Home Ideas

In terms of cleaning, your microwave may be the appliance you overlook most often. Over time, food, dirt and grease build up, making it harder to scrub or easily wipe away any spills or splatters. If you’ve had enough of your smelly and grimy microwave or are unsure of how to get it back in tip-top shape, follow our easy guide below on how to clean a microwave. Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, and Jodhaira Rodriguez, Home Care & Cleaning Lab reviews analyst, share the best ways to clean stuck-on food. You can use everyday cleaning products, like dish soap and Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, or opt for more natural ingredients, like baking soda, lemon and vinegar. “Vinegar works well on grease,” Rodriguez says. “The lemon-water method for the interior helps steam up the inside and loosens up any food that’s stuck.”We even share tips for all types of microwaves — think over-the-range, built-in and countertop models. Plus, you’ll learn how to rid your microwave of unpleasant smells (lemon can help here!), and we’ll share pointers on washing over-the-range filters and turntables.More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playSo, go ahead and follow our detailed directions to make the microwave cleaning process as easy as possible. How to Clean the Inside of a Microwave With Lemon and Vinegar AndreyPopov//Getty ImagesSplatters can leave your microwave looking sad. To target your microwave’s interior – turntable included — consider this step-by-step:Combine 1 cup water and lemon, lime or orange slices (squeeze juice from the fruit slices into the water) in a microwave-safe bowl. Or, if you have white or apple cider vinegar on hand, combine a few tablespoons and 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl.Place the bowl in the microwave and turn it on high power for several minutes until the mixture boils and the window steams up. Let it cool for five minutes before opening the door, then remove the bowl and wipe the inside clean with a sponge.This content is imported from Tiktok. 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.How to Clean Greasy Microwave Doors With Dish Soap and Baking Soda It’s not just the inside that counts: Remove smudges and grease from the microwave’s exterior with these tips and tricks. Clean the entire door — edges, both sides and where it seals the oven — with a sponge dampened with water and dipped in a little baking soda. Wipe with a damp cloth or sponge to rinse. Clean a greasy window with a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water. Rinse and wipe dry. For heavy grease build-up and stuck-on splatters, wipe your microwave door down with an all-purpose grease-cutting cleaner (like Mr. Clean Deep Cleaning Mist ) or a sudsy mix of dish soap and water. Apply the cleaner with a cloth or sponge to prevent the cleaner from getting into the vent holes. Scrub with a non-scratch pad (such as Scotch-Brite), if needed. Similarly, to avoid damage, never spray electronic controls directly with the cleaner. Always apply the cleaner to a cloth first, then wipe the controls. This content is imported from Tiktok. 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.How to Clean a Microwave Filter If you have an over-the-range microwave, clean the filter at least monthly. The filter is meant to catch grease, so leaving it uncleaned will lead to a sticky mess on the filter and walls. “These filters are similar to the ones in kitchen range hoods and can be removed and washed in the sink in warm, sudsy water,” says Forté. Keep it submerged for at least 10 minutes. If the residue is still there or is resistant to scrubbing, add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the water and soak it again. Also, be sure to always follow your microwave manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations. How to Get a Burnt Smell (and All Smells, Really) Out of the Microwave When cooking something smelly in the microwave, the smell comes back as soon as you turn the oven back on. That means it’s best to get rid of the stench right away. For light odors (spicy food with a strong aroma, for example), air out the oven by leaving the door open, or place a bowl of baking soda inside with the door closed to absorb smells. For strong odors (think: burnt popcorn), clean any leftover residue and place an odor-absorbing gel, like Fresh Wave, inside until you run it again.How to Remove Stuck-on Food from the Microwave’s InteriorMarianVejcik//Getty ImagesTo get rid of dried-on food, use Good Housekeeping Seal Star Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Place the turntable in the dishwasher or wash it by hand with sudsy water and a non-scratch scrub sponge. What You Need to Clean a Microwave ProperlyKeep CleaningAmanda Garrity is a lifestyle writer and editor with over seven years of experience, including five years on staff at Good Housekeeping, where she covered all things home and holiday, including the latest interior design trends, inspiring DIY ideas and gift guides for any (and every) occasion. She also has a soft spot for feel-good TV, so you can catch her writing about popular shows like Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias, Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart and more. 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.  More

