Home Ideas

Reddit users are debating the right way to load plates into the dishwasher.Some face all their plates in one direction, while others place them so that the dirty side of the plates face the center of the machine.How do you load your dishes in the dishwasher?If you’ve ever lived with a few roommates or even a partner, you’ve probably debated the “right” way to do a number of household chores that you didn’t think twice about in the past. Whether it’s as simple as how to store mugs in a cabinet or the putting utensils in the dishwasher, there are always multiple methods to get the same job done—and plenty of ways to argue about it.After debating with a family member, @BarterBardTales took to Reddit to discuss the most effective way to load plates into the dishwasher. “Which is the proper way to load the dishwasher? I understand in the grand scheme of things this is trivial, but I’d like to know your opinions, in hopes it eases my mind,” they wrote in r/CleaningTips.All Plates Facing the Same DirectionThe Reddit user who started the thread shared a photo of how they load the dishwasher, with all plates and bowls facing the same direction, compared to how their family member loads it. While plenty agreed that they load it similarly, many mentioned their concern with how close the plates are to one another. Bohdan Bevz//Getty Images”Your way, but my instinct is to double-space the bowls. Looks a bit too tight for the water to pass through that stack,” wrote one user. “You need way more spacing. Skip a couple of rungs,” wrote another.Others had an entirely different concern, sharing that plates should actually face towards the center, meaning ones loaded on the left should face the ones loaded on the right so that all dirty surfaces are facing the sprayer in the middle of the dishwasher.Plates Facing the Center of the MachineOne user felt particularly passionate about all plates facing the center of the machine, claiming they called their manufacturer for proper details: “The food-contacting sides of plates should be facing the center of the dishwasher… so if you have a bunch of plates ( ( ( ( ( (, they should be put in like this: ( ( ( ) ) )”Hazal Ak//Getty ImagesWhile some users expressed their gratitude for this important tip, others shared they’ve been doing the same thing their whole lives. “The insides of plates should be facing inwards toward the nozzles,” wrote one user. “Face the plate eating surfaces towards the center for better spray,” shared another. The VerdictAs long as your plates are coming out of the dishwasher clean, there’s not too much to worry about. But if you’re wondering if there really is a “right” answer, we asked our experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute for their opinion.”While it’s always best to follow your dishwasher manufacturer’s loading guidelines, if they can go in either way (some racks only allow loading in one direction), it’s best to face the dirty surfaces toward the center for the best cleaning,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Home Care & Cleaning Lab.So if you don’t currently follow this technique and have noticed residue on certain items after running the dishwasher, you might want to give it a shot.More Dishwasher TipsLaura 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

Some nights, the sink garbage disposal might be the MVP of your kitchen. But there are several common items that cleaning pros say you shouldn’t put down your garbage disposal. Experts from the Good Housekeeping Institute have weighed in and told us what to keep out of the garbage disposal. While some might seem obvious, others may surprise you. The good news is that many of these no-go items can be tossed in the trash or composted instead before you put the plate in the dishwasher. Some scraps shouldn’t be put down the garbage disposal because they’re too hard for the blades to handle. Others are prone to creating blockages in your pipes, which can lead to a truly unpleasant situation — and a costly one if you need to have the appliance repaired. Keep reading for expert insight on which items should never be put in the garbage disposal.1. BonesThis one may seem obvious, but big bones from chicken carcasses, ribs and other animal proteins shouldn’t make their way into your disposal. They’ll simply spin around, possibly even damaging the blades. And while some may say small bones from food like fish can go down the disposal, we caution against it and suggest taking these items to the trash instead. 2. ShellsSimilarly, you should never put oyster or clamshells down the disposal — they’re much too hard for the blades to tackle. The hard exoskeletons of other shellfish, including crabs, lobster and shrimp, are also better off in the garbage can, as they can cause damage to both your system’s blades and pipes. 