes about home appliances, cleaning products and cleaning tips. Prior to joining GH in 2021, she graduated from Hofstra University with a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and spent two years as an analyst in an environmental lab in Queens. More

Today’s vinyl floors are a far cry from the shiny, plastic-looking sheet or tile floors your grandmother might have installed in her home. Although yesterday’s were prone to tears, scratching and scuffing and looked so artificial, today’s feature more durable matte finishes and more realistic, natural designs that get installed as click-together planks. They’re the newest members of a category called “resilient flooring,” and because they come as individual planks, replacing damaged sections is easier too. For these reasons, modern vinyl plank flooring has become a popular alternative to wood floors in homes across the globe, especially in areas like kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. These floors are not only easier to maintain than traditional hardwood floors, but they’re more moisture-resistant too, so they’re better equipped to withstand heavy traffic — ideal for families with kids and pets. But that doesn’t mean vinyl floors don’t need routine TLC. Even these fuss-free, wear-resistant floors need a proper cleaning once in a while, so it’s a good idea to incorporate the task into your regular cleaning schedule. We checked in with Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, for the best cleaning tips and advice. More From Good Housekeeping How to clean vinyl plank flooring after installationFirst things first: If your vinyl flooring product was installed with glue, you may notice excess glue seeping to the surface. Avoid cleaning this mess or walking on the flooring for at least 24 hours to give the adhesive time to set properly. Once set, you can safely remove the excess product without damaging your brand-new floors by following these steps: Gather the proper tools: You’ll need a scraper, a spray bottle and a floor stripper or an acetone-based nail polish remover to help loosen the excess glue. Spray the floor: Put the cleaning solution into a spray bottle, then spritz a small amount on the glue you intend to remove. Let it sit for a few minutes. Scrape up the glue: Once the glue begins to soften, position your scraper so that the blade is parallel to the floor and apply gentle downward pressure to carefully remove the adhesive. (You want to get under the blob of glue to gently lift it up off the floor.)Wipe clean with water: Once the glue is gone, rinse the area with water using a damp microfiber cloth. Then dry the area with a second clean cloth. Alternatively, you can mop the area for a deeper clean.How to regularly clean vinyl plank flooringVinyl plank flooring may be low maintenance, but there are a few things you should know to help extend the life of this surface. Namely, dust, sand and other gritty particles are “the enemy,” according to the World Floor Covering Association. As such, it’s important to sweep or vacuum frequently — and especially if there’s visible debris on the floor. Remove dust with a soft broom, a microfiber mop or a good vacuum cleaner designed for hardwood floors. Use your vacuum’s soft-bristled oblong floor brush or fluffy roller attachment if you have them, or at least switch off the vacuum’s rotating brush. Avoid using stiff scrubbing brushes or your vacuum’s beater bar (the rotating brush attachment that vibrates to loosen dirt from carpeting), as these cleaning tools can damage the surface of the floor.Wet-clean the floor using a damp mop and a vinyl-safe floor cleaner once you’ve eliminated any dry dirt and debris.If needed, rinse after mopping, being careful not to over-wet the floor. Let it air-dry.How to clean spills from vinyl plank flooringThough vinyl floors are moisture-resistant, it’s not a good idea to let spills set. And you should never use a steam mop on these surfaces. The high temperature combined with excess moisture and pressure can seep into the cracks, loosen adhesive and cause the floor to swell. Here’s what to do instead:Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe up spills as soon as they happen. For tougher stains, you can use a soft nylon brush and a baking soda paste (combine baking soda and enough water to form a paste). Simply use the brush to gently rub the paste into the affected area, then wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth.Alternatively, you can use a mild cleaning solution made with equal parts vinegar and water. There are also cleaning products, like Bona Hard-Surface Floor Cleaner, that are specifically manufactured for this type of flooring. No matter what you use, it’s good practice to test your cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the flooring. How to remove scuffs from vinyl plank flooringOccasional scuff marks from shoes or furniture are unavoidable, but thankfully