Home Ideas

Get an Insta-worthy refrigerator by using as many drawers, shelves, and containers as possible. More

Make your space a cozy haven. More

If your home has been brimming with clutter for far too long, Marie Kondo’s latest foray just might help you. The popular organizer, who stands by ridding your space of everything that fails to spark joy, has just launched an online course that’s available on her site, KonMari.com, for just $39.99.
While Kondo has already garnered an impressive fan base with her organizing books and hit Netflix show, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, that showcases real people tidying under her guidance, she’s hoping to win over those who prefer a more direct teaching style. “When you reassess your belongings and organize your home, you set the stage for a huge transformation,” Kondo tells Good Housekeeping.

Organizing expert Marie Kondo
KonMari Media, Inc.

The KonMari Method™: Fundamentals of Tidying online course includes 10 lessons, where Kondo breaks down exactly how to tackle different tidying tasks throughout a home. She’ll share step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and, of course, tons of visual inspiration to make organizing as stress-free as possible. Plus, there are product recommendations as well as a downloadable checklist along the way.
“People are spending more time than ever at home, so this course is an opportunity to help them tidy up and rediscover their joy,” Kondo says. “Rather than a dreaded task, I see tidying as a celebration. It’s an act of gratitude for the items that support you every day – and the first step to living the life you’ve always wanted. It is my hope that the magic of tidying will help people to create a bright and joyful future – especially during these uncertain times.”
Ready to give Kondo’s online course a try? Register for it here.
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The amount of information swirling out there around the most effective cleaning (and sanitizing, and disinfecting) practices can be dizzying — and often, misleading. What’s likely true is that your home and the surfaces in it aren’t getting the thorough clean you think they are.While strategies for cleaning are aplenty, one way to take guesswork out of the equation is to stock products that are a one-two punch, like Weiman Disinfectant Granite & Stone Wipes. But you also need to know how to use them appropriately.
To squash the most common misconceptions around sanitizing and disinfecting, we consulted with resident cleaning expert Carolyn Forte, director of the Home Appliances and Cleaning Products Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute to help us bust some cleaning myths.
Myth: Sanitizing is the same as disinfecting.
Though commonly used synonymously, cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are three separate things, says Forte. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), cleaning removes any visible dirt, dust, and debris from a surface by washing and rinsing, typically with soap and water, but it does not automatically disinfect.
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Sanitizing mitigates the risk of illness by reducing some of the bacteria identified on a product’s label.
And if you want to be truly thorough, you’ll need to disinfect, which kills most of the bacteria and viruses identified on a product’s label.
Myth: All cleaning products disinfect.
Check your products, says Forte. Read the fine print on the label closely. If you’re still not sure, look for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration number on the label, says Forte. Then, type that number into the agency’s database for specifics on what type of bacteria and viruses are in its crosshairs.
Myth: If a sanitizer or disinfectant is effective enough, it can cut through layers of dirt.
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To adequately sanitize or disinfect a dirty surface, it needs a quick wipe down first. Always check the instructions on the packaging for specifics. Weiman Disinfectant Granite & Stone Wipes, for example, suggests cleaning (soap and water will do just fine!) any visibly dirty surfaces prior to disinfecting.
Myth: Plant-based cleaners don’t work.
When used properly, plant-based disinfectants can be just as effective as chemical cleaners—they just might work more slowly, says Forte. But, like chemical-based cleaners, not all formulas are created equally. Again, look for ones approved by the EPA and follow package instructions closely.
Myth: Vinegar can kill germs.
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According to the CDC and NSF (a public health and safety organization), though vinegar is a suitable cleaner — remember, that means it’s adequate for removing anything visible from a surface — vinegar and vinegar-based cleaning products are not registered with the EPA as disinfectants. Furthermore, the effectiveness of these household solutions against germs and viruses hasn’t been proven. To ensure you’re properly disinfecting, opt for registered products instead.
Myth: A bleach and water solution can be used for days or weeks to disinfect.
So you’ve whipped up bleach and water solution to tackle all of those dirty spots in your home, but wound up with extra? Toss it. (You can safely dispose of these small amounts of bleach by pouring it down the sink while the water runs.) “A fresh solution needs to be made each time you want to use it,” says Forte. “Once mixed with water, bleach loses its effectiveness after about a day.”
Myth: Disinfecting products work instantaneously.
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Proper disinfecting takes time. No matter what product you use, it’s essential to check the product directions for how long hard, non-porous surfaces must stay wet for the most effective germ killing, says Forte. Weiman Disinfectant Granite & Stone Wipes, for example, kill 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria touted on the label, including Influenza A Virus H1N1 and Respiratory Syncytial (RSV)—but only if the surface in question remains wet for four minutes.
Myth: Soft surfaces, like pillows and upholstery, can be disinfected.
“Disinfectants work only on hard, non-porous surfaces,” says Forte. “Many are safe to use on soft surfaces and do kill germs, but they sanitize, not disinfect.” Remember: Sanitizers do reduce your risk of exposure, but not as thoroughly as disinfectants do.
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Drew Barrymore launched a daily talk show last week, but that hasn’t stopped the star from keeping her FLOWER Home collection for Walmart at the top of consumers’ minds. The stylish furniture and home decor line’s fall offerings just dropped on Walmart.com, and as to be expected, every item reflects Barrymore’s vibrant, boho aesthetic. And like previous home releases, she turned to everyday wonders to fuel her creative process. “Inspiration comes from everywhere,” Barrymore said in a press release. “Something that you love in life can become something you love in your home. Curate your love of life and live right in it.”
From colorful botanical prints to eye-catching abstract patterns, the eclectic FLOWER Home collection for the new season includes peel-and-stick wallpaper designs, plus an impressive assortment of seating, tables, lighting, curtains, wall art, ceramics, and much more. And the best part is that Barrymore’s collection won’t blow your budget at all. For instance, you can find a set of rattan storage baskets for $45, a wood console table for $299, a floral apron for $12 — just to name a few great pieces.