3. Coffee groundsYou may have heard conflicting advice on coffee grounds — there’s a common misconception that they can help clean your disposal. And while they do seem innocent enough, our experts say they can actually pile up in the system, leading to a sludgy mess that could potentially clog your pipes.4. EggshellsEggshells are another item that gets tossed around as a good way to clean your machine or even sharpen the blades, but we advise against this as well. The membrane lining inside the shell can also build up, leading to trouble. 5. Fibrous vegetablesGarbage disposals make quick work of discarding veggie scraps, but foods like celery, asparagus and corn husks should never make it into your disposal. The long, fine strands that compose these items can get tangled up in the blades, wreaking havoc on the machine’s efficiency. 6. Produce stickersYou know those little stickers that detail the food’s PLU code for reference at the grocery store? Make sure to peel those off and toss them in the trash before discarding any food scraps in the garbage disposal. They can attract other bits of debris that could eventually causing a blockage. 7. PitsThe pits from fruit like peaches, plums, mangos and avocado should never make their way down your drain. Like bones, they’re much too tough for the blades and can cause damage. They may also get lodged in pipes if they happen to make their way through. 8. Pasta and riceKids left some macaroni, a hunk of lasagna or remnants of fried rice on their plate? Scrape that right into the trash before rinsing the dish — starchy foods like pasta and rice expand when exposed to liquid, even after they’ve been fully cooked. This can cause buildup in your disposal, eventually leading to plumbing problems. 9. Potato peelsSimilarly, the starch from potato peels can swell and get gummy in your garbage disposal, causing issues down the line. Liudmila Chernetska//Getty Images10. OatsDon’t dump the last bits of your morning oatmeal into the disposal, either. Like other starchy foods, this seemingly innocent item expands and can create a sticky mess inside the appliance. 11. BeansChickpeas, white beans, black beans… whatever legume you enjoy, they should end up in the trash rather than the disposal. Like starches, these items have a tendency to get sticky inside the machine and may even coat the blades, leading to efficiency issues and even full malfunction. 12. Onion skinsSimilar to eggs, the thin membrane on the inside of an onion’s skin can get lodged in the drain, which can trap other food that would otherwise make it down the pipes and cause clogs. Onions and their skins also tend to be stringy and can wrap around the blades. 13. NutsNuts are not only hard and can eventually dull your garbage disposal’s blades, but they can also create a muddy mess inside that can eventually lead to blockages. Think about it: Nut butters, like peanut and almond butter, are made by grinding the nuts into a paste! 14. Grease, oil and other fatsGrease, oil and other fats like melted butter should never go down your sink — regardless of whether you have a disposal. It’s the same concept as what fat can do to your arteries. When it hardens, it can cause stubborn clogs in your drain and pipes. Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York. More

Never underestimate the power of layered lighting. Since relying on your overhead lighting can quickly veer into interrogation territory, a handful of lamps, pendants, and sconces are crucial for creating an atmosphere that’s warm, welcoming, and oh-so-cozy. Problem is, many design lovers become fixated on the fixture itself or the perfect lightbulb temperature—no clinical white here!—and overlook a lampshade. The topper that comes with your lamp might be sufficient, but if you’re looking to level up your home decor, take a cue from Joanna Gaines and opt for a white, pleated lampshade. The HGTV alum might be known for her signature modern farmhouse style, but there’s more to her design perspective than shiplapped walls. Over the years, we’ve seen Gaines experiment with moody colors, florals, and loads of texture. Most recently, she’s been sprinkling pleated lampshades in her kitchen, bathroom, and even Hoda Kotb’s new office. In fact, the Magnolia mogul even sells one through her home decor brand. It’s a small detail—one that could arguably go unnoticed—but it’s an easy and virtually effortless way to elevate your space. There’s a reason why a plain white lampshade is one of the most common toppers around: The airy shade diffuses the light beautifully and creates a light source that’s