Fall is the season of bountifulness and beauty, and one of the best ways you can celebrate this in your home is by decorating your table.

Whether you're planning on hosting Thanksgiving guests or just want to make your evening meals a cozier experience, giving your table a glow up is a great idea. I've spent hours looking online and I've sought out a host of centerpieces, napkins, and dinnerware that are perfect for doing this. As Real Homes' content editor, I've got an eye for beautiful design and an even better eye for a bargain.

If you're looking for fall home decor buys that will suit your dining room perfectly, these picks are worth taking a look at.

Fall centerpieces

Create a Thanksgiving decor focal point that your guests will want to gather around.

Fall dinnerware

Complement your delicious Thanksgiving meals with these dinnerware pieces that are good enough to eat.

Fall napkins

Keep your fall outfits neat and tidy by ensuring you have the cutest seasonal napkins.

By decorating your table with these pretty picks, you're sure to create a space that's delightful for guests this season.

Want to carry on styling your home for the season? I'm also a fan of fall kitchen ideas and fall doorstep ideas.

One of the best ways to welcome the new season to your home is by hanging up a beautiful wreath. Fall is one of the best times to do this, as there are so many gorgeous ones with leaves, berries, and branches.

I'm Real Homes content editor, which means that not only do I have an eye for style, but I know how to hunt down a bargain. I've spent three hours scouring the internet and have found nine beautiful wreaths that fit this brief and are highly-rated by shoppers. “Fall wreaths are a great way to bring in some fall color to your decorating, indoors or out,” says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy Painters of North Shore. “I love to incorporate them into a fall mantle display, and they will pair excellently with things like fall-themed candles, flowers, and more.”

If you're looking for fall decor buys and are searching for wreaths specifically, these wonderful picks are all beautiful options.

The best fall wreaths, as approved by shoppers

FAQs

What do fall wreaths symbolize?

Fall wreaths symbolize abundance and the upcoming harvest which is then celebrated during Thanksgiving.

Where do you put a fall wreath?

You can put a fall wreath in a variety of places in and around your home, such as:

• Front gate
• Front door
• Entryway hooks
• Living room fireplace
• Above a mirror
• Above a window
• On a table

Whether you hang yours up on your door or place it somewhere else, fall wreaths are a bright and beautiful way to celebrate the season.

Love fall wreaths but would rather make your own? We've also got guides on how to make a classic floral fall wreath and how to make a rustic wood fall wreath.

When it comes to planning your move to college, creating a cozy dorm room that feels like your own is a key thing to do. It's important to get it right, which is why I recommend scooping up essentials that are cute and cozy.

One of my favorite places to scout these out is Pottery Barn Teen's dorm shop, so I've spent three hours looking through its site for essentials that will transform your space. I'm a former student and I've been writing about dorms for Real Homes for the last year and a half, so you can trust my eye for pieces that as pretty as they are practical.

If you're searching for dorm essentials that will give your new space a glow up, these are all worth checking out.

Pottery Barn Teen dorm essentials

Even if you don't go for these picks, each pick represents a useful buy that's worth having on your dorm room checklist. If you are carrying on dorm shopping though, I recommend looking at Amazon dorm essentials, as they're a little more budget-friendly.

The 4th of July is one of the best holidays in the US, and I can't think of a better occasion to throw a party complete with cute decor.

As Real Homes' content editor, I have a keen eye for what will look stylish and have timeless appeal. So, I've spent hours searching through my favorite decor sites looking for candles, pillows, cookware, and more that will add the perfect finishing touches to your get-together.

For those searching for summer party decor ideas that are specifically tailored to Independence Day, these will dazzle during this event and throughout the year.

Dazzling 4th of July decor I adore

I've looked through trusted retailers, scrolled through hubs like Amazon's sale page, and scoured shopper reviews to find highly-rated partyware, outside decorations, and home decor themed around the 4th of July. 

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

4th of July partyware

All of these pretty pieces bring in patriotic colors that will elevate your soiree's food and drink.

4th of July outside decorations

Invite guests to relax outside and enjoy the sun's rays with these 4th of July style decor pieces.

4th of July home decorations

Liven up your couch, walls, and even your home fragrance game with fabulous finds that will complete your 4th of July decor.

When shopping for decor for any party or special event, I always recommend considering the longevity of the piece. That's why all the pieces I've chosen are made from durable materials and will last beyond the 4th of July.

If you're hosting even more parties this season and want to make your place look ultra-stylish, learning the summer decor trends for the year will come in handy.

As the days grow longer and we look forward to entertaining outdoors more often, we've been scouring the internet for the very best pieces in function, style, and value. Owning the right essentials makes all the difference, and we think Walmart is a brilliant place to shop for them.

Whether you have a small patio, a large backyard, or a dining room you want to freshen for summer, Walmart has gorgeous options for you to transform your entertaining at home. To prepare your outdoor space, we recommend its patio-friendly dinnerware and outdoor furniture. If you're keeping the party inside, you can't go wrong with rattan décor, new glassware, or a lemonade-scented candle that's sure to put everyone in the summer spirit. You can make so many updates to your home this season, so we narrowed it down to our top 15 pieces below.

You can't go wrong with adding the best outdoor lanterns to your backyard space if you want to create a relaxed ambiance in the evening that will create light and impress guests.

