While you might not have lots of plants blooming in winter, it's still important to make sure the ones you do have growing are properly protected.

I've asked gardening experts for the plants you should pay special attention to, from winter flowers to fresh herbs. They've also explained everything you need to do in order to make sure they carry on thriving.

If you're following a month-by-month gardening calendar and want to ensure you've got everything covered for winter, these are all worth knowing.

1. Flowers

If you have bright and bold blooms adding color to your small backyard ideas, it’s a good idea to keep them up protected during winter.

“Azaleas, rhododendrons, and hollies should be wrapped in burlap to shield from wind and snow,” explains Scott McLeod, gardening expert and owner of McLeod Landscaping Inc.

“Their broad leaves dry out even when roots stay warm,” adds Marco Picano, gardening expert and co-owner of Picano Landscaping.”

He also advises that evergreen varieties will need burlap on the trunks, as the greenery can be damaged by cold and wind.

I recommend grabbing a roll that you can cut to size, such as the Burloptuous Gardening Burlap Roll from Amazon which is the site’s choice.

2. Herbs and vegetables

If you’re growing herbs and veggies like I am in my small vegetable garden, it’s a good idea to insulate their roots.

“Mulch protects herb and vegetable roots, insulating them under 6-8 inches,” says Scott.

He adds that rosemary, thyme, and parsley will survive without this, so if you just have these, it might not be worth investing in a bag of mulch.

It’s not just useful to have rosemary in your backyard for Christmas dinners — it’s one of the plants that will repel pests, too.

3. Container plants

While you can keep some plants outside, if you have any in containers, you need to make sure you move them indoors for this season.

“This is because their roots are exposed and will freeze outside,” explains Scott. “Water them thoroughly before moving inside, then check the soil and water lightly when the top few inches are dry.”

You can always keep them all together inside on top of a plant shelf, such as on the Bamworld Plant Shelf on Amazon that is multifunctional and durable.

The key is preparing before winter and using proper techniques to ensure your plants thrive for years to come.

“My advice is to get to know your plants and specific winter risks in your area. Protect sooner than later, and you’ll have happy, healthy gardens,” Marco finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out seasonal plant care tips? Learning how to winterize houseplants and what the best flowering plants for winter are may also come in useful.

Plant care essentials

Our pick of six of the best purple indoor plants offers a cool and edgy look for your interior. If you like the idea of mixing things up a little it's a great way to add contrast to the green jungle vibe.

Choose bright purple plants for vibrant color or darker, inky ones for a more contemporary feel. We asked plant experts to share their thoughts on the best purple indoor plants that both look good and are easy to care for so they don't take up too much of your time.

Follow their suggestions to help you create an interior plantscape with the best indoor plants in a range of plum and violet shades.

Best purple indoor plants

Before you make your selection why not consider fast-growing indoor plants too, as well as the best tall houseplants to add height, and flowering indoor plants to add color, especially if you like purple flowers too. Now find out what our expert-led top tips for the best purple indoor plants are.

1. Velvet plant

The gorgeous purple foliage of the wonderfully named velvet plant is as plush as you'd expect. Also known as purple passion, the color and texture of this stunning houseplant means it will soon become a firm favorite.

Easy-going velvet plants like bright light and love being on a sunny windowsill but will need protection from scorching afternoon sun. The more light, the brighter and more vivid the purple color of the leaves will be. 

Velvet plants do best in well-draining soil, and like being watered thoroughly then drying out completely before the next watering.

Expect rapid growth (the good news is this means you will be able to take lots of cuttings to get more of these beauties) and keep your plant compact by deadheading regularly and snipping off any leggy growth. We think it's one of the best purple indoor plants around.

2. Purple oxalis

The rare and sought-after Oxalis triangularis plant has gorgeous distinctive purple leaves that will close at night and open again in the morning. They look just like butterflies. This wonderful plant also has edible flowers that taste like lemon.

This plant is easygoing and forgiving, too. If you miss a watering, it will soon bounce back. 'It prefers bright indirect light to medium indirect light,' says home decor and plant expert Emily Auffrey. 'Water about once a week and usually twice a week in the spring and summer. Cut off blossoms once they have died, close to the bottom of the stem. Just make sure to keep it away from AC and heat vents.' 

This plant loves a humid location so stand it on a saucer of pebbles to keep the surrounding moisture high, especially during winter. Let your plant rest during the cooler months by reducing the amount you water it. Then you'll see lush growth in spring.

3. Tradescantia 'Zebrina'

If you like trailing plants then tradescantia 'Zebrina' is the one for you. Fast-growing with an easy-going nature, it's a great choice for new plant parents too, and will soon be trailing happily from your shelves, room divider or boho macrame hanger with lots of lush, leafy growth. 

Snip off any leggy bits from your tradescantia 'Zebrina' regularly to encourage a more bushy plant. Pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage branching, and trim back any wayward stems. Try propagating your plant to get babies by taking stem cuttings and rooting them in either water or soil. 

While predominantly purple the leaves feature silver and green colors too, making a pretty pattern. These plants aren't fussy about where you put them but grow best in indirect light. Avoid positioning your plant in direct sunlight, as it can cause the leaves to burn and wilt. 

You only need to water them when the soil is dry. Give them a good drink then let the water drain through thoroughly.

4. Coleus

With their attractive bold-patterned leaf markings a few of these colorful plants make a great addition to your houseplant collection. As well as purple this striking foliage plant comes in shades of pink, white, cream, yellow, and maroon, with several colors often mixed together on the same leaf. 

Coleus are easy to grow too, often reaching full size in less than a year. The main story with these plants is the foliage. The flowers are nothing special and should be snipped off otherwise they will set seed, which will reduce the amount of lovely colorful leaves you get on your plant.

Position your plant where it will get plenty of light but in summer move it out of strong sunlight as this will cause leaf color to fade. Their frilled, puckered leaves mean they are one of the best purple indoor plants you can invest in.

5. Begonia

There are hundreds of different types of begonia to choose from but if you want one with purple leaves a good place to start is with one of the Begonia rex varieties. Some are a mix of dark purple hearts, borders or ribs, with splashes of green, pink or cream in the mix, which is why they're known as 'painted leaf' begonia, while others are pure purple.

‘Begonias have been a longtime favorite of plant collectors because there are always new ones being created,' says plant expert Darryl Cheng. 'They are readily hybridized to produce new cultivars.’ 

For gorgeous purple shades try 'Nightfall', which has gorgeous puckered leaves edged by a thick purple band, with dark inky heart and ribs. It looks stunning against a background of light green. Meanwhile 'Black Heart' is a purple and dark red mix, or try 'Purple Curl' for a hit of pure plum.

6. Echeveria 'Purple Pearl'

'Echeveria plants are the darlings of the small succulent world,' says plant expert Johanna Silver. 'They are always rosette forms and might be fuzzy or lumpy, or have frilly tips, a powdery coating, or a metallic sheen. They come in a range of colors, from palest pink to the deepest purple.'

With its small but fleshy leaves and delicately purple tones, ‘Purple Pearl’ is the one to go for if you're looking for a dark shade.

Like most succulents, echeveria prefers full sun, isn't keen on draughty locations and enjoys being watered thoroughly then letting the soil dry out completely. Give ‘Purple Pearl’ the sunny spot it craves and the color will darken significantly, taking your plant to the next level of deep purple.

What to shop

Now you have all the inspo you need to choose the best purple indoor plants why not push out the search and include some leafy loveliness with the best tropical indoor plants and the best low-maintenance indoor plants for living rooms to keep you plant collection fuss-free as well as on-trend.

Learning how often to water your plants is super important for making sure they thrive properly. Even tropical plants like monstera need to be watered frequently.

I've asked gardening pros exactly when you should water yours and top tips for doing so. “Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to droop and develop brown edges, so it's important to get your watering pattern right,” says Lydia Beaumont, gardening expert at Gardeners Yard.

If you're taking care of a monstera plant, keeping it hydrated is key for ensuring it flourishes and grows leaves long-term.

How often to water monstera

In terms of watering this indoor plant, it just depends on what the temperature is like in your home, which tends to change from season to season.

“I water my monsters every 7-10 days in summer, letting the top inch of soil dry out between waterings,” says Joe Gerrior, gardening expert and owner of Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction Corp.

He continues, “In winter I water every 10-14 days as monstera growth slows. Check the soil with your finger — if dry an inch deep, it's thirsty.”

Top tips for watering monstera

When watering, Joe also suggests pouring enough so it flows out the drainage holes, moistening the entire root ball. “Never leave a monstera in sitting water — make sure to empty excess within 30 minutes.”

After this, it’s a good idea to check the soil before hydrating it. “Allow the top 1-2 inches to dry before watering again,” suggests Lydia.

Misting a few times a week increases humidity, which the large leaves love. “With proper light, water, and humidity your monstera will thrive, producing split leaves,” Joe adds.

By watering your monstera at the right time, you can ensure that one of the best tropical plants thrives in your home no matter what season it is.

Want to continue finding useful plant care tips? Learning how to propagate monstera may also come in useful.

The first plant that I ever bought was a pothos plant, and five years on my leafy friend is still alive and thriving. I've got it to a point now where it's flourishing, but it has gone through ups and downs throughout the years, and I wish I'd known how to properly care for it.

If you've just become a proud plant parent to a pothos plant, I've got you covered with tips and tricks from experts. From looking after it the moment it comes home from the store to long-term maintenance tips, they've come up with a host of useful advice. “This green beauty is well-known for its resilience, as it prospers in even the most hostile environments where other houseplants don’t,” explains Anastasia Borisevich, plant expert at Plantum.

I've got a range of indoor plants in my house and I have to say that pothos plant is one of the easiest and prettiest out there.

1. Initial care after bringing your pothos plant home

When you first bring your pothos plant home, it’s important to inspect it for pests or damage. Once you’ve done this, you can throw away the old soil and start tending to the roots.

To avoid damaging the roots, gently loosen the dried soil with a wooden stick or your hands and pull out the plant along with the root ball. “Remove spent soil and wash the roots with running water. From here, you can cut off any rotten, black, fragile, or dried parts,” explains Anastasia.

Once you’ve done this you can either place the plant in a narrow container with water for a few days to allow roots to develop or place it in a new plant pot, depending on how healthy the initial roots are.

“Repot the plant in a container with well-draining potting mix, as store-bought pots may not offer ideal drainage,” says Lydia Beaumont, gardening expert at Gardeners Yard.

2. Proper pothos plant placement

After you’ve put your pothos plant in the right pot, you can then find a suitable spot for your low-maintenance plant.

“This trailing vine has attractive heart-shaped foliage. You can keep this gorgeous plant in a pot or let it trail on your bookshelf or down a wall,” adds Anastasia.

“Pothos thrive in bright, indirect light but are also highly adaptable and can tolerate low-light conditions,” says Lydia.

Just make sure to avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. I placed my pothos plant on the windowsill facing my south-facing garden and had to move it as this happened to me.

3. Watering your pothos plant

When you first take your plant home, you can give your pothos plant’s leaves a spritz of water to give it a boost.

From here, Lydia says make sure to let the soil dry out slightly between watering — just like you need to do when taking care of a monstera plant. You can check the soil moisture level with your finger or a wooden stick.

“Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry. Let excess water drain to avoid root rot,” she says.

Anastasia agrees, adding, “On average, pothos plants need to be watered every three days at temperatures 68–73°F (20–23°C).”

She continues, “However, it's best to keep an eye on the condition of the soil since the watering frequency depends on the temperature, humidity, and amount of water used for watering.”

You can also spritz your pothos plant leaves with warm water to help boost the humidity levels.

4. Long-term pothos plant care

The beauty of pothos plants is that they’re able to thrive beautifully long-term with the right care.

“Fertilize every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer,” suggests Lydia.

It’s also a good idea to prune yours to maintain shape and encourage fuller growth. “You can propagate cuttings in water to create new plants,” she adds.

It’s also smart to wipe your leaves down with a damp cloth occasionally to keep them dust-free and improve photosynthesis. Just make sure to just use water and not any cleaning supplies, as these can damage your plant.

By following this care advice, you can ensure that your pothos plant flourishes for years to come (just like mine has!).

Want to carry on learning plant care tips? You may also want to learn how to care for money tree, which are also beautiful leafy gems.

Useful pothos plant care buys

If you’re on the lookout for a new houseplant to add to your home, a rubber plant is one of the best indoor plants that you could pick. Not only are they one of the easiest plants to care for, making them ideal for beginners or those who have struggled to keep certain plants alive in the past, but they also have some wonderfully glossy and interesting leaves.

Although rubber plants are incredibly hardy and low-maintenance, there are a few steps that you’ll need to take to ensure that they thrive indoors. And thankfully the experts have shared their top tricks and tips with us below.

HOW TO CARE FOR A RUBBER PLANT, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

1. Place in bright, indirect light

While rubber plants are easy houseplants and can tolerate lower light conditions, this may slow their growth and lead to leggy stems. So, it’s best to aim for a room or location in your home that has bright but indirect light, as placing the plant in direct sunlight can cause its leaves to become scorched.

2. Provide a warm and humid environment

According to Kelly Dyer, indoor houseplant expert at Patch Plants, “a good rule of thumb is that if you’re at a comfortable temperature indoors then your rubber plant will be comfortable as well.” And they typically like a consistently warm environment. The experts agree that anywhere between 15°C to 25°C is the optimum temperature for them indoors. Just make sure not place your rubber plant next to anywhere too drafty or beside heating or cooling vents.

In terms of the humidity, as rubber plants tend to be native to more tropical climates, they “appreciate moderate humidity levels,” Chris Bonnett, founder and plant expert at Gardening Express, admits. “If the air is too dry, the edges of the leaves may start to brown. But you can increase humidity by placing a humidifier nearby or setting the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles.”

3. Water moderately

"Regular pruning helps maintain the shape of your rubber plant and encourages new growth," Camilla Lesser, Development Manager at Essential Living, notes.

And the best time to prune, in general, is "spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut just above a node or leaf joint. You can also remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep your plant looking its best."

4. Fertilize during the growing season

The experts all agree that during the growing season of spring and summer, you should aim to treat your rubber plant to "balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength," once a month, Chris proposes. Since the plant's growth slows down over the winter, there's no need to continue this into the colder months.

5. Prune when needed

You might want to prune your rubber plant if you’ve noticed any dead or damaged leaves. The same can be said if it is starting to grow slightly out of control or could do with some shaping. “Pruning also encourages bushier growth,” Chris affirms.

A pair of sharp scissors, pruning shears or secateurs will do the trick. Just remember to wear a pair of gardening gloves as you do so as the sap from the plant can irritate sensitive skin.

6. Repot regularly

“Rubber plants are fast growers,” Kelly admits. So, if their roots are starting to poke out of their original pot, this is a tell-tale sign that it’s time to repot. “If you do feel like your rubber plant needs to be repotted come the springtime, do so using houseplant compost. And remember to drain your rubber plant well before putting it back in the decorative pot to avoid letting water sit at the bottom, as this can cause root rot,” she continues.

Otherwise, you’ll probably only need to “repot your rubber plant every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound,” Chris adds. Simply “choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one,” to give it sufficient space to grow.

8. Dust the leaves routinely

As you might expect, because of their large leaves, rubber plants can be prone to getting dusty if you don’t keep on top of your cleaning checklist. And this “can block light absorption,” and stop the plant from breathing freely, Chris warns. All you need to do is give them a quick wipe with a clean cloth every so often to stop any dust from building up.

9. Watch out for pests

There are a couple of houseplant pests that rubber plants can be prone to, namely “spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects,” Chris advises. If you do notice any pests, particularly on the undersides of the leaves, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil as soon as you can to stop the pests from spreading any further.

10. Provide support for growth

As rubber plants grow taller, they may need support stakes to keep them healthy and upright. A wooden dowel or pole should keep them upright. All you need to do is "gently tie the stems to stakes to prevent them from toppling over," Chris concludes.

FAQs

Why are the leaves falling off my rubber plant?

There are a few different reasons why your rubber plant’s leaves might be falling off. For example, “if a plant doesn’t have enough energy to thrive, it will shed leaves,” Kelly explains. And frustratingly, overwatering and underwatering can cause its leaves to drop, so getting the balance just right is key.

What you'll need

Philodendrons are a great houseplant to add to your home, particularly if you’re looking for easy to care for plants. But even though it is generally rather low maintenance, there are still a few things that you’ll need to keep in mind to help them thrive indoors and the experts have revealed their top tips with us.

So, whether you’re already pretty green fingered or are more of a beginner, a philodendron could be a great choice. And here’s everything you need to know…

HOW TO CARE FOR A PHILODENDRON, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

1. Choose the correct pot

“While the foliage of your philodendron may seem large, you don’t actually need a big pot for the plant to grow. In fact, the container only needs to be slightly bigger than the plant's root ball, no more than a few inches at most,” reveals Lucy Rhead, gardening enthusiast at Gtech.

“You also want to choose a pot that promotes good drainage, such as a terracotta pot. This ensures that the philodendron doesn’t suffer from getting overwatered, which can increase the risk of root rot. What’s more, a terracotta pot also keeps the soil cool, helping your philodendron thrive indoors,” she continues.

2. Pick the right soil

“A well-draining potting mix is key,” suggests Steven Bell, managing director at Paving Shopper. “Look for a mix that includes ingredients like peat, perlite, and pine bark, as this blend retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, providing the right balance for your philodendron's roots.”

3. Recreate its ideal conditions

Choosing the right spot in your home for a philodendron is also essential, the experts agree. And even though it can survive in low light, it needs adequate light to thrive. While “direct sunlight may scorch your plant's leaves, a spot that offers indirect bright light, like a north or east-facing window,” Lucy affirms.

In addition to this, philodendrons like a humid and warm environment, which is why they are one of the best bathroom plants with them also faring well in kitchens, as the humidity levels are naturally a bit higher in these rooms. However, if your room is on the drier side, you can always use a humidifier to help out.

4. Tailor your watering schedule depending on the time of year

Even though philodendrons are one of the easiest houseplants to care for, you do have to get the balance right when it comes to watering them. For example, “using the same amount of water all year round will lead to overwatering and could cause damage to your plant,” Lucy warns. “As such, try to water more in the spring/summer when the temperature is higher (and the weather is drier), and then less in the winter when it’s cooler and damper.”

Steven concurs. “Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot. So, it’s always better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering with philodendrons.”

5. Fertilize every two weeks or so during the growing season

Ideally, you should be feeding your philodendron a balanced fertilizer every four weeks or so during the growing season, so over spring and summer. This will help the plant to grow taller and bushier and essentially keep it looking its best all year round.

6. Watch out for pests

Like many houseplants, philodendrons can be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids and mealybugs. Because of this, you’ll want to keep an eye on the undersides of leaves, while also remembering to give them a wipe with a clean cloth every so often to prevent any further issues. We have an entire guide on how to identify and deal with houseplant pests, which has everything you need to know if you do find any pests on your philodendron.

FAQs

Should I trim my philodendron?

Even though “regular pruning helps maintain the shape and size of your philodendron while encouraging bushier growth,” Steven maintains, it’s not technically necessary to prune or trim your philodendron other than for aesthetic reasons.

If you want to cut back any leggy stems or yellowing leaves, use a pair of sharp, clean scissors, pruning shears or secateurs. And Steven recommends “pruning during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.”

What you'll need

Our seven of the best fast-growing indoor plants will soon add a lush jungle look to your interior to give you that Insta aesthetic. Another thing they all have in common is that they have minimal care requirements, as well as looking good of course.

It can be an expensive business filling your home with leafy delights so the answer is to buy the best fast-growing indoor plants while they’re still small then give them lots of TLC to make sure they put on some rapid growth.

To help you get the jungle look with the best indoor plants, our experts have picked the easiest ones that will reward you fast, plus shared all the top tips you need for looking after them.

Best fast-growing indoor plants

Before you bring any indoor plants home, think about how fast you want to green up your interior, as well as taking into account space considerations. Will you still be able to accommodate them in a couple of years time?

When looking for the best fast-growing indoor plants check out the best tall houseplants too for instant impact, as well as the best tropical indoor plants as these tend to be large and leafy from the get-go.

1. Philodendron

'The large, glossy leaves (some velvety ones too) and clean growth habit of philodendron has made them an all-time favorite,' says indoor plant expert Darryl Cheng, author of the The New Plant Collector: The Next Adventure in Your House Plant Journey. 'Some cultivars grow relatively quickly, which can be a blessing or a curse. You can bless your friends with cuttings in a short time (often within a year), but it may be challenging to keep up with a plant that keeps outgrowing your space!'

One of the most valuable indoor plants you can add to your collection due to their easy nature and fast-growing habit, philodendron can be grown as climbing vines on a moss pole or trailing vines allowed to drape from a hanging planter (macrame optional) or shelf. Either way, it’s easy to keep the plant manageable by trimming the leading growth.

As long as you keep philodendron out of direct sunlight, they will thrive in both light and dark positions, although if you choose the latter this may slow down their growth a little. 

Keep the soil moist during the warmer months, and allow it to dry out in winter. Feed monthly from spring through fall with a liquid fertilizer. Pinch out the tips of young plants to encourage plenty of new shoots at the base of the plant.

2. Monstera

There are few plants that command as much attention or loyal fan following as the Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant. 'This is the must-have houseplant of all the plants,' says indoor plant expert Kamili Bell Hill, author of Happy Plants, Happy You. 'The leaves of Monstera deliciosa are iconic. You can find this leaf pattern on everything from wallpaper and pillows, to rugs and clothes. If it's a large focal-point plant that you’re after, this is the one for you.'

Monstera are one of the easiest and fastest plants to grow indoors. A low-maintenance choice that's quick growing, plus of course the shiny green foliage looks amazing with all those 'fenestrations' (the proper word for that shredded effect you get on the leaves).

They are super easy to look after, as they thrive in bright indirect light, but are also okay in medium light conditions. Kamili's top tips for monstera care? 'Put your plant in a warm spot, give it plenty of moisture and an occasional liquid feed, and it will grow rapidly into a big specimen plant you can be proud of. It's only when they get larger that you get the more attractive holes in the leaves, so all the more reason to snap up one of these easy plants to nurture now.'

3. Spider plant

Fast-growing spider plants are a real favorite if you want quick and easy, and to multiply your plant collection fast. Their attractive arching leaves and slender flower stalks with tiny plantlets on the end (which look like spiders, hence the name) make a great addition to any room.

Find out how to care for a spider plant and you'll soon discover how incredibly resilient and adaptable they are too. They're not fussy about light requirements or where you put them and will quickly forgive you if you don't know how often to water them or simply forget.

They're also easy to propagate if you're looking to grow your plant collection. Simply snip off a plantlet, pot it up in soil, and it will quickly grow into a mature plant.

4. Hoya carnosa

The Hoya genus contains more than 500 species, so there are plenty to choose from. In their natural habitat, hoyas can be found climbing up trees.

'Many have diverse foliage, not to mention extraordinary flowers,' says Darryl Cheng. 'Hoyas can become an addictive and expensive hobby, with so many species and hybrids to collect. Thankfully, hoyas propagate relatively easily – all you need is a stem cutting with a node to get started.'

Easy to grow and take care of, the fast growing and very collectable trailing Hoya carnosa has exquisite clusters of waxy star-shaped cream flowers and dark green leaves on vigorous twining stems that can reach 15 foot or more.

Hoyas love a spot with bright, indirect light and humidity so your bathroom will be ideal. Given the right conditions it will develop into a large vining statement plant in a relatively short period of time. It's another one that looks good trailing down from shelves or in a hanging planter.

'Once you add any single plant from this genus, you will be hooked,' says Kamili Bell Hill. 'You will not be able to stop at just one, because they are so delightful. Of all the plant discoveries I have made, this is probably my favorite. You’ll add them for their foliage and obsess over them because of their otherworldly blooms.'

5. Fiddle leaf fig

Learn how to care for a fiddle leaf fig plant and you will soon be rewarded with a majestic house plant. They will grow as tall as you let them, generally between 6-10 feet, putting on between 1-2 feet a year.

There is still a huge trend for lush, outsized fiddle plants, so maybe you already have one but it's not growing as fast as you'd hoped so you want to take it to the next level. There a few easy things you can do to ensure your plant puts on inches more quickly.

Fiddles are hungry plants. Try feeding it more often, especially in spring and summer. By that we mean at least once a week with every watering.

Make sure you are taking care of how often to water fiddle leaf figs too. Treat your plant to a deep soak in a sink or the bath for a good 10 minutes every couple of weeks, especially if the soil seems to be drying out really quickly.

Consider moving your plant to a spot where it gets more light, and rotate it regularly to ensure all the leaves are benefiting, not just one side.

6. Pothos

Pothos is a vine-like plant that's a close relation of the philodendron, and its heart-shaped leaves also look great trailing down from shelves on room dividers or hanging planters.

This easy and quick growing houseplant, also known by the name Epipremnum, has the potential to grow between 12-16 inches in a month, so it definitely deserves to be on our list of the best fast-growing indoor plants. They're also super-easy to propagate.

'Try your hand at growing one up a moss pole,' says Darryl Cheng. 'Do it well and you’ll be rewarded with huge leaves as the plant climbs up. Most plants you will find in the genus Epipremnum are cultivars of E. aureum, but varieties of E. pinnatum are also interesting.'

For excellent growth, find a large enough window so your pothos plant gets plenty of indirect light. They are drought tolerant, so they can recover from a dry spell, but their growth could be hindered.

Find them in colors ranging from green with yellow streaks, to marbled white, or even minty green. Some fenestrations can be seen on newer leaves of E. pinnatum (they are in the same subfamily as monstera).

7. Boston fern

If you want to buy a small plant that puts on growth quickly then the Boston fern is a good choice. Give it the right care and its gorgeous fronds will bush up fast. As the plant grows into a more mature specimen its growth tends to slow down but by then you'll have a beautiful big plant anyway.

This classic houseplant will add an elegant touch to your interior that's hard to beat. It will thrive in a location where it gets filtered morning sun and afternoon shade. It also likes humid conditions so keep a mister handy to spritz the leaves or hang it in a planter in the bathroom.

Boston fern is one of the best air-purifying houseplants too, helping to rid indoor air of toxins. So it's a good idea to put one in your bedroom so you can enjoy the benefits of houseplants like this.

What to shop

Now you have all the intel you need on the best fast-growing indoor plants push out your search to find out how to care for houseplants to keep yours happy with all the info about where to position them, when to water and feed them, and how much light they need.

Kitchens are one of the most functional spaces in any home. There’s no doubt that they have to be practical but it’s important that they feel cozy and homely, too.

How do you get the balance right between style and functionality? Before renovating your kitchen you should write a list of priorities and work out how you can achieve them whilst still achieving an aesthetically pleasing kitchen that feels warm and cozy.

The experts tell us how we can create a cozy kitchen that also fulfils all of our practical needs.

Expert-approved cozy kitchen ideas

Every room in your home should feel inviting and make you want to spend time in it. There's nothing better than coming home after a long day to a cozy home that feels like your safe space.

Keep reading to discover some of the best cozy kitchen ideas to inspire you.

1. Incorporate natural materials

Designing a kitchen is a stressful process but if you’re currently deciding what kind of kitchen you want to go for and you’ve got your heart set on a cozy space then incorporate natural materials.

Marie Flanigan, founder of Marie Flanigan Interiors says, "Incorporating natural materials like stained wood for cabinetry or shelving enhances the organic, lived-in feel. Layering in soft textiles, such as linen cafe curtains or woven wood shades, can add comfort and depth to your kitchen design."

