As Good Housekeeping’s senior home editor, I come across tons of home-related products, both good and bad. But there are some special finds that are just too great to keep to myself. That’s why I’m sharing my favorite home items with you—our readers—here on our website every month in the hope that you’ll appreciate them as much as I do.
Last month, I shared some of the stylish home items that carried me through the summer months. Now that we’ve transitioned to fall, it’s only right to highlight the best pieces that I’ll be relying on to make my space more cozy and suitable for the cooler temps. Scroll down for a look at what’s on my radar this month, from chic bookends to a cozy throw. You won’t be disappointed.
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It’s mesmerizing to look at well-organized, color-coordinated refrigerator. (Try not to get lost in the perfectly placed peppers above.) But actually, an organized fridge also saves time and money. If you know exactly what’s inside, grocery shopping and mealtimes become way more efficient, with less food waste and unpleasant smells.
To get started, experts from the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen recommend prioritizing the foods that you reach for most. From there, categorize items into groups and place them in clear containers (key word: clear) for a more uniform look. The rest is up you: Stock up on different storage solutions to help combat rolling soda cans, overloaded snack drawers, and your growing wine stash.
When placing items on shelves, consider what makes most sense for you — and for the food itself. Most people keep milk on the top shelf or in the door but it should go on the back of the bottom shelf where it’s coldest. Same goes for eggs: Store eggs in their original cartons on middle or top shelves where temperatures are more consistent. Reserve the fridge door for condiments, butters, soft cheeses, and processed juices.
If you have young children, stick their go-to snacks at eye level so they can easily grab them without making a mess. You can reserve a special bin for each kid or throw all the snacks in one spot for people to pick from because, well, sharing is caring.
When you buy something new — a fresh gallon of milk, for example — rotate the older items to the front so that they can be used before the expiration date. Keep an eye – not just a nose — on leftovers: Toss fish after one to two days, meat after two to three days, and veggies or grains after five to seven days.
Before you start clearing your fridge, stock up on these must-have storage solutions and gadgets.
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This year, the phrase “winter is coming” has new, anxiety-provoking overtones. After a year in which our lives were upended and our roots planted firmly at home, it can be daunting to think about another significant stretch of time inside.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little forethought, you can transform your house into a home, making it a haven for cool weather ahead — a place you really want to be. Here’s how.
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As we head into cold and flu season — in a year where viruses are already top of mind — there’s nothing more important than stocking up on all the tools you’ll need to keep your home cleaner and safer during the cold season.
It’s a common misconception that all cleaning products disinfect, says Carolyn Forte, director of the Home Appliances and Cleaning Products Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. And cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are not one and the same. Cleaning removes any visible mess from a surface by washing and rinsing, typically with soap and water, but it does not automatically disinfect. Sanitizing is one step better, as it kills some illness-causing bacteria. Disinfecting is what you really want, though, as this kills most illness-causing bacteria and viruses.
When shopping, look for products, like Weiman Disinfectant Granite & Stone Clean & Shine, with labels that specifically say they disinfect. If you’re unsure, look for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration number on the product label, says Forte. Then, type that number into the agency’s database for specifics on what type of bacteria and viruses against which it may be effective.
Though spring cleaning gets all of the attention, fall is a great time to do a quick pass through — a “fall fix-up,” if you will. First, hit any spaces where clutter tends to accumulate — your closets, the family command center, or your home office. Make two piles: One to toss; one to donate.
Once you’ve done that, make the space sparkle. Use your new and improved supply of products to disinfect any high-touch surfaces, like counters, doorknobs, appliance handles, and even remote controls. Cleaning wipes make quick work of this task.
Now is a good time to do a spiff-up on items that tend to accumulate a lot of dust, too. Use a pillowcase to strip caked-on dust from ceiling fans, break out your long-handled duster to scour pendant lights and sconces, and use your vacuum’s special attachments to give upholstery a once-over.