My tiny backyard doesn't have quite enough space to test out every single lantern, so I've instead scoped out ones that are highly rated by genuine shoppers. From practical solar lanterns to aesthetic candle lanterns, there are plenty to choose from.

If you're looking for outdoor lighting ideas, I've got you covered, having sifted through retailer sites for hours and reading reviews from people who have used these lanterns and loved them. My selections are thoughtfully based on all the above.

12 of the best outdoor lanterns

I've looked at the best outdoor lighting brands for these picks and have broken them down into four sections: solar lanterns, paper lanterns, candle lanterns, and exterior wall lanterns. For extra color, add these vibrant outdoor string lights from Enbrighten.

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

Best solar lanterns

Solar lanterns helpfully soak up the sun with solar panels, meaning you can leave them out, let them do their thing, and then enjoy beautiful lighting.

Best paper lanterns

While these might not be as robust as other candles in our guide, they are a fun choice for parties and will quickly add texture to your backyard.

The best candle lanterns

Add refinement to your backyard with a gorgeous candle lantern that will help you create natural-looking light.

Best exterior wall lanterns

These are ideal for those looking for front yard ideas, as not only do they look beautiful, but they'll provide useful light while you're looking for your keys.

What to look for when buying outdoor lanterns

When shopping for the best outdoor lanterns, there are a range of factors to keep in mind when choosing the right one for you. 

• Material: “Focus on durability since lanterns will face various weather conditions,” says Bob Berriz, outdoor design expert and founder of Berriz Design. “I highly recommend stainless steel or brass for their rust resistance and longevity.”
• Lighting type: Bob recommends picking LED lamps for their energy efficiency and longevity. “LEDs can dramatically reduce maintenance due to their long lifespan,” he says. “Additionally, opt for lanterns that allow for adjustable brightness settings to suit different moods and needs.”
• Style: It’s a smart idea to ensure the lantern matches the aesthetic and functional requirements of your space. “For example, if your home has a modern design, sleek, minimalist lanterns would be ideal,” Bob says. “Meanwhile, traditional homes might benefit from more ornate, classic designs.”
• Lantern life: If you’re opting for an electric lantern, make sure you choose the one with good battery backup. “A lantern shining bright anywhere between 5-10 hours is good,” explains Mike Falahee, outdoor design expert and president of Marygrove. “Look out for how much power it requires to charge so that even in a remote location you get to charge it,” he adds.
  

Where to shop outdoor lanterns

I've rounded up twelve lanterns in a range of styles that are highly-rated. If you're feeling inspired and want to start shopping yourself, I recommended checking out these retailers:

• Amazon outdoor lanterns
• Anthropologie outdoor lanterns
• At Home outdoor lanterns
• Etsy outdoor lanterns
• Pottery Barn outdoor lanterns
• Target outdoor lanterns
• Walmart outdoor lanterns
• Wayfair outdoor lanterns
• West Elm outdoor lanterns

FAQs

What are the best outdoor lantern materials?

The best outdoor lantern materials are ones that are robust, rust-resistant, and weather-resistant, such as iron, aluminum, and brass. If you want to achieve a rustic look, wood also works well, but needs to be maintained more.

What is the best size for an outdoor lantern?

The best size for an outdoor lantern depends on the size of your space. Be sure to measure it up and check the dimensions of the product before fully committing to anything.

Outdoor lanterns are a brilliant way to create a cozy atmosphere in your backyard, thanks to their large size and elegant designs. Once you've picked out these, you can then move onto finding the best outdoor furniture for you and your guests to lounge on.

Investing in one of the best candle warmers is a great idea if you're a little worried about burning candles with a flame. You want the ambiance, the fragrance, and the aesthetic of the candle, but without the worry of whether it’s going to start a small unattended fire.

This is why we love candle warmers. These clever little devices use a warming bulb to melt the wax, which then emits the smell of the candle throughout your space without a flame or any smoke or soot. You still get the glow of the bulb but you also get a timer so there’s never the concern about whether or not your candle is burning indefinitely. 

We rounded up nine of the best candle warmers including stylish and unique options. See what to look for when shopping for this home fragrance option.

9 of the best candle warmers we're loving

Wondering how to use one of the best candles in a safer way? A candle warmer may be the perfect solution. Using a warming lamp instead of an open flame is a great way to care for candles and may even make them last longer.

Here's exactly how it works, according to candle expert Tay Baker, Owner of Claranda Tay Candles Co. "Candle warmers work by gently heating the wax from below, melting it to release the fragrance without the need for an open flame. This method allows the scent to disperse evenly and continuously," explains Baker.

See our pick of the top options, highly rated by customers. 

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

What to look for in a candle warmer

Like the diffuser vs candle debate, there are tons of candle warmers on the market these days, so there are a few things to consider. First, price. There are some incredibly sleek candle warmers on the market in the $100-$200 range, but there are also countless candle warmers in the $25-$50 range. You can splurge, you can save, it’s up to you.

Typically, you’ll want to look for a candle warmer that uses between 15 and 25 watts. This keeps it super efficient. If you look for a warm white bulb, that’ll mimic the glow of a candle.  “My personal favorites are the ceramic and glass models that complement any decor while doubling as night lights,” says Melanie Summers, Professional Organizer and Owner, I Speak Organized. “You can find aesthetically pleasing options that are both functional and stylish.”

