Home Ideas

If you don’t have spring break plans, you’re not alone. In a recent survey from Lowe’s, 70% of people responded that they don’t plan to take a leisure trip until late summer. That being said, the retailer wants to help consumers jazz up these next couple of months of warm weather by helping them turn their homes into the ultimate destination this spring.In April, Lowe’s will host SpringFest, a new home and garden experience that will feature special events, markdowns on our favorite warm-weather products, travel-inspired content, and more. Throughout the month, customers will be able to learn new skills through online and in-store demos in select stores. Think: lawn care maintenance with Scotts and paint demos with Sherwin-Williams. All events will follow safety and social distancing guidelines.In addition, Lowe’s will also be giving away free Garden-to-Go kits every Thursday in April starting on the 8th. To receive your complimentary kit, all you have to do is head on over to Lowes.com starting April 1st to reserve one. You can then pick it up the following Thursday during a special curbside event. There will be a different Garden-to-Go kit each week — two of which will come in unique packaging.

Available April 8, this Garden-to-Go kit includes a Bonnie Foodie Fresh Plant, 8-quart Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, 8-oz Miracle-Gro All Purpose Water Soluble Plant Food, globes and more.
Lowe’s

Lowe’s shared a few details about the four kits complimentary kits.The Garden-to-Go kit sponsored by Miracle-Gro, available on April 8, includes a Bonnie Foodie Fresh Plant, 8-quart Miracle-Gro Potting Mix, 8-oz Miracle-Gro All Purpose Water Soluble Plant Food, globes, and exclusive recipes from professional cook and food stylist Amanda Frederickson. The Lowe’s Mystery Garden Pinata by CAMP, available on April 15, includes a biodegradable flower pinata, mystery seed bombs, and mystery growfetti. On April 22, the Garden-to-Go kits include tree saplings given out in honor of Earth Day (species varies by region). Lowe’s by CAMP Butterfly Quest, available on April 29, includes wooden pieces to assemble and decorate, paint, a paintbrush and milkweed seeds to help families create a butterfly garden.

This pinata-themed Garden-to-Go kit, available on April 15, includes mystery seed bombs and mystery growfetti.
Lowe’s

This butterfly-themed Garden-to-Go kit, available on April 29th, has all the tools for families to make their own butterfly garden.
Lowe’s

Not a bad way to celebrate spring if you ask us. You can shop all of Lowe’s outdoor and spring-related products here.