there’s an easy way to get rid of these unsightly spots:Dip a microfiber cloth into a sudsy mix of dish soap and water and use it to buff the area. Then, rinse clean with a damp microfiber cloth or a mop.For stubborn scuffs, try a lubricant like WD-40 or Goo Gone. Put a small amount on a towel and rub the affected area until the scuffs clear. Then, follow the cleaning steps above, using baking soda, vinegar and water or another cleaning product marked safe for vinyl floors to remove any remaining lubrication.The Best Cleaning Products for Vinyl Plank FlooringO-Cedar PowerCorner Pet Pro Broom & Step-On Dust PanNow 30% OffCredit: O-CedarSwiffer Sweeper 2-in-1 Dry + Wet Starter KitCredit: P&GBona Hard-Surface Floor CleanerNow 10% OffCredit: BonaGoo Gone Original Goo & Adhesive RemoverCredit: Goo GoneHow to keep vinyl plank flooring clean longerWhile regular maintenance is vital, there are a few steps you can take on a daily basis to keep your vinyl plank floors cleaner and in better condition, reducing the frequency of deep cleans and repairs. Place a doormat or an area rug in front of the entryway to your home, since this will minimize the amount of dirt and debris tracked in.Attach felt or rubber pads to furniture legs — especially items that regularly move, such as barstools and dining chairs.Put down a protective floor covering whenever you are doing heavy home-improvement work — rearranging furniture or repairing and painting drywall, for example.Contributing WriterBrigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in creating SEO and e-commerce content across a range of lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She also has significant experience creating native and branded content.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

After completing any crochet project — whether it’s a stocking, basket, hat or scarf — weaving in the ends is crucial to prevent your stitch from unraveling. This process can be tricky for those who are new to the world of crocheting. But don’t worry! Good Housekeeping’s Design Director and crochet maven, Mariana Tuma, explains how to fasten off in crochet. While basic crochet stitches can take a few days to learn (the single crochet being one of the shortest of all the stitches), more advanced techniques may take longer. That’s why it’s important to tie off your crocheting properly to ensure that all of your hard work doesn’t go to waste. Follow the quick step-by-step video above for this easy how-to, then take a look below for our written guide. And if you want even more trendy DIYs, ranging from knitting to macramé, join the GH Stitch Club for patterns and tutorials to try at home (this daisy granny square is just one example). Happy crafting!Related StoryHow to Fasten Off in Crochet Liudmila Chernetska//Getty Images Step 1: When you’re ready to end your project, work your last stitch, cut the yarn from the ball (leaving about 6″ to 8″) and then pull the tail through the loop on your hook. Slip Stitch: a basic crochet stitch used to add decorative elements or join pieces together. Step 2: Now it’s time to weave in the loose ends with your crochet hook. Insert the hook into an adjoining stitch and pull the tail through.Step 3: Repeat the process until you’ve worked through a few stitches and you’re ready to cut the tail, leaving it hidden inside one of the stitches. Step 4: Go to your beginning tail, where you started your project. Weave the yarn through your work (repeating the process from step two) before cutting the end. Assistant EditorMariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master’s degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She’s also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work. Mariana is the Design Director of Good Housekeeping.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

With a $5,000 budget and only 24 hours, interior designer Kerrie Kelly and her team reimagined a primary bedroom and the adjoining walk-in closet in for Good Housekeeping’s very first episode of Designer for a Day, available on the VeryLocal network.Homeowners Jennifer and Jason of Roseville, California, hadn’t upgraded their primary bedroom in about 13 years. Excited for the redesign, Jennifer was looking for a “cozy farmhouse style,” while Jason hoped to turn their bedroom into a “modern, hotel-like oasis.” Kerrie chatted with the couple about their preferences, then got to work on crafting an aesthetic that married the two.Homeowners Jennifer and Jason live in Roseville with their two children: eight-year-old Kayla and six-year-old Cayden.Very LocalReimagining a space in a single day doesn’t come without challenges. “It takes lots of planning to successfully install a design project in one day,” says Kelly. “Everything must go right — from moving to painting, closet installation, furniture assembly, drapery hanging and finishing touches.”Kerrie sits down to choose finishes, textures and colors.Nick Franco PhotographyTo map out her design, Kerrie starts by sketching the primary bedroom.  