Lastly, look for a candle warmer with a timer to totally alleviate the stress over it running too long. After all, if you've invested in a gorgeous fragrance, like one of these celeb-approved candles, you'll want to make the most of it.

Where to buy candle warmers

Beyond these nine candle warmers, which are all favorites of ours, you can find dozens of candle warmers to choose from at these major retailers.

• Amazon candle warmers
• Target candle warmers
• Walmart candle warmers

FAQs

Do candle warmers evaporate wax?

Candle warmers do not evaporate the wax like a traditional lighting-the-wick method. When you burn the wick, the candle uses the wax as fuel. But, when you use a candle warmer, the wax melts, and the scent will gradually dissipate into the air.

Can you put a candle on a wax warmer?

In theory, you could use chunks of a candle on a wax warmer, which is a device that melts wax and then emits a fragrance into the air. That’s not ideal, however, even if it could work. Instead, use a candle warmer, which is designed to actually accommodate the jar of a candle.

Candle warmers can be the perfect solution if you find burning candles with a flame a bit stressful. But that's not to say they're totally mess-free. If you find you have spilled a melting candle, don't panic. There are plenty of ways to remove candle wax from clothes for an easy clean-up.

Still in search of Mother's Day gift ideas? The main event is only getting closer, so now is the time to hone in on something special for your favorite lady. 

Whether Mom is a hosting sensation or someone who likes to get creative in the garden, we've uncovered the best homeward gifts at multiple price points to help lead you in the right direction. 

See our favorite selections below and Real Homes buying guides for some inspiration ahead of May 12, 2024. 

Mother's Day gift ideas to shop this year

Quicklist

Plenty of retailers have selected the best items for Mom ahead of the big day, and some are even hosting sales of curated items just for Mom. Shop a few of her favorite stores and brands below:

• Shop Amazon's Mother's Day sale
• Shop Anthropologie Mother's Day gifts
• Shop Home Depot's Mother's Day sale
• Shop Nordstrom's Mother's Day gifts
• Shop Pura's Mother's Day sale
• Shop Target's Mother's Day sale
• Shop Walmart Mother's Day gifts

For moms who love gardening

Now that your favorite lady is scoping out the tools from the shed and mapping out what to plant in May, why not play to her green thumb with your gift? Plenty of gardening and plant accessories will please Mom and her leafy companions. Gifts for gardeners are as abundant as the perennials in your flower bed. 

For moms who love hosting

Most moms have hosting essentials down pat, but any life of the party will appreciate spicing up things a bit. How about wowing Mom with something new that she'll use for her next family dinner or book club meeting?

For the moms who love fragrances

Fortunately for shoppers, we've nailed down the best home fragrances for all preferences and we have a feeling Mom will be partial to a select few:

FAQs

What is a good Mother's day gift?

A good Mother's Day gift is a heartfelt token that will mean a lot to Mom. If you want to go the personal, handmade route, Drew Barrymore, Etsy's first-ever Chief Gifting Officer, has tailored recommendations from the commerce site that caters to all interests. 

Speaking of interests, we recommend playing into your favorite lady's go-to hobby. At Real Homes, we laser-focused on things to do around the abode: cooking, hosting and gardening. 

Also consider looking into gifts in wellness, decor, food, and of course, flowers. Who could go wrong with a bouquet? Above all else, the best gifts are ones that are meaningful and required thought to pull together. 

What can I send for Mother's Day besides flowers?

Rather than send flowers on Mother's Day, consider opting for a gift that keeps on giving the best subscription boxes: from options for moms with a green thumb (houseplant subscription boxes) to practical picks (best cleaning supplies subscriptions) to suit all needs.

Thinking about gifting Mom something from your garden? Talk shop with her after perusing our edit of what to plant in May, all gardener-approved. 

Furnishing your home is not only what makes it usable, but beautiful, too. Whether you buy into the trends or not, there are so many ways the right furniture can impart the look you want, while creating somewhere to sit or stow items away. But, furniture often comes at a high price. And if you are creating a home for the first time, a furniture sale will always be a welcome sight.

That is why we keep track of all of the best furniture deals throughout the year. We know the best times to shop and where to find the prettiest furniture at the most affordable prices, including Amazon Prime Day Furniture picks. It can be hard working out whether to take the plunge when you see a deal, so we have shared not only the best live sales, but also advice on when you should buy – and whether to wait – in our tips below.

So, if you have been lusting after a West Elm dresser, or have your eye on a multifunctional sleeper sofa from Wayfair, you have come to the right place.

Best furniture deals

When is the best time to shop furniture deals?

Industry experts think late spring or summer are the best times to buy furniture. Prices can be lower due to stock rotation, and there are plenty of sales to shop including Memorial Day and July 4th. This is obviously a great time to buy outdoor furniture, but it isn't exclusive to patio furniture. Beds and other large indoor items are all up for grabs.

The other great time is November. Black Friday falls on the last Friday of the month, a term coined to denote the day after Thanksgiving when retailers cut prices for the biggest sale event of the year. We're seeing Black Friday furniture offers starting earlier than ever, with some going on at the beginning of November. The weekend of Black Friday sales is followed by Cyber Monday, which sees sales that run through to the start of December. 