Between Steph Curry’s intense NBA schedule and Ayesha Curry’s many business ventures, there’s no shortage of travel plans. Considering the couple’s busy lifestyle, time spent at home — with their three children — is that much more important. As a renowned restaurateur, chef, The New York Times bestselling author and lifestyle influencer, Ayesha has a lot on her plate. She connected with Pottery Barn to help furnish and decorate the family’s newest space: a condo in San Francisco, California. “This location is really prime for us,” says Curry. “It’s right in between where Stephen goes to work at Chase Center and my restaurant, Intentional Smoke.”When the family enters through the front door, they are immediately greeted by a calming color palette.Pottery Barn”The kitchen is 100% the most used space in our home,” says Curry. “The bar stools are so large and spacious, you kind of just melt into them.” Pottery BarnFor her home away from home, Curry envisioned a warm interior ideal for family gatherings and hosting friends — as she describes it: “something a little bit elevated, but still livable.” Pottery Barn curated a selection of furniture pieces and decor that blend sophisticated, timeless style with family-friendly design. Ayesha’s decision to collaborate with Pottery Barn comes off the heels of the Sweet July by Ayesha Curry x Pottery Barn collection, which launched earlier this month.”I feel like there’s a story to be told throughout all of the rooms, but I love how each space is still uniquely its own,” says Curry. “Somehow all comes together seamlessly and feels cohesive.”Living Room Pottery BarnThe Dream Square Sectional acts as the focal point of this cozy living room. The design is elevated with a reclaimed wood coffee table, hand-knotted wool rug, boucle round armchairs and plush accents (hint: tons of throw pillows). “I’m obsessed with the living room,” says Curry, who finds that the simple color palette offers a little bit of warmth, but still feels zen.Palisades Side TableSweet July Faux SucculentNow 20% OffSweet July Geo ShamNow 20% OffDining RoomPottery BarnFor the dining room, Curry pairs the timeless Heritage Extending Dining Table with black, farmhouse-style dining chairs — instantly adding depth to the neutral interior. Finally, a nature-inspired area rug, abstract wall art and chic tabletop decor bring the entire space together. Primary BedroomPottery BarnLayers of plush textures turn this bright bedroom into a welcoming space. A pair of upholstered swivel armchairs craft a comfortable window spot to take in the view, while the metal and wood nightstands on each side of the bed create a sense of symmetry.”The bedroom came together in an extremely successful way,” says Curry, who finds it “the perfect cozy space.”Belgian Flax Linen Duvet CoverSweet July Yarn Dye PillowcasesNow 20% OffCayman Wood & Metal NightstandLoungePottery BarnKnown as the “lounge nook” to Curry, this multi-functional room acts as a place for the children to do homework, adults to relax or guests to hang out. The metal round nesting coffee tables offer a ton of style and function, while the vintage-inspired leather loveseat and woven accent chair offer plenty of seating.Watch the Full Condo Tour With Ayesha CurryThis content is imported from youTube. 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.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. More

Our gardens and flowering pots spring back to life throughout April and May — but their arrival signals that “June” bugs are soon to follow. Many homeowners can’t help but notice a myriad of shiny beetles buzzing around their favorite planting beds, seasonal mulch or worse yet, flying around near the entryways of your home (just like mosquitos!). While they’re not particularly dangerous for your health, June bugs are indeed a hazard for many of the plants, flowers and backyard crops you may be planting right now for the summer season.Calling them June bugs is a reference to a colloquial term, experts say, as there are actually well over 200 different species of bugs across North America. “June” bugs may go by different nicknames in various U.S. regions, “but they often get this moniker because the adults are commonly seen emerging in late Spring — usually, in May or June,” explains Avery Russell, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology at Missouri State University.This content is imported from twitter. 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.Whether you call them May-June beetles or screen-thumpers, these large pests are often seen gathering around exterior lights as the first sign they’ve chosen to settle in your own backyard. What other warning signs may clue you into an infestation, you may ask? Read on to learn more about June bugs’ threat to gardens, how they interact with your family, and how to get rid of them according to pest experts in academia as well as commercial pest removal.What are June bugs — and what exactly do they do?These pests are way too large for you to miss, and include common variations of Japanese beetles and European chafers, according to horticulture information published by the University of Wisconsin-Madison. They’re also sometimes referred to as scarab beetles — but there’s a good chance you know them