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Your air fryer is probably one of your favorite kitchen appliances, and it comes in so handy to cook foods fast and without excessive oil, perhaps using recipes from Good Housekeeping’s Air Fryer Cookbook. Think about crisped-up fish sticks or chicken wings with no added oil, and perfect al dente zucchini noodles, and leftovers reheated to perfection.That said, air fryers need to be cleaned after every use. Even after using minimal or no added oil, food bits and grease can accumulate and cause your air fryer can smell, or even begin to smoke. Whether you use a basket-style or tray air fryer, here are some tips from the Good Housekeeping Institute to make cleaning it a breeze:How to clean your basket-style air fryerWhat you’ll need: Degreasing dish soap, like Good Housekeeping Seal star DawnSoft-bristled bottle brush, like Casabella’s Soft cloth, like Skura’s Reusable Microfiber Wipes, or paper towel, like Good Housekeeping Seal star BountyTurn off and unplug the air fryer, and allow it to cool completely. Pull out the drawer and remove the basket or tray. If your air fryer is dishwasher-safe, place the drawer and basket or tray, depending on what your air fryer has, upside down in the dishwasher, preferably on the top rack, if it fits. If using the dishwasher is not an option, wash the removable parts in warm soapy water and use the brush to scrub off gunk and get into the vents and nooks and crannies of the tray while protecting the metal or nonstick finish. Rinse well and dry.Wipe down the bottom interior of the air fryer, as well as the exterior, with a damp cloth or paper towel. Replace the basket once clean.GH Lab Tip: Use the top rack of the dishwasher (space-permitting) where it is further away from heat and is exposed to gentler water jets – this will help the nonstick finish last longer. How to clean an oven-style air fryer What you’ll need: Degreasing dish soapSoft-bristled bottle brushSoft cloth or paper towelTurn off and unplug the air fryer, and allow it to cool completely.Remove the racks and either use the dishwasher to clean them, or hand wash them in warm soapy water using your dish brush to scrub away grease and food bits. Rinse well and dry.Empty any oil from the drip tray – but don’t flush it down the sink. The tray can be placed upside down in the dishwasher to clean it, or hand wash it, then rinse it well and dry.Wipe down the bottom interior of the air fryer, as well as the exterior, with a damp cloth or paper towel. Replace the trays once clean.GH Lab Tip: If the drawer or drip tray has any oil in the bottom, don’t flush it down the kitchen sink. Instead, empty it into a can or small jar and keep the container in the fridge to throw away when it’s full.How to deep clean your air fryerIf you accidentally overstuffed your air fryer (or cooked something extra splattery), you might have gunked up the heating element. If your air fryer smells bad while you’re cooking, or starts to smoke, there’s probably baked-on residue on or near the heating element. What you’ll need:½ cup of baking sodaA few tablespoons of water to make a pasteSoft dishcloth or paper towelsRemove the basket or racks first, and clean them.Leave it upright so any bits of gunk you brush off will fall onto the bottom of the interior and not get caught in the mesh, heating element or fan at the top. Use a clean, dry, soft-bristled brush to scrub and release burned-on bits from the mesh covering the heating element, and wipe with a damp clean cloth or paper towel. Then, turn the air fryer upside down to make it easier to clean the heating element.Use the baking soda paste and a soft damp cloth, and gently scrub away the grime.Rinse the cloth with water, wring it out and wipe away the residue. Flip the air fryer right-side up and replace the clean basket and/or trays.GH Lab Tip: Overfilling the air fryer will almost certainly guarantee the heating element will need cleaning. To prevent this chore, make sure the quantity of food you’re cooking at one time doesn’t exceed the amount that’s recommended for your model of air fryer.