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While you’re in purge mode, take a peek inside your pantry. Toss expired goods and donate anything that’s still good, but has remained untouched for months. Then, take stock and craft a shopping list. Make sure you have everything you’ll need for multi-purpose cooking—think olive oil, salt and pepper, beans, and grains like rice and pasta.
And while you’re at it, consider adding a slow cooker or a multi-cooker to your arsenal of cooking tools—these little gadgets are relatively inexpensive, but make quick work of big-batch winter comfort food.
Find ways to incorporate rich, autumnal hues into your space—think orange, greens, and browns, says Monique Valeris, senior home editor for Good Housekeeping. And, no, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to spend a ton of money on new decor pieces.
There are plenty of easy ways to breathe new life into your space on a budget. Cozy up couches and chairs with extra blankets and throw pillows or try swapping out any art prints that have a beachy vibe for something more appropriate for the season, suggests Valeris.
You can also bring some natural autumnal elements indoors. For example, pop some pinecones into a pretty wooden bowl and display it on your coffee table. A potted plant is a great way to do this, too. And—bonus—studies suggest plants not only help purify the air, but they also boost overall happiness.
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Another easy decor move that can pay off big in both aesthetic and comfort: New bedding. Trade crisp, cotton sheets for something softer and warmer, like flannel. Alternatively, you can simply put away that light summer quilt and fill a duvet with a nice, plush down comforter. For texture, be sure to layer on pillows and some cozy throws in fabrics like fleece or even cashmere.
Though hard surfaces are all the rage in contemporary flooring, there’s nothing quite as chill-inducing as stepping out of a cozy, warm bed onto an ice-cold floor. Place a soft rug under your bed, or opt for runners on either side of it. You can also consider the concept of layering, says Valeris. For instance, layering a sisal rug with a patterned design can make a big design impact.
You’ll want something in your main space, too—especially near the entryway, because nobody wants wet, muddy footprints tracked throughout the house. Add a decorative mat in this location, or try a washable rug.
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When the days are so short and darkness creeps in at an unnaturally early hour, you’ll need sufficient lighting. But nix the harsh overheads. If you have recessed lighting, swap bright bulbs for smart LEDs — you can use your smartphone or set up voice command via a smart home hub to dim them, set timers, and even change the color of the light. Also consider replacing any bright white lights in lamps with softer warm-toned lights.
Candles are another way to cast a warm, cozy glow in your home once the sun goes down. They come in so many great fall scents like pumpkin and patchouli, plus set the mood and are great for entertaining, says Valeris.
When you’re home for months on end, even a little chill in the air can’t stop you from getting a quick change of scenery by heading outdoors — especially if your backyard, balcony, or terrace is equipped with some type of heat source to lessen the chill. If you have the room and local ordinances or building codes allow for it, invest in an outdoor fire pit, says Valeris.
Sitting around the fire is surprisingly relaxing and rejuvenating, plus gives off enough heat to make a nippy night much more comfortable. If you’re not permitted to have a fire pit, an electric patio heater may do just the trick.
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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 people 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.
The KonMari Method™: Fundamentals of Tidying 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 course a try? Register for it here.
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.”
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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.
“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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Thanks to their role as gathering space and a source of meals, kitchens tend to be the unofficial drop spot for all things life. Think rogue mail, loose keys, discarded backpacks, stacks of schoolwork, you name it.
If all you see when you enter your kitchen are things that shouldn’t really be there, you might begin to wonder if all of those immaculately clean and well-designed versions on your social feeds are simply a figment of imagination. News flash: They aren’t! In fact, it’s totally possible for your space to be just as enviable.
Here are seven ways you can take your space from messy and drab to immaculate and well-styled.
There’s nothing worse than trying to decorate around clutter, says Monique Valeris, senior home editor for Good Housekeeping. First, tackle any excess on the counters as you can, and employ space-saving ways to store the items you use on a regular basis. For instance, a hanging tiered fruit basket gets things up off counters and makes it easy to see exactly what fruit needs to be replenished every week, says Valeris.