Be mindful when you’re choosing your kitchen flooring. Natural stone and reclaimed wood are beautiful options if you want to create a rustic feel.

2. Warm tones

Don’t fancy taking on an entire kitchen renovation but want to rejuvenate your space? Consider painting your walls and cabinetry in contrasting warm colors for a welcomed update.

"Adding warm tones is crucial - we encourage clients to take the leap and use a bold, rich, warm color on the cabinets - but if that's too much of a commitment soaking the walls in a rich color will do the trick. Warm woods are an excellent way to up the cozy factor of a kitchen - either in the cabinets themselves or a walnut butcher block counter," explains Hannah Goldberg from Hannah Charlotte Interiors.

3. Add living room details

This may not feel like a natural addition but trust us when we say that adding classic living room details will transform your kitchen from a solely functional space into a warm and cozy one.

"Try adding living room details to your kitchen like placing an oil painting on the wall or adding non-dining room seating. We love placing a little sofa or set of lounge chairs in a kitchen to encourage socializing while cooking - which we all can’t stop ourselves from doing," suggests Kim Gordon, founder of Kim Gordon Designs.

Another affordable way of adding character to a kitchen is to fill it with plants. Place a potted plant on your countertop and attach a couple of hanging plants to your ceiling joists.

4. Think about fixtures

Whether you’re currently designing your kitchen from scratch or thinking of ways to switch things up, think carefully about your fixtures and fittings and whether or not they fit in with the cozy vibe you want to create.

"To design a cozy kitchen, always think through the finishes and how they will age within a space. Consider adding unlacquered brass plumbing fixtures or hardware that will develop a beautiful patina over time, adding warmth and character to the space," says Marie.

Match your choice of hardware and taps with other elements in your kitchen such as the brackets for your open shelving.

5. Soft textures

Break up the harsh lines of a kitchen by introducing an abundance of texture. This can be done in lots of different ways, including rugs, soft furnishings, and the latest kitchen trend, sink curtains.

"The soft texture provided by fabric creates an amazing contrast with the otherwise hard finishes of kitchens. Classic ways to incorporate fabrics into your kitchen are in window treatments like cafe curtains or a beautiful Roman shade; or a statement banquette upholstery. To add an extra layer of textiles consider adding a sink curtain," says Hannah.

6. Layer lighting

You may not have considered how much lighting affects the coziness of your kitchen. As soon as the evening rolls around, you’ll want your kitchen space to be lit beautifully. In order to do this, you should layer different light sources.

"Layering light is one of our favorite ways to create more intimate spaces - nothing feels colder than a space highlighted with only recessed ceiling lights," explains Hannah.

"The best kitchen lighting scheme will include a range of different types of lighting allowing you to carry out everyday tasks while also creating the perfect ambiance for relaxing or entertaining. Create levels of light by adding a sconce over the sink, pendants over the island, and decorative lighting over a dining area."

7. Be sure to declutter

A clean, clutter-free kitchen sets the foundation for coziness. Clear your countertops of non-essentials and keep only what you use on a daily basis.

"Visual appeal is equally important. Declutter your kitchen and use the freed-up space to add touches of warmth: a lush plant, a bouquet of fresh flowers, or seasonal décor. As the seasons change, a vase of autumn leaves or a small pine arrangement brings in a cozy, seasonal vibe," explains Ayten.

"The tactile experience can’t be overlooked. Enjoy the feel of a well-maintained countertop by keeping surfaces clean and smooth. Set the mood with soft, ambient music—gentle melodies can turn your kitchen into the most relaxing spot in your home."

8. Don’t forget about the accessories

"Lastly, evoke nostalgia with a charming display on your kitchen island or countertop. Arrange elegant glassware, a plate of homemade treats, and a few cherished dishes. Swap out bright sponges for sleek white ones, use a stylish soap dispenser, and make sure there are no dirty dishes or trash in sight," says Ayten.

You can’t underestimate the power of the finishing touches. The design of your kitchen is the foundation of your scheme but it’s the finer details that will create a cozy atmosphere.

Cozy kitchens are bang on trend. Taking inspiration from farmhouse, country-style kitchens, adding warmth and texture is key.

Start with the basics and declutter your kitchen to achieve a state of zen. Build upon this with your choice of lighting, accessories and decor for that ultimate cozy feel.

Fall feels like the perfect time to refresh your home. You can remove all the summer clutter, welcome in cozy shades, and create an inviting space perfect for nesting in.

I've asked interior designers and cleaning experts how you can do an official fall reset, from donating unnecessary items to refreshing your fabrics. These are all easy to do and won't take longer than a day overall, so you can take a weekend date to get your home in order.

If you're looking to clean your home ahead of the days getting cooler and the nights drawing in quicker, these tips and tricks are worth trying.

1. Refresh your fabrics

One of the easiest ways to make your home look suitably seasonally is by swapping in key fabrics.

“A fall decor refresh is all about cozy textures and a color palette inspired by the beauty of nature this time of year,” explains Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of Kathy Kuo Home. “One of the first things that I always do is swap out the pillows and throw blankets on my sofa.”

She continues, “A cozy cashmere throw blanket paired with pillows in chunky knit pillowcases, and even distressed leather pillowcases, really set the mood for the season.”

While you can jump on fall trends to this, I recommend making sure you pick pieces you’ll know you’ll love long-term, so you can refresh them time and time again.

2. Change up dishware and drinks

For those looking for fall kitchen ideas, you can also go for different dinnerware and tableware this season.

“I also like to change out my dishware and bar cart accessories for autumn-inspired versions and make sure my bar cart is adorned with a vase of fall foliage,” Kathy says.

She also likes to add plenty of seasonal spirits and garnishes for festive fall cocktail parties with friends.

3. Declutter summer items

One of the most important parts of the fall reset is waving goodbye to summer decor.

“To declutter for fall, it’s important to donate summer clothing and decor that you know you won’t want or need for next year,” explains Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and founder of E.C. House Cleaning.

You could donate these to friends and family, host a yard sale, or even give them to secondhand furniture stores such as Goodwill.

4. Give your home a thorough clean

Once you’ve got rid of any unnecessary summer items, you can finish off your decluttering process by cleaning your home.

“A clean slate allows you to do a deep clean of the whole home. I recommend cleaning windows inside and out, dusting baseboards, wiping down cabinets, and sweeping under furniture,” Eliana adds.

You can stay on track with scrubbing (especially useful before the festive season!) by following a weekly cleaning schedule.

5. Switch up your home fragrance scents

I always recommend switching out home fragrances for new seasons, as they’re a great way to immediately change the vibe in a room.

“Switch home fragrance and candles from floral and citrus in the summer to more fall scents,” suggests Paige Loperfido, interior designer at Decor and More Design Studio.

For example, choose woody and spicy scents that are warm and inviting. For example, the Sweet Water Decor Fall Candle from Amazon has notes of apple, cinnamon, and cloves.

“You can also incorporate greenery and florals with yellow and orange tones that mimic the leaves outside,” Paige adds.

By giving your home a fall reset, you can refresh your home and make it feel welcoming for snuggling in during the colder months.

“A few simple switches create an autumnal retreat without stress or huge expense,” Eliana finishes by saying.

Want to carry on decorating for this season? You can also go for fall bedroom decor and fall doorstep ideas.

Did you know that if you own a monstera plant, you can make more without going to the store? They can be a little spendy, so this is an easy and budget-friendly way to add more greenery to your home.

I've asked gardening experts how you can propagate at home, and luckily all you need to is follow five easy steps and use simple and effective tools. The pros have plenty of useful top tips along the way that you can use for propagating monsteras and other plants.

If you've been caring for a monstera and want to bring this plant into other rooms of your house, this guide will come in useful.

Step 1: Choose a healthy cutting

The first step of propagating indoor plants is finding a stem with at least one node (the bump where roots form) and a healthy leaf.

“Make sure your cutting has aerial roots, as these stringy, brown roots don’t just look interesting — they’re critical for absorbing moisture and nutrients,” explains Matthew Wilson, gardening expert and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

“This will allow your new plant to establish itself more quickly,” he adds.

Step 2: Use clean, sharp tools

Before you start snipping away, make sure to check that your tools are as clean and as sharp as can be by giving them a once over with cleaning supplies.

“Cutting with dull tools can crush the stem, making it prone to infection. Use a pair of Felco Pruning Shears from Amazon for a clean cut below the node,” Matthew says.

He adds that it’s worth sterilizing your shears with rubbing alcohol, as this will help prevent any diseases from transferring to your plant.

Step 3: Pay attention to the water

Once you've cut your plant, you can place it in a glass bottle filled with water. It’s important to use filtered or distilled water to avoid chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can slow root development.

“Refresh the water every three days, as this oxygenates the water, encouraging root growth,” Matthew says.

Step 4: Wait for roots to grow

It’s important to use filtered or distilled water to avoid chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can slow root development.

“Refresh the water every three days, as this oxygenates the water, encouraging root growth,” Matthew says.

Want a little boost? He suggests adding a few drops of liquid seaweed extract (the Organic Liquid Seaweed and Kelp Fertilizer is Amazon's Choice) for a rooting supercharge. “It’s an old gardener’s secret, rich in trace minerals and plant hormones that accelerate rooting,” he adds.

“Using products like rooting hormone can also speed up root development,” adds Dennis Sons, gardening expert and owner of TN Nursery.

Step 5: Place in appropriate soil

Has your tropical plant grown roots? Great! Now it’s time to place it in soil, which you should make sure is well draining.

“Coconut coir is among the best, as it holds moisture well but does not become overly saturated, thereby avoiding rot of the roots and enhancing growth again,” Matthew explains.

By following these steps, you’re sure to have a new monstera plant baby you can look after properly.

“With these tips, you’re not just propagating — you have ensured your monstera is set for success in the long term,” Matthew finishes by saying.

Want to carry on propagating plants? Learning how to propagate a jade plant may come in useful, too.

I love cooking, but what I don't love is having to spend ages cleaning my pots and pans afterward. Thankfully, this isn't an issue for me anymore, as I always have my faithful sponge to hand.

I saw so many people using this sponge on TikTok and I had to try it for myself. Now, I've been using the Scrub Daddy (available on Amazon) for two years now and I can't imagine cleaning without it. I've delved into why I love it, asked cleaning experts why they do too, given top tips for using it, plus picked out other Scrub Daddy favorites people love.

If you're looking for the best cleaning supplies to add to your cupboard or caddy, this sponge is as powerful as it is adorable.

Why I love the Scrub Daddy

I bought my first pack of three Scrub Daddies in 2022 and I have only just had to buy a new pack after two years. That's how robust they are.

Even though they're strong, the sponges are great on plates and pots, as they soften up in warm water. This means they don't leave any scratches, making them perfect for use on non-stick pans. I use mine on my Our Place Always Pan and it has kept its coating and looks pristine.

You can also use them with cold water, which allows them to be extra firm. I've used mine on my electric stovetop to remove dirt in this way and it completely removes them with just a few seconds of scrubbing. I'm going to try using it for oven cleaning next and I feel like it's going to work a treat.

“The sponge’s adaptability is part of what makes it such an effective cleaning agent,” says Andriy Neborak, cleaning expert and founder and CEO of Luxury Cleaning NY. “No matter what job you need it to do, the Scrub Daddy can adjust to the task at hand without damaging your surfaces.”

I don't have a dishwasher, so I have to rely on my own elbow grease for getting dirt off plates. Using a Scrub Daddy makes it easy to get sticky stains, old stains (sometimes I don't wash up right away, sorry!), and food stains that have cooked on.

It's not just the kitchen that I use it in — I also use it for cleaning my bathroom. I'll use it on faucets and on my showerheads, along with a strong bathroom cleaner.

It also has a unique texture that’s unlike any other regular sponge. “The Scrub Daddy has texturing that provides an excellent scrubbing action,” Andriy adds. “This unique surface, combined with its abrasive side, provides a powerful cleaning action, but one that won’t scratch surfaces.”

Top tips for using the Scrub Daddy

For best results, make sure to pair up the Scrub Daddy with a mild cleaning solution. I use it with the Mrs Meyers Cleaning Spray (available from Amazon). “For tougher jobs, pair it with a slightly stronger cleaner,” says Andriy.

It’s also a good idea to switch up the water temperature depending on the surface you’re using. “Remember to use cold water for tough scrubbing tasks and warm water for more delicate cleaning, as this will ensure you get the best performance out of your Scrub Daddy,” explains Muffetta Krueger, cleaning expert and founder of Muffetta Domestic Assistants.

Just like I do, Muffetta recommends not just limiting the Scrub Daddy to your kitchen.” It’s perfect for cleaning sneakers, outdoor furniture, and car interiors,” he says. “Its non-scratch surface means you can tackle almost any cleaning task with confidence.”

If you’re cleaning utensils, you can also move them back and forth through the cute smile on the Scrub Daddy to get into the nooks and crannies of them.

It’s also important to rinse the sponge well after each use and allow it to dry and air out in between. “With this type of care, the Scrub Daddy will last for months,” Andriy adds.

Other Scrub Daddy favorites

The Scrub Daddy is one tool that has proven to be a game-changer in the world of cleaning.

“It’s not just a sponge — it’s a versatile, durable, and highly effective cleaning tool that has earned a place in many homes and professional cleaning kits alike,” Muffetta finishes by saying.

Want to see more of my cleaning must-haves? I also love the Swiffer PowerMop which has revolutionized polishing my floors.

As summer comes to an end, you should know which fall gardening tasks to tackle this year and there are actually a number of jobs that you can be getting on with. Not only is it wise to complete them before winter, when we’d much rather be wrapped up indoors, but it also sets you up for success for next spring.

While we have a month by month calendar of garden jobs to keep your garden looking its best no matter the season, we asked the experts which jobs should be at the top of our lists throughout September, October and November.

Whether you have a day off work or want to make the most of a long weekend, here are the ones that they recommend tackling first and foremost…

1. Plant spring-flowering bulbs

Fall is the best time to plant your spring flowering bulbs so that they have plenty of time to establish before the first frost of the year. Think daffodils, crocuses and tulips, to name just a few.

“The soil is still warm from summer, allowing the bulbs to sprout roots before the coldness of winter, ensuring a vibrant display come spring,” reveals Luke Dejahang, gardening expert and CEO of Crown Pavilions. Aim for a sunny spot with well-drained soil to grow your spring blooms.

2. Divide perennials

Speaking of plants, “if you have any overgrown perennials, fall is the best time to divide these,” says Graham Smith MCIhort, national sales manager at LBS Horticulture.

Dividing them will not only help them to grow better the following year but it can reduce the risks of diseases and pests. Simply “use a garden shovel or fork to lift the plant, and then separate it into smaller clumps. These clumps can then be replanted back into the ground, and ensure that they are watered in well,” Graham continues.

3. Apply mulch

“It's really important to protect your plants over the winter months so that they aren't affected by frost,” admits Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries. And “applying a layer of mulch to your soil is a great way of doing so, with fall being the perfect time to do it. Before mulching, clear all weeds from the area and water the soil. Then apply your mulch and make sure it's at least 2" deep before leveling out the surface.”

In addition to this, Graham recommends that you “apply the mulch when the soil is moist, and ensure that you have left a gap around woody stems or tree trunks to prevent rotting.”

4. Prep your lawn

The summer heat can take its toll on lawns and Nick Ee, BLACK+DECKER’s product and training manager, reveals just how important it is to aerate, scarify, and fertilize a lawn to keep it looking its best all year round.

He admits, “Scarifying removes dead grass, roots, and debris otherwise known as thatch, that blocks water and nutrients from reaching the soil. Removing this layer helps to prevent the lawn from becoming waterlogged and promotes healthier grass growth.” If you’re not sure how to scarify a lawn, thankfully we have a handy guide. “After removing debris, aerate the lawn for better soil and root health, then fertilize and seed bare patches for regrowth,” Nick concludes.

5. Get pruning

According to Susan Poizner, founder of OrchardPeople, “pruning in the fall, particularly in October or early November, is essential for shaping your fruit trees and removing any diseased or dead wood before winter.” You’ll also want to prune back any dead or diseased branches or leaves that you might have noticed more generally.

With a sharp pruning tool or pair of secateurs, make clean cuts to prune, with this helping “to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure for the upcoming growing season,” Nick adds. Just make sure to clean up as you do so as leaving this on the ground could potentially spread any plant diseases.

6. Collect and compost leaves

Even though seeing the leaves turn from green to rust makes us feel cozy and ready for the cooler months, it can be rather frustrating when your garden is covered in them. Before they start to build up too much and potentially block drains or “smother your lawn or plants, which can lead to disease or decay,” use a rake to gather them up, Luke explains.

“These leaves, when added to your compost pile, break down into nutrient-rich organic matter that enhances soil structure and fertility. By composting leaves, you're not only reducing waste but also creating a natural fertilizer that will nourish your plants in the coming seasons,” says Jade Oliver, interior stylist at Express Bi-Folding Doors.

7. Clean and repair your greenhouse

As the days start to get shorter, this reduces the amount of natural light that will be able to get through to your greenhouse veggies and plants. Take the time to remove any dirt, algae, or grime from the glass to give the light the best chance of breaking through.

While you do this, have a look to see if you need to make any repairs and check for damage. It’s much easier to do this before we arrive in the busy period of spring.

If you're packing for college, you probably have the basics like a bed, storage, and cute stationery covered. But, there are some things you might not have thought of that are absolutely worth packing.

I've been a student myself and lived on campus, so I've been in your shoes. There are some seriously surprising things that I had to buy after I moved in that I wished I'd just packed from the get-go. Professional cleaners and design pros agree that over-the-door mirrors, bedside shelves, and space-saving hangers are all useful.

For those looking for dorm essentials that will make your life easier and better, these are all worth checking out.

Surprising dorm essentials

By adding items like doorstops, handheld vacuums, and over-the-door mirrors to your dorm packing list, you’ll make your life in college a lot easier.

Want to carry on zhuzhing up your dorm? I think dorm wall decorating ideas are perfect for adding style to this space.

Monsteras are one of our favorite indoor plants but if you’ve found yourself asking how to care for a monstera, we’ve got you covered with this guide.

While there are a number of different varieties, the most common is the Monstera Deliciosa, with its glossy heart shaped leaves. But you might also be familiar with the Monstera Adansonii, which is also commonly known as the swiss cheese plant. But whichever variety you personally own or are thinking about buying, thankfully it’s relatively easy to care for them once you know how.

So, we spoke to a number of houseplant experts to find out their top tips and tricks for caring for one of the best indoor plants.

HOW TO CARE FOR A MONSTERA PLANT INDOORS, ACCORDING TO THE EXPERTS

1. Choose the right pot or container

Before you even get started, it’s important to choose the right pot or container to house your monstera. And buying one with drainage holes is key to prevent waterlogging. “A terra-cotta pot is ideal because it allows excess moisture to evaporate, preventing root rot,” another issue which can afflict plants if you’re not careful, admits Jane Dobbs, expert gardener and gardening team lead at Allan's Gardeners.

The container also needs to be of a size where the plants’ roots have plenty of space to grow, so it might be better to opt for one which has room for it to grow into, instead of one that is too small.

2. Use a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil

Once you’ve got your pot or container it’s time to turn your attention to the type of soil you use. “A good potting mix with good drainage is essential for Monstera plants,” says Jane. “With a mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark, you get the right balance of moisture retention and drainage. However, you’ll want to avoid dense soils that can rot the roots.”

If you’re still not sure which one to buy, “a mix designed for aroids works well,” Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies, offers.

3. Place in indirect sunlight

If you’re wondering where to position your monstera in your home, “bright, indirect light is best for monsteras,” Jane says. This is because their leaves can become scorched if they sit in direct sunlight, whereas too little light can stunt their growth.

“A spot near a north or east-facing window, where the plant receives filtered light, is ideal,” according to Jo. And you can also create filtered light, even if your window gets direct sunlight, simply by using sheer curtain panels to diffuse the light a bit.

4. Provide a warm and humid environment

As a tropical plant, the monstera thrives in warm and humid environments. But if you don’t live in a part of the country that experiences both all year round, there are a number of ways to help recreate those conditions.

If the air in your home is dry, having a humidifier in the room can certainly help. Ideally, you should be aiming for a humidity level of around 60%, the experts concur. “Placing the plant on a tray of pebbles filled with water,” can also help, Jo explains.

As for the temperature, 60°F is really the minimum that you want your room to be, as any colder can cause damage to this plant, with the experts agreeing that the sweet spot is between 65 and 85°F. In addition to this, Jane warns that “monsteras don't like drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or radiators, because sudden temperature changes can stress them.” So, be sure to consider this when you get your monstera situated in your home.

5. Keep the soil moist but don’t overwater

“Monstera plants prefer consistently moist soil but should never be waterlogged,” Jo discloses. Because of this, you’ll want to “water your Monstera when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Typically, this means watering every 1-2 weeks, but this can vary based on the season and indoor climate.”

A good tip is to “keep watering until water is running out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the plant's pot,” Graham Smith MCIhort, national sales manager at LBS Horticulture, remarks. “However, the soil should not be constantly moist and needs to be left to dry out between waterings.” So, you’ll want to get that balance right.

6. Fertilize when growing

You only really need to worry about fertilizing your monstera plant during the growing season, so over the spring and summer months. And the experts agree that every 4-6 weeks is best during this time of year with a balanced, water-soluble or liquid fertilizer.

You can reduce feeding in the fall and winter, when the plant's growth naturally slows.

7. Prune regularly

When it comes to pruning your monstera, you only really need to do this to control its size. So, if you’ve noticed that yours is getting a bit out of control, cutting it back even once a year should more than suffice.

You can also “remove any yellowing or dead leaves,” Jo declares. Remember to use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or secateurs to cut just above a leaf node.

8. Watch out for pests

If you happen to have plants of any kind, whether that be indoors or outside, knowing how to identify houseplant pests can really come in handy. This way you can treat them before they become a bigger issue.

When it comes to monsteras, “watch out for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale,” Jo says. And thankfully they “can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth, using insecticidal soap, or applying neem oil.”

9. Repot as it grows

If you already have a monstera, you might have noticed just how quickly it can grow and because of this, they will need to be repotted every 1-2 years. “When repotting, choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one and use a well-draining soil mix, such as one made for aroids or containing peat, pine bark, and perlite,” Jo explains. And “the best time to repot your monstera is during spring, as this is when the plant is actively growing,” Graham adds.

And if your monstera happens to reach around a meter in height, that’s when it might need some additional support to stay upright. “Consider adding a moss pole or trellis to provide something for the plant to climb, which will also encourage healthy growth,” Jo continues.

FAQs

Should I mist my monstera?

“Misting your Monstera is beneficial, especially if you live in a dry climate or if your home is heated in the winter,” Jane admits.

Regular misting actually helps to increase the amount of humidity around the plant, mimicking its natural tropical environment. “Misting every few days or when the air feels particularly dry should be sufficient,” Jo suggests. “However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive moisture on the leaves can lead to fungal issues. Alternatively, you can use a humidifier or place the plant on a humidity tray.”

While Jane also recommends misting in the morning “so the leaves can dry out during the day.”

Cleaning window screens is an essential household chore that often gets overlooked. Over time, dirt, pollen, and other debris can accumulate, leading to clogged screens that block your view and restrict airflow. 

If your windows need a clean but you're not sure where to begin, you're in the right place. Our cleaning pros reveal the five simple steps to cleaning window screens.

Armed with the best cleaning supplies and our expert advice, you'll have your glass gleaming again in no time.

1. Remove the screens

Start by removing the screens from your windows. This step is crucial because it allows you to clean the screens more thoroughly without worrying about getting water or cleaning solution on your windowsills. 

Will Cotter, owner of FreshSpace Cleaning, says, "First, vacuum both sides with a soft brush attachment so less dust will fall while you remove it from the frame. A lint roller will work too. Wear a mask to prevent allergies from being triggered."

This LotFancy Face Mask from Walmart has an adjustable elastic strap and a cup shape that provides plenty space to breathe comfortably — plus it comes in a handy pack of 20.

"Carefully remove the screens from their frames, being gentle to avoid bending or damaging them," Will continues.

Most window screens can be removed easily by lifting them out of their tracks, but if you’re unsure how to remove your specific screens, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or look up a quick guide online.

Will adds, "I know this might sound like an odd tip, but before you remove the screen, I always begin by taking a photo of the windows. Screens can sometimes be tricky to reinstall and so the photos provide a visual guide for proper replacement later. Another trick is to  label each screen with a small piece of masking tape on the corner, noting the window it came from."

2. Dust off dirt

Once the screens are removed, give them a good dusting to get rid of loose dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently sweep away dust. 

This Kitchen + Home Rainbow Static Feather Duster from Target not only attracts dirt and dust via static charge, but looks great too. You can also check out our guide on the best vacuum cleaners to buy in 2024. 

Be thorough, as this will make the subsequent washing step more effective. Dusting first prevents the dirt from turning into a muddy mess when you apply water.

3. Wash and scrub

Next, it’s time to wash the screens. Lay them flat on a clean surface, such as your driveway or lawn, and prepare a cleaning solution. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Fill a large basin or kiddie pool with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap, like Dawn Ultra Dishwashing Liquid. Submerge the screens in the soapy water and let them soak for 10-15 minutes. For larger screens, you may need to do this in batches or use a spray bottle filled with soapy water.

"Soaking the screens helps to loosen and lift dirt and grime that may be stuck in the mesh. This step makes it easier to wash the screens thoroughly without needing to scrub excessively, which could damage them.

"After soaking, gently scrubbing the screens helps to remove any remaining dirt and grime without damaging the mesh. It’s essential to use the right tools to avoid causing tears or stretching the screen material."

The Unger Plastic Window Squeegee/Scrubber, available from Target, includes a professional-quality rubber blade for a streak-free finish, while these Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths are non-abrasive, so a safe option on glass. 

Karina adds, "Use a soft sponge or a microfiber cloth to scrub the screens, focusing on any particularly dirty areas. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the screen. For stubborn spots, a soft-bristled toothbrush can help you get into tight spaces without harming the mesh."

4. Rinse and dry

After scrubbing, rinse the screens thoroughly with a hose or a bucket of clean water. 

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "Rinse the screen with the ionized water to remove all the soap residue thoroughly. Avoid using high pressure while rinsing as it can damage the window screen or warp the frame."

Hold the screens up and let the water run off to ensure they’re completely clean.

Wells continues, "Next, dry the screens completely in a sunny spot or a well-ventilated area so no water spots are left on the mesh. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the screens and dry them thoroughly. The fine fibers are highly effective at trapping dust and do not cause any scratches on the screen."

Prop your screens up in a sunny spot or lean them against a wall to dry. Avoid placing them on the ground where they might collect dirt again. Ensure that the screens are fully dry to prevent mold or mildew from developing.

Check out our guide on how to clean windows for more advice on how to achieve a streak-free finish.

5. Reattach the screens

Finally, reattach the clean, dry screens to your windows. 

Karina says, "Carefully place the screens back into the window frames, making sure they are securely fastened and properly aligned. As you do this, inspect the screens for any holes, tears, or loose edges that may need repair. 

"If you notice any damage, consider using a screen repair kit, like Phifer Aluminum Screen Repair Kit from Amazon, to fix small tears or holes. This kit is easy to use and perfect for fixing small holes or tears in window screens. It comes with everything you need to make quick, durable repairs, ensuring your screens stay in top condition."

Enjoy the clear view and the fresh air that flows through your newly cleaned screens.

Meet our cleaning experts

So there you have it — how to clean window screens in five simple steps. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your screens are in top condition, contributing to a cleaner, more comfortable living environment.