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Making the decision to own a home is a major commitment. Once you’ve moved into your dream property, completed any renovations (a standout kitchen is a must!), and executed your decorating plans, you still have to consider the routine upkeep that’s necessary to ensure it looks its best for years to come. And it’s not just about aesthetics. There are certain measures all homeowners should take to guarantee that their families remain safe in any property they live in. Regular maintenance, involving tasks that need to be handled monthly and annually, should not be overlooked. Whether it’s getting into the habit of examining electrical systems, removing debris from gutters, or hiring a professional to inspect your roof once a year, investing the time and money to maintain a polished property can save you headaches in the long run. To get you started, here’s a thorough home maintenance checklist to protect one of the biggest assets you own. What to Handle Monthly:Test carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers, which should be kept on every floor at a minimum. Clean your garbage disposal.Unclog bathtub and sink drains throughout your home. Deep clean dishwasher (be sure to remove and wash the filter, too). Clean range hood and furnace filters.Deep clean washer and clothes dryer, including the chamber where the filter sits. (Also, keep in mind that your dryer’s lint filter should be cleaned after every load. Its vent should be cleaned every six months to a year, depending on use.)What to Handle Annually: Maintain quarterly appointments with an exterminator to keep your home pest-free.Clean your bathroom’s exhaust fan grill to avoid dust from building up.Check all radiators and surrounding pipes for leaks or cracks. [image id=’328d2780-fd02-4d08-9da9-81247394b6ca’ mediaId=’535e56d5-ecb8-4b19-81fd-dc468c659f09′ align=’center’ size=’medium’ share=’false’ caption=” expand=” crop=’1×1′][/image]See below for what areas of your home you should be checking in on each season.Spring:In early spring, clean your lawn and take the time to remove dead foliage, weeds, and debris as well as prune your trees. Evaluate exterior siding to determine if repairs or replacements are needed.Hire a professional for a chimney safety check and cleaning.Service your air conditioning system. Upgrade faulty windows and replace with energy-efficient designs.To avoid water damage, re-apply caulk to bathtub, shower, and sink. Summer: Seal any exterior cracks in stucco, windows, and doors and touch up exterior paint.Walk around the deck to make sure wood and nails are in good shape. Tend to your lawn as needed — consider the Good Housekeeping Institute’s lawn mower recommendations. Fall: In early fall, you should bleed your radiator — remove any trapped air from it — to make sure it works well. Make appointment to have your roof inspected.Clear rain gutters to prevent water backup.Drain hot water from the hot water heater, as it can help clear any debris. Service heating systems/furnaces.In late fall, schedule an irrigation inspection. This will involve checking lawn sprinklers to make sure they’re focused on your garden rather than your home’s exterior, which can lead to wood damage.Winter: Inspect basement and attic for pests and leaks. Vacuum refrigerator coils to remove dust and dirt. Insulate exterior pipes in basement and garage to prevent freezing. Upgrade winter storm essentials, including your generator, flashlights, and snow shovels.
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A great craft for kids and adults to try their hands at this spring are these adorable origami bunnies. Not only are they easy to make, but they are super cute and will make adorable decorations anytime this season — especially for Easter. In our video tutorial above, you’ll get step-by-step instructions on how to DIY paper rabbits. By the end, your furry friend will have floppy ears and a little bunny tail.After you’ve made three or so, you can use them as decor for a table, mantel, or just about any room in the house. We used pastel hues, but feel free to use any color paper you’d like to go with your decor. And when you’re done making these little critters, try your hand at paper Easter eggs. How to Make Paper Origami Bunny Rabbits:Fold your paper diagonally and fold the top corner to the bottom. Make sure to create a deep crease.Take the right corner and fold it down to the bottom corner. Repeat on the left side.Bring the left and right corners to the center. Giving each a deep crease. Fold the left and right inner flaps to the outer edges of the paper.Unfold the right flap and open it up. Make sure each side of the right flap has two pieces of paper. Then, stick your finger inside to fold the flap down. Repeat on the left side.Flip your shape over and fold it in half vertically, and then turn it so the flat line is on top.On the right side, you should have a loose flap, which you’ll fold over to the left side.Flip your shape over, and fold the left-side flap over to the right side.Fold that flap in half into itself.Flip the shape over and do the same thing on the other side.Fold the front flap over the ear line. Make sure you press hard to get a crease. And then unfold. Flip over and do the same thing on the other side.Now comes the tricky part of making the face and tail. For the detailed instructions on how to complete your bunny, watch the video above!