bright, but not blinding. Plus, you have to admit that white looks good with every decorating style and color palette. Not only does Gaines’s version tick off all the boxes, but the simple fold brings a thoughtful finishing touch. It’s as if someone took a few extra minutes to make their space feel more curated—and it shows. The result? Special, not store-bought. Small Pleated Lamp ShadeFabric Empire Lamp ShadeWhite Mushroom Pleated SetThat said, most lamps come with a plain white shade, so you’ll likely have to find your own topper. The trick? Perfecting proportions. As a general rule of thumb, a shade should be wider and about half as tall as the base. The right shade should also cover the lamp’s harp, though it’s worth mentioning a lamp’s hardware can typically be adjusted.As for where to place your pleated lampshade? The ceiling’s the limit. Whether you place one on a hallway scone or top it above a living room table lamp, one thing’s for sure: This design idea is equal parts bright and beautiful. 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

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As your summer garden fades, fall offers one last chance to bridge the gap between summer blooms and winter’s dormancy. With the right choices, you can fill your landscape with color, texture, and life well into the cooler months. So what exactly counts as a fall annual? They are annual plants that flourish or re-bloom in mild to cool temperatures. Depending on your region or USDA hardiness zone, some may even last until the first frost or beyond. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best fall annuals along with planting tips and care advice to keep your garden vibrant through autumn.How to Choose Fall Annuals Choosing the best fall annuals for your garden starts with understanding how they perform in cooler weather. Look for plants that tolerate light frost and keep blooming from late summer through the first frost. Check each plant’s light requirements, as some thrive in full sun, while others prefer part shade or shade. Also, ensure your soil drains well to avoid rot during rainy fall days. For long-lasting beauty, choose annuals with colorful foliage, unique textures, or decorative seedheads that keep your garden interesting even after blooms fade. Finally, boost your garden’s ecosystem by planting native and pollinator-friendly species that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial wildlife.Complete Your Fall GardenTop Fall Annuals to PlantAs the weather cools, these fall annuals bring lasting color, texture, and vitality to your garden. From cheerful blooms to striking foliage, each plant offers something special for your autumn landscape.Bachelor’s Buttons (Cornflower)Tomasz Bobrzynski//Getty ImagesBachelor’s buttons add cheerful pops of blue, pink, and white to fall gardens. These hardy, easy-to-grow flowers attract bees and butterflies and make excellent cut blooms. They generally resist most pests and diseases but can spread easily, so plant them in an area where naturalizing won’t be a problem. For successful growth in cooler climates, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. In areas with mild winters, you can sow seeds directly outdoors in the fall.Botanical Name: Centaurea cyanusMature Size: 12–36 in. tall, 12–24 in. wideZones: 2–11Sun: Full Best Uses: Cutting gardens, borders, wildflower meadowsPests/Diseases: Aphids, fungal leaf spotsSpecial Notes: Long-lasting flowers; reseeds easily for naturalized plantings.DianthusAlbert Fertl//Getty ImagesDianthus is technically a biennial or short-lived perennial, but is mostly grown as an annual. It’s a hardy, cool-season bloomer known for its clove-like fragrance and frilled petals in shades of pink, red, white, and lavender. It thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil and is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers. With regular deadheading, it provides a long season of color and attracts butterflies to the garden.Botanical Name: Dianthus chinensisMature Size: 6–12 in. tall, 6–12 in. wideZones: 6-9Sun: Full to part shadeBest Uses: Borders, rock gardens, edging, containersPests/Diseases: Aphids, rust, crown rot, slugs, and potential root rot in poorly drained sitesSpecial Notes: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering; deer-resistant and tolerant of light frost.Dusty Millerde-nue-pic//Getty ImagesDusty Miller is a cool-season favorite valued for its silvery-white, velvety foliage that brings texture and contrast to fall gardens. Its lobed leaves complement brightly colored flowers, making it an excellent accent in mixed borders, beds, and containers. While primarily grown for its foliage, Dusty Miller may produce small yellow blooms in summer, though most gardeners pinch them back to maintain compact growth. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and cooler weather, holding its color and form even after light frosts.Botanical Name: Jacobaea maritimaMature Size: 6–18 in. tall, 6–12 in. wideZones: 7–10Sun: Full to part shadeBest Uses: Foliage contrast, edging, containersPests/Diseases: Root rot in poorly drained soilSpecial Notes: Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant; holds color through light frost.Ornamental Cabbage & KalePakin Songmor//Getty ImagesOrnamental cabbage and kale are cold-hardy annuals that add dramatic color and bold texture to the fall and winter garden. Their tightly ruffled or feathered leaves come in rich shades of green, purple, pink, and creamy white that become more vibrant as temperatures drop. Unlike their edible relatives, these varieties are grown for their stunning foliage rather than taste, making them perfect focal points for cool-season beds, borders, and containers. They thrive in sunny, cool conditions and can withstand frost, often lasting well into winter when most plants have faded. Pair them with pansies, dusty miller, or ornamental grasses for long-lasting seasonal displays.Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea (Ornamental Group)[4] Mature Size: 12–18 in. tall, 12–18 in. wideZones: 2–11 (grown as annual)Sun: FullBest Uses: Borders, mass plantings, containersPests/Diseases: Aphids, cabbage wormsSpecial Notes: Thrives through frost; ideal for late-season displays.Pansy / ViolaMilky Way//Getty ImagesPansies and violas are cool-season charmers that bring vibrant color and cheerful faces to the fall and early spring garden. Both thrive in cool weather, blooming steadily through light frosts and even bouncing back after brief freezes. Though pansies are technically short-lived perennials, they’re most often grown as annuals during the cool or cold season for reliable color. Violas, which can be annuals, biennials, or short-lived perennials, are also typically used commercially as annuals for their abundant, smaller blooms and extended flowering period. Together, these hardy plants add long-lasting beauty to containers, borders, and beds when most other flowers have faded.Botanical Name: Viola × wittrockiana, Viola tricolorMature Size: 6–10 in. tall, 3–12 in. wideZones: 6-10 (Pansy), 2–9 (Viola)Sun: Full sun to part shadeBest Uses: Containers, borders, garden bedsPests/Diseases: Aphids, slugs, mildewSpecial Notes: Cold-tolerant and long-blooming; perfect for continuous color.SnapdragonKatrin Ray Shumakov//Getty ImagesSnapdragons add vertical color and whimsy with their dragon-shaped blooms that thrive in cool weather. They’re excellent for borders and make long-lasting cut flowers. Technically classified as a short-lived perennial, they’re most often treated and grown as annuals, especially in colder climates, because they rarely persist or bloom vigorously beyond their first season.Botanical Name: Antirrhinum majusMature Size: 12–36 in. tall, 6–12 in. wideZones: 7–10 Sun: Full Best Uses: Cutting gardens, borders, containersPests/Diseases: Aphids, rustSpecial Notes: Performs best in cool weather; can overwinter in mild climates.Sweet AlyssumOlgaKorica//Getty ImagesSweet alyssum forms a fragrant carpet of tiny white, pink, or purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. This low-growing, mat-forming plant excels as a filler in containers, between larger perennials, or as an edging, especially in cooler months. Though it’s generally easygoing, it can self-seed prolifically. It may naturalize in some areas, so plant it where spread won’t be problematic.Botanical Name: Lobularia maritimaMature Size: 4–8 in. tall, 6–12 in. wideZones: 5–9Sun: Full to part shadeBest Uses: Groundcover, edging, containersPests/Diseases: No serious insect or disease problems.Special Notes: Easy to grow and self-seeding; thrives in cool weather.Curly ParsleyCurly parsley is a cool-season herb prized for its bright green, tightly curled foliage and dual role as both an ornamental and edible plant. Technically a biennial, it is most often grown as an annual because leaf quality declines after the first year when the plant begins to flower and set seed. In addition to its culinary appeal, parsley plays an important ecological role—it serves as an essential host plant for the larvae of swallowtail butterflies, particularly the black swallowtail, making it a valuable addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. Its compact, decorative form makes it ideal for borders, containers, and kitchen gardens where it adds texture, fragrance, and habitat value.Botanical Name: Petroselinum crispumMature Size: 9–12 in. tall, 9-12 in. wideZones: 2–11 Sun: Full to part shadeBest Uses: Edible borders, containers, herb gardensPests/Diseases: Aphids, caterpillarsSpecial Notes: Dual-purpose herb that enhances both garden beauty and kitchen flavor.More Gardening TipsDebbie Wolfe is a writer, photographer, and author. She has contributed hundreds of home and garden articles and DIY tutorials to leading media outlets and retailers. Debbie covers all home and gardening topics and has published hundreds of DIY tutorials with step-by-step photography for leading home and garden media outlets. More