Next, check out how to clean fireplace glass. 

Grass stains can be tough to remove, but with the right approach, you can have your whites gleaming once again. 

"Grass stains are notorious for being tough to remove because of the chlorophyll and other organic matter embedded in the fibers. But don't despair — they can be beaten," says cleaning pro Karina Toner, who is here to reveal the five simple steps to get rid of those stubborn green marks.

Armed with the best cleaning supplies, and Karina's expert advice, you can go from green to gleam in no time. 

1. Pre-treat the stain immediately

Grass stains are easier to remove when they’re fresh, so act quickly.

Karina, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "The longer the stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove. Pre-treating immediately helps to break down the stain before it sets.

"As soon as possible, apply a pre-treatment stain remover directly to the grass stain. I like Zout Laundry Stain Remover from Amazon as it's formulated specifically to tackle tough stains, including grass. Its triple enzyme formula is designed to break down proteins, starches, and oils, which are common components of grass stains."

Alternatives include white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Karina also recommends Shout Advanced Ultra Concentrated Stain Removing Gel, available here as a two-pack from Walmart. 

"Rub the product into the fabric gently using a soft-bristled brush or your fingers," adds Karina. "Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the enzymes to break down the grass pigments."

2. Rinse with cold water

After pre-treating the stain, rinse the stained area thoroughly under cold running water. Rinse from the back of the fabric to help push the stain out rather than driving it deeper into the fibers.

Karina says, "Rinse the stained area under cold running water, making sure to keep the water flowing through the back of the fabric to push the stain out rather than deeper into the material. Avoid using hot water at this stage. Using cold water is crucial because hot water can set the stain further into the fibers."

3. Apply a stain-fighting detergent

If the stain persists after rinsing, reapply a stain-fighting detergent directly to the stained area. 

Karina says, "A powerful laundry detergent with enzymes will further break down and lift the remaining stain from the fabric. Enzymes are especially effective at breaking down organic stains like those from grass.

"Apply a small amount of a high-quality enzyme-based detergent like Tide Ultra Stain Release Detergent from Amazon. This is one of the best detergents for tough stains, as it’s loaded with enzymes that target grass stains and other difficult-to-remove marks. It’s also gentle on fabrics, making it a reliable choice for everyday laundry needs.

"Gently rub the detergent into the fabric and allow it to sit for another 10-15 minutes. This gives the enzymes time to work on the stubborn grass pigments."

Karina also recommends Persil ProClean Liquid Laundry Detergent, available from Walmart, which cleans effectively in cold water. 

4. Wash in cold water

Place the garment in the washing machine and select the cold water setting, which is gentler on fabrics and effective at removing stains without setting them. 

Karina says, "Washing the garment in cold water ensures that the stain doesn’t set further. It also prevents the fabric from shrinking or losing color, which can happen in hot water.

"Wash the garment as you normally would, but make sure to use cold water and an appropriate cycle for the fabric type. Add a bit of extra detergent to ensure a thorough cleaning."

Use a high-quality laundry detergent, and if possible, add a stain-fighting booster to enhance the cleaning power. Gain Liquid Laundry Detergent from Target is a reliable and popular option that comes with more than 4,500 five-star customer reviews.

As with cleaning stains on carpet, baking soda can also add a freshness to your garments. For particularly stubborn stains, you can also make a paste by combining baking soda with water, then leaving it to sit.

5. Check before drying

After washing, inspect the garment carefully to ensure the grass stain is completely gone. If you can still see any trace of the stain, repeat the previous steps before drying.

Karina says, "Heat from the dryer can set any remaining stain permanently, making it nearly impossible to remove afterward. It's crucial to check the stain before drying the garment.

"Some grass stains can be particularly stubborn — if any trace of the stain remains, repeat the previous steps before placing the garment in the dryer. It’s often necessary to go through the process more than once, particularly for deep or older stains."

Karina adds, "Air-drying is recommended until you’re sure the stain is fully removed."

Meet our expert

So there you have it — how to remove grass stains in five simple steps. By following these steps, you can effectively remove grass stains and keep your clothes looking as good as new.

Next, check out our review of pods vs liquid detergent vs powder and find out which comes out on top.

Are you looking to give your kitchen a high-end finish? A kitchen trim may be the answer, yet this important finishing touch element can sometimes go unnoticed.

Have you ever walked into a kitchen showroom with wanderlust? Or, you have been invited to view a friend's newly fitted dream kitchen and thought 'Wow'? It's probably down to the fact, that when planned and installed every effort was made to ensure all cabinetry was expertly finished with an edging that's known in the industry as kitchen trim or kitchen molding. 

Kitchen trims and moldings aren't the most glamorous of fixtures when researching kitchen ideas, but they are a vital element of every impressive kitchen.

The best kitchen trim ideas

If you are looking for ways to give your kitchen design plan a finishing touch that offers sophistication and character then a kitchen trim is the ideal option. 

"Kitchen trim, typically referred to as molding, includes a variety of decorative elements used to finish and enhance the appearance of kitchen cabinets, countertops, ceilings, and floors. It serves both practical and aesthetic purposes, adding depth, dimension, and a polished look to your kitchen," explains Alice Moszcznsyki, an Interior Designer at Planner 5D.

There are various varieties and styles of kitchen trim to choose from for every kitchen cabinet trend and they can be installed to the top, bottom and front of kitchen cabinets to create exquisite attention-to-detail that blends seamlessly into the kitchen scheme. 

Whether you decide on a single embellishment for subtle practicality or want to dress your kitchen decoratively from head to toe, our guide will explain what type of kitchen trim mouldings are available and what kitchen cabinet ideas they suit.

1. Crown moldings

One of the most common decorative details in kitchen design is to add molding trim that is mounted to the top of kitchen cabinets, like a crown, hence its name. 

"One of the most impactful uses of kitchen trim is on the crown molding, which sits atop your cabinetry and transitions the cabinets to the ceiling. Carefully selected crown molding can instantly add depth, dimension, and a touch of elegance to your kitchen," says Josh Qian, the COO and Co-Founder of Best Online Cabinets.

Historically decorative crown molding is more commonly used in period properties with traditional and shaker-style kitchens. 

"Classic crown moldings tend to be more decorative and create a timeless and traditional feel that looks expensive," adds Josh.

Contemporary kitchens with slab-style or flat-fronted doors do not really work with the addition of decorative and ornate crown molding. 

That being said, crown trim or molding that is less ambiguous can be successful in contemporary kitchens to create a seamless vibe that flows with the architecture.

Sometimes panels often referred to as risers run along the top of cabinets right up to the ceiling that creates a frame around cabinets. The results form a built-in sense of streamlined modernism. 

2. Cabinet trims

Cabinet trims are lengths of edging that can be added to the underneath of upper-cabinetry to give it a more custom and detailed finish.

"Adding a subtle trim detail can instantly elevate your kitchen's overall look and feel," explains Josh.

"From simple, clean-lined designs to more intricate, decorative patterns, it allows you to customize your cabinets to your personal taste."

Another area where kitchen cabinet trim can make a significant impact is on the face frames of your cabinets. From large shaker-style panels to narrow dado rail-style embellishments, the easy update creates transformative results. 

"Trim applied directly to cabinet doors and drawer fronts can transform plain surfaces into elegant panels, adding depth and texture," says Alice Moszcznsyki

"This can include raised panels, beadboard panels, or applied molding around the edges. I find these to be the most fun to play with and really change the look of your kitchen."

3. Skin panel trims

Skin panel trims are custom exterior panels installed on the outside of cabinet carcasses to create an attractive finish that either matches or contrasts with kitchen cabinet doors. 

Scribe moldings and fillers can then be used to then fill in any gaps. 

4. Base moldings

This type of molding is used to cover the bottom edge of cabinets, and it comes in a variety of styles and colors to choose from. Furniture base molding is a strip of wood that extends slightly beyond the cabinets themselves. So, will decoratively join base cabinets to the floor with a luxurious finish.

Base moldings look particularly impressive installed at the bottom of kitchen islands. The enhancement anchors the standalone wall unit effortlessly unites the feature with matching cupboards and units in the room.

"A range of base trim options, from solid wood to durable, moisture-resistant materials, ensures your kitchen's foundation looks as polished as the rest of the room," says Josh.

5. Toe-kick trims

Differing from Base moldings toe kick trims or kickboards are that strip of wood that runs along the bottom of your base cabinets, between the carcase frame and the floor. 

Unlike base moldings, toe kick trims recede slightly offering room for 'toes'. They can be a more simple and less expensive option to decorative base moldings. However, budget-friendly toe kicks still have an important job of protecting cabinets and stopping dust and debris from collecting under kitchen units. 

Selecting the perfect trim for your kitchen installation will ensure every detail is considered. Many kitchen trim and molding elements come as standard and can be discussed with your kitchen designer when planning and designing your dream kitchen. 

However, if you've just moved home and are looking to update an inherited kitchen or perhaps need tips to refresh a rental kitchen, then these kitchen trim ideas are transformative. 

FAQs

Can you really grow garlic indoors? Yes you can and the good news is it's pretty easy to do. It's a great option if you love the idea of growing this kitchen staple but don't have a garden, balcony or other outdoor space that makes this possible. 

As well as bulbs you can successfully cultivate fast-growing garlic greens indoors as a handy and fast option you can snip to zhuzh up dishes.

New garlic bulbs are grown from the single cloves of an existing bulb so this doesn't take up a lot of space like seed trays do as they can be grown in pots. As long as you follow a couple of easy steps like choosing the right type of garlic bulb and giving them enough light to flourish you'll soon be harvesting your own crop.

Now find out how to grow garlic indoors and discover that homegrown produce always tastes so much better. All you need is a pot, some soil, and a bulb of garlic.

The best way to grow garlic indoors

Step 1: Source the right garlic bulbs

Find named varieties of garlic bulbs from a plant nursery or mail-order supplier and you should end up with a good crop. These bulbs are often called 'seed garlic' and are the best quality.

Planting garlic bought from the grocery store is not recommended as they might carry disease, are sometimes sprayed with a sprout inhibitor, and are not as fresh as seed garlic.

The two main types of garlic to choose from are hardneck and softneck varieties.

Softneck garlic is the more common variety you buy at the grocery store. It tends to have more cloves per bulb, grows well in a warm climate, and stores for longer. But it has less flavor.

Hardneck garlic is available in may different varieties, the cloves are bigger, and it grows well in a cold climate. In addition it has a good flavor but it doesn't store for as long as softneck garlic. 

Step 2: Trick the bulbs by faking winter

Garlic bulbs first need to be exposed to fake winter conditions before planting. Like many bulbs, they need a cold dormant period to develop. 

This process is known as vernalization. It sounds scientific but put simply all you have to do is expose the garlic to cooler temperatures for a specific period of time to trick it into thinking it's winter.

This is less important if you choose a softneck type, so for this reason they are often preferred for indoor growing as you can skip this stage. 

Otherwise put your garlic bulbs in a brown paper bag and store in the fridge for 6-10 weeks at a temperature of 39F, checking occasionally to make sure they haven't gone mouldy through exposure to excess moisture.

Step 3: Prep garlic cloves for planting

Prepping only takes a few seconds. Remove your bulbs from the fridge and separate the individual cloves from the main bulb by popping them out. Loosen them gently by applying slight pressure with your thumb and eventually the whole bulb will come apart. 

If you have a hardneck garlic variety you will actually see the neck running down to the base, and this can be removed to make division of the cloves easier. Remove any excess papery layers except the inner one covering the clove itself, as it's a good idea to leave this intact as it offers a layer of protection

Your garlic bulb may have already started to sprout but this is perfectly fine and nothing to worry about. Discard any cloves that are soft, discolored or smell strongly.

Step 4: Choose the right soil and container

You will need a rich, well-drained potting soil and the container of your choice, which will need drainage holes in the bottom. The depth of the container doesn't really matter as garlic is a shallow-rooted plant. Anything with a depth of 6 inches and above will work fine.

Choose a commercially prepared soil from the garden center and add 10% sand as garlic will thrive with this combo. Mix thoroughly then fill the container all the way to the top with the soil mix and compress it down about an inch.

Step 5: Plant the garlic cloves

You are now ready to plant the garlic cloves. They should be inserted into the soil pointy tip up, as this is where the sprout will emerge. Plant them an inch deep and 4 inches apart. 

Fill the container with more potting mix until it covers the garlic by about 1/2 inch, making sure you fill any spaces between the cloves. Press the surface down gently. 

If growing garlic for garlic greens only you can plant the cloves much closer together.

It's also a good idea to add a layer of straw mulch to garlic grown indoors to help prevent evaporation, and keep the soil moist and warm. 

Finally, water the newly planted garlic cloves. At this stage one good soaking should last your garlic a month. Water slowly until water comes out of the bottom of the container. Add more potting mix if you see any garlic cloves poking through.

The ideal place for the container is a south or west facing window where it will get 6 hours of sunlight every day.

Check the soil for moisture from time to time. Remember that too dry is better than too wet. 'Water garlic well while it's sprouting and the new leaves are forming,' says gardening expert Pam Farley, founder of BrownThumbMama.com and author of The First-Time Gardener: Container Food Gardening. 'Reduce the amount of water when leaves begin to die back.'

Step 6: Harvest and store correctly

After about a month your garlic will start to sprout, which is great news as it means your bulbs are viable. Garlic grown indoors will develop much faster than outside, where bulbs will still be in their dormancy phase until the spring thaw. If you prefer you can move the garlic outside once spring weather hits but otherwise leave it where it is.

Meanwhile you can snip off the green leaves, also known as green garlic, and use them in salads and other dishes. Generally garlic grown indoors can be harvested roughly 3 months ahead of garlic grown outdoors, so if you plant garlic cloves in fall you should be able to harvest them in spring. When the leaves turn yellow or brown it's generally a sign that your garlic is ready.

If you end up with a bumper crop it's important to store garlic bulbs correctly. 'After harvesting garlic you need to cure it for 2 to 3 weeks,' says New Jersey based organic gardener Resh Gala, the founder of @hundredtomatoes and author of Vegetable Gardening Made Easy. 

'Lay your garlic harvest flat on top of cardboard or sheets of newspaper. Alternatively place them on a drying rack and allow them to hang dry. After 2 to 3 weeks the outer skin will become dry and crisp. At this point you can brush off any excess soil, and trim off the stalks and roots with a sharp pair of scissors.'

Resh suggests storing your garlic bulbs in milk crates or cardboard boxes with holes poked in the sides for ventilation. Line with paper towels or newspaper then store in a cool dark place and use as needed.

Growing essentials

FAQs

Can you grow garlic in water?

You can also grow garlic in water. Any garlic bulb can be used, but it's best to use garlic bulbs specifically sold for growing. This method is generally used for garlic greens rather than garlic bulbs.

Separate the garlic cloves from the bulb in the same way as before and select the healthiest cloves to sprout in water.

Place the selected cloves pointed end up in a jar or other clear container. If preferred you can submerge the whole bulb in the water rather than separating the cloves and submerging them individually.

Add lukewarm water to the jar until the bottom of the cloves or bulb is covered. Transfer to a sunny spot, such as a windowsill, to give the garlic plenty of sunlight. You will need to change the water every couple of days or as soon as it goes cloudy.

The green garlic shoots should appear quickly and will be ready to harvest within a few weeks of when you started growing the garlic in water.

Now you know how to grow garlic indoors think about what else you can grow. How about growing fresh herbs indoors on a windowsill. Find out how to grow an indoor herb garden for fresh leaves all year round, and how to grow basil indoors for top tips on cultivating this favorite herb in your kitchen. Check out more indoor gardening ideas for inspiration on how to max up your growing space.

Mildew on clothes is not only unpleasant but can also cause damage to the fabric and emit a musty odor. Whether it’s due to damp storage conditions or forgotten laundry, mildew can be tricky to remove. 

However, with the right approach, you can restore your clothes to their former freshness. Industry pros reveal the five steps to tackling moldy clothes effectively.

Armed with the best cleaning supplies and our experts' advice, you'll have your clothes back to their fresh best in no time.

1. Take the clothes outside

Begin by taking the affected clothes outside. This step is essential because it helps prevent the spread of mildew spores inside your home. Mildew thrives in moist environments, and disturbing it indoors can release spores into the air, potentially leading to further contamination. 

Will Cotter, owner of FreshSpace Cleaning, says, "The first thing you want to do is separate the affected ones from the rest. You definitely don’t want that stuff spreading around, so toss those mildewy items into a plastic bag to keep them away from your clean clothes then bring them outside to keep the mildew spores from floating around your house."

Shake out the garments thoroughly to remove as much loose mildew as possible.

Will adds, "As well as shaking the clothes, use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the mildew off — as best you can. Hold the fabric taut while brushing to make it easier and more effective. Though I know it sounds gross, this extra step prevents further stains during washing."

2. Pre-treat the stains

The next step is pre-treating the stains. Depending on the severity of the mildew, you can use white vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide. 

Shaun Veran, co-founder of OURA, says, "The challenge in removing mildew — a fungus that often appears on fabrics as a thin, powdery or fuzzy growth — lies in its ability to penetrate deep into fabric fibers. This is why surface cleaning often proves ineffective — you might remove the visible growth, but leave behind hidden spores that can quickly regenerate. The spores can remain dormant and regrow if not completely eradicated."

As with getting pee out of a mattress, white vinegar is particularly effective for pre-treating mildew growth on clothes due to its natural acidity, which kills mildew spores and neutralizes odors. Shaun says, "White vinegar can kill the fungus behind mildew while helping to remove stains and odors. This is a good step first step to try before attempting more harsh methods. Simply mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket, then soak the mildewed garment for 30-60 minutes."

Will adds, "For extra cleaning power, mix the vinegar with baking soda to make a paste and scrub into the fabric, before rinsing with hot water. It's a potent mix that also works as a deodorizer."

Shaun continues, "If the white vinegar doesn’t work, you can try to use a different acid to kill the fungi inside of your clothes. The acidity of lemon juice combined with the abrasiveness of salt can be a powerful mildew destroyer. Mix equal lemon juice with salt to form a thick paste. The consistency should be thick enough to be able to work into the mildew sections without dissolving into the fabric."

For an alternative option, you might consider a commercial stain remover specifically aimed at mildew. Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, recommends Earthworm Mold Stain and Mildew Stain Treatment from Amazon, saying, "It's not only highly effective, but safe for sensitive textiles and kind to the environment."

3. Wash the clothes

Once the pre-treatment has had time to work, it's time to wash the clothes. Use the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric, as heat helps to kill any remaining spores. 

Shaun says, "Use a detergent that can target microbes like mildew. These detergents may contain enzymes or other ingredients that target microbial growth."

Shaun recommends Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty Liquid Laundry Detergent from Amazon for its impact on tough stains including mildew. 

Both Shaun and Will also recommend OxiClean Laundry & Home Sanitizer, available at Amazon. Shaun adds, "This product is great as it kills germs, bacteria, and fungi, with a laundry sanitizer that is specifically formulated to remove these microbes."

Add a cup of white vinegar or half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle for extra mildew-fighting power. Avoid using bleach unless the fabric is white and bleach-safe, as it can weaken certain materials. If the mildew smell persists after one wash, repeat the process.

4. Dry thoroughly

After washing, it’s important to dry the clothes thoroughly and promptly. 

Wells says, "Since mildew grows best in moist situations, drying your clothes completely will help keep the mildew from coming back. Dry the garments in the sun if you can, as its a natural disinfectant, and the UV rays have inherent antiseptic qualities."

If outdoor drying is not possible, use a dryer on a high heat setting, but make sure the clothes are completely dry before storing them away.

5. Prevent future mildew

Finally, take preventative steps to ensure mildew is less likely to return.

Shaun says, "There are several measures you can take. Firstly, and most importantly, ensure all clothes are completely dry before putting them away. Putting damp clothes into a cool, dark closet provides the perfect place for mildew to flourish. 

"You can also improve ventilation by opening windows or using fans to improve air circulation in storage areas. For humid climates, where mildew can thrive, use a dehumidifier in your closet or laundry area to reduce moisture."

This Costway Dehumidifier from Target is portable and covers an area of up to 2,500 square feet. You might also consider using moisture absorbers like silica gel packets in your closets, especially in humid climates. 

Regularly checking your stored clothes for dampness can also help you catch any mildew before it becomes a problem again.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — how to remove mildew from clothes in five simple steps. Mildew may be stubborn, but with patience and the right techniques, your clothes can be restored to their best condition.

Next, check out our review of pods vs liquid detergent vs powder — which comes out on top.

Shag rugs add a cozy and stylish touch to any room, but their long fibers can make them challenging to clean. 

Our expert guide reveals the five simple steps to cleaning your shag rug. 

Armed with the best cleaning supplies and our expert advice, you'll have your shag rug back to its fluffy best in no time.

1. Shake it out

Start by taking your shag rug outside and giving it a good shake. This helps to dislodge loose dirt, dust, and debris that have settled deep within the fibers. 

Ramshad Nikbakht, co-owner of Southwest Rug Cleaning, says, "Shaking it out helps to dislodge loose dirt, dust, and debris that have settled deep within the fibers."

For larger rugs, you may need help from another person to shake it properly. If possible, hang the rug over a sturdy railing or clothesline and beat it with a broom or rug beater to remove more dirt.

Ramshad adds, "Shag rug owners often struggle with matting, where the pile gets flattened. A quick solution is to use a carding brush to lift and revive the shag pile."

Ramshad recommends the Woolbuddy Wool Carder from Amazon, which boasts a comfortable bamboo grip and sleek varnished finish.

2. Vacuum thoroughly

After shaking out the rug — just as with cleaning jute rugs — you'll want to vacuum it thoroughly to remove any remaining dust and dirt. 

Use the upholstery attachment or a brush attachment without a rotating beater bar, which can damage the long fibers. Vacuum in the direction of the fibers, and avoid using the vacuum's high suction setting, as this can pull at the fibers and cause them to fray. 

Ramshad says, "The most crucial step in cleaning a shag rug at home is removing dirt and dust particles deeply embedded in the pile. The best method is to flip the rug upside down and vacuum the back, which helps dislodge dirt from the rug's foundation."

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe from Amazon is highly rated by our experts. Boosted by its efficient HEPA filter system, it offers a reliable and effective clean.

3. Deep clean

For a deeper clean, use a dry shampoo specifically designed for carpets. 

Ramshad says, "My top pro tip when it comes to cleaning shag rugs is to use a dry fast shampoo or foam soap. These soaps don’t leave any dirt attracting residue on the shag pile — the last thing you want is to use a soap that leaves residue, making your rug dirtier than it was before."

Ramshad recommends Chemspec Professional Carpet Shampoo, available from Amazon. Will Cotter, owner of FreshSpace Cleaning, opts for Seventh Generation Liquid Laundry Detergent, available from Target in a fresh lavender scent. 

Will says, "I usually put it in a spray bottle with water so I don't oversaturate the rug."

Sprinkle the solution evenly over the rug and gently work it into the fibers using a soft-bristled brush. Allow the shampoo to sit for the recommended amount of time, usually about 20-30 minutes, before vacuuming it up. This method helps to absorb oils and grime without saturating the rug with water, which can be difficult to dry.

Finally, if you're looking to keep your shag rug clean, it's crucial to spot clean any stains immediately.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning says, "Addressing spills and stains as soon as they happen prevents them from setting into the fibers, which can be particularly challenging to remove from shag rugs.

"Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then, apply a carpet cleaner designed for delicate fabrics. Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth, working from the outside in to prevent the stain from spreading. Avoid scrubbing, as this can fray the fibers and push the stain deeper into the rug."

Karina recommends Woolite Carpet and Upholstery Foam Cleaner, available from Walmart.

4. Freshen it up

As with cleaning a wool rug, to eliminate odors and freshen up your shag rug, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the surface. 

Karina says, "Baking soda helps to neutralize odors and freshen the rug, making it smell clean and inviting. It's a great natural option for maintaining a clean rug between deep cleans.

"Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda evenly across the rug. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes, or overnight for tougher odors. Then, vacuum the rug thoroughly to remove the baking soda."

Will says, "When you're ready to vacuum, start with the highest setting and work your way down, changing directions every so often to get all the gunk out. If you have the budget, I’d say go for the Dyson Ball Animal 2 from Amazon. It can really lift off dirt and has a HEPA filter too." 

For a cheaper option, Will recommends the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum from Target.

Will adds, "I have pets, so just to make sure there’s no hair left, I either use a pet hair scraper or a carpet rake with a long handle."

5. Fluff and restore

Finally, restore the plushness of your shag rug by fluffing the fibers.

Karina says, "Over time, the pile of a shag rug can become matted, making it look worn and less luxurious. Fluffing the rug helps to restore its original texture and appearance. 

"Use a carpet rake or a wide-tooth comb to gently fluff the fibers of the rug. Work in sections, lifting the pile as you go. You can also give the rug a gentle shake to help the fibers stand up. 

"This step not only enhances the rug’s appearance but also prolongs its life by preventing the fibers from becoming permanently flattened."

Meet our experts

So there you have it — how to clean a shag rug in five simple steps. By following these steps, you can keep your shag rug clean, fresh, and comfortable for years to come.

Next, check out six of the best carpet cleaning machines. 

For those who love adding delicious herbs to culinary creations, finding out how to dry basil is a smart idea.

I've asked gardeners and homemakers how you can do this, and thankfully it only takes three steps. All you have to do is carefully prepare the leaves, hang them to dry, and store them properly.

Whether you've been growing basil yourself or have bought a pack from the supermarket that you can't use all at once, this will come in useful.

Good to know

Time: About 5 minutes to prep, 7 days to dry.

Difficulty: Easy.

Helpful hints: For the best results, choose a basil variety suited to drying with sturdy leaves like Genovese, Neapolitan or Sweet basil. “If you’re picking leaves, make sure to do this once the plant is mature and flowering for maximum flavor,” explains Amanda Schmitt, homemaking expert and owner of Life As Mama.

Drying basil essentials

• Basil — you can either get these this from your plant or buy these from the supermarket
• Twine — the Love, Laugh, Craft Twine from Walmart is under $2 and is made from jute
• Airtight containers — I recommend using a small mason jar, such as the Ball Regular Mouth 4oz Quilted Pint Mason Jars from Walmart which is cute and comes with 12pcs

1. Prepare the leaves

First of all, you’re going to need to prepare your leaves, whether you’re harvesting them from a basil crop or taking them out of a pack from the store.

“I gently rinse the leaves and pat them dry with a towel,” says Marco Picano, landscaping expert and co-owner of Picano Landscaping.

“From here, I bundle 3-5 stems together and secure them with kitchen twine,” he continues.

If you don’t have any twine, the Tenn Well Cooking Twine from Amazon is highly rated and made from 100% cotton.

“The key is not bruising the leaves when bundling and providing adequate airflow,” adds Amanda.

2. Hang the leaves up and leave to dry

Once you’ve got your basil all tied up, you next need to hang it up in your kitchen.

“I hang fresh basil upside down in small bundle, in a warm corner of my kitchen away from sunlight for 5-7 days until crispy,” explains Amanda.

If you don’t have anywhere to hang them, try taping them with masking tape to the top of your window frame, like I did. I used two layers of tape to ensure they stuck on.

Marco agrees, adding that it’s a good idea to check the leaves daily for any mold.

3. Store in an airtight container

Once dried, you can crush the leaves and store them in an airtight jar. “When I do this, I put the jars in my pantry for up to a year,” Amanda says.

“Dried basil has an intense flavor, so use about 1/3 of the fresh amount in recipes,” she suggests.