as “May” bugs if you’re located in a region where temperatures are higher this month than those in the Northeast or Pacific Northwest.”They’re probably most known for crashing into windows and screens at night if you leave the light on,” explains David Coyle, Ph.D., assistant professor of forest health and invasive species at Clemson University. “The larval form — or young — of these insects is called a white grub; if you’ve ever been digging in the garden and seen a ‘C’-shaped white grub in the spring and early summer, that’s probably a young June bug.”Warunporn Thangthongtip//Getty ImagesJune bugs can range in color, usually a shade of light brown or dark brown; each beetle-like bug has six legs that contain hair-like protrusions, as most other beetles do.”Most folks can identify a June bug as a brown beetle that often can startle a person by flying into their face or hair,” explains Megan Wede, a pest control specialist, marketing lead and co-owner of Minnesota-based Done Right Pest Solutions. “Pets often eat them if they become a nuisance to the pet.”Regardless of which stage of life they are at, June bugs can encroach on your garden and the plant life in and around your exterior spaces (as well as some indoor spots, too!). They’re known to feast on the leaves of garden plants, trees and shrubbery; while they aren’t usually able to kill plants off entirely until a major infestation has formed, Wede says they can destroy the outward appearance and profile of many of your leaves and flowers.”There are many species of June bugs, some of which can feed on garden and landscape plants; in some cases, this feeding can be very severe and injure, or kill plants,” Coyle adds. “Most species, however, tend to feed on shrubs and trees, and their feeding damage can be barely noticeable.”Sometimes, June bugs catch the flack for the trouble that larger animals that hunt them — including moles — bring to your garden. Usually, June bugs prefer to munch on turfgrass, and can cause large patches of this grass to wither and die; they may also prefer corn, roses and thin-skinned fruits in addition to the ornamental plants they’re known to gravitate towards, according to materials published by the University of Maine.Can June bugs bite you? The real harm they pose:While they can spell disaster for gardening perfectionists and purists, June bugs don’t pose any threat to humans, including children. “Their jaws are weak and can pinch, used only in defense,” Russell explains.If you’ve heard of or have seen someone struggle with a June bug attached to their skin, it’s likely because these bugs have claws that “stick” to your fingers or hands, leading to a ticklish effect — but nothing dangerous, Coyle tells Good Housekeeping.This content is imported from twitter. 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.”June bugs don’t pose any threat to people or pets, and I’ve never known anyone or anything to be bitten by one of these beetles,” he says. “In fact, scarab beetles are revered in ancient Egyptian culture as they were seen as a symbol of renewal and rebirth, which is why you see this type of beetle featured on many ancient artifacts.”Additionally, June bugs won’t threaten the structural integrity of the interiors of your home or its foundation, so don’t sweat it if one follows you inside. They’re intensely attracted to light, Wede says, and may get inside your home through an opening in doors or windows at night. “When this happens, they are — at most — annoying and considered gross. But there’s no risk to one’s home structurally.”Signs of a June bug infestationWhile they arrive in early summer in the form of larvae (or grubs!), most homeowners don’t realize their gardens or yards are being impacted by a June bug infestation until early fall when the weather tends to dry out. “Damage to leaves is often minor and largely unnoticeable, but damage by the larvae to turfgrass is the first thing many people notice, in dead grass patches,” Russell shares.Because newborn June bugs burrow underground in yards and gardens, you may notice that holes are being dug by predators, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture — but this is a rare occurrence. Lawn conditions are often the first clue that you may be dealing with excessive June bugs on your property. Ultimately, however, action may not be required.”In natural landscapes, grubs are a common component of the soil fauna across the country. Their damage is rarely, if ever, noticed,” advises Coyle, who adds that fungi and other causes could be the root cause of impacted greenery. “Just because you see patches of lawn dying doesn’t necessarily mean you have a June bug problem… The first step is figuring out exactly what is causing the damage you see.” This content is imported from twitter. 