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Your dishwasher is constantly cleaning, so it must be one of the most pristine appliances in your home, right? Not quite. With regular use, your machine—and its hidden parts—accumulates bits of food, grease, limescale (that chalky-looking film you see as a result of hard water), and undissolved detergent. These things can interfere with how well it cleans, says Lynn Redmile, Testing and Product Review Analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Cleaning Lab.Thankfully, with a few simple strategies and the right products, taking care of your machine is easy. Here’s what the experts recommend.Once per month, use dishwasher cleaner to remove grease build-up and mineral deposits.[product contentProductId=’a1c0ed14-22f8-46ea-abe8-49b90564800f’ mediaId=’fcd4fd2b-62c6-4eeb-b861-945e1c226215′ align=’right’ size=’small’][/product]As mentioned, build-up of any kind can result in your dishes not being cleaned properly or lead to food residue, which can make your dishwasher smelly and unhygienic.To combat this, use a dishwasher cleaner, like Finish® Dishwasher Cleaner Liquid, approximately once per month, says Redmile. The process is low-effort—simply use as directed: Set an empty machine to the hottest cycle, remove the sticker on top of the bottle’s cap and turn it upside-down on the lowest rack, close the door, and start the dishwasher. As the cycle runs, the cleaning solution tackles all of that built up grease and limescale—even on hard-to-reach parts of the machine, like the filters, spray arms, and pipes.Scrape or wipe items before loading.[image id=’d92c0e9a-4246-4afe-ac83-71c75aca0628′ mediaId=’62e95079-64b2-41b8-b7f6-2dfbde9f6d6f’ align=’center’ size=’medium’ share=’false’ caption=” expand=” crop=’1×1′][/image]Simply scrape off any remaining food from your dishes—there’s usually no need to pre-rinse if using a high-quality detergent, like Finish QUANTUM. This step dislodges any bits of food that were hanging on before items go into the dishwasher, where detergent takes care of the rest.Face all items toward the center where the spray is strongest. As a general rule of thumb, always position the dirty side of any dish down or to the center of the machine to ensure that water can reach and effectively clean it, says Redmile. To load the machine properly, plates should go on the bottom rack with the dirty surfaces angled where the water spray is strongest, usually the center of the rack. Pots, pans, and casseroles should also go on the bottom rack, angled down for the best cleaning results. Glasses should go on the top rack and between the rack tines—not over them—to minimize water spotting and to prevent them from breaking. If your dishwasher has a flatware basket, place forks with the tines facing up, knives with the blade down, and spoons alternating, so they don’t nest into each other.Avoid overlapping items or blocking the spray arms.[image id=’2d799952-9385-4d87-bc49-cd5c3fb2f40b’ mediaId=’425a49f2-fc7d-4455-810c-016b3a1525dd’ align=’center’ size=’medium’ share=’false’ caption=” expand=” crop=’1×1′][/image]As tempting as it may be to cram dishes into the dishwasher that won’t fit, resist the urge. You should never stack items, because the water spray won’t be able to reach (or clean) the dish that’s on top, says Carolyn Forte, Director of Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Appliances and Cleaning Products Lab. Remember: “If the water can’t reach it, it won’t get clean,” she explains.Regularly clean the filter. If your dishwasher’s filter isn’t clean, you’ll have trouble getting your dishes as clean as they could be, says Redmile. And luckily, it’s not too hard to do. The easiest way to keep it clean is with regular use of a dishwasher cleaner, like Finish. But in between deep cleanings make it a habit of pulling out the bottom rack to look for and remove any leftover food that may have fallen into the well below the lower spray arm. It’s also a good idea—if your dishwasher has a removable filter—to give it a quick check from time to time. On most models, simply unlock and remove it (usually found below the bottom spray arm, though your owner’s manual can direct you further) and rinse it under hot running water, says Forte. Then, go over the mesh screen and plastic frame with a sponge or soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to remove any grease or particles stuck in the crevices. Then, just lock it back into place.Before calling it quits, you should also wipe around the door’s edges and rubber gasket with a wet cloth or sponge to ensure no grease or food particles are left behind, says Redmile.
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Clorox 2 for Colors Laundry Stain Remover and Color Booster
target.com

Living is messy business, and stains are nearly impossible to avoid. We all have that thing we do that results in a splatter or smudge — don’t deny it!
Whether you’re the one who is regularly taste testing in the kitchen (and dripping on that apron), or wrangling the dog in the backyard (with the grassy knees to prove it), there’s an easy trick that’ll tackle your signature stain: Clorox 2® for Colors Stain Remover & Color Brightener. Watch the video above to see how it works to keep your clothes clean after any muddy moment.
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Freeing up space and organizing closets, drawers and other cluttered rooms and spaces can sometimes be so overwhelming, especially in today’s busy world. Even if you’re able to put in the extra effort it takes to clean your home, spaces that are disorganized rarely feel clean. And it’s no secret that a more organized home improves the wellbeing of everyone who lives there. That’s why organizing tips, ideas, inspirations, and stories are among Good Housekeeping’s most popular, and with that in mind, we set out to find the best, most useful, most innovative, and most well-designed organizing products, tools and devices.
Meet the Experts