Of course, it's good news for anyone struggling for space over Christmas and the New Year party season, as you can find great deals on extra seating, a sleeper sofa, or an extendable dining table before the rest of the holiday unfolds.

Once Black Friday is over, there is then a big push to clear stock around the New Year so check out the after Christmas sales, too.

Are Memorial Day furniture sales good?

Memorial Day is on the last Monday of May, and this year falls on May 27. The day commemorates those who have died in U.S. military service, and many use it as a time to visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their respects. For some, it has also now come to symbolize the unofficial start of summer, with many people taking time off on Memorial Day, to catch up with family and friends, with retailers offering seasonal discounts.

Although a time for getting the yard ready for summer, indoor furniture sees big discounts too as some stores clear space for outdoor stock. As it isn't considered prime time for getting cosy inside, you are likely to get some pretty good discounts on everything for couches to beds.

Dozens of top home retailers, including Apt2B, Burrow, and Castlery amongst others offer Memorial Day savings on everything from coffee tables to the best outdoor furniture, so it's a great time to take advantage of low prices.

Are Black Friday furniture deals worth it?

As mentioned before, Black Friday is a key furniture sale time. This is more because nearly every retailer has their biggest discounts now, rather than it being a key time for furniture. But, because of the seasonality, we do see some great offers on dining tables, beds and even outdoor furniture as retailers can't hold summer stock for much longer.

We don't think it is worth waiting for Black Friday if another sale event is round the corner though. As always, a good deal is only good if it is something you really want, so if you have your eyes on a gorgeous credenza for your hallway, or the Alaskan King bed you didn't think you ever afford, strike when you see one you love.

Not getting enough shut-eye? The best pillows will help you drift off to Neverland—and comfortably too. You want to wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, don't you? 

If you're continually hitting "snooze" early in the morning, a variety of factors could be at play: dooming-scrolling TikTok into the early hours of the morning, too much caffeine during the day, etc. Oftentimes, we overlook the most likely culprit, a.k.a. an uncomfortably flat or lumpy pillow. And there's no time like the present to change that.

Whether you're eyeing memory foam pillows or considering bamboo pillows — there's something out there for everyone. Our team has literally slept on the job to find pillows matched to your sleep position, lifestyle, and budget. Pillows start from under $50, and go all the way to $199 for that first-class trip to Snoozeville.

The best pillows in 2026: how we chose, what's on sale, and more

All your sleep needs are right here. From discounted purchases to the best brands for all types of sleepers, our guide will put you one step closer to a restful night. (No more counting sheep!)  Just make sure to keep your memory foam pillows clean for the best night's sleep.

The best pillows in 2026

What to consider when choosing a pillow

Follow these five simple steps to find the very best pillow for you, because finding the best match for your needs is essential to sleeping well. You can find more helpful details in our guide to choosing a pillow.

1. How do you sleep?
Side sleepers will need a plump, softer pillow: think cushy fill or softer memory foam. Stomach sleepers will need firmer, thinner pillows to hold their necks in perfect alignment. Back sleepers can find comfort on both sides of the spectrum with a medium-soft or medium-firm pillow or even foam pillows that align with the contours of their necks.

Think about where your pillow will sit beneath your head while you sleep. If you prefer having it fully beneath your head, you'll have the best success with a low- or medium-loft pillow. If you sleep with your pillow only partially beneath your head, you may want a pillow with a higher loft to feel supported.

2. How thick do you like your pillow?
This is called pillow loft, and you might see it written on the side of the packaging. Experiment at home to get your preferred thickness right. Low-loft pillows are around three inches thick, medium-loft pillows are three to five inches thick, and high-loft pillows are at least five inches thick.

3. It's what's on the inside that counts
Natural fillings, which include duck and goose feathers and down, feel soft and luxurious, giving you that extra-cozy sensation of sinking into your pillow. They, along with sheep’s wool, are naturally heat-retaining, which makes them ideal if you get chilly at night. However, both options may need regular fluffing to maintain their loft. These aren't great for anyone who's in constant pursuit of the cool side of the pillow, though. Nor suitable for those who adopt a vegan lifestyle. For an eco-friendly, non-animal-based option, consider fillings such as cotton, buckwheat hull, Kapok seed pod, and bamboo.

If you like the softness of the down but not the heat, or you suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions, you can get synthetic fiber or gel fillings that mimic the feel. Speaking of allergies, pillow manufacturers are very much up to speed with the needs of their users these days, so you can expect to find anti-allergy fillings and coverings for a reasonable price.

For those of us who need more support in bed or just prefer the feel of a firm pillow, there are latex and memory foam to consider. Helpful for sufferers of neck or back pain, they keep the spine and muscles correctly elevated and aligned for deep sleep and a pain-free morning. However, these may have a strong odor, which will disappear once it's had time to 'air' out. On the contrary, if moldability is a priority for you (for example, if you like to fold your pillow in half), then consider a shredded pillow filling.

Usually, most experts would recommend replacing your pillows after two years, unless they have become visibly worn before then. So buying a new pillow ensures you are sleeping on something supportive and clean, which is especially important if you suffer from allergies. Unfortunately, some covers and fill materials will degrade quicker than others so be sure to fluff your pillows regularly, and spot-check them for any wear and tear.