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.With over one million insects on earth, they are exemplary specimens for biodiversity. One in every four known animals on Earth is a beetle! We need your help to advocate for all of these creatures! Biodiversity is priceless & we can’t take it for granted. https://t.co/jOnoZ1gQM6— The Xerces Society (@xercessociety) April 21, 2023If you’re concerned about holes and irregularities appearing on flowering plants in your garden due to June bugs, though, targeted removal is often your best bet for dealing with them in the long run. You’ll need to start by contacting a local Extension office in your area and speaking with a representative. “They’ll provide you unbiased information and advice,” Coyle stresses.How to get rid of June bugsOnce you’ve confirmed your garden woes are indeed caused by adult June bugs or their larvae, you’ll need to pursue a few different strategies to prevent regular damage every season. Many pest control providers will recommend what’s known as grub control, meaning they’ll treat lawns and garden beds with chemical treatment — but these treatments should be a resort only if a licensed provider has confirmed larvae are present, as they can be more destructive than you’d think.”Keep in mind these will not only kill the June bug grub, but will also kill many other types of soil fauna, some of which are beneficial,” Coyle explains. “There are also beneficial nematodes that can be applied in targeted areas. These microscopic predatory worms seek out and feed on June bug grubs.”Otherwise, adult June bugs may be targeted with gardening tools that keep them away from the plants they have been munching on, so to speak. Coyle says deterrent sprays — like neem oil — can be applied to leaves and other problem areas as needed. If you only notice a swarm in one area, adult June bugs can be picked off one by one and dropped into a container of soapy water, which kills the insects.The season for June bugs is short, and they die off fairly quickly, Wede says. You may find success by turning to an electric light that targets other flying insects for mitigation, or even commercial beetle traps that can keep June bugs from flying around. “You can put these out on the patio or deck so you can enjoy the outdoors,” she adds. The bottom line: “One of the best things you can do is promote a diverse ecosystem on your property. Many types of birds — like crows, robins, and blue jays — feed on grubs in the soil,” Coyle says. “Since birds are natural predators of grubs, doing things that promote a healthy bird population will help keep grub numbers under control.”Keep Pests Away:Health EditorZee Krstic is a health editor for Good Housekeeping, where he covers health and nutrition news, decodes diet and fitness trends and reviews the best products in the wellness aisle. Prior to joining GH in 2019, Zee fostered a nutrition background as an editor at Cooking Light and is continually developing his grasp of holistic health through collaboration with leading academic experts and clinical care providers. He has written about food and dining for Time, among other publications.Dr. Coyle, assistant professorof Forest Health and Invasive Species, joined Clemson University in 2018 with a focus on the forest health and invasive species Extension. Prior to Clemson, he created and directed the Southern Forest Health and Invasive Species program, which provided education and training to forestry professionals across the southeastern U.S. Dr. Coyle uses various forms of communication – including social media, traditional writing, and in-person visits – to help educate people about forest health, invasive species, and forest management. He is a member of the Society of American Foresters and the Entomological Society of America, serves on the Board of Directors for the North American Invasive Species Management Association, and is Co-Director of ProForest (an organization working to promote proactive forest pest management). More

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. just launched GreenRow — its first major brand in more than 10 years. The collection of unique home decor and furniture goes against what you might expect from a sustainable home brand: an infusion of bright color. GreenRow’s debut assortment includes living, bedroom and dining furniture as well as handcrafted rugs, bedding, curtains, table linens, lighting and more. We spoke with Jaimee Seabury, Williams-Sonoma’s vice president of strategy and business development, to learn about the heirloom-quality pieces. The new brand uses low-impact materials wherever possible, down to innovative packaging. From India to Turkey, Seabury traveled the world in search of not only design inspiration — but to learn about responsibile practices and scout out farms and artisans who could bring the brand the company envisioned to life. Other stops on Seabury’s tour included New Zealand to source responsible wool, Portugal for linen and Guatemala for recycled apparel (used as the frame for the slipcover couch). The brand even finds ways to use scraps of material, such as using leftover fabric from ottomans as upholstery for stools.The Flatweave Dining Bench has an acacia wood frame and contains a responsible wool cushion and natural latex fill.Product Shot ImageThe Ava Slipcovered Bed lining is made from 90 percent recycled cotton, plus your choice of fabric.Product Shot Image Unlike most sustainable home furnishings, which tend to be neutral or minimal, GreenRow priorities color and pattern. “What I love about this collection is that we were able to infuse color and details throughout and it just has an emotional feel to it that you wouldn’t expect from a sustainable brand,” says Seabury, who notes that the rugs from India initially inspired the collection’s vibrant color