How We Tested
To select these 34 top-performing products for our first Good Housekeeping Storage Awards, our experts sorted, stacked and sifted through over 140 submissions from the world of organizing products to assess performance, durability, flexibility, versatility, ease of use, aesthetics, size and other criteria. We looked at organizers both big and small — for closets, garages, home office, kids’ supplies and artwork, shoes and accessories, photos, travel, kitchen supplies and food storage and beyond. With over 60 combined years of testing experience in the Good Housekeeping Institute and organizing know-how, you can trust that we can spot a great organizer when we see it!
Super-Streamlined Kitchen

Top-Shelf Sorter
3-Tier Organizer
Copco amazon.com
$8.99

Stop struggling to see what’s way in the back of your pantry. At 10 or 15 inches wide, Copco’s tiered stand gives cans, bottles and spices a lift so everything on a shelf is easy to spot and grab.
LAB RESULTS: Nonslip treads help items stay securely in place. And it’s a cinch to wipe clean.

Brilliant Baking Tools
Nest 9 Plus Bowl Set
Joseph Joseph amazon.com
$50.00
$32.49 (35% off)

Our judges loved this space-saving Joseph Joseph stack of nesting cooking essentials. The set includes a large bowl, a small bowl, a colander, a sieve, measuring cups and a tablespoon, and it comes in different colors.
LAB RESULTS: Every piece was designed for maximum usefulness, and the set won’t hog storage space. In tests, the mixing bowl handles doubled as pouring spouts.

Hold-It-All Cookware Rack
StoreMore Adjustable Cookware Rack
YouCopia amazon.com
$24.47

Sheet pans, trays and lids can make organizing bakeware and cookware a real challenge. With YouCopia’s adaptable rack, you place the wire dividers where you need them.
LAB RESULTS: Its slim frame is sturdy, and the nonslip feet keep it in place when you remove or replace items.

Stylish Stacking Bins
Vertica Wire Stacking Bin
Container Store containerstore.com
$18.99

These attractive, durable baskets from The Container Store are perfect in the pantry or pretty on the counter for holding fruit, veggies, snacks and more.
LAB RESULTS: The large openings make the contents grabbable without unstacking, and the bins can be used all around the home.

Fridge All-Stars

Stellar Spinner
FridgeView Turntable with Non-Slip Mat
YouCopia amazon.com
$19.09

YouCopia’s turntable keeps sauces, snacks and fridge and pantry items within reach. Or use it under a bathroom sink for toiletries or on a desk for supplies. 
LAB RESULTS: Its removable nonslip mat and its rim keep everything in place as it turns, and at 11 inches wide, it holds a lot.

Better Bin
Storage Organizer Bin
Copco amazon.com
$13.99

Clear bins are an organizing must-have, and this Copco one is a winner. Use it in — or on top of —the fridge, in a pantry, in a closet or wherever you need order.  
LAB RESULTS: Seeing inside it is effortless; a nonslip mat adds stability; handles make it grabbable. 

Slim and Trim Caddy
RollOut Fridge Caddy
YouCopia amazon.com
$14.99

At only six inches wide, YouCopia’s wheeled caddy brings items from the back of the fridge (or in deep, narrow cabinets) front and center.
LAB RESULTS: The adjustable dividers keep things organized and in place. There are handles for lifting the entire container and non-slip feet up front for stability. 

Smart & Sustainable Food Fixers

Most Versatile Glass System
Brilliance Glass Set of 6
Rubbermaid target.com
$24.99

Nothing beats glass for food storage, but these gems from Rubbermaid do more. Airtight clear lids make stacking simple, and they eliminate messy leaks. Plus, they’re microwave-safe — just lift the latches to expose the vents.
LAB RESULTS: Their modular design makes organizing the fridge or freezer a breeze.