If you’re on a budget or have small kitchen storage, you can also store your basil in clear zip bags.

FAQs

What is the best way to dry fresh basil?

The best way to dry fresh basil is by hanging it up in a warm, sunny spot for 5-7 days, checking it each day for progress and for potential mold spots.

Is it better to freeze or dry fresh basil?

“Personally, I prefer drying basil to freezing as I find the flavor fuller,” says Amanda.

“However, if short on time or space, blanching then freezing whole basil leaves in an ice cube tray with water or stock also works well for up to 6 months.”

From here, you can simply add frozen cubes directly to simmering sauces or pesto.

With the proper care and storage, home-dried basil can be even more flavorful than commercial.

“The satisfaction of preserving the harvest from your own herb garden or kitchen windowsill makes it all worthwhile,” Amanda finishes by saying.

Want to carry on growing fragrant culinary picks at home? Finding out how to grow an indoor herb garden is also a good idea.

Knowing how to clean a shower drain is essential to prevent clogs and unpleasant odors — not to mention costly plumber fees.

Our cleaning industry experts reveal the six simple steps to ensuring your shower drain is clean and healthy. 

Armed with the best cleaning supplies and our expert advice, you'll have your shower drain gleaming and flowing smoothly in no time...

Clean your shower drain like a pro

When it comes to the places you're forgetting to clean in your bathroom, it's no surprise that the shower drain makes the list. It's low down, so easily overlooked — plus it's a nuisance to get to. 

But tackling it doesn't have to be difficult, as our cleaning experts reveal the straightforward steps, along with some simple yet effective products.

Where our pros have suggested products, we've sourced high-quality items from reliable retailers.

All prices are correct at the time of publication.

1. Remove the drain cover

The first step in cleaning your shower drain is to remove the drain cover. Most shower drains have a cover that can be easily lifted, while some will require unscrewing. 

Once the cover is off, set it aside in a safe place. This will give you clear access to the drain opening, allowing you to remove any visible debris. 

2. Clear the debris

With the drain cover removed, use a pair of gloves to protect your hands as you clear away any debris (these Clorox Ultra Comfort Gloves from Target are both protective and comfy). Hair is often the primary culprit in clogging shower drains, so be prepared to remove a significant amount of it. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Use a drain snake or wire hanger to manually extract as much debris as possible. Insert the tool into the drain and twist it to catch hair and gunk, pulling out any clogs that are causing slow drainage. 

"This manual removal is crucial because it addresses the root cause of the clog, making the subsequent chemical cleaning steps more effective. By physically removing the bulk of the debris, you’re ensuring that the drain is clear enough for the next steps to reach deeper blockages."

Karina recommends the FlexiSnake Hair Clog Remover from Amazon, adding, "This tool is specifically designed to tackle hair clogs, which are one of the most common causes of slow drains. Its micro-hooks latch onto hair and other debris, making it easy to pull them out without damaging the pipes."

3. Flush with hot water

After removing the visible debris, flush the drain with hot water. 

Boil a kettle or pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain. The hot water helps to dissolve any remaining soap scum, grease, or small particles that may still be clinging to the sides of the drain. 

This step also serves to test the flow of the drain, ensuring that the water is passing through smoothly.

4. Apply baking soda

Next, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly into the drain. 

Karina says, "Baking soda is a versatile cleaner that not only helps break down grime but also neutralizes odors. This step is particularly important because it targets the buildup of organic materials that contribute to both clogs and unpleasant smells. 

"Pour around half a cup directly into the drain and let it settle for a few minutes while it begins to work its magic."

Try Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda, available from Walmart, for a reliable option with great customer reviews. 

5. Add white vinegar

After the baking soda has had a chance to settle, pour white vinegar down the drain.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "Listen for the fizzing sound. This means the dynamic duo of baking soda and vinegar are reacting to dislodge stubborn debris while breaking down any grease or grime. Allow the mixture to sit for 15 minutes or so."

Karina recommends Heinz All Natural Distilled White Vinegar from Amazon. She says, "A powerhouse for natural cleaning, this vinegar is highly effective in breaking down soap scum and organic buildup. It’s a versatile product that can be used in various cleaning tasks around the home, making it a staple in any cleaning arsenal."

Alternative options include Earthworm Drain Cleaner from Amazon — which Wells recommends as both highly effective and safe for use near children or pets.

While waiting for the mixture to do its work, take the chance to clean the drain cover.

Wells says, "Use a simple mixture of hot water and dish soap. Scrub it in with an old toothbrush, allowing you to get into any crevices where dirt or scum may be hiding."

6. Rinse again with hot water

Finally, rinse the drain one more time with hot water. This final flush will wash away any remaining debris and cleaning agents, leaving your shower drain clear and clean. 

Pour the hot water slowly to ensure that it reaches all areas of the drain. Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness of the drain, replace the drain cover, and your shower is ready for use again. 

Regularly performing this cleaning routine will help keep your shower drain in optimal condition.

Meet our cleaning experts

So there you have it — how to clean a shower drain in six simple steps. Incorporating this simple routine into your regular cleaning schedule will help avoid clogs and ensure a fresh, clean shower experience.

Next, check out how to clean a sink. 

Centipedes are unsettling creatures to find in your home, with their many legs and quick movements. Although they are generally harmless and even beneficial in controlling other pests, their presence can be alarming. 

Our experts reveal the five simple steps to rid your home of these unwanted guests.

Knowing how to identify bugs in your home is just the beginning. Getting rid of centipedes involves a combination of preventing their entry, eliminating what attracts them, and maintaining an environment that discourages their presence...

1. Seal entry points

As with getting rid of ants in a kitchen, sealing entry points is a key first step to preventing centipedes from invading your home. Like ants, centipedes typically enter through small cracks, gaps, and openings around windows, doors, and foundations. 

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "Examine the exterior of your home thoroughly. In the areas encompassing windows, doorways, foundations, or any other potential openings."

Seal cracks in walls and around windows using caulk, and consider installing door sweeps to eliminate gaps under doors. Repair any damaged screens on windows and ensure that vents are properly covered. 

Wells adds, "Weatherstripping or expanding foam can also be used to good effect."

This DAP Alex Fast Dry White Silicone Caulk from Walmart is great value and dries within 20 minutes. This Stockroom Weather Stripping Foam Seal Strip Insulation Tape from Target provides reliable protection for doors and windows.

By blocking these access points, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of centipedes finding their way inside.

2. Eliminate food sources

If centipedes are invading your home, it may be because other bugs are already there.

Lina DaSilva, founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, explains, "Centipedes feed on smaller insects such as spiders, ants, and termites, so it's crucial to eliminate all food sources that may be attracting these bugs into your home.

"Regularly clean and vacuum areas where crumbs or food particles may accumulate — such as kitchens, pantries, and dining areas — and keep all food in the refrigerator, freezer, cupboards, or sealed containers."

This Fullstar Food Storage Containers Set from Walmart is perfect for sealing up your food and removing any attraction for critters. The pack includes 24 containers with lids, plus marker pens for easy labeling.

3. Reduce humidity

Centipedes thrive in damp, humid environments, so reducing moisture in your home is key to making it less appealing to them. 

Ensure that your bathroom, basement, and other damp areas are well-ventilated. Use dehumidifiers to lower humidity levels, and fix any leaks in pipes, faucets, or the roof. Pay attention to areas where water might accumulate, such as under sinks or around windows, and take steps to keep them dry. 

Wells recommends the NineSky Dehumidifier for Home, available from Amazon, saying, "This excellent dehumidifier effectively removes moisture from the air by using semiconductor condensation technology, which has silent operating properties." This slick-looking product also has an internal light feature, with seven color options. 

Reducing humidity not only discourages centipedes but also helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

4. Use natural repellents

For those who prefer a non-chemical approach, natural repellents can be effective in keeping centipedes at bay. 

As with getting rid of cockroaches in the bedroom, essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus can make a very effective natural repellent. Mix them with water in spray bottles — such as these LiBa Glass Spray Bottles from Walmart — and you're away. 

Well says, "Oils like peppermint, tea tree, and citronella are known to stun centipedes. In a spray bottle loaded with water, utilize a couple drops of natural ointment to splash around your home. This not only acts as a repellent but smells great too!"

Additionally, diatomaceous earth, a natural powder, can be sprinkled around entry points and damp areas to deter centipedes. Wells recommends Harris Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth from Walmart, saying, "This naturally occurring insecticide is a natural substitute for chemical pesticides, particularly for those concerned about the health of pets and children."

5. Maintain cleanliness

Consistent cleanliness is crucial in preventing centipedes from taking up residence in your home. 

Dispose of trash promptly, and store food in sealed containers to avoid attracting insects that centipedes feed on. Regularly clean and vacuum floors, especially in areas where centipedes are likely to appear, such as basements and bathrooms. Check our expert guide on the best vacuum cleaners to buy in 2024. 

Lina adds, "Removing clutter is another key step. Centipedes like to hide in dark, cluttered areas, so clearing the floor space of basements and closets will mean fewer places to hide for both the centipedes themselves and the other bugs they like to prey upon."

By maintaining a clean and dry environment, you can significantly reduce the chances of centipedes becoming a problem in your home.

Meet our experts

By addressing the factors that attract centipedes, you can enjoy a home that is both comfortable and free from these unwelcome guests.

Next, check out how to get rid of ants in a garage.

Mums are some of the most popular fall flowers, as they're vibrant, colorful, and can withstand cooler temperatures.

If you want to make sure that your mums carry on blooming throughout the season, I've got you covered with a range of different tips and tricks from gardening pros. Clever placement, thorough watering, and mulching are just a few of their favorite ideas.

For those following a month-by-month gardening calendar and wanting to maintain these blooms during fall, expert advice will come in useful.

1. Plant in the right location

Before you do anything else, make sure to locate the best area in your backyard for your marvelous mums.

“Keep mums blooming brightly in fall starts with planting them in a spot with plenty of sunlight and well-drained, fertile soil,” explains Scott McLeod, landscaping expert and owner of McLeod Landscaping Inc.

“You should make sure that they’re in a spot where they get at least six hours of direct light every day,” adds Matthew Wilson, gardening pro and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

You can also add compost to the soil to improve drainage before planting. Learning how to make your compost at home is a great way to ensure you have a never-ending supply of the good stuff.

2. Water properly

Once you’ve got your mums in place, make sure to keep giving them a good drink of water.

“I water the mums thoroughly after planting and during dry spells,” says Scott. “You can also use drip irrigation to provide consistent moisture, which mums need to produce abundant flowers,” Scott says.

He also recommends adding a balanced fertilizer at half the recommended strength every few weeks to give them an extra boost.

3. Add mulching

One of the best ways to protect your mums and ensure they carry on thriving is by adding mulching around them.

“Mulching around the base of the mums with pine needles or shredded bark helps the soil retain moisture and prevents weeds,” explains Scott.

“The mulch should be two to three inches deep, pulled back a few inches from the stems,” he adds.

Matthew agrees, recommending Scotts Nature Scapes Color Enhanced Mulch, available from Amazon. “This helps retain moisture in the soil, as well as insulation roots against low temperatures during the winter period.”

4. Make sure to prune

If you’re reading this at the end of summer, this tip might be a little late for you. But, if you are looking for blooming tips before this (congrats on being organized!), it’s worth pruning in summer.

Scott explains, “In July, I pinch back the mums by about one-third. This helps them grow bushy and compact, which leads to more flowers.”

For those reading this in late summer or fall, don’t stress — once the flowers start opening, you can keep pinching off dead blooms to promote continued blooming.

5. Provide cold weather protection

For those living in colder areas or if you find the weather randomly changes (it often does), make sure to have frost protection in place.

“In colder areas, I provide protection like straw, pine branches, or breathable fabric to help the mums for the following spring,” Scott says.

Properly caring for mums in this way will keep them blooming brightly into fall.

By putting these plans into place, you can ensure that your mums bloom for the whole season.

“I also recommend watching out for common pests like aphids and spider mites, and use gentle insecticidal soap to get rid of them,” Matthew finishes by saying.

Want to carry on caring for your yard this season? It’s worth scoping out the top fall gardening tips for every region in the US.

Of all the rooms in our recently renovated cottage, the kitchen has to be my very favorite. However, there are also some issues that I wish I could go back and put right. 

They don’t stop me from loving the room, but they annoy me and when we take on our next renovation project (which hopefully won’t be in the too-distant future) I will definitely not be making the same mistakes again.

Here I give you the top five kitchen design mistakes we made so that you can avoid doing the same.

1. Fitting wooden countertops around the sink

The majority of the countertops in our kitchen are made from oak and we sourced these online rather than buying them from the same supplier we used for our kitchen cabinets as we found we could get a better deal this way.

They look lovely - warm, timeless, and just a little bit rustic. We oil them using Danish oil around twice a year to keep them in good condition and they are surprisingly resilient when it comes to withstanding the hot pans I regularly plonk on them when I shouldn’t. 

So far, so good. But (and there has to be a but) I really wish we hadn’t used them around the kitchen sink. Despite trying to be careful about splashing them with water, the area behind the sink inevitably gets wet on a daily basis and the wood here has been left discolored and even a little cracked. We recently sanded it right back (a bonus of timber) and re-oiled it but it still doesn’t look quite right.

For our breakfast bar we used a beautiful quartz composite marble countertop which is pretty much bullet-proof and this would have been a much better choice for the sink area. I am glad we went for composite stone as when it comes to how to clean marble countertops a little more care is required. 

These Silicone Trivet Mats from Amazon in turquoise would have helped protect our timber countertops.

2. Opting for a ceramic stove instead of induction

We completely gutted our cottage, stripping it right back to its bare bones. We kind of sprinted into this project as we were desperate to move out of our soulless rental and were seduced by the character and setting of the cottage. We didn’t really think ahead when it came to how we would afford the house renovation costs that we’d need to fund. As such, we were really keen (maybe too keen) to save money where we could. Sometimes this worked just great - for example, the bargain second-hand fire basket in our open fire - other times it didn’t.

We opted for an electric range stove, however, we chose a model with a ceramic stovetop, and oh how I regret that. Seriously, I sometimes feel like I’m living in the 1980s. 

We were used to gas cooking - so instant response. This thing takes forever to get to temperature and then stays hot for ages after being turned down or off. 

If we had spent just a little bit more, life would be so much easier when it comes to mealtimes. I'm thinking about getting one of these Portable Induction Cooktops from Amazon in the meantime. 

3. Not considering how much dirt the floor would show up

I spent a long time looking at country kitchen design ideas and wanted a bit of a modern rustic finish in the kitchen, so we mixed up new Shaker units and the smart marble breakfast bar with reclaimed items such as the worn old butcher's block. 

For the kitchen flooring, we opted for large format, rectangular riven slate tiles - and they do look lovely - when they’ve just been vacuumed and mopped. 

The problem starts when anyone steps foot in the kitchen. These things show up every single speck of dirt. Just outside the back door that leads into the kitchen, we have creamy-colored gravel which seems to transfer a fair bit of dust to shoes and then show up on our near-black tiles. We have a dog and a cat - their paw prints are regular features on our kitchen floor. Everything, from watermarks to flour seems to be more visible than ever on these particular tiles. 

We are pretty good at keeping on top of the cleaning, but even this is more of a chore than it needed to be - dirt gets lodged in the riven surface of the slate, and this surface tears most floor mops to pieces. 

If I had the choice again I’d opt for something like a beige or creamy-toned limestone or travertine to hide the dirt a bit. And I would go for a more honed finish to make sweeping and cleaning easier. 

The one thing that does get our floor clean is a steam mop and I love the Shark Professional Steam Pocket Mop from Lowes.

4. Failing to plan space for a bigger refrigerator

There is a space between the edge of our freestanding refrigerator/freezer and the stable door. And do you know why that annoys me? Because it meant there was more space for a bigger model of refrigerator. 

I regularly play refrigerator Jenga after coming back from doing a food shop because there just isn’t enough space for everything. Pots of yogurt regularly seem to fly out when I open the door, much to the delight of the dog who loves to help clean the pesky aforementioned floor. 

Every time I go to someone’s house who has a double-door refrigerator and freezer - and especially those with iced water dispensers on the outside - I feel jealous. 

As we plan on moving soon there seems little point in investing in a new one now - but I am wondering, how long does a refrigerator last? Hopefully, this one won’t last much longer and I can buy a new one. 

5. Choosing a noisy range hood

Our kitchen, like many other peoples’, seems to be the place where everyone wants to congregate - which I love. But there is a lot that goes on in a kitchen - cooking, chopping, washing, and so on. All of this alone creates quite a lot of noise so loud appliances are just not welcome - they only add to the feeling of chaos at busy times - particularly when guests want to chat while you try to look cool and collected while juggling a billion other things. 

When I turn our range hood on to prevent the kitchen from filling with steam or cooking odors, you would be forgiven for thinking that a jumbo jet was taking off just outside the window. 

I don’t know how many decibels it is - because I never thought to check. Clever me.

The moral of the story? Noise output of appliances matters - and it will usually be stated on the specifications. Checking this should be a number one priority for anyone researching how to design an open-plan kitchen.  

The COSMO COS-63175S Wall Mount Range Hood from Amazon has a noise level of just 45dB.

Inspired  to turn your own kitchen remodel ideas into a reality? Make sure you put in the research before getting started to ensure your end result is everything you hoped for.

I'm a huge fan of using Sundays to reset everything. This involves doing activities that will help clear your mind and feel ready for the week ahead. Many people clean their homes as part of this, decluttering and tidying to renew their space.

I've asked cleaning pros how to do a Sunday reset at home, and they've come back with a range of useful tips that are easy to do and will have a serious impact. Adding fresh linens, bringing in fragrances, and doing a mini declutter are just a few of their favorite tips. “I always do a deep clean of my own home on Sundays to reset for the week ahead,” says Eliana Coca, cleaning expert at EC House Cleaning.

For those wanting to know how to clean a home so it's fresh and fabulous every week, a Sunday reset is worth doing.

1. Do a mini declutter

If you’ve been watching home reset TikToks, you’ll know that the most important thing to do is decluttering your home.

“First, I declutter each room by putting away items that don’t belong and getting rid of anything we no longer need,” says Eliana.

This doesn’t need to be a major task — just go around with a trash can liner and throw away any trash, then scoop up any items that are out of place and put them in their correct homes. For example, clean those stray coffee cups in your office, then put them back in the kitchen.

2. Clean fittings, furniture, and floors

When cleaning during the week, you probably just focus on the small messes you can see. On Sundays, it’s a good idea to pay attention to areas that don’t usually get TLC.

“After decluttering, I dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, baseboards, and air vents before vacuuming floors,” says Eliana.

Vacuuming your furniture is another task that is perfect for Sunday cleaning.

“During the week I find it a bit challenging because you need 15–30 minutes per piece of furniture, as well as other items like area rugs,” explains Alex Varela, cleaning expert at Dallas Maids. “That's why cleaning these items with a wet/dry vacuum on a Sunday is the perfect time to do so.”

You can get specialist upholstery cleaners for furniture, such as the TikTok-famous Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner from Amazon, which we put through its paces in our Bissell Little Green Cleaner review.

3. Disinfect surfaces

This is one of my favorite ways to refresh rooms, as this not only removes germs but makes the whole space look and smell cleaner.

“In the bathroom, I disinfect sinks, toilets, and countertops, scrubbing away built-up grime,” says Eliana.

She continues, “I also wipe down cabinets and appliances, empty the fridge, and mop floors.”

Cleaning behind and underneath large and small kitchen appliances can also make a big difference in how clean the space feels.

4. Refresh your fabrics

Changing up fabrics is an easy win — just switch tea towels, bath towels, throws, and any other ones for ones that are already clean, before putting old ones in the washing machine.

“I also love adding fresh, clean linens in the bedroom, as this creates a sense of calm and makes me feel relaxed catching Zs before Monday morning,” Eliana explains.

My top tip? Spritz fabric fragrance during your Sunday reset and mid-week in order to give these pieces an extra boost. I like to use lavender-scented ones, such as the best-selling Muse Apothecary Linen Ritual Spray from Amazon.

5. Add home fragrance

As well as adding home fragrances to your fabrics, you can also use these throughout your home during your Sunday reset.

“We associate a nice fragrance with a clean home, even if the home is actually not that clean,” says Alex.

He recommends lighting a scented candle or switching on an electric essential oil diffuser for 30 minutes minimum. You can also flip your reed diffusers during this time.

“I also open windows to let fresh air circulate, which makes the whole house smell bright and renewed,” Eliana adds. She also loves using candles, recommending using citrus ones such as the Mainstays Sweet Sugar Lemon Candle from Walmart which is budget-friendly and has three wicks.

Once you’ve finished everything, do a final walk-through to ensure that you haven’t missed any areas. Then, you’re all done, until the next Sunday rolls around.

“A weekly reset like this leads to less built-up mess and more productivity during the busy weekdays,” Eliana finishes by saying.

You can also start following a weekly cleaning schedule, which will also make staying on top of tasks easier.

Sunday reset essentials

Painting bathroom tile is a task commonly undertaken by homeowners looking to update their bathroom without spending a fortune or having to put up with a load of disruption and mess involving stripping away existing tiles.

If this is a job that you fancy giving a go, make sure you get well prepared with the right tools for the job and a paint that is suitable for use on tile - you can't use just any old paint you have lying around and expect perfect results. 

We asked a range of decorating experts for their advice on how to do this job for the best possible finish for your bathroom tile ideas and the longest-lasting results - and the best news is that you could totally transform your bathroom in this way in just one weekend.

How to paint bathroom tile like a pro

You will no doubt be keen that you get the very best results for all your efforts and that is where our expert's advice is going to help. They have come up with everything from the perfect products for the job to how to prepare your existing tile for the best possible outcome. 

What you'll need to paint bathroom tile

Tools:

• Tack cloth - these Dura-Gold Superior Tack Cloths from Amazon are a great option and come in a pack of 12 
• Putty knife
• 120-grit sandpaper
• Drop cloth
• Paint tray
• Paint roller
• Paint brush
  

Materials:

• Trisodium phosphate
• Waterproof spackle (filler)
• Caulk
• Primer Epoxy or two-process paint
• Polyurethane sealer - try Shabby Chic Multi Surface Clear Coat Sealant from Amazon
• Masking tape

1. Prepare your existing tile for painting

As with so many small bathroom upgrades, the key to success tends to lie in putting in the right preparation work.

"When starting a tile painting project, you'll need a very clean and porous surface for the primer and paint to adhere to," says Michael Clarke, founder of Yardwork and Pulled. "Therefore it's best to start by giving the tile a thorough clean with a mixture of warm water and trisodium phosphate. Once you've cleaned the tile with this solution, you'll want to rinse it well with clean warm water and then dry completely with a tack cloth."

"Here’s a tip!" adds Baltimore-based licensed contractor Jay Sander. "To achieve the best results, use a solution of 1/4 cup trisodium phosphate per gallon of water."

SamaN TSP Eco Heavy Duty Cleanser and Degreaser from Amazon comes ready to use.

2. Make any necessary tile repairs

You will obviously want a perfect finish when it comes to your bathroom design and this means repairing any cracked or broken tile before you begin painting. 

"You'll want to repair any chipped or broken tiles with waterproof spackle (filler)," explains Michael Clarke. "Once you are finished with this step, the next step is to sand the tile with 120-grit sandpaper to remove any glazing on the tile, then rinse the area again with clean water and dry with a tack cloth." 

Finally, use your masking tape to cover the areas you don't want to be painted and lay your drop cloths over your floors and sanitaryware to protect them.

3. Prime the tile

"Perhaps the most important step before applying any paint is to prime the surface with two applications of primer that is formulated for tile," says Michael Clarke.

"It is critical to use a primer that is suitable for tiles," confirms Jay Sander. "It will ensure the paint adheres well. Remember, for better results, you must allow the primer to dry for at least 24 hours."

"Use a high-quality primer like XIM to create a paintable surface on the tiles," suggests Brandon Walker, Construction Manager at ASAP Restoration LLC.

Something like Rust-Oleum UMA Interior/Exterior Multi-purpose Water-based Wall and Ceiling Primer from Lowes would be perfect for the job.

It tends to be easiest to use a brush to apply your primer, but you could use a roller. Take time to look into the best paint rollers for the job as you want a smooth, even finish. 

4. Paint the tile

Now for the bit that will take your tile from shabby to super stylish right before your very eyes - applying your chosen paint. Make sure you take into account the bathroom color ideas you have used elsewhere in the space first. 

"Applying thin coats and allowing each coat to dry thoroughly, will provide the best results," advises Michael Clarke.

"You can use a brush or roller for this process," says Jay Sander. "Don't forget to cover both tiles and grout. Let the paint dry properly. If required, apply a second coat.

"It is critical to remember that before applying the next coat, you should let it dry for 6-8 hours. Repeat the same process every time you require a coat."

This Pro Grade- Paint Roller Set from Amazon offers great value for money. 

5. Apply a sealant

Your final step should be to seal your tile - this will ensure a longer-lasting finish and make your hard work worthwhile. If you have opted for real stone for your bathroom floor tile ideas you will also need to ensure they are properly sealed. 

"Add a layer of polyurethane sealer to protect your surface," suggests Michael Clarke.

"Though this step is optional, it is important to know that it can provide extra durability," points out Jay Sanders. "It is recommended for high-traffic areas."

Check out Miracle Sealants SEENPT6 511 Seal & Enhance Color & Gloss Enhancers from Amazon.

FAQs

What paint is best for tile?

Just as when painting walls, it is crucial that you use the right products for the materials you are working with and the room you are applying them in. 

"Epoxy or a two-process paint is best for tile applications as they are more durable and resistant to moisture and heat than other types of paint," says Michael Clarke.

"The primer is one of the most important steps, but after you’ve primed, Rostoleum makes a solid tub and tile paint," adds Brandon Walker.

You could also try Galitoon Tub and Tile Refinishing Kit from Amazon.

Is it a good idea paint bathroom tile?

While this is a quick way to get a bathroom makeover, it is not necessarily right for those after a more long-term solution and some professionals would advice against it. 

"In the best case scenario it won’t adhere for very long, and in the worst case it will harbor mold growth and cause rotting behind the tiles inside of the wall when water vapor can’t escape," warns Brandon Walker.

"The paint may peel over time, thus, it is not ideal for high-moisture areas like showers," adds Jay Sanders.

How long does it take to paint bathroom tile?

This is a great option for anyone looking for a really quick way to give their bathroom a new look - perhaps a temporary solution for homeowners who have just taken on a fixer-upper.

"The length of time it will take to paint over the tile will depend on how big of a tiled area you are trying to cover," says Brandon Walker. "Most bathrooms can be treated, prepped and primed in one day, and painted with finishing coats over the next two days depending on amount of coverage."

If your bathroom project has inspired you to give other rooms in your home a quick makeover in the same way it is well worthwhile looking into painting tiles elsewhere - such as in the kitchen.

If, on the other hand, you have decided rip out your old tiles and start again, it is time to look into how to choose bathroom tiles that will suit your particular space and look great for many years to come. 

Hummingbirds are such a beautiful sight to see. One of the reasons they're so special is that you can't always see them — in fact, they migrate to Mexico and Central America during late summer and fall, before coming back north to the US in late winter and early spring.

If you want to help these fabulous feathered birds during this time, there are lots of things you can implement in your garden to help them along their journey. Providing water, hanging up feeders, and preventing window collisions are just a few of the tips gardening pros recommend.

For those wanting to attract hummingbirds and support them during their travels, these tips and tricks will all be useful.

1. Utilize hummingbird feeders

When you go on your travels, chances are that you have snacks in your bag or make plans to stop at a restaurant along the way. Just like us, hummingbirds need fuel during their trips.