palette.While some dyes can be harmful to people and the environment, the brand uses non-toxic dyes (which require less water) and vegetable dyes for rugs, when possible. In some cases, these more responsible practices and materials lead to a higher price tag — but GreenRow believes their items are designed to last. Stripes, checkered and diamond-patterned, the line of handcrafted rugs start at $249. Product Shot Image”GreenRow is focused on creating modern heirlooms by combining bright colors and thoughtful details into sustainable materials,” Seabury adds. “In addition to a timeless aesthetic, we are also committed to utilizing sustainable manufacturing practices and teaching our customers how to care for our products in order to ensure their longevity.” GreenRow has also aligned with the best practices of all Williams-Sonoma, Inc. brands by partnering with third-party organizations to certify products against industry-leading standards such as Textile Exchange’s Global Recycling Standard, Fair Trade USA and Nest’s Ethical Handcraft Program. 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. More

In addition to the joy of watching cherry blossoms and tulips bloom, spring welcomes the ritual of spring cleaning. And as satisfying as it is to finally organize that pantry and dust your headboards, consider springing into this new season by adding a few fire-protection safety checks to your cleaning list. Because house fires are more dangerous than you might imagine: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), home fire deaths in the U.S. hit a 14-year high in 2021.“Today’s home fires burn faster than ever due to multiple factors,” notes Susan McKelvey, communications manager at the NFPA. “For example, many homes these days are made with synthetic materials that burn at high temperatures, generating toxic black smoke and gasses that can make it difficult or even impossible to see and breathe within moments.” In addition, modern open floor plans allow oxygen to move through the house easily, which can help an existing fire spread quickly, according to McKelvey: “In a typical home fire, you may have as little as two minutes to escape from the time the smoke alarm sounds.”So it’s more vital than ever to create (and practice) an escape plan, as well as to be diligent about protecting your home. Here are five other fire-safety tasks you may not have considered to add to your spring checklist.Getty Images/Kinga KrzeminskaCheck your curb appealIn an every-second-counts situation, you don’t want the emergency help you so diligently called to have any trouble finding you. So while you’re sprucing up your front porch and planting those fresh hydrangeas and daisies, take a beat to check that your house number is still easily visible from the street.“This is very important, as it ensures that the fire department can quickly and easily identify your home in an emergency,” says McKelvey. If you discover that despite your best efforts, your house number still can’t be seen, consider painting the number on the curb in huge, bright figures, or installing larger ones that are more visible to the naked eye.Create a safety perimeterWith wildfires burning up large swaths of the country each year, particular attention to your landscaping can be crucial. Piled-up yard waste such as weeds, leaves, pine needles and grass clippings are easy traps for a raging fire, which can eat them up and then spread much faster. So you’ll want to make sure these materials aren’t accumulating in your roof and gutters, as well as anywhere within a five-foot radius of your home, aka the “immediate zone.” This perimeter is the most important area to take immediate action on, notes McKelvey, as it’s the most vulnerable to embers (the main means by which raging wildfires ignite homes).Courtesy of TingInvest in a smart fire-prevention deviceFile this under “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Not only should you have a reliable method to detect fires originating both inside and outside the home immediately, but you should also be sure you’re investing in the latest technology to prevent them from happening in the first place. The Ting smart sensor and service help suss out potential electrical fires by continuously monitoring your electrical system for arcing and other power-quality issues that can indicate an electrical fire hazard.Better yet? It’s incredibly user-friendly. All you do is plug it into an outlet and it’s installed within two minutes with the use of a Wi-Fi connection and the Ting Sensor smartphone app. Once it’s up and running, should the smart sensor detect an electrical fire hazard in your home, the brand’s dedicated fire-safety team is at the ready to lead you through every step to mitigate it. “I also like that the app is truly safety-focused, with useful information beyond Ting, such as tips on keeping your smoke alarms in working order,” says Dan DiClerico, GH’s director of home improvement & outdoor, who has been home-testing the system over the past year.Give your grill a full preseason inspectionWith barbecue season on the horizon, you’ll want to do more than just clean your grill grates: While you’re at it, clear off any debris that may have collected over the winter, says McKelvey.