No one wants to get bored of their kitchen. It’s where you inevitably spend the most time, and where guests will likely linger, so the last feeling you want to have in the space is “blah.” Think of the shades that might lead you to that conclusion. Did neutrals make the list? If your answer is no, you’re not alone. “We’ve been surprised and excited at how quickly clients have moved away from the all-white kitchen,” says Cheryl Stauffer, the principal of Crimson Design Group. “Clients are asking for colors that feel connected to nature, paired with materials that bring depth and texture. This momentum is going to carry us into 2026.”Related StoryA neutral kitchen will never go out of style, but the moment is calling for more. As renovators look ahead for shades that speak to current trends while having lasting personality, designers are noticing that the top kitchen cabinets of 2026 are much more daring than they have been in the recent past. “My biggest advice? When repainting cabinets, choose anything but white. White is out. Embrace depth, mood, and color,” says designer Amy McCoy of McCoy Design Studio. Here’s the rainbow six pros expect to see on kitchen cabinets next year—let’s just say they’re far from boring. Farrow & Ball’s PigeonDesign: Alexandra Gater; Photo: Lauren KolynMore than one designer recommended this gray-green shade for its traditional-meets-modern finish that can complement a spectrum of designs. It’s natural, without feeling too bold. “This color ties in well with richer stained woods like espresso,” says designer Erin Coren of Curated Nest Interiors. To complete the look, Coren would install tumbled limestone for the countertops and antique bronze hardware throughout.EXPLORE THE SHADESpace Theory’s Azzurre Design: Dunham Robinson; Photo: Nicholas VeneziaBlue feels like a “safe” choice, since it’s a color that’s universally appealing. But in keeping with the overall push to be more confident in kitchen design, architect and founding partner Rachel Robinson of Dunham Robinson says that this sky-bright color ups the ante just so. “Saturated blues make a kitchen feel fresh, and this shade brings a vibrant, elegant energy to the space,” she notes. “Homeowners are gravitating toward this hue as a way to inject personality while still feeling timeless.” Robinson would underscore this color with walnut or white oak, matte black hardware, and a subtle tile backsplash. EXPLORE THE SHADE Behr’s Hidden Gem Courtesy of BehrWhether you have a small kitchen that you’d like to transform into a jewel box, or a larger footprint just waiting to make a statement, the smoky-jade hue of this pick—Behr’s Color of the Year for 2026—will deliver. “This color is very versatile and works well in many different settings,” says Manuella Moreira, founder of Manuella Moreira Interiors. “It pairs well with light oak tones and lighter stones, making the space feel casual yet sophisticated.” EXPLORE THE SHADE Benjamin Moore’s Peale GreenDesign: Dunham Robinson; Photo: Nicholas VeneziaIf you’re noticing a trend for green-covered cabinets, you’re right: This natural hue is somewhat in between the aforementioned picks, and Robinson thinks it’s the ideal middle ground in more ways than one. “Green bridges tradition and modernity,” she says. “It feels right at home with classic Shaker cabinetry, but can also be styled to be as incredibly fresh and current.” Robinson would use this color in a kitchen with clear views of the outdoors, and pair it with brass knobs and a patterned backsplash.EXPLORE THE SHADESherwin-Williams’s Expressive PlumDesign: McCoy Design Studio; Photo: Anna ThomasAs McCoy plans her projects for the coming year, she’s noticing two details: Clients are requesting darker stains for wood, and to go with that, they’re not shying away from purple. Her pick? This muted iteration on fresh fruit. “Expect plum to keep showing up, not just in kitchens, but on islands and bar cabinetry too,” she says. In the case of combining dark woods with plum accents, keep the backsplash to a minimal shape and finish so as to not compete.EXPLORE THE SHADE Farrow & Ball’s India YellowCourtesy of Farrow & BallIf you’d prefer for your cabinetry to be a sunny welcome first thing in the morning, then perhaps yellow is the right shade to choose. “We’ve been seeing the rise of ochre colored cabinets—a deep golden yellow that reads traditional or contemporary, depending on the other elements in the kitchen—and this hue will continue to rise in popularity due to its warmth and versatility,” says designer Anne Sage. The brown undertone makes it feel more grounded, she says, giving it the ability to work with more minimalist counterparts seamlessly. EXPLORE THE SHADEMore Kitchen Design InspirationKelly Dawson is a writer, editor and marketing consultant. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Architectural Digest, Travel + Leisure and other publications.  More

1Throw blanketsVeranikaSmirnaya//Getty ImagesBuying cozy throw blankets can be tempting, but you only need so many. “Every fall, I like to take stock of my collection to confirm that they’re all still in good condition,” says Home Design Director Monique Valeris. “I also make sure my heated blanket is still functioning well, since I can’t stand to be cold during the night.” New or gently used throw blankets can be donated to local charities or animal shelters. 2Burned candlesAnastasiia Krivenok//Getty Images”Going through my storage closet, I realized I saved a few fall and winter-scented candles from last year that barely have any wax left,” says Laura Millar, assistant lifestyle editor. “Now is the perfect time to sort through those candles and get rid of any that are burned-down.” Added bonus: you can repurpose them as storage jars or fall decor. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below3Fall decorationsMadelyn Wilkime//Getty ImagesNow that I’ve decorated for Halloween, I’m donating anything that I didn’t put on display. You can bring fall decor to thrift stores, like Goodwill, or inquire if local community centers or schools are accepting donations. I suggest doing it sooner over later, so someone else can use the decor before the season ends. 4Outgrown Halloween costumesGrigoriosMoraitis//Getty ImagesParents, it’s time to re-evaluate that collection of Halloween costumes. “I can’t hang on to every single one of my kids’ old Halloween costumes (of course, it breaks my heart a little),” says Monique. Many organizations would be happy to accept clothing donations for families in need.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below5Winter shoes and bootsEThamPhoto//Getty ImagesBefore buying anything new this season, I recommend sorting through your collection of fall and winter shoes. Try on every pair to ensure they fit, and evaluate them individually for wear and tear. Anything with deteriorated cushioning or soles should be thrown out, and gently wore pairs can be donated. 6Summer clothesKinga Krzeminska//Getty ImagesBefore you pack summer clothes into storage or push them to the back of your closet, take stock of what you own. “I find that once summer is over, it’s much easier to figure out which clothes I actually wear regularly versus what’s just taking up space,” says Laura. “Donating summer gear means more space for my fall and winter clothing.”Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Expired and forgotten pantry itemsBrian Hagiwara//Getty ImagesIf you’re planning to host this holiday season, it’s the perfect time to declutter the pantry. I recently went through my spice cabinet, and found a bunch had expired—same with random snacks in my pantry that we’re hiding in the back. 8Makeupblue sky in my pocket//Getty ImagesMakeup is something that needs to be periodically decluttered. Toss anything that’s damaged, broken, or expired (look out for Period After Opening symbols). “I always replenish my go-to products and make room (within reason) for some new staples—think blush and lipstick in deeper tones for the cooler months,” says Monique.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below9Freezer foodMoyo Studio//Getty ImagesFrom meats to breads to desserts and beyond, the freezer can quickly become overcrowded. “I find going through my freezer a couple times throughout each season helps keep it mostly clear for new items, especially with Thanksgiving on the horizon,” says Laura. 10Winter jacketsSnapper//Getty ImagesThis week, I’m planning to hang my winter jackets in my entryway—but not without purging any I no longer like. I recommend trying on every fall and winter jacket, and only keeping the ones that still fit and you still plan to wear. Search your area for a local coat drive or bring used jackets to a local charity. Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.Watch Next Advertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading BelowAdvertisement – Continue Reading Below More