Courtesy of Kerrie KellyKelly’s big piece of advice: “Remain flexible — every project has its hiccups and there is always a solution if you stay open-minded.” BEFORECourtesy of Kerrie KellyThe first task for any space Kelly designs? Decluttering. “The key to any room upgrade is to edit, edit, edit,” she says. There’s also the opportunity to breathe new life into your existing pieces: reframe artwork, re-orient rugs, move furniture and paint or reupholster buffets, hutches and chairs. Finally, take advantage of simple upgrades like adding wallpaper, swapping out lighting fixtures and upgrading hardware. Tip: If you’re tight on budget or timeline, find creative ways to repurpose what you already own. AFTERCourtesy of Kerrie KellyLumbar Throw Pillow CognacCredit: TargetArea RugCredit: SARRANTFaux Leather BenchCredit: HomepopTo save money, Kelly decided to stick with the couple’s original bed frame. She put it on an entirely different wall, making the space almost unrecognizable. She also elevated the look with a headboard wall, adding trim pieces for architectural design and painting the accent wall in Sherwin-Williams’ Grizzle Gray SW 7068. She placed a bench at the foot of the bed, increased the height of the curtains to create a sense of drama and layered in textures with throw pillows. BEFORE & AFTER: THE WALK-IN CLOSETCourtesy of Kerrie KellyCourtesy of Kerrie KellyWhen Kelly realized that a refurbished vintage console table that was intended to be a statement piece of the bedroom wouldn’t arrive in time, she had to practice quick thinking. She kept the couple’s original dresser and, with money freed up in the budget, turned her attention to the walk-in closet — tapping into the expertise of the Good Housekeeping Institute and Good Housekeeping Senior Home Editor Monique Valeris for inspiration and advice. “Storing your clothes is important to keeping them looking their best,” said Valeris, who suggested that Jason and Jennifer start by editing their closet, donating unwanted items to a local thrift shop. To save time and energy, Kelly went with a white reach-in closet from the Container Store to achieve a custom look. She then added in decorative touches, like an accessory stand, to give the walk-in closet a “shoppable” feel.HOW TO EDIT YOUR CLOSET Pull everything out of your closet and put each item into one of three piles: keep, toss or donate.Categorize your collection by color. For example, arrange pieces from light to dark.For visual harmony and space-saving benefits, use a consistent thin hanger such as white wood or slim, non-slip black velvet wire hangers.Take advantage of vertical space. For example, place a rolling cart with pull-out baskets on the floor.Repurpose baskets and boxes to corral bulkier, less used items. Stream the full episode of Designer for a Day for free on the Very Local app, available on smart TVs (Roku, Amazon Fire TV) and mobile apps.Associate Lifestyle EditorAlyssa 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.This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

When you’re a DIY’er, nothing’s more satisfying than finding crafty ways to add personality to everyday items like handbags, blankets or holiday packages (’tis the season). One of our favorite ways to give humdrum items a little flair? Yarn tassels!As part of the GH Stitch Club’s goal to teach the joy of crochet, knitting, macramé and more to craft lovers, we’re sharing an easy step-by-step guide on how to make a yarn tassel. The video above is less than four minutes and explains exactly how to embellish all kinds of items with a simple yarn tassel. And the best part is that it doesn’t require a ton of time or money to bring this fun project to life. Only four basic supplies are needed — and you may even have some of them already at home. In addition to the video tutorial, follow the written instructions below for more details on the process. Related StoryHow to Make a Yarn TasselWhat You Need:YarnCardboard Scissorspet hair brush (or any brush) Step 1: Cut your cardboard. Cut the piece of cardboard into a rectangle. Make sure it’s the desired length of your tassel. Step 2: Wrap the yarn.Wrap your yarn around the tallest part of your cardboard. Keep wrapping until you have the desired thickness for your tassel. Cut the end when finished. Step 3: Secure the tassel.Cut a small piece of yarn from the ball and tuck it underneath your tassel. Tie it into a knot at the top to keep everything secure.Tip: Make sure your knot is tight so nothing unravels. Step 4: Remove the cardboard.Cut the bottom threads so the tassel is no longer attached to the cardboard. Step 5: Make another knot.Take another piece of yarn from the ball. Wrap it around the tassel about one inch down and tie a knot. Step 6: Fluff the ends and cut.After trimming the ends, use a pet hair brush (or any brush you have on hand) to fluff up the fibers. Depending on the yarn you use, the results will be different. If preferred, do one last trim for a cleaner look. Tip: We’re using rover yarn: a thick, bulky yarn that is not twisted or plied.Assistant EditorMariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women’s Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master’s degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She’s also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work. This content is imported from OpenWeb. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. More