“Sometimes spiders or other insects find their way into a grill, or a bird may have even built a nest in there,” she explains. And that can be quite the combustible situation if you don’t check closely before lighting the grill up for the first time this year.Regular old grease buildup can cause fires, too, of course. “Also, check that the hose and connections from the gas tank to the grill are in good condition and free of leaks or damage,” adds McKelvey, since gas leaks can lead to fires or even explosions.Getty Images/Sergei TelenkovDeal with dangerous liquidsFlammable liquids with a flash point of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit can spark something truly scary in no time at all. This is why you want to take care to not use gasoline, paint thinners, acetone, oil-based paints, stains or varnishes, toluene, diethyl ether or alcohols while smoking or near an open flame, storing them in well-ventilated areas about 50 feet away.And if you spill any of those on your clothing or use a rag to clean them up, place the dirty laundry outside to dry before throwing it in the washer, says McKelvey. Never pile it up together or put it in the dryer, even after washing — it could spontaneously combust. And keep the flammable liquids themselves tightly sealed in their original containers so they can’t spill accidentally and pool without anyone knowing. More

There’s no shortage of home decluttering methods — take Marie Kondo’s popular minimalist approach, the KonMari Method, for example. But when it comes to downsizing your belongings, including furniture, clothing, shoes, kitchen essentials and even documents, to prepare for your older years, Swedish death cleaning is an approach that’s worth considering. What Is Swedish Death Cleaning?Swedish death cleaning is a well-known concept in Swedish and Scandinavian culture, where you work on eliminating unnecessary items from your home, so loved ones won’t be burdened with the task after you pass. The thorough organizing method involves editing everything from furniture and clothing to the ever-growing piles of documents that’s been difficult to control over time. It’s a slow process that’s been all the rage lately, thanks to Peacock’s new show, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, by Amy Poehler. While Swedish death cleaning is all about holding onto essential belongings, pinpointing the items you want to keep and part ways with isn’t an easy process. So, follow our checklist below to see how to get started and decide whether this buzzy cleaning method is the right one for you. Swedish Death Cleaning Checklist Chiociolla//Getty Images In 2017, Swedish author Margareta Magnusson coined the term in her New York Times best-selling book, The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter. In her guide, she urges those 65 and up to partake in the task, though it never hurts to begin earlier, especially since decluttering is a great stress reliever. When starting, focus on areas you may find the easiest to tackle. According to Magnusson’s book, the attic or basement may be best since they are more likely to have unnecessary excess items, like broken seasonal decorations. Choose belongings you don’t have emotional attachments to and determine the category you want to scrap first, such as unwanted clothes, books or even half-empty bottles of skincare. And there’s no time limit or true checklist to know when you’re done. It’s all about how you feel and the goals you want accomplished. More From Good Housekeeping play iconThe triangle icon that indicates to playThe Gentle Art of Swedish Death CleaningThe Gentle Art of Swedish Death CleaningNow 10% OffGo Straight to the Wardrobe There’s no need to start with personal and sentimental items, like love letters or your children’s photographs. In fact, our closets and drawers may be the easiest to organize. You’re sure to have two or more garments of the same color and size that you never wear. Choose clothes that no longer fit, discard damaged shirts or pants and donate items that no longer suit your lifestyle. Since you may have a bulk of clothes to sort through, don’t worry about how long it’ll take. Start with seasonal clothing and gradually work your way through your piles over the course of a few months (or even years if you must!). Declutter by SizeGo for the large items first, such as any furniture or rundown decor hidden away in the garage —think broken tables, chairs or smelly rugs. Then, move on to smaller items you can easily discard in boxes. We’re talking about shoes you barely wear, any excess magazines and more! If you find it easier, go room by room instead of decluttering your house as a whole. You can start off in the kitchen by ridding your cabinets of the 20 plates hidden in the back or burnt pots you still keep in the oven. As you clean, you may find many “just in case” items you’ve been holding onto for emergencies. Sadly, they only create clutter and should be discarded too. Daniel Balakov//Getty ImagesBuy Less The fewer items you have, the less time you’ll need to clean! It doesn’t matter what age you start Swedish death cleaning, it pays to limit shopping to avoid feeling overwhelmed. And don’t worry, as this doesn’t mean you have to stop buying the things you love. It’s simply about taking time to rethink your purchases— for example, there’s no need to buy yet another pair of