Super Dry Goods Saver
Good Grips 5-Piece Airtight POP Container Set
OXO amazon.com
$99.94

These are the clear space savers that started the pop-top canister craze. OXO has sizes to hold everything from cereal to snacks, beans, pasta and more. And they can be configured to fit any space on a pantry shelf. Buy them in sets or as single units.
LAB RESULTS: The no-twist push-button lid creates an airtight seal when you press it down; just pop it up to open. We love that you can attach a scoop underneath the lid — no more digging into the sugar to find the scoop!

Happy-Pet Food Bins
3-Piece Airtight Pet Food Storage Container Combo
IRIS USA, Inc. amazon.com
$27.99
$24.99 (11% off)

Storing pet food in an airtight resealable container not only helps it last longer but also keeps insects and other critters out. Iris’s BPA-free combo includes 12- and 33-quart containers and a two-cup scoop.
LAB RESULTS: The large bin holds about 25 lbs of food and is on wheels, so it’s maneuverable, and the locking lids prevent spills.

Take-It-Anywhere Food Keeper
Twist and Seal 5 Piece Dry Storage Set
Zyliss amazon.com
$49.99
$35.99 (28% off)

Zyliss’s see-through containers have unique twist-locking lids for an airtight seal. They’re stackable and neat to tote, and their rounded edges ensure mess-free pouring.
LAB RESULTS: They are dishwasher-safe. In tests, they stayed well-sealed and were fast to clean.

Genius Grocery Bags
Trolley Bags 4-piece
Lotus Sustainables amazon.com
$49.99

These machine-washable Lotus bags (including a hand-washable insulated cooler bag) attach  together and hang like file folders in your cart. They keep your haul sorted while you shop and check out, then roll neatly to be tucked into your car trunk.
LAB RESULTS: Each durable bag has pockets, holds more than most reusable bags and helps eliminate plastic and paper grocery bags. They can even be used without rods for a picnic or a day at the beach.

Best Reusable Bag
Mega Reusable Silicone Stand-Up Bag
Stasher amazon.com
$29.99

Who needs a lid? Stasher’s easy-to-clean, reusable silicone bag stands up while you fill it, and seals with just a pinch. It’s especially good for keeping cleaned salad greens and herbs fresh.
LAB RESULTS: Airtight, leak-free (if sealed correctly) and microwave-safe, it also comes in smaller sizes.

Wow-Worthy Closet Tools

Superior Shoe Organizer
Over the Door Shoe Organizer
Made By Design target.com
$20.00

Twenty-six see-through mesh compartments in Target’s hanging organizer keep shoes (even larger sizes) paired and off the floor. Or, use it for storing scarves, knit hats, gloves, clutch purses and more.
LAB RESULTS: Hanging the unit and filling the pockets is so straightforward, you’ll want one in every bedroom. 

Customizable Storage Rack
Adjustable Wall and Door Rack
ClosetMaid amazon.com
$64.28
$33.99 (47% off)

Mount this ClosetMaid rack on a wall or hang it over a door for installation. Use it in a linen closet, bathroom, bedroom or pantry. One tester raved, “It’s a game changer!”
LAB RESULTS: We found it no problem to set up, and the deep and shallow baskets can be placed with any spacing you choose for a custom fit.

Coolest Accessory Case
Hanging Organizer for Glasses and Jewelry
Great Useful Stuff amazon.com
$41.99

This Great Useful Stuff hanging space saver frees dresser and drawer space. It holds up to eight pairs of sunglasses and has 16 pockets on the back for jewelry and other small items.
LAB RESULTS: We like that it does double duty and gets bulky glass cases out of crowded drawers.

Masterful Closet System
Elfa Classic 6′ Closet Kit
Container Store containerstore.com
$375.20

Big or small — Elfa’s system allows you to create the closet of your dreams with shelving, rod, drawer and accessory solutions for nearly every budget and type of space.
LAB RESULTS: Elfa’s easy-to-install, customizable system is always a winner in GH tests. It’s so versatile.