Countertops might be the most important element of kitchen design. Hear us out: Not only do you interact with them every day, but they’re one of the first things a person notices when they walk into the space, making them a key focal point. “The countertop is also one of the few continuous materials in the kitchen, so it goes a long way toward tying the room together,” says Carrie Schulz, head of design at Block Renovation, a service that streamlines the planning, designing and building process for homeowners.At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we’ve been testing countertops for a long, long time. In fact, way back in 1908, based on experiences in the Experiment Station (a precursor to the Good Housekeeping Institute), our early experts persuaded a builder to install its kitchen counters at a comfortable height of 36 inches, establishing a standard still used today.For this report, our experts pulled together a list of the six best countertops available now, based on our latest tests, as well as insights from designers, installers and other pros in the field. There are many other options to choose from — glass, concrete and stainless steel, to name a few — but the process is daunting enough without these niche materials causing more second guessing.More From Good Housekeeping Besides being integral to kitchen design, countertops aren’t the kinds of things you swap out frequently. Choose wisely, and they’ll serve you well for as long as you live in in your home. QuartzLight, bright quartz countertops can make a kitchen feel more expansive.John KeebleA favorite of our experts, this engineered stone is named after its principal ingredient, quartz, which is held together by polymer resins. The result is an exceptionally durable, low-maintenance material that’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including those that resemble natural stone. Invented in Italy in 1977, quartz has emerged as a top countertop choice only in the last decade or so. “We’ve had it installed in the Good Housekeeping Institute Labs for 15 years now, with no signs of wearing,” says Rachel Rothman, executive technical director at the GH Institute. New quartz countertops from Cosentino and Caesarstone won 2022 Good Housekeeping Home Renovation awards, the former for interior use and the latter for outdoor applications. One caveat: Although quartz is extremely hard-wearing, its edges and corners can chip, so be careful with heavy pots and pans; choosing a rounded edge can also help reduce the chance of chipping. ProsLow-maintenanceWide range of colors and patternsNo sealing requiredConsSquare edges are prone to chippingHighest-grade lines are priceyCost: $60 to $230 per square foot, installed. (Note that the wide price range is due to the different available grades, from low to mid to high quality.)Use and care: One of the best things about quartz is that it doesn’t need to be sealed. But you still need to wipe spills promptly and do an occasional deep-clean with a nonabrasive cleaner; Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab, likes Soft Scrub Gel with Bleach Cleaner.GraniteGranite countertops remain popular in traditional-style homes. JamesBreyThough its prevalence has waned some since the granite heyday of the 1990s and 2010s, this natural stone remains popular, especially in traditional-style homes. It comes in an array of colors, from blue pearl to Vyara gold, and its pattern can be flecked, speckled or veined. As with any natural stone, uniqueness is a big part of the allure, since no two slabs are the same. “In our tests, granite has fended off knife cuts, scratches and heat, making for a highly durable work surface,” says Alec Scherma, test engineer at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Sealed granite is also stain-resistant. But as with quartz, edges and corners can chip, so it’s worth considering a rounded edge if your kitchen gets a lot of use.ProsExtremely durableNatural beautyComes in a rich array of colorsConsNot as popular as in the pastNeeds sealing to be stain-resistantCost: $50 to $130 per square foot, installed.Use and care: Wipe counters with a nonabrasive sponge or cloth dipped in warm water and mild dishwashing liquid. Once a year, apply a spray-on sealant, following the manufacturer’s instructions. After allowing the sealant ample time to dry, buff the