“Grabbing a hummingbird feeder or two is the easiest way to attract them, as they’re designed to attract hummingbirds and are specifically designed for a hummingbird’s long beak,” explains Jeremy Yamaguchi, gardening pro and CEO of Lawn Love.

When shopping for a hummingbird feeder, Jeremy recommends looking for one that's red, as this color attracts them. “I would also recommend buying a feeder with a bee guard and an ant moat for added protection,” he adds.

For example, the Pennington Glass Red Hummingbird Feeder from Walmart ticks all these boxes, is dishwasher safe, and is made from UV-stabilized material.

2. Provide the right nectar

Once you’ve got a hummingbird feeder in place, make to fill it up with the right nectar solution

“One of the most important things you can do for migrating hummingbirds is make sure you fill any hummingbird feeders you have with appropriate food,” explains Ryan Farley, gardening pro and CEO of LawnStarter.

He continues, “A 1:4 mix of white sugar and water is best. Never use any dyes, and never use any other kinds of sweetener.”

This is one of the biggest hummingbird feeder mistakes you can make, as this can lead to fungal infections that will hurt the hummingbirds.

3. Plant native flowers

Enhance your backyard ideas by adding beautiful blooms that will not only attract hummingbirds but will also help you create cottage gardens.

“Incorporate plants into your garden design which are indigenous and rich in nectar content such as bee balm (Monarda), trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) or cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis),” says Matthew Wilson, gardening pro and CEO of Handy Gardeners.

He says these should be flowering during late summer through early fall, providing natural food sources required by the migrating hummingbirds.

4. Prevent window collisions

This trick is one you’ll need to go inside to do, but it is easy and will hardly take you any time.

“A simple way to help support migrating hummingbirds in your area is to make your windows less dangerous to them,” explains Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors.

He continues, “Large picture windows and patio doors are especially problematic, as they'll become confused and crash right into them in some cases.”

Rafi says the best way to reduce this risk is to add decals and decorations to the outside of your windows (the Shawula Flower Window Decals from Amazon are a cute choice). Make sure to clean your windows properly before you do this, so they stick on properly.

“This will help hummingbirds (and other birds) recognize that there's something there and avoid it,” he adds.

5. Give them fresh water

As well as providing nectar to drink, it’s also a good idea to provide fresh water.

“Hummingbirds require clean drinking water as well as bathing facilities,” says Matthew.

He suggests setting up low fountains with gentle spray, as this can greatly attract them. For instance, the iFanze Solar Fountain from Walmart can be put in bird baths and is eco-friendly.

“If possible you can also create misting stations or drippers that mimic natural water sources loved by these birds,” he suggests.

By following these easy steps, not only will you be able to attract hummingbirds to your balcony or backyard, but you will also be able to help other birds who may come into your outdoor space.

Want to carry on making your garden suitable for these feathered friends? Learning how to make a DIY hummingbird feeder may also come in useful.

There's nothing quite like the sound of ice clunking into your glass to keep your drink cool on a hot summer's day. Over time, however, mineral deposits, mold, and bacteria can accumulate in an ice maker, affecting both taste and hygiene. 

So how exactly do you clean an ice maker in a refrigerator? Our industry pros are here to explain the six simple steps to refreshing your ice maker so you can enjoy your chilled drinks with peace of mind. 

When it comes to the best ways to clean a fridge, keeping your ice maker in pristine  condition is an important task.

1. Gather your supplies

Before you begin, gather the necessary cleaning supplies: warm water, mild dish soap, white vinegar, soft cloths or sponges, a toothbrush or small cleaning brush, and a clean, dry towel. Optional supplies include baking soda for tough stains. You can find some useful products online: mild dish soap on Amazon, white vinegar at Target, and soft cloths at Walmart.

• Warm water
• Mild dish soap (check out this Dawn EZ-Squeeze Ultra Dish Soap from Amazon)
• White vinegar (we like Good & Gather Distilled White Vinegar from Target)
• Soft cloths or sponges (try these Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponges from Walmart)
• Toothbrush or small cleaning brush (these Curaprox Ultrasoft Toothbrushes from Amazon will do the job nicely)
• Clean, dry towel (these Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths are great value)
• Baking soda (this Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda from Walmart has good reviews)

With your arsenal at the ready, it's time to dive in...

2. Empty the ice maker

Cleaning your ice maker begins with ensuring it's switched off.

Amy Wampler, CEO of Spartan Mechanical, says, "Always put safety first, so I advise unplugging your refrigerator to prevent electrical issues. 

"Empty the ice bin completely, removing any detachable parts and disposing of any old, stale or weird-smelling ice."

This step ensures that you are not working around the ice and have clear access to the ice maker for thorough cleaning. 

Property expert James Heartquist adds, "Often you'll find ice stuck to the sides. If so, simply use warm water to melt it."

3. Remove the ice bin & parts

Take out the ice bin and any other removable parts, such as the ice scoop or trays. 

Soak both the ice bin and the component parts in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly before drying with a clean towel. 

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "Think of this like a 'pre-treatment', preparing your ice maker for the full-throttle clean that is coming."

4. Clean all components

Now for the most important stage — thoroughly cleaning your ice maker.

Amy says, "Use a soft cloth dipped in a solution made of equal parts white vinegar and warm water to clean the inside of the ice maker and all its removed sections. Vinegar is good at dissolving mineral deposits and neutralizing odors, too."

Don't forget to include the ice mold, the area around the ice chute, and any other exposed parts. 

For stubborn stains or buildup, use a toothbrush or small cleaning brush dipped in the vinegar solution to scrub gently. For the toughest stains, making a paste with baking soda and a little water can be helpful. Apply the paste to the stained areas and scrub with the toothbrush for effective stain removal.

An alternative approach is to use a de-scaler. Amy and James both recommend Affresh Ice Machine Cleaner, available from Amazon — specifically designed to remove hard water and mineral buildup.

For a plant-based alternative, Wells recommends Ginger Lily Farms Ice Maker Cleaner from Amazon. He says, "This ice machine cleaner is specifically made to eliminate mineral buildup from ice machines. It's secure to use in a wide range of ice producers and ensures spotless, fresh-tasting ice with practically no buildup being left unattended."

James adds, "Also remember — if your ice maker has water lines, it's important to clean them as well. Affresh is great for this too — just follow the instructions on the cleaner to ensure proper use."

5. Rinse & dry

After cleaning, it's important to rinse all surfaces with a cloth dampened with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. 

Once rinsed, use a clean, dry towel to dry all surfaces completely. Ensuring no moisture is left behind is crucial, as it can lead to mold growth. Drying thoroughly helps maintain a hygienic environment within the ice maker.

6. Reassemble & restart

Put the ice bin and any other removable parts back in their places. Once everything is reassembled, turn the ice maker back on using the power switch or button. 

Allow the ice maker to produce its first batch of ice and then discard it. Wells says, "Rejecting the first batch is always advisable, since it may contain traces of vinegar or cleaning solution."

Voila! Your freshly-cleaned ice maker is now ready to go.

Meet our experts

By following these simple steps, you can maintain the quality and safety of your ice, providing peace of mind and better-tasting drinks.

Next, check out how to clean your freezer in an hour.

When we purchased our Edwardian cottage we were in something of a desperate situation. We had moved from the cute, but quite compact, Victorian terrace we’d renovated, into a rental. We rushed our decision, thinking that this would be nothing more than a temporary stopgap. Big mistake. We ended up staying in that too-small paper-thin-walled house on a new development.

Both my husband and I grew up in old houses and love the history and character that ‘lived-in’ properties have. We took one look around this cottage that we still call home, built in 1915, and knew it had to be ours. 

The only thing was, we were a little limited budget-wise so were keen to save on house renovation costs wherever we could. We had to quite quickly become experts in the field of DIY renovation. I’m here to reveal which jobs were surprisingly easy and that you are probably quite capable of tackling, just like we did.

Easy DIY jobs that will save you money

There are loads of DIY house renovation jobs that are well within the capabilities of most people - we found that the key to success was researching what was involved thoroughly, getting prepared by ensuring we had all the necessary tools and materials to hand, and setting aside enough time for each task. Oh, and lots and lots of measuring - then measuring again!

1. Laying the engineered wood flooring

Who knew that installing an engineered wood floor was a job that could transform a house in a day? Seriously, when we set out, cutting and fitting the underlay, I had no idea that later that day I’d be admiring a finished floor. 

In our previous renovation, we’d laid an engineered wooden floor all wrong. Don’t misunderstand me, it was a beautiful floor, a rich walnut, but oh my, it was more than a little bouncy underfoot. 

That meant that I was a little dubious when it came to installing a floating engineered floor in our shiny new home. I needn’t have worried though. Turns out, if you prepare your subfloor properly and use a good quality underlay you’ll be just fine.

Our flooring was from Kahrs and is an engineered oak. It, like most of the best engineered wood flooring, has tongue-and-groove edges that simply fit together and we used a circular saw to cut the boards to length. 

This Bruce Frisco Natural Oak flooring from Lowes has a similar appearance.  

2. Fitting the wall paneling

I love timber wall paneling and was keen to introduce it into our living room design scheme to add a bit of interest. 

We were aiming for a modern country look throughout. There are lots of original features and little quirks that naturally lend character to the house so we introduced some more up-to-date features to work alongside these. This included looking into wall paneling ideas that would add a fresh finish to the space. 

In the living room, we stripped the walls right back to the bare brickwork as the plaster was in such bad condition, falling away. We had three of the walls plastered but chose one wall to fit the paneling. Rather than buying a kit, we bought pine boards with tongue and groove edges. 

We attached timber battens horizontally across the width of the wall before nailing the boards to these. 

Finally, we primed the boards and painted them a soft creamy gray - similar to Valspar’s Seashell Gray from Lowes.  

3. Building the stud walls

While adding two new extensions, we also totally remodeled the existing layout of this house to make it work better for us. This meant blocking up some doorways, knocking down some internal walls, and building some new stud walls.

If you are thinking of building a new stud wall, I’m here to tell you that this is a pretty straightforward task - although it is better if you can rope in a helper. 

To partially divide the dining room and snug, we built a four-foot-wide stud wall between the two.

We began by fitting a section of timber - often referred to as the floor plate - to the length of the floor that the new wall would cover. We used screws but you could use a nail gun if you prefer. Aim to get the screws or nails into the floor joists if you have them. We had a solid concrete floor so plugged and screwed directly into that, ensuring we didn't penetrate the damp-proof membrane. 

Next, we fitted a length of timber to the ceiling - the head plate. Again, you want to aim for the trusses or ceiling joists so you might need to go upstairs and lift a floorboard or two to find them. A stud finder such as the Mecurate Stud Finder Wall Scanner Sensor from Amazon will help here and can also alert you to the presence of pipework and wiring. 

Next are the wall studs - these should be fixed to the walls that the new wall is being built off between the floor and head plates. 

Then we fitted more studs between - at 600mm centers. To strengthen the whole structure we then fitted noggins (small horizontal pieces of timber) between the vertical studs.

Before fixing the drywall into place we ran in the electrics as we wanted an electrical outlet on the snug side of the wall. We also added in some insulation to make the new wall a little more soundproof. 

The whole thing was finished in around half a day.

4. Putting up drywall

To save on labor costs we decided to put up the drywall ourselves. Honestly, this is a job pretty much anyone could undertake although you’ll want to get someone to help you as large sheets of drywall are heavy and awkward, and holding them in place while fixing them up - particularly to the ceilings - is hard work.

To cut the drywall we used a drywall saw, but you can use a Stanley knife too. The Jorgensen Drywall Saw from Amazon would do the job well. 

You want to start at one corner of the wall you are covering and make sure that the end of the drywall sits midway across the stud it is being fixed to so that the next board can butt up to it. In areas where there was no stud to fix the drywall, we fitted noggins between studs. Make sure you use drywall screws designed for the job.

Once all the boards were in place we used drywall tape over the joins and then joint filler. We left the plastering to the pros but some homeowners do choose to look into how to plaster walls and decide to give it a go.

5. Fitting the push-fit plumbing

Plumbing was never a task I thought we’d be taking on ourselves and, in all honesty, this was a job where I played more of a support role to my husband who seems to have a knack for picking up new skills pretty quickly. 

There are now lots of products out there that make it far easier for DIYers to get to grips with plumbing - namely plastic push-fit connectors and pipework.

There are a number of brands that manufacture the push-fit system but we opted for JG Speedfit plastic pipe and fittings which you can buy from Amazon. The system works by securely grasping the pipe inserted with a toothed grip ring and sealing it with an o-ring seal. 

The use of inserts is also important, these are pushed into the pipe before inserting into the coupler. The benefits of using plastic pipe rather than copper are there are no expert plumbing skills involved such as soldering and you can also use longer sections to connect as they can be manipulated easier to fit. This makes the whole process quicker and more accessible to the DIYer. It’s also worth noting you can also use the push-fit system with copper pipe as well and can even get push-fit copper couplers.

We connected all the faucets for the bathrooms and kitchen sink using these systems and as a result, significantly reduced our new bathroom costs.

While the sense of achievement that you get from DIYing certain aspects of a home renovation is undeniable there are also a whole host of DIY jobs that aren't worth the effort in my opinion. Some things are just best left to the pros if you want a perfect final finish. 

I've spotted the Scandinavian sleep method all over my TikTok feed, and I think it looks like the perfect solution to my partner's and my nighttime squabbles.

Whether you've seen this method on TikTok too or are just intrigued by the name, I've got you covered with all the info you need to know. It's essentially just having your own separate duvet even if you're sharing a bed, which can help control temperature and therefore improve sleep. I've asked sleep pros for the pros and cons, plus rounded up our top comforters.

If you'd rather keep your best duvet inserts to yourself, rather than have to play tug of war in the night, you're going to want to find out about this.

What is the Scandinavian sleep method?

This sleep method has a Scandi-style name and, just like the design method, it’s actually very simple and breezy.

“The Scandinavian sleep method is all about partners sharing a bed but having their own separate duvets,” explains Marion Crittendon, sleep and respiratory care expert at Order Your Supplies.

“It stops couples having fights over the sheets or getting woken up by someone's midnight acrobatics,” she adds.

Essentially it's like having your own sleep fortress, tailored to your exact liking.

Pros of the Scandinavian sleep method

Like the sound of this? There are plenty of dreamy benefits, from improved sleep to fewer tiffs...

Reduced sleep disruption

Hands up if you’re living with your partner and have ever been disrupted by their movements. Yep, I'm with you there. Thankfully, the Scandi sleep method stops that from happening.

“Having separate duvet inserts will allow you to maintain closeness while addressing individual sleep needs,” says Marion. “Snuggling is great, but so is a good night's sleep.”

Improved temperature control

I know that my partner and I have very different sleep temperatures — I tend to run hot, so I use the best cooling pillows, but he tends to run cooler. I think we’ll solve this problem by having separate duvet inserts.

“Each partner has the freedom to control their sleeping environment according to personal preferences,” says Dr. Sham Singh, sleep expert and psychiatrist at Winit.

He adds that this autonomy can foster a greater sense of individuality while still sharing a bed, which is important for maintaining personal space and comfort.

Conflict resolution

For those who experience bedtime disagreements, such as differing temperature preferences or one partner being a blanket hog, separate bedding can offer a practical solution that stops you arguing.

“By eliminating these sources of nighttime conflict, separate bedding can contribute to a more harmonious relationship overall,” says Dr. Sham.

“It reduces the need for negotiation or compromise on sleep-related issues, allowing each partner to sleep comfortably without disrupting the other,” he adds.

Cons of the Scandinavian sleep method

As with most things, there are some drawbacks to trying out this sleep technique...

Impact on physical contact

One potential downside that Dr. Sham has noticed is that using separate bedding may reduce opportunities for physical closeness and intimacy during sleep.

“Physical contact like cuddling or holding hands while sleeping can enhance feelings of intimacy, comfort, and emotional connection between partners,” he explains.

“When each partner has their own set of blankets or duvets, there might be less spontaneous physical touch during the night,” he adds.

This may lead to a perceived decrease in intimacy over time, which you might not want if you’re sharing your bed with someone you really love.

Financial cost

If you’re looking for budget-friendly bedroom ideas, investing in double the duvet might not be the best thing for you.

Marion explains, “Using separate bedding can be a tad more expensive, and managing multiple duvets may complicate bed-making.”

Maintaining these can also come at a cost, as if you have to load multiple duvet covers into your washing machines, this may increase your electricity bill.

The Scandinavian sleep method is basically all about personalizing your sleep space for maximum Zs.

“It's not your traditional bedtime setup, but hey, who wants to be traditional when you can be well-rested?” Marion finishes by saying.

Want to carry on improving your sleep? Finding the best mattresses and the best pillows may also come in useful.

Our favorite duvet inserts

Want to start giving the Scandinavian sleep method a whirl? These are our favorite comforters that we've tried and tested ourselves.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

Discovering cockroaches in your bedroom is a nightmare — guaranteed to cause sleepless nights. If you're in this unfortunate position, you'll want to know exactly how to banish these bugs for good.

Learning how to identify bugs in your home is an important first step, for sure, but then it's time to address the problem. 

Fortunately, our industry experts are on hand, ready to reveal the five simple steps to rid your room of roaches for good...

1. Seal entry points

Cockroaches often invade homes through small cracks, gaps, and holes, so the first line of defense is to prevent them from entering your bedroom at all.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Cockroaches really can squeeze through the tiniest cracks and crevices, so it’s essential to seal all potential entry points. Inspect the bedroom thoroughly, paying close attention to windows, doors, and walls.

"Use a high-quality caulk to seal any cracks or gaps around windows and door frames, install door sweeps to block gaps under doors, and ensure that screens on windows and vents are intact and properly fitted."

This Flex Seal Caulk from Amazon is suitable for multiple surfaces including windows and baseboards. For larger openings around pipes, steel wool can be an effective filler before sealing them with caulk. These Hyper Tough Super Fine Steel Wool Pads from Walmart are more commonly used for cleaning dishes, but act as an excellent filler for cockroach tunnels. 

Ensuring that all potential entry points are blocked will reduce the likelihood of cockroaches finding their way into your bedroom.

2. Clean the bedroom

Cockroaches thrive in environments where food and water are readily available. Therefore, maintaining a clean and clutter-free bedroom is essential. 

Will Cotter, owner of FreshSpace Cleaning, says, "Cockroaches love nothing more than hiding out in clutter and finding bits of food lying around. So, if you've got clutter and crumbs, it's time to get to work. 

"Firstly, remove and tidy away any clutter, such as piles of clothes or papers. Keep things in drawers, cupboards or sealed bins. Next, remove any used glasses with half-full water or plates with leftover food on your bedside table. 

"Now it's time for the deep clean. That means getting all the dust off everything, wiping down all the surfaces like your nightstands and dressers, and running the vacuum to get the floors clean. For wiping tasks, I like to use either Mrs. Meyer’s Everyday Cleaner, available from Target, or Lysol Disinfectant from Walmart. Both come in spray bottles, so it’s evenly applied, gentle on surfaces, and smells good."

When it comes to vacuuming, we like the Bissell CleanView for its affordability, long life, and cordless design, check out our expert guide on the best vacuum cleaners to buy. 

Will adds, "Pay particular attention to your nightstands and dressers — wiping them down with a damp cloth and some dish soap — and underneath your bed. Roaches like dark, secluded spots, and this space just fits the description. Pull everything out from under there and vacuum the space thoroughly."

3. Use baits and traps

As with getting rid of ants in your home, baits or traps can be highly effectively in eliminating cockroaches that may already be present in your bedroom.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "I've found gel baits like Advion Cockroach Gel Bait from Amazon highly effective for eliminating cockroaches of any species. The bait attracts the roaches, which then carry the poison back to their nest, effectively reducing the population."

Additionally, sticky traps can be placed around the room to catch roaches as they move about, giving you a clear indication of the severity of the infestation. Wells adds, "These Black Flag Roach Motel Insect Traps, also from Amazon provide a really useful, non-toxic way to catch and monitor roaches."

4. Use natural repellents

If you prefer a chemical-free approach, natural repellents can be a good option. 

Karina says, "Natural repellents can be a safer alternative to chemical sprays, especially in bedrooms, and can help deter cockroaches without posing risks to humans and pets. 

"Essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender can be effective repellents. Mix a few drops with water and spray around the room’s perimeter and potential entry points. You can also place bay leaves in drawers and closets to repel cockroaches naturally."

Another natural repellent is diatomaceous earth, a fine powder that is harmless to humans but lethal to cockroaches. Sprinkling a thin layer of this powder around your bedroom can help keep these pests at bay.

Both Karina and Wells recommend Harris Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade from Amazon, which comes with more than 5,000 five-star customer reviews. Wells adds, "Consider pairing your purchase with this Harris Diatomaceous Earth Powder Duster, from Amazon. Its 6-inch extension nozzles allows you to apply carefully and accurately in particular areas of your bedroom."

5. Maintain cleanliness

The key to long-term cockroach control is maintaining a clean and tidy environment. Regularly vacuum your bedroom, change bed linens, and keep surfaces free from food and moisture. Make it a habit to inspect potential entry points periodically and seal them as necessary. 

Will says, "The key is staying on top of things — make it a habit to avoid clutter. For example, I made a rule that if it takes me less than five minutes to do something, it needs to be done then and there.

"Also, get yourself a trash can with a lid that seals tight. Pedal bins are awesome because they pretty much stay closed all the time, plus they're convenient to use. And even with a sealed bin, empty it often. You don’t want food waste lingering around for too long, especially in the bedroom trash, because of that smell."

For a sleek-looking trash can, check out this Simplehuman 5-litre Slim Steel Step Trash Can from Wayfair. For a smaller, funkier-looking option, this Xowine 2.6-gallon Small Step-on Trash Can from Walmart comes in a deep red that packs a punch.

Will adds, "You can also scrub the bin with a mix of water, vinegar, and peppermint or eucalyptus oil when it’s time to clean. Roaches dislike these scents and will be less likely to approach."

By consistently keeping your bedroom clean and monitoring for any signs of roaches, you can prevent future infestations and enjoy a pest-free sleeping space.

Meet our experts

A pest-free bedroom contributes to a healthier, more restful living space, allowing you to sleep soundly without worry.

Next, check out how to clean your bedroom — fast. 

If a sudden infestation threatens to spoil your summer, you may want to know exactly how to get rid of ants in a garage. 

Our industry pros reveal the six straightforward steps to banishing ants for good.

Knowing how to identify pests in your home is just the start — the key is knowing exactly how to get rid of them. 

Get rid of ants in a garage like a pro

Getting rid of ants in a garage involves a systematic approach that tackles the problem from its roots to ensure they don’t return. Just as with getting rid of ants in a kitchen, a few simple steps will see you right.

From locating the source to securing the garage perimeter, our expert guide will walk you through restoring your pest-free space — and preventing future infestations. 

Where our pros have suggested products, we've sourced high-quality items from trusted retailers.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

1. Find the source

The first step towards eliminating your ant infestation is identifying the entry point to your garage.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, " Inspect your garage thoroughly to locate where the ants are entering. Look for ant trails, which can lead you to their nest or entry points.

"Pay close attention to cracks, crevices, and gaps in walls, floors, and the garage door. Use a flashlight, if necessary, to check dark corners and behind stored items."

Exactly in line with the reasons why ants come into the house, ants typically enter garages in search of food, water, or shelter, so pay close attention to any dark areas, damp spots, or food sources.

Karina adds, "When you do find the source, it's really important that you don’t disturb the trail or the nest until you have a plan in place, as this could cause the ants to spread to other areas."

2. Clean the space

Once the source is found, clean the space thoroughly. Garages often accumulate dirt, spilled food, and moisture, all of which attract ants. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "Sweep and vacuum the garage floor thoroughly to remove crumbs, spills, and debris. Clean up any spills immediately, and make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids. 

"Store pet food or other potential attractants in sealed, airtight containers. By eliminating food sources, you reduce the reasons for ants to invade your garage in the first place, making it less attractive to them."

A simple 1:1 mixture of water and vinegar usually does the trick well when cleaning your garage. This Good & Gather White Distilled Vinegar from Target comes with great reviews.

Karina adds, "Avoid using sugary or scented cleaners, as these can attract more ants."

3. Seal entry points

After cleaning, it's time to seal the entry points. 

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, says, "Inspect the garage for cracks or gaps in walls, doors, and windows. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these entry points, preventing ants from re-entering. This not only helps keep ants out but also improves the overall insulation of your garage."

This DAP Alex Fast Dry White Silicone Caulk from Walmart is great value and dries within 20 minutes. This Stockroom Weather Stripping Foam Seal Strip Insulation Tape from Target provides reliable protection for doors and windows. For an alternative, try this HOMWMPA Garage Door Seal from Amazon. 

4. Apply ant bait

Next, apply ant bait strategically.

Tommy says, "Place ant bait stations in areas where you’ve seen ant activity. These baits contain poison that ants will take back to their colony, effectively eliminating the source. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results."

Karina recommends these Terro Store Liquid Ant Bait Stations from Amazon, which boast more than 100,000 five-star reviews from happy customers. 

Tommy recommends these Ortho Home Defense Bait Stations from Amazon, adding, "These are cheap and discreet, so can be placed out of sight in your garage."

Be patient, as it might take a few days for the bait to work fully.

5. Secure the perimeter

Of the many ways for keeping pests out of your home and garage, securing the perimeter of your garage is among the most essential. 

Create a barrier around the outside of the garage by using ant repellents, insecticide or natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or citrus peels. Trim back any vegetation that touches the garage, as plants can provide a bridge for ants to enter.

Karina recommends Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter, available from Target. She says, "This product creates a long-lasting barrier that keeps ants and other insects out, providing up to 12 months of protection indoors."

For a chemical-free alternative, Vanessa prefers diatomaceous earth and essential oils. She says, "Natural deterrents are safe for use around pets and children and can be an effective way to prevent future ant invasions without harsh chemicals.

"Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of the garage and near entry points. You can also create a barrier using essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil by mixing them with water and spraying around the garage."

Vanessa recommends Harris Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer from Amazon, adding, "This natural product is great for creating a barrier that ants won’t cross. It’s safe to use around pets and children and provides a chemical-free solution to keep ants out of your garage."

6. Monitor and repeat

Monitor the situation and be prepared to repeat the process if necessary. Even after taking these steps, ants might still find their way back. Regularly inspect the garage for new signs of ants and reapply bait if needed. 

Tommy says, "Keep an eye on the affected areas for any signs of returning ants. You may need to repeat the baiting process to ensure complete elimination. Be patient, as it may take a few days to see results from baiting."

Keeping the space clean and sealed will help reduce the likelihood of a recurring problem. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to keeping your garage ant-free.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — how to get rid of ants in a garage. By following these six simple steps, you can effectively manage and eliminate ants from your garage, creating a cleaner and more comfortable space. 

Next, check out how to kill red ants and how to get rid of ants in your backyard.

There are lots of reasons why it makes perfect sense to find out how to grow basil indoors. Growing this favorite herb indoors means you'll have a fresh supply easily to hand whenever you need it for cooking or garnishing dishes.

It also means you can grow basil all year round for a continuous supply, something that's much harder to do if you grow it outdoors as this is one herb that can be picky about weather, especially if you live in a cool climate. Plus of course, your basil plant is more likely to be bothered by pests in the garden. 

Find out how to grow basil and you'll soon discover that homegrown leaves taste so much better than bunches from the grocery store, which have a tendency to wilt and don't have that freshly picked quality that adds standout to your cooking. All you need is a pot, some soil, and a packet of seeds.