Gold Medal Jewelry Box
Stackers Premium Stackable Jewelry Box
Container Store containerstore.com
$27.99

Add as many trays as you need to store gems and other precious pieces neatly and safely in this velvet-lined jewelry box. Trays vary in depth and design to suit your needs.
LAB RESULTS: We like the flexibility of this system over other jewelry boxes. Store the layers in drawers or pack them in a suitcase for travel.

Under-Sink Space Savers

Versatile Turntable
Non-Skid Under Sink Organizer
Copco amazon.com
$21.99

Under-sink cabinets can feel like black holes: Who knows what’s back there? Copco’s 18-inch turntable puts frequently used cleaners and tools within reach.
LAB RESULTS: Its nonslip liner and high sides mean things stay put while you spin it. Side handles make it quick to lift out.  

Convenient Caddy
RollOut Under Sink Caddy
YouCopia amazon.com
$29.99

Reaching deep into a cabinet can be challenging, especially under a sink. With items on wheels, you won’t lose anything again.
LAB RESULTS: YouCopia’s dividers are adjustable for a custom fit, and the high sides add stability. The extra basket on the back is removable. 

Sensational Family Gear

Easy Peasy Photo Books
Monthly Mini Softcover Photo Books
Chatbooks chatbooks.com
$5.00

With a monthly subscription, Chatbooks creates a kid-friendly mini book of 30 images each month. Just choose your fave photos from your phone’s camera roll and upload them to the app (iOS and Android only). Other book options are available.
LAB RESULTS: Our testers confirmed that the printing is high-quality; they suggest upgrading to the hardcover option for long-lasting results.

Fan Favorite Kids’ Table
Flisat Children’s Table
IKEA ikea.com
$49.99

We love this versatile IKEA kids’ table and stool set. Use it as a sensory table, convert it into a LEGO tabletop building center or use it as an arts and crafts station. It’s so versatile, everyone will want to be at the kids’ table!
LAB RESULTS: Add the Trofast accessory storage bins that fit under the top, and you’ll have space to stash toys and craft supplies that kids can grab when they want them and (hopefully) put back when they’re done.

Parent-Friendly Tote Organizer
Original Bag Organizer
ToteSavvy totesavvy.com
$65.00

This ToteSavvy removable organizer, with many pockets and a washable changing mat, keeps baby supplies close at hand. It opens flat so it can be packed and unpacked easily, then folds to fit in your tote.
LAB RESULTS: It has an insulated pocket to help keep a bottle warm or cool, and the open-pocket design lets you see inside without digging.

Hardworking Command Center
The Brooke Command Center
1Thrive 1thrive.com
$169.00

A low-tech message solution, the 1Thrive wet-erase board and corkboard will help organize your family’s menus, homework, chore reminders and more. Plus, it keeps important papers handy.
LAB RESULTS: Smooth to set up and customize, it lets you choose a vertical or horizontal layout and add accessories, including hooks for keys and more.

Superb Artwork Collector
Artwork Book or Mosaic
Artkive ArtkiveApp.com
$95.00

What parent doesn’t want to save all their kid’s artful creations? But there isn’t space. Enter ArtKive. The company sends you a box to fill with your child’s drawings. Then it professionally photographs them and has you proof the images before turning them into a hardcover book.
LAB RESULTS: Digital images are shared with you, and the books are not hard to store.

Multitasking Marvels

Beautiful Basket Tower
Harbor 3-Tier Floor Standing Storage Basket
Gourmet Basics by Mikasa amazon.com
$79.99
$69.74 (13% off)

Mikasa’s freestanding baskets are so pretty, you’ll want them for fruits, veggies, hand towels, pet toys and more.
LAB RESULTS: It’s simple to set up, has a small footprint and baskets are removable for greater flexibility.

Ingenious Swivel Hooks
Good Grips 3-Piece ClipHanger Set
OXO amazon.com
$9.99

You’ll find many uses for OXO’s clip hooks, like hanging kitchen towels or other wet items to dry.
LAB RESULTS: The nonslip grip holds heavy items, and the hook swivels to any angle. 