4. Good to know
Some of us prefer to sleep with two pillows (even though sleep experts recommend sleeping with one). Depending on whether you're team one or two — or maybe even three! — consider carefully which one you want to be your top pillow and how deep your pillow will be. Also, if you sleep next to a partner, what you find comfortable might not work for your other half. Your pillow choices can and should be entirely independent. Stomach sleepers might even benefit from sleeping without a pillow.

While not directly connected to comfort, here are some other things to consider:

How easy is it to source a sham? Some pillows (especially those that are aimed at those with back or neck pain), aren't made to fit conventional cases. If you're someone who likes their bedding accessories to coordinate, this may be an issue.

Can you wash pillows in the washing machine? The good news is that some pillows are so low-maintenance and don't need to be thrown in the washer (only their outer covers do). These removable sleeves often have a zip closure so you can remove and replace them with ease. Specifically, in the case of machine-washing memory foam pillows: don't. In 9 out of 10 cases, it's better to spot clean, hand wash (carefully), and don't even think about tossing it in the dryer. We've even got some innovative pillow-cleaning hacks for when your head support starts smelling a little sweaty. Our guide on how to wash pillows offers expert advice and tips on how to keep your pillows clean.

Price: Budgets differ across households, so how much you choose to spend on a pillow is entirely up to you. Duck and goose down requires careful processing, and this is often reflected in the price. On the other hand, polyester and synthetic options are far more accessible to those with tighter purse strings. FYI, we've got a separate guide on the best affordable pillows if you're feeling the pinch.

We'd always recommend investing in your sleep, but we know that not everyone has an unlimited budget for pillows. If you do have a chunk to spend, then our top tip is to splurge on one fancy pillow that suits your needs and pick up a cheaper one to put underneath. (That's if you need two, of course.)

Otherwise, there are plenty of ways you can upgrade your sleep set-up without having to overspend on a pillow. Try purchasing a cozy comforter or a fresh set of sheets. Our edit of the best bedding brands will help you find a brand that caters to your budget. 

Noise: Yes, really. While you might not immediately associate pillows with sound, rustling from pillow filling can be distracting when you're trying to drift off. If this is the case, go for a pillow with solid or densely-packed stuffing.

How we test pillows

We're currently testing a whole bunch of pillows at Real Homes with help from the whole team. This way, we can get a verdict from all types of sleepers, whether they tend to sleep on their side, front, back, or even if they sleep hot or cold. These pillows are tested for a minimum of four weeks and during this time we make sure that we don't change anything else about our bedroom setup, apart from fresh sheets whenever needed, of course. 

While testing these pillows, we consider everything, including price, care, how easy they are to clean, and comfort, which is key. We try to sleep on them in different positions to get a good feel. We recommend each pillow based on the way that certain people sleep, so what is good for a side sleeper probably won't be the best for a front sleeper — unless it's adjustable!

Sometimes, we are unable to call in a particular pillow and rely on online reviews from customers who have bought the product instead. We note the good, bad, and ugly so you can make an informed decision and spend your money well. Given the personal nature of pillows, some items are non-refundable so we are careful only to recommend items we think you will want to keep.

Meet our pillow testers below:

FAQs

Looking to give your sleep sanctuary some TLC? Here's how to give your bedroom a refresh. 

Searching for the best cooling mattress topper? Our sweatiest sleepers have tested temperature-reducing toppers and pads to confirm these products do reduce night-time perspiration. 

Adding a temperature-regulating topper to your mattress will make a world of difference, whether the mattress underneath is breathable or not. A good topper can make a world of difference if you share a bed, live in a warm climate, or both.

The best mattress toppers in this guide are infused with gel, graphite, or innovative cooling technology to help you dissipate heat throughout the night. Prices start from $89.99 for a twin topper and go up to $469 for a Cali King option.

The best cooling mattress topper and pads to buy

The quick list

The best cooling mattress pad

Despite its thinness, the Slumber Cloud Core Mattress Pad takes a proactive approach to temperature control. It absorbs and stores excess heat when temperatures are too warm, and releases heat when temperatures are too cold. 

Made with NASA-developed technology originally used to regulate the temperature in space suits, it's rated our best mattress protector for cooling, too. The quilted HDPE and polyester blend cover holds a lining treated with Outlast technology — a Certified Space Technology by the Space Foundation.

Thousands of reviewers have credited it for reducing (and even eliminating) their night sweats and our reviewer can vouch for this. Slumber Cloud explain their material features thousands of microscopic beads called Thermocules, and each one is set to a specific temperature. This counteracts any temperature fluctuations you might experience. As your temperature increases, the beads absorb and store any excess heat away from your body to keep you cool.

It also offers a crinkle-free waterproof barrier between you and your mattress. Kaitlin found it stayed put all night long and she liked that it fits mattresses up to 20" deep. The price is justified, in our eyes. But, if your mattress is past its sleep-by date, we'd suggest opting for a thick, foam topper. 