The best way to grow basil indoors

Step 1: Sow seeds in the right way

Once you've decided on the variety of basil you want to grow planting the seeds is easy. You can sow them straight into the pot of your choice. This means you don't have the bother of starting them off in tiny pots or cells and then transplanting them to bigger pots once they grow.

Fill a pot (or several pots, depending on how much you want to grow at any one time) with moist free-draining soil or seed starting mix formula. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and one inch apart. Seeds can be fiddly so it's easiest if you mark each planting spot with the tip of a pencil, drop the seeds into place, then cover with a light layer of soil.

Water lightly with a mister or spray so you don't dislodge the seeds.

Step 2: Grow the seeds in the ideal location

Basil grows well in containers indoors at any time of year provided it has enough light, is grown at the right temperature, and isn't exposed to cold draughts in the cooler months. This means it's important to choose where to grow basil in the house as this can affect how well your plant does.

Basil loves about six hours of sunshine every day but don't choose a space that is too sunny or this will scorch the leaves. So a sunny windowsill is ideal, such as a south or south-west facing one, as long as you protect the plant from any hot midday sun. 

The optimal temperature for germination is 70°F, so if you are planning on growing basil in the cooler months consider using a propagator or heat pad to speed up germination. Alternatively, cover the pot with a plastic bag secured with an elastic band to increase the temperature by creating a mini-greenhouse.

Give basil the right conditions and seeds should sprout after 5-10 days.

Step 3: Keep up with regular watering

Basil plants need regular watering as their preferred growing medium is moist, well-drained soil. But they don't like sitting in water or wet soil, and this can lead to the roots rotting and your plant failing. So always check water isn't pooling in the saucer after watering and tip away any excess. Equally don’t let the soil dry out and forget to water it. 

Adjust your watering routine according to how your plant is looking. It's a good idea to pay attention to the leaves and the soil when it comes to your watering routine, rather than sticking to once a week on the same day. 

If the leaves are wilting or the soil is rock hard it's a clear indication you need to water more. If the soil is dark and sodden and smells unpleasant it's an indication that you should be watering less.

Step 4: Thin out seedlings if your pot is overcrowded

If you think your pot of basil is looking overcrowded as too many seedlings have developed (maybe your seed spacing wasn't accurate) it's time to thin out your seedlings so that each one has the space and share of water and nutrients it needs to grow into a healthy plant.

When the basil seedlings are large enough to handle, you can split a few off and plant them into separate pots. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on their roots. If they start coming through the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot this means it's time to upgrade them into larger pots.

Step 5: Harvest the leaves

Young basil plants grow so quickly that you'll be harvesting leaves in as little as three weeks. Once plants are about 6 inches tall, pinch out the growing tips as needed for cooking and garnishing. This will also encourage bushy growth but avoid harvesting too many leaves at once as this may weaken your plant.

"The best way to enjoy a luscious crop of basil leaves is to keep the plant producing side branches with more and more leaves,' says Maggie Stuckey. 'You do this with a kind of pruning, often called pinching, because the stems are soft enough you can do it with your fingertips."

This is based on a simple but vital bit of botany. "If you remove the growing tip from a stem the next buds lower down will be stimulated to open up and develop into side branches," says Maggie. "Put any trimmings to good use in tonight's pasta sauce."

Watch for signs of flower buds forming, and pinch these off to promote more foliage.  There's another reason for doing this too. "Many people believe that once the plant starts to flower the overall flavor of the leaves deteriorates," says Maggie. The flowers are also edible and may be used as a garnish.

Step 6: Propagate your plant to get more basil

Now you've found out how to grow basil indoors you will want to continue your success. The good news is you can now find out how to grow an endless supply of basil for free.

"Use a technique called propagation, which involves taking a cutting from the parent plant, rooting it in water or soil, and growing a brand new plant," says kitchen garden designer Resh Gala. "The easiest way to get more basil plants is to snip off a healthy stem and strip off the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem. Place the cutting into a small glass of water, making sure no leaves are submerged in the water, and put on a sunny windowsill." 

Change the water every couple of days to keep it fresh. You should see white roots starting to develop after a week to 10 days. Then simply plant up the cutting in a pot of soil and continue looking after it as above.

Basil growing essentials

What's the difference between the main types of basil?

There are so many different varieties of basil to choose from that it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

"From any good garden center you can find a rich selection of basils including many delightful types that blend two flavors together so that you get a true basil taste with an extra layer of something else like lemon or anise," says gardening expert Maggie Stuckey. Here are some of the main ones to look out for when you're searching for seeds.

Italian basil is the most popular variety, easily recognizable and widely available, with the most common plant in this particular group known as sweet basil. Genovese basil is the best-known variety of sweet basil. Look for dependable varieties like 'Dolce Fresca' and 'Italian Cameo' for that mild, sweet flavor we all love.

Purple basil has leaves in shades of purple (as you'd expect) and dark red and the leaves have a licorice flavor. Popular varieties include 'Purple Opal' and 'Purple Ruffles'.

Thai basil has leaves that are much smaller, and the plants have distinctive purple stems and veining. Look out for 'Siam Queen' and 'Thai Anise Basil'. The leaves taste of anise, and the resulting peppery, spicy flavor is popular in Asian cooking.

Lemon basil is a specialty variety combining the familiar basil flavor with a zip of lemon. The fragrant leaves deliver a big hit of citrus scent too. Popular varieties include "Mrs. Burns" and 'Sweet Dani', with both growing tall so you'll need a big container to accommodate this type of basil plant.

We suggest trying a selection of different basil plants in your herb garden ideas to mix things up a little. Now find out how to grow basil indoors with our expert guide.

You can grow plenty of other herbs indoors on a windowsill too. Find out how to grow an indoor herb garden for fresh leaves all year round. Once you've mastered basil, other easy choices to add to your indoor collection include mint, rosemary, thyme, and chives.

"It's a great idea to take cuttings of all your favorite herbs like rosemary and mint and grow them indoors to enjoy," says Resh Gala. "It's very easy to root these cutting in water for a few weeks, then transplant them into small individual containers and grow them on a sunny windowsill."

In those scorching summer months, there's no greater relief than a handy air conditioning unit. While your AC may be working overtime to keep you cool, it may be building up potentially harmful dust and debris. 

It's important to keep your air conditioner clean as it may be sucking in pollen and other airborne particles. It may be a bit worrisome to tackle as you don't want to damage anything but don't stress. 

We asked professional cleaners and technical experts for their advice. You can rest assured your unit won't harm the air quality while cooling down a room.

The best way to clean an air conditioner unit

After investing in a cooling system, like this portable air conditioner going viral on TikTok, you'll want to make sure you're keeping it in top-notch shape so you feel the full effect. Not cleaning an AC unit can not only damage the efficiency of the machine but can harm your overall air quality. 

"Air conditioners accumulate dirt and debris through their normal operation. Dust, pollen, and other airborne particles are drawn into the unit, and over time, these contaminants can build up on the filters, coils, and fins. Outdoor units are particularly susceptible to dirt from the surrounding environment, including leaves, grass, and insects," says Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta Domestic Assistants.

Read on to discover how to clean an AC unit effectively so you can improve the air quality of your home and stay cool and comfortable.

1. Turn the power off

It may seem like an obvious step but double-check you've turned the power off on your portable air conditioner, window unit, or built-in system.

"Always turn off the unit and disconnect it from the power supply before cleaning to avoid any accidents," says Vanessa Terra Bossart, owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

2. Clean or replace the air filter

Now it's time to get to work banishing all those nasty contaminants. Start by cleaning the AC filter or replacing it entirely if it's time for a new one. 

Use a vacuum to suck out all the loose dust and debris clinging to the filter (a handheld vacuum like the Black & Decker Dustbuster, available on Amazon, works well for this). Then clean the filter with a soft microfiber sponge and soapy water. These non-scratch Scrub-it sponges and classic Dawn dish soap, both available on Amazon, are a fantastic combination.

"Check the air filter and either clean it if reusable or replace it if it's a disposable type. This should be done every 1-3 months, depending on usage and environmental factors," says Vanessa. 

Check how often you should replace your air filter if you're not sure about yours.

3. Clean the coils and fins

Now it's time for the details within the machine. Get into the inner workings of the unit to wipe down the coils and fins.

If you have an indoor AC unit, "Remove the access panel to expose the evaporator coils. Use a soft brush to gently remove dust. Spray a coil cleaner, following the product instructions, and let it sit for the recommended time before rinsing," says Muffetta. 

For an outdoor unit, Muffetta recommends, "Remove the protective grilles to access the condenser coils. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose debris. Spray the coils with a coil cleaner and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose."

Finally, "Use a fin comb to straighten any bent fins and remove dirt. Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate metal," says Muffetta.

4. Check the drain line

Next, it's time to get rid of any mold that may be lurking within your machine. Mold growth can affect your air quality and over health so important to banish it quickly.

"Check the AC drain line for clogs and flush it with bleach and water to prevent mold and algae buildup," says Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and the owner of airconditionerlab.com.

5. Clean the external unit

Time to finish everything off and clean up the outside so your machine looks as good as it functions. Use some of the best cleaning supplies to wipe off any dirt or gunk from the outside.

"Remove debris from around the unit and gently hose off dirt from the fins, being careful not to damage the fins or coils," says Josh.

FAQs

How often should I clean an AC unit?

While you should clean your AC unit annually, you may need to clean it more often depending on your living conditions. 

"It's generally recommended to clean your air conditioning unit at least once a year. However, if you live in an area with high levels of dust, pollution, or pollen, you might need to clean it more frequently. Regular maintenance helps maintain efficiency and prolong the unit's lifespan," says Vanessa.

What happens if I don't clean my AC unit?

A dirty AC unit will not only be less effective, it can negatively affect your air quality. 

"Dirt and debris can reduce airflow and insulate the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. This inefficiency can increase cooling costs by up to 15-30%. Dirty AC units work harder to cool your home over time, which can lead to premature breakdowns and costly repairs. Unclean air conditioners can harbor mold and bacteria, leading to poor indoor air quality and respiratory issues," says Josh.

Improper maintenance of your unit may affect how long it takes for an AC unit to cool down a room. But if you're a little unsure about tackling your machine without damaging it, it's best to consult a professional. 

"Remember, while regular cleaning can be done on your own, certain tasks like checking refrigerant levels or electrical components should be left to professionals. If you suspect a major issue, it's best to consult a qualified HVAC technician," says Josh.

Knowing how to keep spiders out of the garage is key in those summer months when those creepy crawlies come out to play.

Our industry experts reveal their four top tips for keeping arachnids away. 

When it comes to identifying bugs in your home and garage, you'll want to act fast. From using essential oils to introducing natural predators, read on for our pros' top tips for maintaining a family-friendly space, free of pests...

1. Seal entry points

Just as with stopping spiders from coming into the house, the first step to keeping spiders out of your garage is to seal any entry points. 

Inspect the garage thoroughly for cracks, gaps, and holes in the walls, doors, and windows. 

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, says, "After inspecting thoroughly, use caulk to seal any openings around windows, doors, and foundation cracks. Weatherstripping can also be applied to garage doors to create a tight seal. This works because it eliminates the physical pathways that spiders use to get inside, making it much harder for them to find a way in."

This DAP Alex Fast Dry White Silicone Caulk from Walmart is great value and dries within 20 minutes. This Stockroom Weather Stripping Foam Seal Strip Insulation Tape from Target provides reliable protection for doors and windows. Tommy also recommends this BOWSEN Heavy-Duty Universal Garage Door Bottom Seals Weatherstrip Kit from Amazon, saying, "These kits help ensure your garage door seals tightly, preventing spiders from getting in. They’re easy to install and can also improve energy efficiency by keeping out drafts."

Pay special attention to areas where pipes or cables enter the garage, as these are common entry points for spiders.

2. Use essential oils

Essential oils can be a natural and effective way to repel spiders. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "Spiders are known to dislike the strong scent of certain essential oils, making them an excellent natural deterrent.

"Simply mix a few drops of essential oil — such as peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus — with water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture around the perimeter of your garage, paying extra attention to corners, windowsills, and doors. Reapply the spray every few weeks or after heavy cleaning or rain.

"The potent smell of these oils overwhelms the spider’s senses, discouraging them from entering the area. Unlike chemical repellents, essential oils are safe for use around pets and children, making them an eco-friendly option."

Reapply the spray every few weeks or after cleaning to maintain its effectiveness.

3. Introduce natural predators

Introducing natural predators can help control the spider population in and around your garage. Birds, lizards, and certain insects like ladybugs and wasps are natural enemies of spiders. 

Encourage these predators by creating a garden environment that attracts them. For example, by adding flowers that attract birds and beneficial insects can create a natural balance that keeps the spider population in check. However, be mindful of not attracting other pests in the process.

4. Maintain cleanliness

A clean garage is less attractive to spiders.

Vanessa says, "Spiders are attracted to cluttered, dark spaces where they can build their webs undisturbed. A clean, organized garage is less inviting for them.

"Regularly sweep and vacuum the garage to remove dust, cobwebs, and other debris. Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes, which can attract spiders. Keep the floor clear and remove any unnecessary clutter, particularly in corners and along walls where spiders tend to hide."

This IRIS USA Latching Storage Box Set from Wayfair is great for providing secure storage space that spiders can't creep into. 

Remember to also ensure that trash is properly sealed and disposed of regularly.

Vanessa adds, "A clean, well-organized space offers fewer hiding spots for spiders. By eliminating clutter and regularly removing webs, you’re making your garage a less attractive environment for them to settle in."

Meet our experts

So there you have it — four expert-approved ways to keep spiders out of your garage. By sealing entry points, using essential oils, encouraging natural predators, and maintaining cleanliness, you can create an environment that is less appealing to spiders. 

Next, check out how to get rid of ants in your backyard. 

This may seem like a random trend, but trust me when I say that coffee table trends are useful to find out. This is because this table is one of the most important parts of the living room, so it's a good idea to make sure it has as much impact as possible.

I've asked design pros for the styles they've seen come up this year, and they're all easy to incorporate into the space. Organic shapes, mixed materials, and large-sized ones are just a few that they've seen. 

If you're looking to follow living room trends this year and want to focus on focal furniture pieces, these coffee table trends will come in useful.

1. Natural materials

One of the biggest interior design trends this year has been natural, sustainable materials, with many people choosing these for furniture pieces like coffee tables.

“Coffee tables crafted from reclaimed wood, stone, and even live-edge slabs are gaining popularity,” explains Elissa Hall, lead designer and founder of EDH Interiors.

She continues, “These materials not only bring a sense of the outdoors inside but also add unique textures and warmth to living spaces.”

For instance, Elissa says a live-edge walnut coffee table can serve as both a functional piece and a statement of sustainable design. The Keelan Scott Live Edge Coffee Table from Wayfair is a beautiful example of this and comes with all the assembly tools required.

2. Unique designs

Coffee tables with a simple rectangular or circular shape are officially out, with people reaching for ones with more playfulness and character.

“Think an organically shaped surface, a spherical base, or pairing materials you wouldn't normally pair together,” explains Nikki Lo, design expert at hip&home. “The table is the star of the show, and the accompanying decor is just the cherry on top.”

She continues, “I love this trend because it encourages people to express their personal style in coffee table form. While there's nothing wrong with a basic coffee table, this trend is encouraging people to get creative and add a functional piece of art to their home.”

To bring this into your home, Nikki says to look for anything out of the ordinary and anything that makes you stop and look.

If you want to go out of your way to find something different, try searching in secondhand furniture stores and thrift stores to find a unique showstopper.

3. Spaciousness

Finding spacious coffee tables with storage is ideal for those designing small living rooms, as this allows you to make the most of the space you have.

“Large, rectangular tables with storage underneath anchor living rooms and provide surface area for decor, books, and snacks when entertaining,” explains Francisco Romero, design expert at Romero Hardwood Floors Inc.

You can go for a range of materials in these, but Francisco suggests going for ones with steel frames with wood or stone tops, as they’re versatile and complement most decor styles. 

For example, the Wade Logan Lift-Top Bijolle Coffee Table from Wayfair matches this suggestion, is stain-resistant, and comes with a one-year warranty.

4. Mixed materials

More homes this year are embracing creativity, mixing a range of styles and materials in order to create a characterful look.

“The juxtaposition of sleek metal frames with rustic wooden tops or glass surfaces creates a balanced aesthetic that fits both contemporary and eclectic interiors,” explains Elissa.

“Recently I brought a coffee table into a minimalist farmhouse project, which had a brass frame and a reclaimed wood top,” she says.

By mixing materials like this, you can add a touch of sophistication without overpowering the room’s simplicity.

5. Luxe styles

One trend that hasn’t gone anywhere is quiet luxury, with many celebs embracing it in their homes, like in Lewis Hamilton’s living room, This is easily brought in with a statement coffee table.

“A marble top table with a gold metal frame will make a bold statement,” Francisco says.

Pair this up with accessories that will make your small space look luxe, such as the best candles or coffee table books (my sister has the Chanel: The Complete Collections Book from Amazon and it's a brilliant conversation starter), for a chic, hotel-style finish.

Coffee table trends edit

In the end, the most important trend is finding a table, whether glass, wood or metal, that fits your personal style and needs. 

“Anchoring your furniture arrangement around a coffee table you love will make any living space feel complete,” Francisco finishes by saying.

Want to shop for more trends you can bring into your living space? Finding out lighting trends for the year will also be useful.

When the weather gets cooler and the leaves get crunchier, different pests can try to invade your home and your backyard.

It's a good idea to know what these are, so you can take effective steps to deter them and get rid of them if they do cause a problem. Mice, spiders, and even ladybugs are just a few of the critters that can appear this season.

If you've been identifying bugs in your home throughout the year and want to keep an eye out for these and larger pests in the fall, these are all worth watching out for.

1. Mice

With the temperature dropping in the fall, mice will aim to go inside your house in the hopes of seeking shelter.

“Mice can actually damage your home, usually by chewing and destroying anything that remotely resembles food or nesting material,” says Brett Bennett, pest control expert and director of operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions.

To prevent them from getting in, close up any cracks and gaps around your windows and doors, as they can squeeze through the tiniest of openings. 

You can do this with sealant, such as the GE Advanced Silicone Caulk from Amazon which is waterproof and shrink-proof. 

2. Spiders

While spiders can enter your home throughout the year, they will start coming inside more in the fall.

“This is because they’ll be searching for new sources of food once bugs become less plentiful outdoors,” explains Brett.

While they won’t damage your home, they can be a hassle when they invade your space, especially thanks to the webs they weave.

You can get rid of them by decluttering your home, as they love to hide in messy, cluttered spaces. Plus, you can use an extendable duster like the Cleanse Home Microfibre Duster from Walmart to tidy up webs in hard-to-reach places like ceilings.

3. Wasps

Wasps and yellow jackets can be especially problematic in the fall, as they can become aggressive around people and food sources.

“As plants die back and animals start migrating or going dormant for the fall, yellow jackets quickly find themselves with limited food options at a time when they're trying to get as many calories as possible to help them survive the winter,” explains Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love.

He continues, “The best bet for discouraging them at this time of year is traps. Because they're so hungry, baiting a yellow jacket trap with something sweet will usually fill it up in a hurry.”

Or, you can grab a ready-made trap, such as the Rescue VisiLure TrapStik from Amazon, which has a bright color that also lures carpenter ants.

No matter what you choose, make sure you regularly maintain the trap throughout the season to keep numbers in your yard down.

4. Cluster flies

These flies can creep in through windows and doors, laying eggs in your home and creating a never-ending cycle of flying pests in your home.

“Certain types of flies such as cluster flies tend to emerge in the fall, so you might begin to notice flies indoors again even once temperatures outside are cool enough to discourage other types of these nuisance bugs,” says Brett.

The easiest way to remove them is by using a bug spray, such as the Mighty Mint Gallon Bug Spray from Amazon which is a bestseller and is made from natural substances. Or, you can always make your own homemade bug spray.

5. Ladybugs

While I agree that ladybugs are totally cute, they can actually become a pain when they invade your homes in large numbers.

“They’re just looking for a cozy spot for the winter, but they can be bothersome and leave behind yellow stains,” explains Brett.

You can repel them by using natural repellents like citrus peels and cloves to keep them from coming in, as well as using sealant to make sure they don’t creep through any cracks.

By finding out which pests can invade your home and yard in the fall, you can ensure that you take the appropriate steps, like sealing and decluttering, to ensure they can’t settle into your space.

Looking for more pro advice? Finding out how to keep pests out of your home for good will also come in useful.

If you're a regular at pilates or spin class, you may have noticed nasty odors clinging to your favorite Lululemon set. 

I'm obsessed with all things activewear so it's important to me to keep my leggings, sports tops, and jackets in good shape. Even after throwing my gym clothes in the wash, I can sometimes still detect a faint smell — my laundry pods alone aren't cutting it. 

The good news? I found the best method for washing gym clothes to banish those odors once and for all. I even asked laundry experts for their input and favorite products.

How to get odors out of gym clothes

Activewear proves to be difficult to clean as synthetic fibers can often harbor sweat, body odor, and bacteria (gross!). You may have thought you can't wash polyester in a washing machine without ruining your clothes but if you take a few extra steps, you definitely can.

"Sweat and body odor in gym clothes are caused mostly by bacteria, which grow best in moist environments. Synthetic materials like polyester exaggerate this problem through their moisture-wicking properties, holding sweat and bacteria more than natural fibers do," says Daniel Brown, CEO of handycleaners.com.

After much experimentation, I found the best method for getting rid of those gross smells. There's one ingredient that makes a world of difference.

1. Air out your clothes

Before doing laundry, you'll want to air out your gym clothes after your workout. Letting your sweaty leggings and sports bras sit in a pile for days on end will only make the odors worse. 

"After wearing, hang your workout clothes to air out. This helps prevent bacteria growth, which can cause unpleasant odors," says Vanessa Terra Bossart, owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

You can throw them on a drying rack after your workout, like this Amazon Basics drying rack which is loved by customers with 62,000 ratings and 4.7 stars.

This is also a good time to check the care label for any laundry symbols which will tell you how to wash the garment.

2. Soak with vinegar

Now it's time for the cleaning product I swear by — vinegar. It's a staple in my house as you can use vinegar to clean just about anything from glass surfaces to wooden floors. I like to use this Heinz white vinegar, available on Amazon, as it's super effective and budget-friendly, coming in under $3.

If the odors aren't too strong, you can simply add a splash of vinegar to the washing machine while you clean your clothes. For stronger odors, try soaking your gym clothes in a vinegar solution for some extra cleaning power.

"Make a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts cold water. Soak your gym clothes for 30 minutes to an hour before washing. Vinegar acts in such a way that it subdues odors very well and helps dissipate the gunk quickly," says Daniel.

3. Wash in washing machine

Next, it's time to throw your gym clothes in the washing machine. All you'll need is a mild detergent like this Tide Free & Gentle detergent from Amazon, with over 28,000 ratings and 4.8 stars.

Depending on how often you do laundry, those odors may have had more time to set in. If you're tackling a stubborn odor, investing in some extra laundry room essentials will help get the job done.

"Add half a cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine with your laundry detergent. Baking soda is excellent at neutralizing odors and can help eliminate the stubborn smells that linger in synthetic fabrics," says Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta Domestic Assistants.

You can pick up some classic Arm & Hammer baking soda in bulk from Amazon to use for a wide range of cleaning tasks.

I always wash my gym clothes with cold water to prevent shrinking or damaging the fabric. "Always wash your gym clothes in cold water. Hot water can damage synthetic fibers and set in odors and stains," says Vanessa.

4. Air dry

Not sure if you can throw your gym clothes in the dryer? When in doubt, always air dry activewear as the extreme heat in the tumble dryer may harm the fabric. 

"Whenever possible, air dry your gym clothes. The high heat of the dryer can damage synthetic fibers and lock in odors. If you need to use a dryer, opt for a low heat setting," says Muffetta.

As long as you avoid common laundry mistakes like using high heat or damaging cleaning products, your gym clothes should come out smelling fresh and clean. No need to worry about those laundry myths that claim these odors are impossible to remove.

When you're out in your backyard tending to your flowers, it can be easy to take your pruners to everything that's growing.

But, there are actually some blooms you should never deadhead, even when it looks like they need snipping. From fabulous foxgloves to beautiful hydrangeas, there are many surprising flowers that you don't actually need to deadhead.

If you're going through your month-by-month gardening jobs calendar and have deadheading on your checklist, it's worth making sure you avoid these.

1. Foxgloves

For those creating cottage gardens, foxgloves are a beautiful way to add shape and dimension.

“These biennial plants produce tall flower spikes that will drop seeds if left alone,” explains Victoria Cummins, gardening expert at Plant Whisperer.

“Deadheading prevents them from reseeding, so instead, let the spent flowers stay,” she adds.

Not only will this help feed wildlife, but it will also allow your fabulous foxgloves to return again next year.

2. Coneflowers

Coneflowers are great to have in your backyard, as not only will they add a pop of vibrant color, but also have medicinal qualities.

“I avoid deadheading coneflowers, as its spiky seed heads stand through winter and feed birds,” says Sal Musto, landscaping expert and owner of SalCorp Landscaping & Construction.

Even if you decide to deadhead some, make sure to leave a few to help with self-seeding.

3. Forget-me-nots

I love fairytale garden ideas and flowers that are small and sweet, so forget-me-nots are must-haves in backyards in my opinion. They’ll also keep adding magic to your outdoor space if you leave them be,

“To get that naturalized cottage garden look, avoid deadheading these dainty blue flowers,” Victoria says.

“They are prolific self-seeders that will spread charmingly if the flowers are left to produce seeds,” she adds.

If you have them on your grass rather than in a pot, this will also mean they spread even further, eventually turning your green lawn into an enchanting blue carpet.

4. Canna lilies

While some lilies are plants that are toxic for cats, canna lilies thankfully aren't. So, if you have a furry friend you’re looking after, you can keep them blooming in your yard for years to come.

“One spent flower on a canna can produce multiple new flower shoots, so put away your pruners and let cannas continue their showy display all season long,” Victoria explains.

These come in a variety of bright shades, from bold orange to pretty pink, and bloom from mid-summer right up to the first frost.

5. Hydrangeas

If you’re growing and caring for hydrangeas, it’s important not to deadhead them, as this will ensure you have beautiful flowers the next year.

“For hydrangeas, deadheading prevents reblooming, so I only thin older stems in spring,” says Sal.

He continues, “Light summer pruning after blooming may stimulate fall rebloom, but heavy pruning removes next year’s buds.”

Want to switch up your hydrangeas’ blooms next year? Learn how to change the color of hydrangeas to give your backyard a new look.

6. Miscanthus

For those planting ornamental grasses instead of flowers, Miscanthus is a plant you should not deadhead.

“This ornamental grass provides fantastic texture with its fuzzy seed heads that look striking in winter,” says Victoria.

She says not to cut them off — instead, wait until early spring to cut back the entire plant to allow for fresh growth.

7. Black-eyed Susans

If you’ve mixed together coneflowers and black-eyed Susans in your garden border ideas, you can leave these yellow flowers be, too.

“I always leave black-eyed Susans unpruned, as their seed heads feed birds through winter, as dropped seeds may produce new plants,” says Sal.

If you do want to improve shape or control spread you can prune them in spring, but for those going for a more natural look, it’s best to avoid pruning them.

By avoiding deadheading these flowers, you can allow your garden to bloom in a natural way. If you aren’t sure if you need to deadhead your flowers, Victoria has some last advice.