You can also utilize the storage space under your sink more efficiently. Hang a tension rod typically reserved for blinds, then drape gloves and rags on it. You can even rest household cleaners on it by their nozzles. Other clever ideas: Add a lazy Susan to maximize space and consider attaching compact shelves to the insides of your cabinet doors.
Finally, make use of your wall space. Opt for a magnetic knife rack, or hang your everyday utensils, like spatulas and spoons, on a wall-mounted rod right where you can see them.
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Once you’ve organized, do a thorough clean to create the perfect blank canvas for weaving in stylish accessories and personality: Dust light fixtures with a microfiber cloth, scrub grout lines with the right brush, wash windows (again, a microfiber cloth is your best friend here), wipe down appliances with the appropriate cleaner (even their knobs!), spritz countertops with a quality disinfectant like Weiman Disinfectant Granite & Stone Clean & Shine, and vacuum and mop floors.
Here’s one way to avoid having to double-back on any work: Start at the highest point — dusting lights and wiping counters, for example — and work your way down to the floors. This way, any dust and debris that falls won’t recontaminate any clean areas, doubling your effort.
What’s one thing all of the most well-styled kitchens have in common? Plenty of negative space. Why? Limiting what you have on display clears the line of vision, making the decor you spent so much time selecting really pop.
“Think about the appliances that you use regularly, and commit to only keeping those handy,” says Valeris. “For small appliances, like a waffle maker, that might not be used frequently, place them on a higher shelf or a good spot in your pantry that doesn’t compete with those that are part of your everyday routine.”
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Making your kitchen a special space is all about paying attention to the details, says Valeris.
Look around: If you have cooking essentials — salt, pepper, and olive oil — next to the stove and hygiene tools — soap, sanitizer, and lotion — on the ledge of the sink, consider upgrading from their plastic or glass containers to something more attractive.
Amber bottles are perfect for this, since they are readily available in all shapes and sizes, plus come in both pump and spritz options. There are even sleek, touchless dispensers available to add a dose of style to your space, says Valeris.
Open shelving instantly ups your storage capacity and creates a homey feel, as the quick access to kitchen essentials, like drinking glasses, makes guests feel at ease — they don’t have to ask or rummage through your cabinets to find what they need.
But if you’re keeping items like dinnerware, mugs, and cutting boards on full display, it’s important to choose a color palette that feels timeless, says Valeris. Opt for white dishware, with a few pops of wooden accessories and stainless steel kitchen essentials.
Worried open shelving presents a dusting nightmare? Minimize the problem by only stashing frequently used items and just enough dishes to get through your regular rotation. And don’t forget to run a long-handled duster over the space a few times per month.
Though it may seem counterintuitive in a space so prone to spills and messes, a textured rug in a neutral or dark tone is a great way to add warmth to a kitchen, says Valeris. Since it’s a high-traffic space, choose a low-pile, flat weave design that won’t get in your way. And if you’re really concerned about stains, they even make washable versions that you can toss in the laundry as often as you need to.
Just be sure to take measurements before splurging on the textile of your choice. For rectangular mats in front of the sink, aim for about 2 feet by 3 feet; for runners, measure the length of your island or galley, then subtract a few inches; and for filling an open space — under the dining table, for instance — ensure it’s big enough to accommodate any chairs, even when they’re pulled out.
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Whether a small herb garden on the windowsill or a potted pythos on open shelving, greenery is a great way to enliven your kitchen space, says Valeris.
So you don’t end up with a bunch of lifeless plants — a definite decor bummer — invest in low-maintenance indoor plants. You can think beyond the typical succulent or air plant, though: More unique options like Chinese money plants, peace lilies, bromeliad, and even phalaenopsis orchids are small potted plants that don’t take up much space, plus are tough enough to withstand (almost) any neglect.
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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.
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