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The best cooling mattress topper for back sleepers

As a back sleeper, our contributing editor, Rose Cain, commended the Parachute mattress topper. It's marshmallowy-soft, filled with hypoallergenic, vegan-friendly fill (ideal for people who with allergies or asthma), and has a lightweight and breathable cotton sateen shell. 

Though it might appear squishy, this topper will mask all of the sins of an old rental mattress. Unlike some of the other cooling mattresses in this guide — this bed accessory won't budge, thanks to its baffle box construction that helps the insides stay put. Because of this, it doesn't come with elastic straps.

Rose tested this cooling mattress topper in the peak of a 100°F Texan summer, so we're convinced if it will work in extreme weather, it should be fit for purpose in milder conditions. 

She warns front sleepers should find an alternate topper as it won't be firm enough. And, it doesn't appear to have a trial period. So if you snooze (and aren't satisfied with it) — you might lose out.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars in our Parachute mattress topper review

The best cooling mattress topper for all sleeping positions

Rated our very best mattress topper for hot sleepers and keeping cool, this affordable pick might just be the answer to all of your bedroom woes. Incredibly cooling and cushioning with a thick memory foam layer, this topper will transform your sweaty sleep experience and it will make your mattress even more comfortable. Its ergonomic design accommodates any body weight and sleep position — your spine will stay perfectly aligned no matter what. But, if you prefer a softer base we'd probably suggest that you avoid it as it's quite firm.

This memory foam topper has been infused with gel that is ventilated with purpose-made holes to improve airflow. The washable bamboo cover is also breathable, helping to keep your body temperature neutral. It fits on your mattress thanks to thick straps that keep it in place.

The medium-thick Subrtex gel-infused topper helped our tester Alex Shimalla sleep sweat-free and gave her super old bed a new lease of life. She noted little to no motion transfer, and when sleeping on this topper she woke up cold (this is not a complaint!).

Rated 4.5 stars out of 5 in our Subrtex Memory Foam Mattress Topper review

The best cooling mattress topper for pressure relief

The TEMPUR-ADAPT markets itself as having a "breathable, high-stretch knit cover with superior moisture-wicking technology to help you stay cool and comfortable", but what does this mean to the everyday sleeper? Our reviewer, Paige Cerulli, answers that.

As someone who lives with chronic pain, she noticed it reduced discomfort and eased her pressure points. While many mattress pads seduce you with promises of a buttery sinking-in feeling, this one pledges to support you and reduce motion transfer. Handy if you sleep next to your partner. The topper also has four elastic straps if you or your companion are particularly restless sleepers. It's also helpful to know that this accessory is dust mite and allergen-resistant.

Do look out for special offers and gifts when buying this cooling mattress topper. At the time of checking, TEMPUR had a 20% off promotion, plus a complimentary cloud pillow and sleep mask (worth $118).

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in our TEMPUR-Adapt mattress topper review

The best organic cooling mattress topper

If you're looking for a deep mattress topper that's cooling and organic — then stop your search. Along with your organic mattress (if you have one), this topper will keep you cool all night long. If you have a mattress that's too firm for you, this is a great buy. 

Our tester Louise used it on her landlord-provided mattress. She's a side sleeper and usually prefers a firmer base, but she noticed that it made her medium-firm mattress feel a lot softer and fresher.

The blend of cross-cut memory foam and microfiber offers superior breathability (versus solid or shredded memory foam toppers) albeit a little lumpy on the first couple of nights. But once the foam has molded to your body it'll feel like sleeping on a cloud.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars in our Coop Retreat Mattress Topper review

The best value cooling mattress topper

According to our contributing editor, Camryn Rabideau, this gel memory foam mattress topper will make your bed feel as plush as a pillow top and will stop you from overheating.

While she awarded it a silver badge, it certainly split the two-person crowd. As a side sleeper, she felt it provided inadequate support. However, her back-sleeping boyfriend says he had "the best sleep in months". She liked that the Jacquard cover can be removed and machine-washed for easy maintenance. She warns that, unlike toppers with straps, this topper does tend to shift about, taking your best bed sheets along for the ride. 

Rated 4 out of 5 stars in our Zinus ultra cool gel mattress topper review

FAQs

What is the difference between a mattress topper and a pad?

A mattress topper is designed to add depth and extra comfort to your mattress, while keeping you cool, whereas a mattress pad is super thin so will only keep you cool without adding an extra layer to your mattress.

Do cooling mattress toppers really cool?

It may initially seem gimmicky, but a good cooling topper uses impressive temperature control technology and naturally breathable materials to create a cool-to-the-touch sleep surface. Most mattress brands that offer toppers will have sleep trials, warranties, and free returns policies to make the most of anyway, so you can try if you're not yet fully convinced.  

Are cooling mattress toppers worth it?

A mattress topper is cheaper than investing in a brand-new mattress. But if you're seriously overheating, it's worth saving up for a breathable mattress with temperature regulation and cooling at its core. Do consult your doctor or medical practitioner if you think you have hyperhidrosis.

How we test cooling mattress toppers

To test mattresses and toppers, our in-house and contributing editors slept on them for at least two weeks and used the following criteria:

Meet the team:

We've got lots of recommendations on what to do to help you sleep in the heat. If you're in need of some serious cooling, renters are turning to this viral portable air conditioner to cool their apartments.