shoes when you already have a large sneaker collection. Discuss the Process With Loved OnesYour family and friends may not understand why you want to start this process, but it’s still important to share the journey with them. Plus, they may have items they want to keep or pieces they want you to cherish until the end (a school painting or Christmas gift are just a few ideas to consider). It might also be helpful to invite them on your decluttering journey. It can be a beautiful and nostalgic way to reflect on memories throughout your life. Bhupi//Getty ImagesConduct a Digital Detox Almost everything is online, including your important passwords and documents shared through email or Google Drive. While the process may feel tedious, sorting through emails and making sure loved ones have your login details is a step that shouldn’t be overlooked. A simpler way is to scan key documents, including your house deed, medical records, photos and more, to put on a flash drive. Jose Luis Pelaez Inc//Getty ImagesSave Sentimental Items for Last In her book, Magnusson recommends saving your highly sentimental belongings for last. Sorting through them too early may deter you from continuing your household purge. These items can range from photo albums and letters to scrapbooks and family heirlooms. When looking at photos, discard duplicated or blurry images and keep your heirlooms in a separate box to pass down. Since you may be emotionally attached to these items, this step may be the most difficult. That’s why it’s important to talk things through with family and friends to help you stay motivated. 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.  More

We’ll cut straight to the chase: You should be changing your bed sheets once a week. “The longest you should wait before changing out your sheets is two weeks,” says Carolyn Forté, executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab “Weekly is even better.” That’s because bed sheets can accumulate so many things you can’t see, like dead skin cells, dust mites, germs and even fecal matter. Moreover, if you allow your pets to sleep in the bed or anyone in your household has dust or pollen allergies, sweats excessively or is experiencing an infectious illness, you’ll probably want to consider washing your sheets even more frequently.What happens if you don’t change your sheets once a week?Considering we spend one-third (or more!) of our lives in bed, it’s not hard to envision why it’s not OK to only wash your sheets once a month! Of course, bedding doesn’t wear like gym shorts or underwear, but you do spend a lot of time in it — and night after night, germs, sweat, pet dander and body oils accumulate quickly, meaning it’s not particularly hygienic to sleep in dirty sheets. Plus, while dust mites aren’t harmful to humans per se, they can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If changing your sheets once a week seems like a hassle, we recommend purchasing multiple sheet sets so you’ll always have clean ones on hand.What’s the best way to wash sheets?Just as important as how often you wash your sheets is making sure you’re using the right methods to get your sheets really clean and extend their life. We asked Forté to share her best advice for how to wash this bedding essential. Treat stains prior to washing “If there are no stains, there’s no need pretreat the sheets,” says Forté. “But it’s always a good idea to check pillowcases for makeup residue.” If there are noticeable stains, she recommends using a prewash stain remover like Shout Advanced Ultra Gel to help get any spots out. Or, if you’re dealing with a really tough stain, try OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Spray.Then add a top-performing laundry detergent, like Good Housekeeping Seal holder Persil ProClean + Stain Fighter Liquid Laundry Detergent — but just be careful not to overload your machine. “Sheets needs to circulate to get clean,” says Forté. “Today’s enormous washers can probably hold several sets, but you should never cram them in. And if your washer has an agitator in the middle, don’t wrap the sheets around it. This can cause them to wrinkle or tear. Instead, lay them in separately without wrapping them.”Wash with higher temps on a normal cycleTo boost cleaning (which helps if you suffer from allergies), increase the water temperature. Choose a cleaning cycle that uses the hottest water safe for the sheets’ fabric (check the care tag). “The hotter the water, the more germs you kill,” says Forté. Note that some new washers have dedicated cycles just for washing sheets. But if yours doesn’t, select the “normal” or “casual” cycle instead of “heavy duty.” Choosing a heavy-duty cycle isn’t necessary, unless your sheets are a serious mess. “Sheets don’t need excessive agitation to get clean, and the heavy-duty cycle can cause tangling and wrinkling,” says Forté. “It’s fine to wash sheets on the normal, regular or colors cycle. These options are gentler and shorter than heavy duty and, depending on the machine, will cool water gradually for less wrinkling.”Tumble dry sheets on lowWhile bedding might take a little longer to dry than a regular load of clothes, leaving sheets in the dryer longer “just in case” is a mistake. It’s best to tumble dry sheets on low heat for the shortest time possible to avoid