“Consider the wildlife that relies on seeds and habitat these plants provide in winter before deadheading anything,” she finishes by saying.

Want to carry on maintaining your garden? Learning what flowers to prune in summer may also be useful.

Shop gardening essentials

If you're thinking about renovating your garden, you may be wondering — how much does landscaping cost?

Our landscaping and property experts are here to help, with detailed advice on everything from budgeting to weighing up whether to go professional or DIY. 

Landscaping can transform your yard into a beautiful, functional space, but understanding the costs involved is crucial. With an endless list of brilliant backyard landscaping ideas to consider, you'll want to know how much your favorites will set you back.

Plan your landscaping project like a pro

From low-maintenance garden ideas to grander garden designs, the key is budgeting wisely and getting the best bang for your buck. 

Here's our comprehensive expert guide to help you estimate landscaping costs, keep expenses down, and calculate your budget effectively.

Estimating landscaping costs

The cost of landscaping varies based on the size of the yard and the complexity of the project. 

For small yards (under 1,000 square feet), expect to spend between $1,000 and $5,000. Medium yards (1,000-2,500 square feet) typically cost between $5,000 and $15,000. Large yards (over 2,500 square feet) can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the extent of the work. These estimates include elements like plants, sod, mulch, and basic hardscaping such as patios or walkways.

Bryan Clayton, CEO of GreenPal, has spent more than 22 years designing and installing landscaping projects. He says, "When it comes to figuring out how much a landscaping project might cost, I've always found that roughly 5-10% of a home's value gives a good ballpark. For a $300,000 house, you're looking at about $15,000 to $30,000. It scales up with the property value, so a million-dollar home might see landscaping costs of around $100,000."

Keeping costs down

To keep landscaping costs manageable, focus on prioritising essentials and utilising budget-friendly alternatives wherever possible. 

Bryan says, "To keep costs manageable, start with the basics like an irrigation system and foundational shrubs, then gradually add more complex features like hardscapes. 

"Breaking the project into phases can also help by spreading out the expense over time. Also, choose materials that offer durability and affordability. For example, gravel is less expensive than paving and easier to maintain."

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, has experience of more than 200 landscaping projects in the last decade alone. He says, "One effective approach is to choose cost-effective materials. For example, using mulch instead of stone can be more affordable while still providing the desired aesthetic and functional benefits. Selecting native plants is another way to save money, as they typically require less water and maintenance, reducing both initial and ongoing costs. 

"Homeowners can also reduce expenses by tackling simpler tasks themselves. Planting, weeding, and basic lawn care are manageable DIY projects that can significantly cut labor costs without compromising the overall quality of the landscaping."

Finally, consider scaling back on expensive features like intricate water features or extensive lighting.

DIY vs professional work

Deciding between DIY and professional landscaping depends on your budget and skill level. DIY projects can significantly cut costs but require time and effort. 

Tommy says, "Deciding between DIY and professional landscaping work depends on the project's complexity and the homeowner's skills. Simple tasks such as planting, weeding, and laying mulch are often suitable for DIY efforts and can save a considerable amount of money. 

"However, more complex undertakings, such as designing the layout, installing irrigation systems, or constructing patios and decks, should be left to professionals. Professionals bring expertise and experience that ensure these critical aspects of the project are completed correctly and sustainably, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring a polished finish."

Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, adds, "The DIY approach can definitely help to keep costs down, but it's best to stick to simple, low-impact tasks like planting flower beds or spreading mulch. Anything that requires very heavy lifting (like planting large trees) or specialized skills (like pouring concrete) is usually best left to the pros."

Cost of designers

Hiring a landscape designer can enhance your yard's aesthetic and functionality — but how much can you expect to pay?

Tommy says, "The cost of hiring a landscape designer varies widely across different states due to regional differences in labor costs and living expenses. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $50 and $150 per hour for professional design services. For smaller projects, design fees might range from $500 to $1,500, while more extensive projects can incur costs from $2,500 to $5,000 or more. 

"While these fees might seem substantial, investing in a professional designer can lead to a more cohesive and well-planned project, potentially saving money in the long term by avoiding costly redesigns or fixes."

While adding to the initial cost, a well-designed plan can save money in the long run by avoiding design flaws and maximizing space efficiency.

Budgeting formula

Estimating the likely costs of redesigning your yard can be done through some rough calculations.

Tommy says, "A practical way to estimate your landscaping budget is to use a rough formula that accounts for various project elements. Start with the design fee — if there is one — then add the product of the yard’s square footage and the average cost per square foot for landscaping in your area.

"Next, include your budget for plants and materials, and finally, add any costs for special features such as a deck or water feature. This formula helps provide a structured approach to budgeting, ensuring all critical components are considered."

For example, for a medium yard of 2,000 square feet with an estimated cost of $10 per square foot, the initial budget would be $20,000. This might rise to $22,500 after accounting for plants, materials and a water feature.  

For extra safety in planning, it's also good practice to add a buffer of 10-15% for unexpected expenses. This would bring our example project to an estimate of around $25,000.

FAQs

How much do landscape gardeners charge?

Tommy says, "Landscape gardeners generally charge either by the hour or by the project. Hourly rates can range from $50 to $100, while project-based fees depend on the scope and complexity of the work. It's crucial to obtain detailed quotes and clarify what is included in the price to avoid any unexpected expenses."

What are the most cost-effective trends in landscaping?

Native planting, xeriscaping, and using recycled materials are among the most cost-effective trends. These approaches reduce maintenance and water costs while promoting sustainability. Additionally, simple designs with multifunctional spaces, like combined seating and planting areas, can provide high value at a lower cost.

How can I ensure my landscaping project stays within budget?

To stay within budget, start with a detailed plan and clear priorities. Tommy says, "Prioritize essential elements, obtain multiple quotes, and consider implementing the project in phases. Starting with the most critical aspects and adding features over time as your budget allows can help manage costs effectively."

Meet our experts

By understanding the factors influencing landscaping costs and using a strategic approach to budgeting, you can create a beautiful outdoor space that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

Next, check out these backyard privacy mistakes to avoid.

Planting bulbs in fall means you'll have a bloom-filled, super-colorful garden next spring. There's just so much to love about planting bulbs and then forgetting about them until up they pop like magic to brighten your day.

Head to the garden center or browse online and you'll soon see that bulbs are an inexpensive way of filling garden borders, containers, and window boxes. They come in a range of beautiful varieties, are so easy to grow, and once planted you don't have to do anything except wait to enjoy them when they break into bloom.

From September onwards is the perfect time to learn how to plant a whole range of flower bulbs like daffodils, crocus, and tulips. Perhaps you might like to add some more unusual bulbs into the mix too for a really show-stopping display. Either way, here's our round-up of expert suggestions for which bulbs to plant in autumn.

When to plant autumn bulbs

If you're wondering how to plant bulbs and when is generally the best time (after all, 'fall' is a big window!) it's good to know that it varies according to type. 

Flowers like daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths are best planted in early fall. Snowdrops can be planted a little later, from mid to late fall. 

Meanwhile, tulip bulbs can be planted even later in the season. The ideal month is November but in some cases they can be planted as late as December as long as the ground isn't frozen.

You can also plant hardy summer bulbs, such as allium and bearded irises, from early to mid-fall. This will keep your garden filled with blooms once the spring flowers have faded.

1. Crocus

Plant crocus bulbs in late autumn and come spring you'll enjoy lots of bold early color. Choose deep purple or bright yellow shades for a bold splash, or crisp white ones if you prefer something more neutral. 

"Crocus are some of the earliest spring flowers to bloom," says leading horticulturalist and flower expert Jenny Rose Carey. "They have tiny cup-shaped blooms so when you plant crocus in the fall cluster them for impact. You can also raise them up in containers or window boxes to better admire their intricate patterns, color variations, and scent."

Easy to grow, if you plant crocus in the right spot they will eventually form sizeable clumps. Corms (a type of bulb) should be planted four inches deep and the same distance apart. Always remember to plant the corm with the pointed tip facing upwards, and add a handful of grit to improve drainage.

2. Hyacinths

With their giant wands of blooms and gorgeous scent, hyacinths are a must-have springtime favorite. Mix and match them in flowerbeds and containers with other spring-flowering bulbs for an incredible display.

Like other spring-flowering bulbs, hyacinths should be planted in fall, between the end of September and early November, and they will flower in March–April the following spring. Hyacinth bulbs are available from late summer into fall from garden centers and online. 

Always wear gloves when handling hyacinth bulbs as they can irritate the skin. Whether planting in the ground or in a pot, plant your bulbs, pointy bit facing upwards, at a depth of around four inches, with around three inches between each one.

These beauties need a sunny spot with well-drained soil. If your garden has heavy soil but you still want to plant hyacinths in the ground, add a handful of grit to the bottom of each planting hole to help improve drainage.

3. Daffodils

Daffodils are a must when you're deciding which bulbs to plant in autumn. These easy-going favorites will come back year after year and there is plenty of choice as there are thousands of different varieties to choose from. As well as traditional yellow they come in white, orange, and coral colors too.

"The most widely grown daffodils are crown-like trumpet shapes with small or large cups but there are others with swept-back outer petals, multiple heads to a stem, or fully double flowers,' says Jenny Rose Carey. 'Daffodils have a range of diverse fragrances too, from the heady tazetta types through to the sweet scent of jonquils."

Plant daffodil bulbs in early to mid-fall. They will flower from late winter to late spring, depending on the variety and when you planted them. Daffodils generally prefer a sunny spot in well-drained soil, although some varieties can cope with light shade.

4. Tulips

In early fall you will start to see tulip bulbs for sale but it's a little too early to plant them yet. The best time to plant them is later in the season. This helps protect against tulip blight, a disease that rots the bulbs and causes the leaves to develop a scorched look.

"The ideal moment to plant tulips is in November when the temperature of the soil is a little lower than in October," says internationally acclaimed garden designer and bulb expert Jacqueline van der Kloet. "If you want tulips to flower for several years they need to be planted deep down, at a depth of at least 5-6 inches."

Start by planting tulips in good, well-drained soil in a sunny position. If your soil is heavy it helps to dig in a little coarse gravel before planting.

"Tulips are the divas among spring-flowering bulbs and are eager to have preferential treatment," says Jacqueline. "But they're worth it."

5. Camassia

Native to western North America, Camassia (also known as wild hyacinth) flower in late spring. Once planted, they bloom for many years, and will gradually multiply to form good-sized clumps in your flowerbeds. 

"The beautiful spikes of blue, pink, or white star-like flowers are an excellent addition to a late spring garden," says Jenny Rose Carey. "Easy to grow from a fall-planted bulb, they are perfectly at home in a flowerbed planted with columbine, tulips, and allium."

Unlike many spring bulbs, camassia will grow in heavy, moist soil so rejoice if these are your conditions, as you've found a bulb that will truly work in your garden. You can plant them from September right through to November, with the pointy end facing upwards, at a depth of at least twice the height of the bulb. Space them about four inches apart, and water well.

6. Allium

If you love purple flowering garden plants be sure to add allium bulbs to your autumn shopping list. 'Striking purple spring-flowering bulbs are almost all to be found among allium,' says Jacqueline van der Kloet. "Practically all purple alliums go well with varieties of salvia plants as neighbors and they flower almost at the same time." 

These hardy bulbs are planted in early fall, either in borders or container gardens, at a depth of about four times the diameter of the bulb and about four inches apart. The taller varieties will need at least eight inches between the bulbs. They look particularly magical woven in amongst ornamental grasses. 

Alliums appear in late spring/early summer, making a striking punctuation mark in the garden. From the striking 'Purple Sensation' to the eye-catching fireworks of 'Globemaster,' alliums will certainly add some drama to your outdoor space.

7. Bearded iris

"Bearded iris must be the grand spring queens of the garden," says horticulturist and flower expert Jac Semmler. "A delicate petal tongue pushes out and is fanned by a series of petals. The kinds of flowers available range from simple-structured blooms to voluminous varieties with every possible fold and ripple, sitting gloriously on top of stems in a big pile of petals and flounce."

Buy loose bare-rooted rhizomes (a type of bulb) in autumn and get them settled in the ground. They like a position in full sun best. Plant them flat and shallow in the soil. You can even leave a section of the rhizome exposed to the sun if you live in a cool climate so they can enjoy a little heat. 

If needed you can also add some grit for drainage when planting to avoid the rhizome rotting. "My advice is not to delay getting your hands on some and getting them in your garden," says Jac.

Bearded iris are glorious and a tad underrated, according to Jac and we agree. They make such a statement they deserve a place in every garden.

Look, I get it. You've stumbled across the perfect cute kitchen appliance, put it on your kitchen countertop, and then found that it looks a little out of place.

Don't stress though — I've got you covered with plenty of pro-approved advice that will help you style your colorful appliance in a way that will make it shine and that will make your cooking space look cohesive. Coordinating with existing decor and creating contrast are just a couple of their top tips.

Whether you're shopping for small kitchen appliances and want to ensure your place is ready for your latest pick or already have a pretty one you want to style properly, these tips will come in handy.

1. Go for contrasting colors

When styling a small kitchen appliance, it can be tempting to decorate your whole kitchen in the same color. But, this can actually look too matchy and will leave you with a space that lacks character.

“For example, choosing bold colors like red, blue, or yellow paired with white cabinetry creates contrast,” explains Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild.

He continues, “I recently used Smeg's retro fridge in red and their yellow kettle and toaster for a client to create a bold, striking look.”

This is also a brilliant tip for those searching for retro diner kitchen ideas, which are all about bright shades matched with playful accessories.

2. Pair with existing decor

I know how tempting it can be to pick the most Instagrammable kitchen appliance. But, if you want to make sure your new beauty looks brilliant, make sure that it matches what you already have. 

“When styling colorful kitchen appliances, it's essential to coordinate them with your existing décor to achieve a harmonious look,” says Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

“For instance, if your kitchen features neutral tones, vibrant appliances can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Conversely, in a kitchen with bold colors, choosing appliances in complementary shades can create a balanced aesthetic,” he explains. 

3. Paint walls and cabinets

If you do have your heart set on a dreamy appliance and you’re a homeowner, painting is a fun way to ensure it matches your space.

“Choose a color scheme of two to three complementary colors and paint walls and cabinets, then select appliances and accents to match,” suggests Nick.

“For example, Robin's egg blue walls with lemon yellow cabinets and turquoise accents are fresh and fun,” he says. I love this idea and think it would work well in Amalficore-style kitchens.

From here, Nick says to keep the rest of the space minimal so the color takes center stage.

4. Pick renter-friendly accents

Renting and can’t use paint? There are lots of easy ways to ensure appliances look chic and cohesive in colorful kitchens.

“For renters, swap standard cabinet knobs for decorative ones in your chosen accent color,” Nick says.

He continues, “You can also use colorful linens, dinnerware, and glassware to tie it together.”

If you’re looking for beautiful glasses, I have the Zaza Lustered Glasses from Anthropologie, which work brilliantly as bar cart accessories.

5. Switch them up seasonally

For those who enjoy changing up their kitchen’s look and have a little more budget to play with, going for seasonal updates with appliances and accessories can be a fun way to keep things fresh. 

“Renters can swap out small appliances and accessories seasonally to reflect the colors and vibes of each season, using placemats, tablecloths, and dish towels that can be easily changed,” Tommy says.

You could also invest in a set of versatile, colorful appliances that can be rotated in and out of use.

“The Empire Red KitchenAid Stand Mixer from Amazon is perfect for adding a vibrant touch, especially during festive times,” he says. It's also great to have handy for whipping up Christmas bakes.

You can also switch around the types of appliances you have on display depending on the season. For example, the best ice cream makers are brilliant for warmer months, while panini presses work best during cooler ones.

With the right styling, colorful appliances, and a cohesive color scheme can transform a kitchen into a stylish, memorable space. 

“Focus on accent colors you love and the overall feel you want to achieve. Then choose high-quality materials and reputable brands to bring your vision to life,” Nick finishes by saying.

If you want to carry on elevating your cooking space, finding kitchen countertop decor will also be useful.

Colorful kitchen appliances we love

Remodeling or renovating a bathroom is an exciting project that can result in a room that feels like a relaxing retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. That said, when carrying out my own project several years ago, I made some bathroom renovation mistakes that still annoy me to this day.

Ripping out your old suite and replacing it with a new one gives you the opportunity to get the space spot on. You can tailor it to your own exacting needs, whether this is a family bathroom you are working on, or a smart ensuite with no kids allowed.

If you are keen to avoid committing any bathroom remodeling mistakes that you’ll later regret, or that could cost you a considerable amount of money to put right, then you are in the right place. I’m here to share my biggest bathroom errors so your new space brings you nothing but happiness. 

5 bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid making

Renovating or remodeling any room of the house comes with its own set of potential pitfalls, but in the spaces that need to fulfill a primarily practical role, at the same time as looking good, even greater care needs to be taken. 

Failing to read up on bathroom remodel tips and making even the slightest wrong decision could mean that rather than being a pleasure to use, the space that you go to both refresh and unwind instead leaves you feeling frustrated.  

1. Placing the shower next to the window

I love the shower in our family bathroom. I spent a long time looking into how to choose a shower that would meet all our needs for the family bathroom. We opted for a digital model that can be operated from both a panel on the wall as well as controls within the showering area, meaning you never need to step into a stream of water that is too hot or too cold. 

However, the placement of said shower just doesn’t work, and, knowing what I know now, I would have located it on the adjacent wall instead.

As a shower that is mounted over the bathtub, we only really had two walls to choose from - a 50/50 chance of getting it right. But we got it wrong. 

The bathtub runs along the wall with the main window, sitting just below it. This means that the timber frame is subjected to a torrent of water on a daily basis. Although it is painted, it needs mopping down after anyone uses the shower or bath and has had to be repainted about a dozen times. Lesson? Keep solid timber well away from water.

Incidentally, we used a window film much like GILA Frosted Adhesive Privacy-control Window Film from Lowes for the window in question so as not to expose ourselves to passers-by every morning.  

2. Failing to consider lighting in the shower cubicle

While we’re on the subject of showers, let me tell you about the shower cubicle in the shower room. It is tucked into a corner of the room and we built a stud wall to act as the third side, with a heavy shower curtain to contain water. 

It is fully tiled and the power of this shower is almost flattening, which I rather like. So far, so good.

However, the shower room in question has no windows which, in itself, doesn’t cause any issues as the extractor fan works brilliantly to suck out steam.

The problem is this - we didn’t realize how dark the shower cubicle would be. We have one central light in this room. Once the shower curtain is pulled across, whoever is enjoying the deluge of water is doing so pretty much in the dark.

This is obviously not ideal and we plan on installing a new light here at some point. Although not disastrous, the disruption and mess it’ll cause could have been avoided with a bit of extra planning. I’d love a grid of four of these NICOR Lighting oil-rubbed bronze Lexan Shower Trim from Wayfair.

3. Not installing underfloor heating

In both the shower room and the bathroom in our home we have heated towel warmers. These do a pretty good job of keeping the towels dry and warm - when they’re on. In the summer, when the central heating is off, they serve as nothing more than rails to hang things on. We should have opted for electric towel warmers that could still run when the house heating is off (mistake number six I guess…)

However, the main heating mistake we made was not to install underfloor heating. The shower room is located on the ground floor, where we have solid concrete sub- floors. We have limestone floor tiles and failed to put any significant amount of insulation beneath them - which basically means the whole floor is like a great big refrigerator to stand on. It would have been so easy for us to fit electric mat heating when the space was stripped back to its bare bones. 

Upstairs, while the floor doesn’t cause the same frozen toes issues, it does seem to regularly resemble a swimming pool thanks to the amazing abilities our two teenagers have for spreading water absolutely everywhere, even when just washing their hands.

Fitting underfloor heating would have meant the floor would dry out quickly, without the need for a full mop every time one of the kids emerges from the room. As it is, I keep a stock of these Amazon Basics Microfiber Cleaning Cloths to hand.

4. Scrimping on the size of the bathroom sink

In the shower room, we were really limited on space as we also use it as a utility room, with the washing machine hidden away in a full-height cupboard.

We have a spacious (albeit badly lit) shower cubicle, a toilet, and a bathroom sink. We decided we could save space by ignoring all the advice on how to choose a bathroom sink and opted for a teensy tiny model. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but this thing is barely big enough to fit both hands in and, when guests come to stay, this is the bathroom they use. We could have fitted a much wider and deeper model in the space and it needn’t have projected any further out. Something like the Dowell Wall Mounted Bathroom Sink from Walmart would have been ideal.

5. Choosing white grout instead of a dark shade

I need to share a secret with you. I hate grout. I know that sounds dramatic, but it’s true. I realize that it is necessary if you want to use tile for your walls and floors but boy does it take some looking after if you want it to stay looking good.

I know how to clean tile grout, but why oh why did we choose white for the family bathroom? Any other color would have been better. Instead, every couple of weeks we have to spray the entire shower area with a bleach solution, leave it for an hour or so, and then rinse it off. Yes, this brings it up pretty sparkling, but it’s a pain.

Then there is the fact that, over time, the grout cracks and looks a little worse for wear, meaning it has to be chipped out and replaced.

In the shower room, we opted for a dark gray grout which hides a multitude of sins. We also kept the grout lines much thinner, plus there are fewer of them as we have a very large format tile - this all helps.

Next time around I think we’ll opt for shower panels instead and I love the Mansfield NexTile from Lowes which gives the appearance of tile without the grout lines. 

Although we made mistakes, there are also lots of things I love about our bathrooms. My favourite bits are the blue and white floor tiles, the light above our mirror that my husband made and the color of our shower room - proof that small bathroom ideas don't all have to be safe and neutral. 

Long summer days in the garden means more opportunities for growing and there are plenty of vegetables and herbs to plant this month that will give you quick results. Plant some of these rapid growers now and you'll soon be harvesting fresh crops before the weather starts to cool down in fall.

August is a wonderful time in the vegetable garden and there are still plenty of options for planting. This includes sowing seeds that you can harvest before fall, as well as maybe second plantings of crops that are already established in the garden but are probably peaking around now.

Whether you want crisp salad leaves or the freshest herbs to add flavor to your cooking, this is a great month to get planting as part of your month by month calendar of garden jobs. And the good news is even if your outdoor space is small there are still plenty of crops you can grow in containers. 

1. Spinach

The perfect 'cut and come again' crop, spinach will keep growing right through August and into fall, giving you a steady supply. Pick smaller leaves for the salad bowl and this will keep the leaves coming.

You can even grow spinach well into winter if you choose a hardy cultivar and plant it in a sunny spot.

After enriching the soil with some organic material, direct-sow in lines one inch deep. Water, then cover lightly with soil. Keep well watered, and once the seedlings emerge thin them to six inches apart. You can also sow spinach successfully in large containers.

"For the sweetest, crispiest spinach, make sure to harvest it early in the morning while the weather is still cool," explains New Jersey based organic gardener Resh Gala. "This means leaves will be upright and firm not limp and droopy."

2. Radishes

Radishes are one of the fastest growing crops in the vegetable garden. They can go from seed to harvest in just 25-30 days, and you will enjoy an abundant supply from there on. They're also great vegetables to grow in a small backyard.

Sow seeds in rows about four inches apart. "This will allow each individual radish plant to grow properly," says Resh. "I like to pre-moisten my soil by watering it prior to sowing seeds. If you water after direct sowing seeds very often some of the seeds float away with the water and collect together in a clump, so spacing becomes a problem."

If you wait too long to harvest radishes can become pithy. If in doubt you can always taste one or two to see if they're ready. Also, if you live in a frost-free area you can keep your radish crop coming all year round, re-sowing every 14 days for a non-stop harvest.

3. Basil

Basil is a favorite herb of many cooks and the scent of its leaves is one of the delights of summer. If you want to bring Amalficore into your garden, this is the best herb for doing so. This Mediterranean herb loves hot weather and baking in full sun, but you will have to keep an eye on watering it as you're growing it at the hottest time of the year.

"Growing basil from seed is much more manageable than with many other herb plants," says gardening expert Maggie Stuckey. "The process is remarkably simple because you're going to direct-sow right into a big container. These seeds will germinate in seven to ten days. The young plant grows so quickly that you will be harvesting leaves in as little as three weeks."

Find out how to grow basil to get the best out of your plants. One of the top tips is to carry on snipping as you need the leaves but as soon as your basil starts to form a spray of flowers at the outer tips of the most mature stems trim them off and add to the salad bowl. This is known as 'pinching off' and is done because experts say that as soon as the plant flowers, it affects the true flavor of the leaves.

4. Garlic chives

I love the idea of having a supply of fresh and easy to use garlic-flavored leaves on hand. Like regular chives, you can eat both the leaves and the flowers, and they're so easy to pick and chop to add a quick garlic flavor to any dish.

You can sow these herbs right through summer and into fall. In frost-free areas, garlic chives can be sown right through winter and into early spring. If you live in a cool climate, it's worth growing some in a container and bringing the pot indoors once temperatures dip. You can always use indoor grow lights (such as the GooingTop LED Grow Lights from Amazon that are dimmable and have a timer option) to help give them warmth.

"There is so much to recommend garlic chives in the garden," says horticulturalist Christina Chung. "They grow happily in a wide range of climates and soils, thriving and blooming in sun or shade. They produce big clouds of white flowers in late summer when the garden is often going through a quiet moment."

5. Arugula

This is one salad leaf you won’t want to be without and is another great choice for sowing in late summer. Packed with peppery flavour, arugula is a staple of the salad bowl and looks pretty growing in a handy pot near the kitchen door too, if you're looking for green kitchen ideas. 

This tasty salad leaf around is also one of the easiest to grow. Sow the seeds of this gourmet green successively every two weeks right through the season to guarantee a continual harvest over several months. You can even get 'Speedy' varieties that are ready to harvest in 30 days from sowing. Just remember to pick the leaves regularly to keep them coming fast. 

Sow in a sunny to partially shady area in rows 15 inches apart, and cover with fine soil. Firm lightly and water gently. From there, seedlings will emerge in 7-14 days depending on soil and weather conditions.  

6. Runner beans

It's not too late to plant runner beans and still get a decent crop due to their rapid and rampant growth habit, especially if you live in a mild climate. August is definitely the last practical sowing date, though, so make sure to take care of it by planting it in full sun and water regularly.

This ornamental variety of bean is also known as a pole bean. It has large showy red or white flowers so makes a pretty addition to the look of your garden as well as cropping heavily for weeks.

"Much like other beans they are best grown by planting the large seeds directly in the garden," says Christina. "They climb by wrapping their stems around structures. Be sure to provide a large trellis for them to run up." For example, the Maxpace Garden Stakes Kit from Amazon will allow you build a sturdy frame for your beans.

7. Asian greens

There's a huge range of oriental salad leaves to choose from including Chinese cabbage, pak choi, mizuna and tatsoi. They are all ideal for sowing in August as they like to germinate in warm soil, but thrive in damp fall conditions.

Oriental leaves grow fast and fill that gap when traditional summer veggies have finished cropping, yet winter crops are still a way off from being harvested. These exotic leaves are so easy to grow too, and there's a good variety available including this gorgeous red pak choi variety Brassica rapa rubra. 

"These plants are both sturdy and tender," says Maggie. "They can handle a wide range of temperatures, aren't much bothered by disease, and don't need staking or any other kind of physical support. The stems are crisp and juicy, while the leaves are tender and spicy-sweet."

Make light sowings in moist soil, then cover with a cloch. Alternatively, grow in containers. Sow every few weeks, thinning the seedlings out once large enough to handle. Then keep well watered. You will be able to harvest baby leaves 5-6 weeks later. Use the 'cut and come again' method to encourage more growth for months. 