In need of a new mattress? If you are a side sleeper, then opt for a soft-medium mattress, like this Brooklyn Bedding hybrid mattress. If you are a stomach sleeper you want to go for a firm or medium-firm mattress, like this Helix Midnight Luxe mattress.

Looking for a new bed frame too? We love this wooden bed frame from Zinus for a mid-century look. Finish off your bedroom set-up with more of our So Chic Awards winners like this Nolah mattress topper, Panda bamboo pillow, cotton sheets from The Company Store, and Mattress Firm's cloud comforter.

In the market for one of the best storage headboards? Lost books, chargers, and all those other items you thought were gone forever tend to appear years later, usually somewhere under the bed. Certainly, this was the case for me, until very recently, when I caved and bought a storage headboard. And it has truly changed the game. 

Now, my bedroom essentials slot neatly into the shelving above my pillow, thanks wholly to the double-threat par excellence's power to free up space and bookend my bed. Sure, I could just use a nightstand or some separate shelves — but these alone won't cut it. I'm forever in need of more space in my apartment.

A storage headboard is the ultimate bedroom storage idea that I'll never stop shouting about. If you rent, you've probably invested in the best bed you can afford but still need an upright board to prevent neckache (and ensure your best pillows don't go M.I.A).

If this resonates with you, then you might be entitled to the joys of bookcase headboards, which simultaneously supply panache and tidy one's beloved chamber with ease. To help you out, I've done the honor of selecting only the finest picks, each chosen to chime with a not-so-fine budget typical to first-time renters and buyers alike. Houseplants, unopened letters, phones, and such prone-to-go-missing items, this is your new home from here on out.

Just to manage your purse's expectations (because we know furniture can be spendy), the cheapest starts from under $90. But even if you've got the budget to splash out on one of the best bookcase headboards, you won't spend more than $400 (unless you have a California King).

The best storage headboards for saving space

Our pick of the best storage headboards

Things to consider when buying a storage headboard

Not all storage headboards are made equal. So here are some things you should look out for when choosing one

• Material: Engineered wood is a lightweight option, but solid wood may offer more durability. Saying that real wood tends to be on the more expensive side.
• Installation: How easy is it to fit onto the bed and/or wall? Do you need an extra pair of hands? FYI, some retailers offer their professional handyman services for a charge.
• Colorway: Storage headboards are often available in an array of colors and effects (including imitation wood) to suit your interior scheme
• Compartments: The number and size you require will depend on your personal needs, and what you need to fit inside these cubbies.
• Special features: Power outlets and USB ports might be useful if you like to charge your phone, or work from your bed.

How we chose the best storage headboards

Sometimes it's not possible to call in large furniture (like these storage headboards), so we've relied on star ratings and customer feedback on retailer websites in this instance.

FAQs

Where to buy a storage headboard

Didn't find the right storage headboard for your bedroom above? There are plenty more where those came from — see where else you can find a storage headboard online:

• Article storage headboards
• Ashley storage headboards
• Amazon storage headboards
• Bed, Bath & Beyond storage headboards
• IKEA storage headboards
• Kohl's storage headboards
• La Redoute storage headboards
• Macy's storage headboard
• The Home Depot storage headboards
• Target storage headboards
• Urban Outfitters storage headboards
• Walmart storage headboards
• Wayfair storage headboards

You sussed out storage, but if you're still losing sleep, you might want to invest in the best mattress or a good mattress topper. We've put together a tried-and-tested guide for both items.

We scoped out celebrities' favorite candles, and we must say, their aromas of choice are just as enticing as their looks. If you can use an upgrade in your space, we definitely suggest copying the likes of Ashley Tisdale and Selena Gomez (to name a few). 

Whether you're craving something cozy and woodsy, or if you fancy a floral find year-round, your go-to actors, singers, and fashionistas have you covered. There are plenty of fragrances and brands to choose from. Even better? Some of these delightful candles are part of Black Friday home deals. (*Adds to cart*)

Ready to get your home fragrance game on? If you need us, we'll be at checkout. Happy to pass along some matches if you need. 

Celebrities' favorite candles: what you need to know

Things people with nice-smelling small homes always do — or should we say celebs with nice-smelling homes — is select a signature aroma to fill their space. Ready to find yours?

(Psst: since we know you're going to find a lot to love, let the experts help you learn how to care for candles and make them last longer. You won't be sorry!) 

1. Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez, who just styled her Rare Beauty office to luxe perfection, revealed to Into The Gloss that she's all in favor of burning candles throughout her home and even her tour bus.  

"I want them to be lit every night, because it just feels so good," she told the outlet. "I’ll light them in the piano room where we always have jam sessions or even during the daytime when I’m doing my makeup."

Her favorites? Voluspa Mokara and Voluspa Saijo Persimmon. She's also quite fond of Le Labo, but considers it a splurge.

2. Ashley Tisdale

In an all-too-relatable social media post, Tisdale jokingly showed off her candle collection, while mimicking a line from Kim Kardashian about the "full-time, time-consuming job" that is collecting and burning scents. Though she doesn't name anything in particular, we catch a few Diptyque and P.F. Candle Co. jars in her dresser — a.k.a. a few of our favorites. 

3. Vanessa Hudgens

Given that Vanessa Hudgens' Halloween entryway was a spooktacular statement this October, we're not surprised that the autumnal spirit enjoys making her home smell like fall. 