Unbeatable Clear Drawers
Acrylic Case 3 Drawer
MUJI muji.us
$28.00

These see-through Muji drawers are ideal for stashing mail and items like journals and stationery.
LAB RESULTS :They stack easily and slide in and out smoothly.

Great Roving Cart
12-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart
Honey-Can-Do amazon.com
$90.00
$66.67 (26% off)

There’s plenty of space in Honey-Can-Do’s 12 plastic drawers for all your craft, office and art supplies, and the top is a work surface too.
LAB RESULTS: It takes less than five minutes to assemble. 

Genius Gadgets

Ultimate Label Maker
Pt-D202 Home Personal Label Maker
Brother amazon.com
$51.30

Any organizing pro will agree that a label maker is a must-have. Use Brother’s machine to label pantry bins, storage containers of holiday decor, file cabinets and even leftovers.
LAB RESULTS: We found it quick to set up and were wowed by its many custom font and layout options.

Smart Scheduler
Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) with Motion
Amazon amazon.com
$249.99

Access your grocery and to-do lists, get appointment reminders and manage smart home devices like lights and thermostats right on the Echo or with voice commands. Its great sound and 10-inch HD swivel screen (an upgrade from the Echo Show 8 we featured in our print magazine) make viewing and chatting a pleasure.
LAB RESULTS: We love that this simple-to-use all-in-one device helps you organize your life and enjoy it, as it allows for movies, musical entertainment and video calls.

Double-Duty Valet Charger
CATCH:3
COURANT staycourant.com
$175.00

This elegant powered tray is the perfect addition to a nightstand or an entry table. Unlike most wireless chargers, the Courant has a valet section for corralling small items like jewelry and earbuds, and it comes in an assortment of pretty colors.
LAB RESULTS: Our testers liked the idea of one product that would tackle more than one clutter issue, and this does that nicely. No more misplaced keys!

Multi-Device Charging Station
Original Multi-Charging Station
Great Useful Stuff amazon.com
$39.99

Corral messy tech clutter with this Great Useful Stuff vertical charging station. It holds up to three phones and two laptops or tablets, and comes in many colors and finishes.
LAB RESULTS: Our tech experts were impressed by its ability to hold large devices and how it kept phone alerts visible and cords neatly stashed for tangle-free charging.

Neatest Cord Bundlers
Cord Bundlers
Command walmart.com
$5.48

Cords for lamps, electronics and appliances can become a tangled mess, not to mention a tripping hazard. These holders keep them tidy and off the floor or counter. They secure to a wall with Command’s adhesive backing, which holds well and can be cleanly removed.
LAB RESULTS: These nifty bundlers work for most cord sizes and won’t ruin your paint job when you take them off the wall. More

As part of our new GH Stitch Club, we’re showing beginners all the basic techniques for knitting! And the first thing you need to do to get started on any project (FYI: we have a bunch of great options to choose from here), is to learn how to cast on a.k.a place your stitches on your needle.

Join the Good Housekeeping Stitch Club

There are a few different techniques for casting on, including provisional, frilled and long tail, but we advise using the backwards loop method as seen in the video above, especially if this is your first knitting project.
It’s super simple and can be done in just a few of steps:
Step 1: Make a slip knot
Make a loop with your yarn and slip it on one of your needles. Then, tighten it just a bit, making sure it’s not too stiff.
Step 2: Cast On
Take your yarn and loop it around your thumb. Thread your needle underneath, and create a loop on your needle, again making sure it’s not too tight.
Step 3: Repeat
Depending on how many stitches your project requires, you’ll repeat step 2.
Before you know it, you’ll be on your way to knitting like a pro!

PICK YOUR PATTERN

Garter Knit Scarf
yarnspirations.com

Jiffy Cowl
yarnspirations.com

Chunky Crochet Beanie
yarnspirations.com

Twisted Crochet Headband
yarnspirations.com

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