Meet the experts

There is plenty of choice when it comes to vegetables and herbs to plant in August as part of your kitchen garden ideas. 

When choosing what seeds to go for, make sure to think about what you're eating right now and use your vegetable garden to complement these choices. Be aware too of what growing zone you're in, as some of you will have months of warm weather stretching ahead while others will face cooler conditions sooner.

Want to carry on making your garden grow this month? Learning what flowers to plant in August will also come in useful. 

So you're thinking of creating a basement kitchen? The basement often becomes the forgotten corner of the home, filled with tools, spare car parts, or perhaps just an extra fridge or freezer. However, this overlooked space holds incredible potential! 

With a little creativity, you can transform this space into a brilliant basement kitchen, adding valuable liveable space to your home and enhancing your overall lifestyle. Imagine transforming your basement into a vibrant culinary hub.

Create a bespoke area for cooking, dining, and entertaining with these handy kitchen ideas for your basement.

1. Multifunctional space

The basement is generally considered the coolest part of the house, with naturally lower temperatures and reduced humidity levels. If you’re looking to convert yours into a fully functional kitchen, adding a wine storage unit, like this solid wood wine rack from Wayfair, would be a brilliant way to utilize the space’s unique properties. 

If your basement is spacious enough to accommodate a kitchen island, stools, or even a full dining area, you can transform it into a fabulous hosting space. Wine storage near the kitchen island can also create an accessible ‘wine station’, complete with a countertop, storage for glasses, and a wine refrigerator. 

2. Modern designs

Opening up the basement doesn't mean compromising on style or personality. For daring designers, thinking outside the box with custom-designed countertops and units can completely transform your space. Instead of viewing the basement as merely a functional addition, think of it as a whole new layer to showcase bold design choices. 

For example, the kitchen featured here includes unique geometric drawers that not only stand out but also cleverly maximize space. Another intriguing idea for design-conscious kitchen owners is adding stained glass accents. 

Architect and founder of Drafting Services, Brian Curren suggests, “Stained glass accents add a touch of artistry and color, make your basement kitchen stand out with unique visual interest. Try stained-glass panels in the center of cabinet doors or as a backsplash above the sink.”  

Embrace these creative elements to turn your basement into a stylish, standout space.

3. Family-friendly areas

Large open-plan kitchens are a hit with families, allowing everyone to be together while doing their own thing. Parents can prep food while keeping an eye on the kids playing or doing homework. Spacious breakfast bars and island units, like this portable kitchen island from Wayfair, are favorites because they’re perfect for cooking and socializing together. 

Jason Lamprey, owner of Square One Construction, tells us, "For a household with a growing family, a basement kitchen should focus on workflow and storage. A prep sink, double wall oven, pantry, and rollout shelving provide everything needed for efficient meal prep and cleanup." 

Incorporating a dining area into the open-plan design further enhances the space and extends its possibilities. Bring in a fresh modern color to the walls, patterns, or quirky design elements for a playful, creative vibe.  And if your basement kitchen opens directly into the garden, even better! 

4. Small spaces

Even the smallest of basements can be redesigned to become a functional and useful space. A few simple units and shelves can transform an underused area into something practical and efficient. 

Andy Roe CEO of Roe Paint suggests, "For small spaces, focus on essentials like adequate cabinetry, counter space, and good lighting. Add mini-fridges or drawer microwaves to save space." 

A small basement kitchen works best as a secondary space to complement your ground-floor kitchen or as a separate area for guests. For those who'd like to incorporate a dining element, a slimline breakfast bar or fold-out dining table, like this extendable table from Wayfair, could be just the answer. 

When working with a small space, consider elements such as slimline dishwashers, which eliminate the need for drying space, and clever thin pull-out units. Keep the paint colors airy and breezy to avoid making the space feel too confined.

5. DIY additions

Redefining an unused basement space can be a dream project for DIY enthusiasts. For those who enjoy getting hands-on with their design and adding a personal, handmade touch, wood kitchens are a fantastic option. 

Consider finishing the units with stained slats or wood slats in varying widths to showcase the natural grain and texture. This unique take on traditional kitchen design can be endlessly customized to fit your vision, much like this kitchen by Sebastian Cox for deVOL. 

Using wood allows DIY enthusiasts to custom-build kitchen islands and other features to perfectly suit their needs.

6. Seating for socializing

Converting a light-deprived basement can still turn out fantastic! Picture it as an open-plan cooking and socializing area, perfect for comfy seating and a widescreen TV without any glare from outside light sources. 

With an open layout, you can easily socialize with your guests while whipping up a feast. If your basement lacks natural light, consider making it an open-plan kitchen and social space by leaning into a moody design with muted grays and sleek blacks. Use plenty of under-cabinet lighting, like these rechargeable lights available on Amazon, and spotlights to brighten things up, creating a cozy and stylish space that’s perfect for entertaining! 

To really kit your space out, Moe Soloff, Kitchen Specialist at Fabuwood advises us to, "Include a snack bar with a mini-fridge, microwave, and popcorn machine and opt for cabinets with soundproofing features to keep noise levels in check."

7. Minimal designs

For those who appreciate simple, pared-back design, transforming a basement space can be the perfect opportunity to work from a blank slate. Opt for flat, matte, handle-free cabinets paired with light wood accents to maintain an emphasis on simplicity and functionality, stripping everything down to its essential elements. 

A minimalist basement kitchen thrives on ample visible floor space and polished concrete fits seamlessly into this aesthetic, offering a smooth, reflective surface that keeps things uncomplicated. 

For storage, think of natural wood, stone, and marble elements to introduce warmth and texture. Emphasizing light and space is key so style lends itself best to a basement space that has access to the garden or outdoor area. 

Whether you're planning a full-scale basement renovation to add an entirely new floor to your house or transforming a small, unused space into something practical, even the most overlooked areas can become stylish and functional. More importantly, these changes can add significant value to your home and open up new possibilities for how you live and entertain. With a bit of creativity and thoughtful design, you’ll be happy you made the investment! 

Making a homemade bug spray is an effective, natural, and eco-friendly way to keep pests at bay — but what ingredients do you need and which are most effective?

Our expert guide walks you through the simple steps to craft your very own homemade spray for a fresh-smelling and intruder-free space.

When it comes to natural ways to repel bugs, look no further than this handy guide.

How to make a homemade bug spray like a pro

Though there are many ingenious ways to keep pests out of your yard, sometimes a carefully crafted spray is just the thing. 

Our industry pros reveal the simple steps and most effective ingredients for a safe and effective homemade bug repellent. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a bug spray that works for your lawn, home, vegetable plants, and yard.

Where our experts have suggested products, we've sourced high-quality items from trusted retailers.

All prices correct at time of publication.

1. Mix the key ingredients

An effective homemade bug spray requires a carefully-selected mix of ingredients.

In a bowl or jug, or directly into your spray bottle, combine a cup of distilled water with one cup of witch hazel and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to disperse essential oils, making it an excellent base for a bug spray that's both effective but gentle on skin."

Both Karina and property expert James Heartquist recommend Thayers Witch Hazel from Amazon. James says, "It’s a high-quality, natural astringent that helps the bug spray dry quickly on your skin without causing irritation. It’s also alcohol-free, which makes it gentle and suitable for all skin types."

The vinegar is highly effective against ants, spiders, and flies due to its strong smell and acidic nature. James recommends Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar from Target. He says, "Known for its antibacterial properties and effectiveness in repelling insects, this comes from a trusted brand, so you know you’re getting a pure, organic product that’s safe to use in your homemade bug spray."

Other optional ingredients include a tablespoon of vodka — which can be particularly effective on soft-bodied insects such as aphids and mealybugs — and dish soap. John Target, of Target Pest Control, adds, "For extra potency, add a tablespoon of dish soap. The soap helps break down the bug’s exoskeleton."

For spray bottles, James recommends Sally's Organics Glass Spray Bottles from Amazon. He adds, "These are durable and prevent the essential oils from degrading. Glass bottles are also reusable and eco-friendly, making them a great choice for storing your homemade bug spray."

2. Add essential oils

Essential oils have an important dual function — not only do they contain natural compounds that are toxic or repellent to insects, they also smell great.

Add 10-20 drops of your preferred oils to the vinegar-water solution. Different oils provide different strengths, so combine them to suit your needs. For example, lemon eucalyptus, tea tree and citronella oil all make for strong mosquito or tick repellents, while peppermint and lavender oil can handle a variety of indoor pests including fleas, spiders and ants.

Karina says, "Personally, I'm a fan of combining eucalyptus and tea tree oil — not only do they provide a robust defense against bugs, they also have strong antibacterial properties."

This Spring Valley Pure Australian Tea Tree Oil from Walmart comes with great reviews and is good on your skin. 

John adds, "For extra potency, you can also add 10 drops of neem oil, which has insecticidal properties." 

This Natria Neem Oil from Target is easy to use and will keep aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites in check. 

3. Shake & spray

The last step is the easiest and most enjoyable. Simply shake your mixture vigorously in a spray bottle then get to work of repelling those unwanted intruders.

Apply the spray to areas where bugs are present or likely to enter. This can include door frames, window sills, and garden plants.

Avoid spraying directly on pets or near where children play. Some essential oils can be harmful if ingested or if they come into contact with sensitive skin. John says, "Keep pets away from the treated area for at least 30 minutes. Avoid using this spray on windy days to prevent it from drifting onto unintended areas."

Also, some plants may be sensitive to essential oils. Test on a small leaf before spraying extensively. John adds, "If you're using the spray in your garden, avoid spraying right before rain, as it can wash away the solution."

FAQs

What's the best homemade lawn bug spray?

Combine water, vinegar, and peppermint oil in a spray bottle. Spray your lawn weekly to deter mosquitoes, ants, and other pests.

What's the best homemade bug spray for the house?

Mix water, white vinegar, and a few drops of lavender and peppermint oil. Spray around entry points like doors and windows to keep spiders, ants, and flies out.

What's the best homemade bug spray for vegetable plants?

Combine water, a few drops of dish soap, and neem oil. Neem oil is effective against aphids, caterpillars, and beetles. Spray the solution on plants in the early morning or evening.

What's the best homemade mosquito yard spray?

Mix water, lemon eucalyptus oil, citronella oil, and a bit of witch hazel. Spray this mixture around your yard, focusing on areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed, such as standing water and shaded areas.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — how to make a homemade big spray in three simple steps. By using natural ingredients, you can effectively manage pests without relying on harsh chemicals. 

Next, check out how to stop spiders getting in the house.

Armed with the best DIY small space storage ideas you can feel confident that those clutter hotspots will be a thing of the past in as little as a day.

Storage space can be a real issue in smaller homes, but this is exactly where it is more important than ever that everything has a place - and the good news is that by thinking a little creatively, there is no need to opt for an expensive, bespoke option to house all your belongings neatly.

We asked DIY and home improvement experts for their favorite DIY projects when it comes to storage hacks for compact spaces, from those that now repurpose redundant containers to ways of transforming overlooked or wasted spaces within your home into stylish and useful areas to stash away your belongings. 

DIY small space storage ideas anyone can tackle

The best storage ideas for a small house need to be innovative and well planned out to ensure that you are using your space wisely and in a way that means the clutter you find building up on a daily basis is dealt with. 

"I have really enjoyed exploring DIY storage strategies," says Marshall Webber, CMO of Stor-It. "I see so many people using space insufficiently, so I think it is always great to find ways to optimize the home based on individual and family needs."

Many of the ideas here don't involve you pulling out the toolbox either, so whether you fancy getting to know your electric drill a little better or prefer the idea of a project that requires nothing more than items you have hanging around anyway, there will be something for you. 

1. Make use of alcoves or wasted corners

Corners of rooms and nooks, crannies and alcoves can all be put to good use as somewhere to slide in extra storage. That might be in the form of easy-to-install shelves, or perhaps you might get lucky and find a cabinet or shelving unit that fits exactly into the space. 

If you are feeling a little more ambitious with your alcove ideas it is usually fairly simple to build in cabinets - after all, three sides of your new unit will already be in place. You will need to secure timber battens to the walls to support the top of the cabinet and the new doors that will be attached to the front. You are then free to paint the new units in your choice of paint color and dress them up with fancy handles. 

This is exactly what was done to create this handy storage unit - the door was bought from eBay but the rest of the work was carried out on a DIY basis.

We love the Marigold Mushroom Knob Multipack from Wayfair for customizing cabinet doors. 

2. Don't underestimate how handy hanging rails are

The walls and ceilings are your best friends when it comes to finding storage ideas for small kitchens - and hanging racks can be used for anything, from pots and pans in the kitchen to accessories such as belts and hats in the bedroom. 

Hanging racks can be fashioned from all kinds of items, including laundry drying racks, squares of metal mesh, or even an old ladder, suspended from the ceiling. 

In this small apartment, the owners suspended a metal grid from the ceiling using sturdy chains - they can now hang all their pots and pans from here, freeing up cupboard space elsewhere. 

It isn't just the kitchen that can benefit from a hanging rack either.

"Install hanging storage systems or overhead shelves in the garage, and laundry room, to store rarely used items," advises Evelina Juzėnaitė, principal interior designer at Planner 5D.

3. Fit folding surfaces to the walls

In a small home, anything that folds or slides out of the way when not in use is unbelievably useful. Although it might sound like a complicated task to fit something like this on a DIY basis, there is actually no reason why it has to be. 

"Consider a wall-mounted folding desk or a fold-down laundry station for flexible workspaces," suggests Meaghan Kessman, professional home organizer at Meaghan Kessman Home Organization.

Self-confessed 'DIY addict' Stacy Risenmay charts all her projects on her website notjustahousewife.com and one of our favorites is this DIY fold-down desk she made for her nephew's bedroom - perfect for anyone after small office storage ideas.

She built a simple box frame to attach to the wall then made a desktop from plywood which she connected to the frame using small butt hinges. A corkboard fits snugly inside, along with some handy shelves. 

If you are not quite as confident of your DIY skills, you could buy a fold-down desk kit like this ARTETHYS Wall Mounted Fold Down Desk from Amazon.

4. Repurpose old storage items

If you thought your storage jars were only for pantry storage ideas involving filling them with dried goods and piling up them on shelves, think again - there are so many other ways to use them. 

"Turn mason jars into rustic organizers and repurpose old drawers as unique wall shelves," suggests Meaghan Kessman.

A brilliant idea is to take your old jars and transform them into magnetic storage containers for anything from spices to your smaller DIY bits and pieces such as screws and drill bits. 

"Consumers have become more focused on organization and storage for very specific purposes, likely inspired by the array of organization-themed shows," reflects Amber Shay, national design director at Meritage Homes. "For example, organizing everyday items, like snacks and supplies, into specific containers in the pantry. We’ve also seen storage being used as a decorative element lately, with containers in fun colors and designs to match the décor scheme."

Do what Linda Ly from Garden Betty did and begin by fixing a metal board or sheet to the wall or underside of a wall cabinet or shelf. You can then glue a good strong magnet into the underside of the lid of each jar so that it will hold tight to the sheet. Et voila! Your countertops are clutter-free and your bank balance looks healthy thanks to your thrifty idea. 

TRYMAG Neodymium Magnets from Amazon are strong and come in a pack of 60.

5. Get organized with a cost-effective pegboard

Pegboards of all shapes and sizes are brilliant for turning into storage spots on a DIY basis, whether you are after utility room storage ideas or a way of housing all your crafting bits and pieces.

"Pegboards are a really practical solution to providing more storage without taking up any more space," says Chelsea of Making Manzanita who designed and made this gorgeous giant pegboard wall. "Because this is mounted on the wall, it gives the room a little more interest, safely stores those essential craft items out of reach from little hands, and keeps the clutter at bay!"

She used an inexpensive MDF peg board as a template for her sheet of plywood which she drilled holes in for the pegs, painted, and adorned with a selection of hanging storage items. 

"Pegboards are incredibly versatile for small spaces," says Ornella Guerrero Bianco,
content marketing specialist at Fixr.com. "They can be used in kitchens to hang pots and pans, freeing up cabinet space, or in cleaning closets to organize supplies. Painting the pegboard can also add a decorative and personalized feature to the room."

6. Put your under-stairs space to better use

If there is one space that often seems to get underused it is the area beneath a staircase - yet it can offer so much in the way of storage and it is an easy DIY project to fit it out with all kinds of cabinets, units, or open shelving. 

"Convert under-stair space into a custom closet or install pull-out drawers for hidden storage," suggests Meaghan Kessman.

"Install built-in drawers or shelves, create a closet or pantry from the area if space allows, or even design a workspace or playroom," adds Marshall Webber.

If you are wondering how to create under-stairs storage, be inspired by this project. Within the renovation of her terraced house, @ourwoodfield3storey, owner Vicky transformed her under-stair space with a selection of built-in cupboards and shelving units which they painted in a beautiful shade of frosted sage.

Valspar paint, in Northern Jupiter, from Lowes, is a similar color. 

7. Fit a hanging door rack to use vertical space

When space is tight you need to look up and down to find some of the sneakiest storage spots - in fact one of the biggest small space organization mistakes is to fail to make the most of your vertical space. 

"The easiest way to maximize storage in a small space is to use as much vertical space as possible," advises David Silva, an interior designer at home remodeling company HomRem LLC. "There’s usually a lot of wasted space around our home like under the bed, above kitchen cabinets, and even between our existing storage shelves. The key is to maximize these spaces without getting too cluttered."

One of David's favorite ways to do this is to fit a hanging door rack. 

"Adding door racks is almost like adding a new set of shelves to your home," says David. "They’re best used on the side of doors that aren’t often seen, like the inside of a closet or pantry. They could work in any other door, like for bathrooms and bedrooms, but you’ll risk having a cluttered-looking space if you use them in very visible areas. They usually come in a basket style, but I find the fabric version to be more versatile and more appealing to the eye."

The example here was crafted by the creator, producer, and host of the award-winning DIY home design show Engineer Your Space, Isabelle. She made her own over-the-door hooks using 5″ x 7″ aluminum step flashing sheets which she then secured to a wooden frame to house all her DIY essentials. 

Start with something like Amerimax Silver Aluminum Step Flashing from Lowes if you want to give this a go.

8. Fix floating shelves on walls and in corners

Fixing floating shelves to the wall is a job well within the capabilities of most DIYers out there - particularly if you can rope in someone to help hold them up while you fix them into place. 

"You can transform unused nooks, alcoves, or corners into functional storage with custom-built shelves or floating corner shelves," explains Meaghan Kessman.

"These types of shelves can be placed in any room for storing books, plants, decorative items, and more," agrees Evelina Juzėnaitė. "Such storage will not take up floor space either."

First, familiarize yourself with how to install a floating shelf. Some come with all the fixings and instructions needed, but if you are using something like reclaimed planks you will need to purchase fixings separately. If you are drilling into drywall, make sure you use anchor plugs.

QEEIG Bathroom Floating Shelves from Amazon offer a similar look to the ones here. 

9. Make the most of a view with a window seat

Window seats not only look beautiful in pretty much any room, but they also give you the perfect perch to sit and enjoy views over your surroundings - they are particularly well suited to anyone after bay window ideas. A window seat can also be constructed to incorporate lots of useful storage, whether that is through a simple hinged lid or by the addition of box shelves beneath. 

You have two options here. If you want to keep things nice and simple, you could invest in a low, horizontal storage bench the same width as your window - something like the DINZI LVJ Shoe Storage Bench with Cushion from Amazon - then dress it up with your own pillows and throws. 

However, for a more tailored approach, you could consider building a simple frame with vertical dividing shelves then top the whole thing off with a cozy cushion, as in this example from Hair Nails & Interiors.

10. Make space for tall bottles inside cabinet doors

If you have a small kitchen you want to ensure you are getting the very most out of every inch of space - and this is where DIY solutions can save the day.

Don't waste the opportunity to incorporate some storage onto bare walls - they can house all kinds of items that it can be hard to fit onto standard shelves. This is also one to consider if you are wondering. 

Here, Isabelle, of Engineer Your Space, who was struggling for countertop space, made some slimline custom shelving for her olive oil. She used 1″x3 ″ pieces of timber which she screwed together before securing to the wall with small metal brackets. Something like these L Bracket 90 Degree Angle Metal Brackets from Amazon would do the trick. 

She finished the whole thing off with a white stain. 

FAQs

What is the best way to make use of underbed space?

If you have space under the beds in any room of your home then make sure you look into how to organize under the bed to ensure you are using it wisely. There are so many options here. 

"If you have a bedframe, you have a lot of unused area under your bed!" says David Silva. "This is an easy spot for blankets, clothes, shoes, or other items that can fit in a thin, flat space. And of course, you don’t have to leave these things on the floor. You can use dedicated under-bed storage containers to keep them protected. Just make sure you measure the height of your bedframe first."

"I would recommend investing in a wooden frame box, with wheels," says Sarah Blevins, design specialist and product operations manager at Villa. "Soft side boxes tend to deform when overstuffed and can make it more difficult to pull out from under a bed or couch. Sturdy sides will help prevent you from overfilling, and the wheels will make accessing the bin easier."

These Rolling Bamboo Under Bed Storage Containers from Amazon would work well. 

How can you make more space within cabinets?

There is often no need to build new shelves, cabinets and rails to get more out of your kitchen storage ideas - you might just find you need to rethink your existing units a little.

"Shelf risers act as storage within your storage," explains David Silva. "Even if you fill every shelf of every cabinet, bookshelf and pantry in your home, you’ll still have some empty space above some of your shorter items. The easiest way to fix this is to add a shelf riser, which basically lets you add an extra shelf to your existing storage.

"They come in a variety of styles to fit your needs, and I always recommend the adjustable versions since they can adapt to your needs."

"A lazy Susan in your kitchen cabinets can make every item easily accessible. This rotating shelf design optimizes cabinet space, ensuring that every ingredient and kitchen tool is easy to access," suggests Ornella Guerrero Bianco. 

"To maximize your home’s storage potential, target the empty wall space in your closets and pantries," she continues. "Adding floating shelves or standing shelving units can increase your storage capacity, giving you more room for clothes, boxes and pantry items."

Take a look at Amazon Basics Stackable Metal Kitchen Storage Shelves to increase your kitchen cabinet capacity. 

If you have been left feeling inspired to get creative with your storage, take a look at these handy storage jar ideas - they are a brilliant way to pack in more space for all your essentials without spending money on expensive new solutions. 

I'm going away on vacation soon, so I've been looking for the best ways to keep my plant babies hydrated and healthy while I'm far from home. 

In the same boat? I've asked gardening and landscaping experts for their top tips for self-watering plants, and they're thankfully all easy to implement. Drip irrigation systems, self-watering planters, and soaker hoses are their favorite methods, which they've gone into in detail. “These systems can significantly improve the maintenance of healthy plants with minimal effort,” says Dennis Sons, gardening expert and owner of TN Nursery.

If you're maintaining a month-by-month gardening calendar but still want to ensure your plants get some TLC during the warmer months, these are all great methods to know.

1. Self-watering planters

One of the easiest ways to water plants while on vacation is by choosing self-watering planters.

“They typically have a reservoir at the bottom that stores water drawn up into the soil as needed through capillary action,” explains Dennis.

“This ensures that the plants get a steady moisture supply without the risk of overwatering. They're also perfect for busy gardeners needing more time to water their plants daily,” he adds.

He recommends the Lechuza self-watering planters, which come in various sizes and styles to suit different plants and garden aesthetics. For example, the Lechuza 14900 Deltini Self-Watering Planter from Amazon is the site’s choice and comes in six chic colors.

2. Drip irrigation systems

Do you have a large backyard you need to keep maintained? You might want to consider a bigger self-watering method.

“Drip irrigation systems are ideal as they deliver water directly to plant roots while preventing disease and waste,” explains Steve Schumacher, landscaping expert and owner of Boston Landscape Co.

“I recently installed one for a client who travels often, and they love how little maintenance it requires,” he says.

Dennis agrees, saying they ensure plants get the right amount of water. “Brands like Rain Bird offer customizable drip irrigation kits tailored to your garden's layout,” he says.

For instance, the Rain Bird Drip Irrigation Landscape/Garden Watering Kit from Amazon has a simple three-step installation process and three different types of watering hoses.

3. Soaker hoses

For those on a budget, soaker hoses are a much more cost-effective solution to self-watering outdoors.

“The porous hoses that slowly release water along their length,” Dennis explains. 

“They're easy to install and can be snaked through garden beds to provide even watering,” he adds.

Dennis says that Gilmour makes reliable, durable, and efficient soaker hoses, such as the Gilmour Hose Flat Soaker from Amazon which is made from 100% environmentally-friendly vinyl.

No matter what techniques you choose, Dennis says that maintenance is important for their longevity and effectiveness. “Check the emitters or hoses regularly for clogs and clean them as needed.”

He continues, “It's also necessary to monitor the water levels in self-watering planters and refill the reservoirs before they run dry.”

With the right care, self-watering systems can save time and ensure your plants remain healthy and vibrant. 

Want to carry on maintaining your outdoor space this season? Finding out the latest garden trends may be useful. 

Or, if you’re ticking off other tasks before going away, learning the small appliances you should unplug before going on vacation is also a smart idea.

My fridge has been a little bit of a mess recently, so I've been looking at the things people with organized fridges never do, in order to fix my mistakes.

I've asked design and organizing pros what they have seen in clients' homes, and what they have come back with has really surprised me. Not only are they super ways to keep this space tidy, but they will also help your groceries stay fresher for longer.

If you're looking for fridge organization ideas and want tried-and-tested tips, these are all worth checking out.

1. They never store dairy in the door

I’m totally guilty of keeping my milk and oat milk in the door, so I’m shocked that this is a big no-no when learning how to organize a refrigerator.

“This is a common mistake due to easy access, but the door is the warmest part of the fridge,” explains Nicole Saunders, interior designer at The Design Build Vault.

Instead, she says to keep milk, cheese, and yogurt on the middle shelves where the temperature is more consistent. 

“I often prefer to use a designated drawer for dairy products as it allows them to stay fresh longer,” she adds.

2. They never rush putting groceries away

I know how easy it can be to run inside with a big bag of food from the store and immediately throw them all into the fridge without a second thought.

But, rushing to put groceries away is something people with organized fridges never do. 

“It's important to ensure that everything that goes into your organized fridge goes into the right spot immediately and that it's always returned to the right spot, too,” says Carolina Kazimierski, cleaning expert and co-owner of Sophia’s Cleaning Service.

“I have noticed that people who tend to simply place groceries wherever find it much more difficult to stick with an organizational scheme,” she adds.

You can create designated zones for different types of food by using the best organization products.

For example, I have the Beauty Cottage Stackable Refrigerator Organizer Bins from Amazon and they’re perfect for keeping snack bars and juice boxes contained.

3. They never put hot food away

When I’ve felt a little lazy, I have indeed put leftovers in the fridge without thinking about the consequences. This is a mistake I won’t make in future, though.

“This mistake can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage of other items in the fridge,” Nicole tells me.

“The biggest risk is the possibility of the food not cooling down fast enough, causing bacteria to multiply,” she says.

Because of this, Nicole suggests letting your food cool down completely before placing it in the fridge. 

You can also place them in glass storage containers to make them easy to put in the oven and heat up again. I’ve had the Amazon Basics Glass Storage Container Set for years and have used them in my fridge, freezer, and even on the go.

Now you know what people with organized refrigerators never do, you can follow their advice and make sure yours works as functionally as possible.

Want to carry on following useful advice for your cooking space? Finding out the things people with organized kitchens always do will also come in useful.

Useful fridge organization buys