counter with a dry cloth.MarbleDistinctive veining is a hallmark of marble countertops.PBNJ ProductionsThis classic building material is synonymous with luxury, and it remains in fashion today, thanks in part to the enduring popularity of all-white kitchens. You can also find marble slabs in other colors, including captivating greens, reds and blues. Marble’s biggest differentiator is its incredible veining, which can bring mesmerizing pattern play to the kitchen. On the other hand, marble is a soft, porous material, meaning it stains and scratches easily. Some people are OK with this and think of the blemishes as a patina. But if you want your pure-white marble countertops to stay that way, you’ll need to be extremely fastidious. ProsConveys enduring luxuryDeep veining and pattern playMakes for an excellent baking stationConsProne to staining and scratchingVery expensiveCost: $70 to $130 per square foot, installed.Use and care: Because marble stains easily, treating it at least once a year with a food-grade penetrating sealer will provide some measure of protection. (When a drop of water soaks in, it’s time to reseal.) Marble also chips and scratches easily, so be sure to use trivets under heavy pots and pans.LaminateLaminate is a less-expensive way to give the kitchen a face-lift.AlphotographicDeveloped by Formica, decorative laminate was first used as a tabletop surface in restaurants, cafes and nightclubs of the 1930s. Then, it took off in kitchens in the 1950s with the rise of graphic patterns. It’s still in vogue today, especially with homeowners who are going for a retro, mid-century modern look. The biggest upside to laminate is its low cost. Laminate is also excellent at resisting stains, impact and heat. Keep in mind it clearly looks like a synthetic material (most versions have a colored top layer over a dark base, which shows at the edges). It also has seams, which can be unsightly and are also a source of potential water penetration, especially if installation isn’t just right.ProsExcellent valueRetro appealResists stains, impact and heatConsLooks synthetic, even natural patternsSeams can lead to water penetration Cost: $40 to $80 per square foot, installed.Use and care: Though laminate will generally fend off stains, it scratches easily, so always use a cutting board while working in the kitchen. Self-cleaning waxes made for cars can heighten the shine on dull laminate countertops.WoodButcher-block countertops offer a naturalistic look.Andreas von EinsiedelAnother timeless material, wood has been used as a work surface in kitchens for centuries. It became a go-to countertop material in the 1970s with the emergence of butcher block, a chopping-friendly surface made of bonded-together strips of maple or another hardwood. Nowadays, you might also see wood countertops made of less-familiar species, like teak and mahogany.ProsNatural warmth and beautyExcellent surface for chopping and meal prepCan last indefinitely if properly maintainedConsMonthly treatments requiredDings easilyCost: $30 to $170 per square foot, installed.Use and care: Treated butcher block can last for decades. To prevent cracking, apply a monthly coating of food-grade mineral oil, like GH Seal Star Furniture Clinic Wood Cutting Board Oil. Let it penetrate overnight, then buff with a cloth.PorcelainPorcelain can bring a unique beauty to kitchen countertops. CrossvilleThis material is a relative newcomer to the countertop category, but we’re including it in this roundup because it’s fast becoming a favorite of designers and homeowners alike. Made from fine, dense clay and fired at a high temperature, porcelain is nonporous and exceptionally hard, making it durable and easy to maintain. It comes in large-format tiles and panels, allowing for countertops with a clean, contemporary look and minimal seams or grout lines. Crossville porcelain tile panels by Laminam were named a winner in Good Housekeeping’s 2022 Home Renovation Awards on the strength of those attributes. ProsExtremely hard-wearingLow-maintenanceTrendy “newcomer” appealConsProne to chipping and crackingOn the pricey sideCost: $70 to $130 per square foot, installed.Use and care: The glaze on porcelain countertops means they don’t need to be sealed. For daily maintenance and cleaning, use hot water and a mild dish soap applied with a soft cloth. Despite its strength, some porcelain is prone to cracking and chipping, especially ultracompact panels, so be careful not to drop heavy items on it.How we choose the best countertopsOur experts deploy a range of Lab tests to measure countertop performance. To assess stain resistance, they slather stubborn ingredients, such as wine, mustard and chocolate, onto countertop samples, let them dry and then remove them with paper towels and all-purpose cleaner. A tester removes dried-on wine, ketchup, chocolate and mustard from a porcelain countertop sample to measure its stain resistance.Philip FriedmanOur