Courtesy of FLOWER Home

You might think the reasonable price points mean the star had to be willing to sacrifice quality, but that isn’t the case, according to Barrymore. “My design process is that I care about every detail … every color-way, every pattern, and every shape,” she said.Barrymore’s attentiveness shows. Just about every trendy product in the FLOWER Home collection can easily be mixed and matched with items in your existing space, making them perfect for a simple fall home refresh. Take a look below at some of our favorite pieces in the new FLOWER Home line for fall.

Shop Drew Barrymore’s FLOWER Home Collection for Fall

The Enchanting Aviary Table Lamp
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$79.00

Carved Wood Storage Cabinet
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$299.00

Mid-Century Accent Chair
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$299.00

Antique Brass Arch Floor Lamp
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$120.00

Rattan Oval Wall Mirror
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$69.00

Rattan 3 Tier Hanging Basket
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$34.00

Gallant Green Ombre Glass Drinkware
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$25.00

Butterfly Metal 5″x7″ Photo Frame
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$22.00

Vintage Palm Shower Curtain
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$25.00

Vintage Floral Chair Cushion
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$13.00

Vintage Floral Yellow Peel & Stick Wallpaper
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$35.00

Vintage Palm Green Peel & Stick Wallpaper
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$35.00

Sapphire Scalloped Tassel Napkin Set
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$24.00

Tropical Toile Bird Appetizer Plate Set
Drew Barrymore Flower Home walmart.com
$16.00

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These tips will whip your space into magazine-worthy shape. More

Good Housekeeping/Edible Arrangements

The floral arts have been around for ages (just look at some of our archival issues), but for anyone who has exhausted their to-do list of tie-dye DIYs and sourdough starters, the prospect of a putting together a tidy bouquet might actually feel like a fresh idea. Whether it’s a star centerpiece or a small touch of everyday style, a charming set of stems can be a beautiful and easy way to channel your creativity and uplift your spirit.
But as anyone who has tried to assemble a thoughtful flower arrangement will know, not every decision is as easy as it looks. Lucky for you, Good Housekeeping editors have worked with their fair share of florals. So we’ve picked the brains (and even taste buds) of our pros for a set of cross-disciplinary tips to help you tap into your inner florist. Read on for the easiest ways to make your next bouquet an arrangement that will inspire you in every way.
Set the tone with color
The star of every bouquet is color and it should be one of the most important considerations of the arrangement you choose. “Most pros suggest sticking to flowers that are in close proximity to each other on the color wheel,” says senior home editor, Monique Valeris. So when in doubt, reach for a mix of tonal options such as classic white assortments or a bright assembly of warmer hues that’ll ensure your arrangement feels cohesive.
That said, pops of unexpected color or contrast can be a wonderful opportunity to add personality to your bouquet. Taking cues from seasonal inspiration or drawing from your individual style is the perfect way to make a bouquet feel personal. “Be sure to have fun with your arrangements,” adds Valeris, “as it’s all about putting your aesthetic on display.”
Focus on the balance
Like many other living things, flowers have the power to radiate energy throughout a space. Balancing your arrangement with its environment is key to ensuring your bouquet lives harmoniously with either you or the recipient. Valeris has been using flowers to spark a bit of joy in her at-home workspace and she notes that, “like paint or lighting, flowers can alter the ambiance of a room. For instance, a tall, multicolored arrangement can add drama to a space, while a compact monochrome bouquet, or even a single stem in a sleek vessel, can lend an air of sophisticated elegance.” For a soft visual statement that can complement any space, go for tightly arranged bouquets that are cut closer to the vase. If you’re aiming for a more spirited mood, select a tall arrangement that, when cut, will take on a freer spirit when it unfolds.
“Your vase choice is just as important as the flowers you choose to put in it,” adds Valeris. So don’t forget to consider what’s beneath your blooms, as well. Our experts recommend allowing the season to dictate the vase. So, for summer, consider mason jars or an oversized jug. In winter, try experimenting with more substantial materials such as marble or wood that will naturally showcase your arrangement.
Consider all the senses
Beyond their aesthetics, a flower’s fragrance can actually influence our sense of taste as well. “If you plan to dress your table with flowers, make sure you take a whiff before just placing them at the center,” says chief food director, Kate Merker. “Flowers are beautiful and many have incredible scents—some are very gentle and others more assertive—which means they could complement or interfere with the aroma and taste of whatever you might be serving.” For decorating a table, Ms. Merker favors the fragrant blossoms of lavender, daisies, carnations, and dahlias, which tend to work well with her dishes and can sometimes add additional dimension to the eating experience.
Complementing food with flowers can be tricky, but when successfully paired (even as a decoration or ingredient), the result is guaranteed to deliver a wow factor every time. For an effortlessly beautiful and expertly composed way to weave together the senses, turn to the new FruitFlowers pairings by Edible arrangements. Not only are all the combinations of florals and delicious chocolate-covered fruit made to play off each other perfectly, but your selection can be completely customized. Whatever the occasion, it’s the ideal arrangement for all the senses.