The 90/90 decluttering rule states to get rid of any item you haven’t used in the last 90 days and won’t use in the next 90 days.I spoke to organizers about whether the rule is effective and used their advice to try it out myself. Read on for my honest take on the decluttering method.There are some areas of the house that tend to become hotspots for clutter over time. For me, that’s my junk drawer, nightstand, and hallway closet. Whenever I don’t know where to put something, it magically ends up in one of those three places. And the worst part is, it gets hidden in all the clutter and I wind up forgetting it’s even there. That’s where certain organizational methods can come in handy. As a home editor, I’ve tried plenty (the 30-second rule and the 10-10 decluttering method are a couple of my favorites). Most recently, I took on the 90/90 decluttering rule while organizing my nightstand drawer, and, surprisingly, it helped me get through the space without feeling overwhelmed. What Is the 90/90 Rule? Made popular by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists, the method suggests getting rid of any item you haven’t used in last 90 days and won’t use in the next 90 days. “The 90/90 rule is simple, catchy, and easy to remember, which makes it appealing in a world where decision fatigue is real. When you’re standing in front of an overflowing closet or garage, the idea of a clear rule can feel like relief, or a welcomed boundary for your mind,” says organizer Holly Blakey of Breathing Room. However, it might not be for everyone. Blakey suggests using it as a tool rather than a hard verdict, especially when it comes to sentimental items or seasonal products. When used this way, the method can help homeowners really reflect on what they need versus what they’re just holding onto. “We have become overwhelmed with clutter, both physical and digital. People are really yearning for a detox, and using this rule is really helpful in creating that simplicity in your home,” says organizer Emily Mass of Spaces by Emily. Pro Tips to ConsiderWhile the 90/90 rule can be a helpful, simpler way to think about decluttering, that doesn’t mean it can’t feel overwhelming. Pro organizers share their tips and tricks to keep in mind while taking on the method. Westend61//Getty Images✔️ Start small: “Instead of trying to apply it to your entire home, begin with one drawer, one shelf, or one category. Success in a small space builds momentum without overwhelm,” says Blakey. ✔️ Schedule it: “I like to tell my clients to set a physical date on their calendar in their phone to revisit items they think they might want to declutter. Creating a habit out of it also helps you evaluate items you’re bringing into your home,” says Mass. ✔️ Reflect: “If you find yourself holding on tightly, pause and ask: ‘Is this item giving me peace, or is it adding weight?’ Sometimes the 90/90 rule surfaces the deeper feelings we have about our stuff: guilt, fear, or attachment. Naming those feelings creates room for grace,” says Blakey. ✔️ Celebrate an organized space: “Don’t focus only on what’s leaving. Notice how much lighter the room feels, how much easier it is to find what you need, and how your nervous system responds to less clutter,” says Blakey. More Organizing TipsMy ExperienceTo try the 90/90 rule, I started small, working through my nightstand drawer. I tend to throw instruction manuals, miscellaneous wires, and other random items I don’t need right away in my nightstand so it’s out of sight, out of mind. But whenever I open it up to find something I actually need, I get overwhelmed. Laura MillarI started by taking everything out of the drawer and then going through each item, asking myself the same two questions: Have I used this item in the last 90 days? Will I use this item in the next 90 days? If I couldn’t say yes to at least one of those two questions, I put it in a pile to either donate or get rid of for good. After tossing a few items—a couple old wires, an instruction manual, an empty pill bottle, and more—I was able to reorganize my drawer in a way that felt much less overwhelming. I also moved a few hair clips and headbands I had lazily left in my nightstand into my bathroom instead. Laura MillarI only organized a small space in my bedroom, but the 90/90 rule helped me reflect on what I actually needed, what I never used, and what didn’t actually belong in that space in the first place. While I’m not sure it’s applicable to all items in my home, I plan to keep this method in my toolbox when I need to make hard decisions on what’s worth keeping. Laura 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