experts use an abrasion machine to determine each material’s ability to fend off scratches; top products can withstand hundreds of passes with a fine-grit sandpaper wheel without any signs of distress. An impact machine is used to determine a countertop’s ability to withstand dents and dings, like those from a falling cast-iron pan. Over the decades, we’ve also installed various countertops in our labs and the homes of our experts, which enables us to assess performance, longevity and maintenance in real-world conditions.Although quartz is extremely durable, it can chip at the edges, as one of our testers learned from a prolonged at-home evaluation.Dan DiClerico/Good Housekeeping Institute In addition to comprehensive testing, our experts keep tabs on the countertop market by attending trade shows and industry events, including Surfaces and the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. We also check in regularly with the design community, as well as contractors, fabricators and installers, to stay ahead of design trends and issues related to the supply chain and labor market. What to consider when choosing countertops for your homeIt’s natural to focus on looks when choosing a new kitchen countertop, but there are other factors to consider too. Schulz talks about the three-legged stool of aesthetics, functionality and cost when zeroing in on the perfect countertop material. “You want to make sure the countertop will fit into your budget before you fall in love with it,” she says. “How the material wears and how hard you’ll have to work to keep it looking new are also key to the decision process.”Here are more expert insights into those three key factors:✔️ Aesthetics: Our experts say it’s best to ignore trends and choose the pattern and color that you love the most. But if you think you might be selling your home soon, it pays to stay close to current design trends. Light, neutral hues with minimal pattern play continue to curry favor, which has helped drive interest to quartz. “A lot of homeowners still want to keep it simple and clean,” Schulz says. For those looking to make more of a statement with their countertops, materials with dramatic veining, including marble and other natural stones, are a popular choice.If you go the dramatic route, it’s important to work closely with your installer on the placement and positioning of adjoining slabs so that veining lines up. “If you end up with a pattern mismatch, it will drive you crazy every day,” Schulz says.Don’t forget about the backsplash, since it’s another strong visual element in the kitchen. Whereas subway tile and other contrasting surfaces still have their place, many homeowners are now choosing to use the same material from the countertop up the backsplash, creating a sense of continuity and cohesion. ✔️ Care and maintenance: Think about the porosity of the countertop and the finish. A nonporous material with a polished finish is unlikely to absorb anything, making it stain-resistant. Honed finishes, in which the surface has been ground down to give the countertop a softer, matte feel, require a bit more care, but you might be willing to put up with that for the softer feel and reduction in glare. A porous material like marble with a honed finish will require near-obsessive upkeep (regular sealings throughout the year, lightning-fast cleanup of spills, treatment of etch marks with a special poultice, etc.) to keep the surface looking new. Bottom line: Do you want to fuss over your countertops or keep maintenance mainly to a daily wipe down?✔️ Cost: Most homeowners spend about $3,000 on the installation of new countertops, according to Angi, the home services marketplace. But the price tag can go as high as $8,000 (and even higher for imported materials, like calacatta marble from Italy or a Van Gogh granite from Brazil) and as low as $400 for entry-level laminate. Of course, the actual cost depends on the size of the countertop, so it’s good to look at square-footage prices. You should expect to spend around $40 per square foot for affordable materials, like entry-level laminate and butcher block, and $150 or more per square foot for a rare natural stone or top-quality quartz. That doesn’t include edge treatments, which add another $5 per linear foot for a standard square edge, all the way up to $60 per linear foot for an S-shaped ogee, which adds decorative flair and also reduces the risk of chipping. Where are the best places to shop for kitchen countertops?If you’re working with an architect or a designer on a full kitchen remodel, they can help guide you through the shopping process. But if you’re managing the project on your own, you’ll need to do your own research. Keep in mind that the lead time on countertop deliveries can be several months, especially amid ongoing supply chain challenges. Here are three places to get a jump on the process:✔️ Home centers: Big-box retailers like The Home Depot and More