over-drying them — and yes, this could take some trial and error to get right! “This is the best method to minimize shrinkage and reduce wrinkling too,” says Forté. You also may want to keep your sheets separate to avoid over-drying issues, since not all linens are created equally. “Sheets dry faster than towels, so when the sheets are dry the towels will likely still be wet if you dry them together,” says Forté. If you’re aiming to combine loads, she says it’s probably okay to put some light cotton fabrics in with sheets, but towels are problematic.Related StoriesSenior EditorLauren is a senior editor at Hearst. She was previously the senior editor at WomansDay.com and the home editor at GoodHousekeeping.com and HouseBeautiful.com. Her book club, ramen, and jean jackets are a few of her favorite things. More

A client request to revamp a 1950s ranch-style Houston property yielded an immediate “yes” from designer Katie Davis. As the couple with three young children began to describe the home’s layout and location in the city’s Memorial neighborhood, it started to sound very familiar to Davis.As kismet would have it, it was Davis’ childhood home. “This house shaped everything for me. My parents worked with a designer to renovate it when I was in sixth grade, and I watched the whole process unfold. I credit my mom for introducing me to a world I didn’t know about,” she says.Katie Davis as a child in front of the home.Courtesy of Katie DavisToday, Katie Davis is the founder and lead designer at Katie Davis Design.Kerry KirkFor the clients, she converted the dining room to a music room, made the sunroom more suitable for entertaining and refreshed several other spaces. But it was her instant familiarity with the home that made the design process so special: “I had a comforting feeling when I walked through the door,” she says. “Even though it wasn’t my parents furniture and there had been tweaks to the layout, at its core, the house has special spaces that feel so unique and interesting.” Talk about a full-circle moment!We spoke with Davis, who talks details behind designing the property she once shared with her parents and brother. Whether it’s crafting versatile spaces for the current family of five or finding unique ways to pay homage to the original design, here’s her top six pieces of advice:Kerry Kirk1. Let wallpaper inspire your paint color.In the powder room, the cabinetry’s green hue (Benjamin Moore’s Saybrook Sage) was pulled from the leaves on the floral wallpaper. The rectangular mirror with ruffled edges from Ballard Designs adds to the whimsical charm.2. Create an “outdoor” living room.With nature as its backdrop and a ton of seating, the sunroom is the perfect place to gather. The sectional and the Palecek chairs create a cozy vibe. “It’s a special spot,” Davis says of the room, which was her go-to play area as a child. BEFORE: Wicker seating gathered around a small coffee table, illuminated by lantern-style lighting and spotlights.Courtesy of Katie DavisAFTER: A pair of armchairs, a spacious sectional and matching ottoman, plus textured throw pillows and decorative lighting.Kerry KirkKerry Kirk3. Try tone-on-tone with a twist.Monochromatic spaces don’t have to feel one-note. In the entry nook (which was a cedar closet long before Davis’s parents reconfigured the area), varied shades of blue, paired with the mix of Schumacher textiles for the custom sofa and walls, keep the look fresh and appealing. The butterfly print is by Paule Marrot.4. Feature art you love.”The only requirement for art is that it makes you happy,” Davis says. For the music room, which had been her family’s dining room, the clients chose a tumble weed photograph by Dallas artist Allison V. Smith. “This room was special — we had so many holidays with family and friends there,” Davis recalls. BEFORE: Carpeted floors and patterned seating with a dose of greenery and landscape wall art.Courtesy of Kerry KirkAFTER: A calming brown paint color paired with a neutral area rug and pale blue armchairs. The star of the show: a tumbleweed photo.Kerry Kirk5. Reinvent classic colors.As a nod to her childhood home — which had bright blue tiles, paint colors and patterned fabrics — Davis wove in classic blue elements. For the daughter’s bedroom, Davis found versatile pieces that felt modern and could grow with the home. She went with a blue headboard and floral fabric bench that reminds her of a “cute cottage” — but also acts as storage for dolls and barbies.Kerry KirkKerry Kirk6. Play with pattern. The surge of pattern and color continue into the boys’ bedroom, which Davis wanted to feel young yet subtly masculine and mature. “I love the stripe wallpaper,” she says. “It helps add interest to an otherwise simple room.” Next, she layered in patterned throw pillows and hung antique artwork above the beds.A version of this feature appeared in the May 2023 issue of Good Housekeeping.Senior Home EditorMonique Valeris is the senior home editor for Good Housekeeping, where she oversees the brand’s home decorating coverage across print and digital. Prior to joining GH in 2020, she was the digital editor at Elle Decor. In her current role, she explores everything from design trends and home tours to lifestyle product recommendations, including writing her monthly column, “What’s in My Cart.” More