FruitFlowers

Edible Arrangements

$84.99

SHOP NOW

FruitFlowers

Edible Arrangements

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Fresh herbs add depth to recipes when added in the beginning and brightness at the end. They add color to otherwise drab-looking pasta, and can be used as a sauce for everything from grains to meat and veggies – pesto or chimichurri, anyone? As beautiful as herbs are, they don’t last long, but here’s how you can store them and use every last leaf.
What’s the difference between tender and hardy herbs?
Tender herbs include leafy varieties with soft stems, like basil, parsley, cilantro, and dill. (Mint can be classified as a tender herb, too, but we’ve found that it can be stored well like a hardy herb, too!).
Hardy herbs include types with woodier stems, like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. They’re also the ones that require less water to grow. Think: Rosemary growing in the clay-like soil of the Mediterranean and oregano growing on the sandy mountains of Greece.
Where should you store herbs — on the counter or in the fridge?
Tender herbs benefit from being treated like live flowers and stored in water at room temperature – the fridge’s temperature and air can bruise bare, delicate leaves (two exceptions: Parsley and cilantro can stand up to the cold; just loosely cover dry leaves with plastic before stashing in the fridge). To help them last longer, change the water every couple of days and discard wilted stems.
Keep hardy herbs dry in the clamshells they’re sold in, or wrap in a damp paper towel and store in an open baggie in the fridge. If stored in water, hardy herbs can become waterlogged. Check on them every couple of days: They’ll last longer if you occasionally change their wrapping and throw away wilted pieces.
Should you wash your herbs before storing?
You should. Plus, if you wash them before storing, you’ll be likely to use them when you’re cooking. It’s important, however, to dry your herbs well before wrapping and storing, to prevent them from getting wet and moldy.
To wash tender herbs, hold by the stems and plunge the leaves in cold water. Shake to dry. You can be a little less careful about drying when storing on the counter because the herbs will dry naturally in an upright position.
To wash hardy herbs, swirl around in cold water and lay flat on a clean dish towel. When dry, transfer to a damp paper towel and wrap in bundles before placing in an open baggie in the fridge. Both of these cleaning methods allow dirt and debris to fall to the bottom of a bowl without leaves being bruised from running water.

Step One
Swirl woody sprigs in cold water and spread on a clean towel to dry.

Step Two
Wrap the herbs in a slightly damp paper towel.

Step Three
These bundles keep leaves protected and hydrated to stay fresh longer.

Step Four
Store in an open plastic bag in your fridge’s crisper drawer.

How long do fresh herbs last?
Depending on how you store them, some herbs can last up to a couple of weeks while others should should be used right away. A few other factors contribute to their longevity, including the quality of the herbs when you buy them and how dry or unbruised they are before you store them. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Tender herbs
Basil: Up to 1 week
Cilantro: 1 week to 10 days
Parsley: 1 to 2 weeks
Dill: 1 week
Mint: 3 to 4 days
Chives: Approximately 1 week
Hardy herbs
Rosemary: 2 to 3 weeks
Thyme: 2 weeks
Oregano: 1 to 2 weeks
How to store fresh herbs in the freezer
To store herbs long-term, fresh herbs can be frozen — but don’t just toss them in a baggie! If you do, they’ll likely freeze together and form ice crystals that will drain and muddy their flavor when they defrost. Instead:
Thoroughly dry herbs (water droplets will cause splattering during cooking) and chop them.
Add herbs to an ice cube tray and fill with oil before freezing through.
Use the frozen cubes when you first start cooking the way you would normally heat oil in a pan, or stir in at the very end to finish.
How to dry herbs
Fresh herbs may be dried or dehydrated so they can last for up to six months when stored properly. To dry herbs, wash and dry them completely, then use a dehydrator on a low temperature (95ºF to 105ºF) to draw moisture out of the leaves until they crumble in your hand. The amount of time varies based on the herb: Tender herbs will dehydrate faster than hardy ones. Store dehydrated herbs in a small, airtight container in a cool, dark place.

10 Herbs You Can Grow Indoors Year-Round

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