"I started decorating at the end of August and got out all of the fall scented candles," she told Allure about her seasonal prep. "Obviously, Halloween movies come on constantly. And then the wardrobe changes. I literally got dressed this morning, and was like, 'It's time to start wearing all black.' It’s time. I just love the whole energy of the season, the sights, the sounds, and the smells."

4. Amanda Seyfried

Amanda Seyfried is all about the sweets — particularly in candle form. In conversation with Refinery 29 she revealed Yankee Candle in Buttercream is her beloved pick. (Small kitchen ideas, anyone?)

"I mean, who doesn’t put a vanilla-scented candle out in their kitchen," she asked the outlet. "[Those scents] relate to the child in me, which will live on forever. That’s also probably the pregnancy talking; I’ll blame it on that."

And when speaking to Town & Country, she revealed that wintry scents are also her go-to's: "I get really excited to start using pine candles. It's as basic as that."

5. Taylor Swift

According to our sister site, Homes & Gardens, the biggest pop star in the world fancies Le Labo's Santal 26 (above) as well as Byredo's Tree House. Die-hard Swifties also noticed while watching Netflix's Miss Americana that Taylor is also a big fan of Anthropologie's signature scent. Girl, same. 

6. Jennifer Garner

When revealing her must-have essentials to People, the 13 Going on 30 star said, "I love a good candle. Who doesn't?" 

She's particularly fond of The Little Markey Candle in Peony, which provides living wage employment to women artisans who were formerly refugees. We love enjoying a good scent and, most importantly, supporting a good cause. 

You're also going to want to take the star's baking recs, too. Jennifer Garner's KitchenAid stand mixer is the perfect appliance for Christmas cookies, plus it's on sale for Black Friday!

7. Hilary Duff

In conversation with New York Magazine's The Strategist in early 2023, Hilary Duff revealed she can't do without a cozy throw, a plant, and of course, a candle. 

"I’m constantly buying candles, and I was first drawn to Mar Mar’s cute packaging," she told the outlet. "The Other Desert Cities candle is the one I’m into right now."

It's a combination of agarwood, mesquite, and santal, plus it was hand-poured in Los Angeles with organizations Light 4 Life and The Exceptional Children's Foundation, which helps provide employment to adults with disabilities. It's another candle that smells good and does good, just like Garner's pick. 

Recently, the Lizzie McGuire star has gotten into home fragrances as well with the launch of her line, Below 60° which includes a 100% natural air fragrance device that intends to keep your space filled with the "cleanest, purest, freshest air." The three scents currently available are Mint Disco on Ice, If Citrus Were a Feeling, and Vanilla Buys a Timeshare in Paradise. More will debut in 2024. 

For more ways to explore your favorite home fragrances, consider the best reed diffusers and stock up on our favorite places where you can buy essential oils. And, since we're embracing the holiday season, we'd be remiss not to tell you about the delightful Christmas candles and Christmas reed diffusers we've been eyeing (a.k.a. a lot). 

Finding the best Amazon living room furniture can be a tricky task, as there are many thousands of pieces on the site. Our guide will help you find key pieces that look stylish and sophisticated, without you having to scroll for hours.

When decorating your living room, the best page to visit is Amazon's living room furniture page. If you’re a Prime member, you can also enjoy next-day delivery on most of these too, making redecorating a total breeze.

Amazon also has great discounts throughout the year, including on sales days such as Amazon Prime Day, which is coming up this July. I've spent hours going through the site, looking for the best Amazon living room furniture buys that are chic, highly rated by shoppers who completely fell in love with them and have great features.

How to choose the best Amazon living room furniture

Looking to find your own living room furniture? Here are a few things to consider when shopping the site: 

• Size: Check the measurements of the furniture you’re looking at buying, and measure it up against the space you have. If the size isn’t listed (which sometimes isn’t on Amazon), it’s a good idea to be wary about purchasing.
• Ratings: Look at the average star rating of the product and check how many it has. It’s a good idea to make sure the product has an average of four stars and plenty of written reviews from verified buyers.
• Labels: Amazon often labels products as its choice or as bestsellers. This is a good indication that Amazon itself recommends the product, as the site hosts lots of external sellers.

Ready to get started? My carefully curated living room furniture list exclusively from Amazon includes a range of pieces from Amazon’s best furniture brands, that have high-star ratings and glowing shopper reviews. 

Where there are cons to the item, I've paid close attention to patterns of review comments and included them in my product descriptions to help you make an informed choice and provided advice to counter or remedy the snag if it happens to you.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

The best Amazon living room seats

These living room seats are as dreamy to relax on as they look, with trendy boucle, tub chairs, multi-functional sleeper sofas perfect for small spaces that need to double furniture items up on purpose, and comfy, affordable recliners.

The best Amazon TV stands

Living in a rental or don’t want to mount your TV to the wall? Stands are useful for displaying your TV and adding extra storage space, and can make a stand-out focus for the room, too. 

The best Amazon coffee tables

A stylish coffee table will draw the eye to wherever it's placed. My top three picks also bring vital living room storage that's not only plentiful, but largely hidden so you can hide away all your clutter and bits and bobs when friends and family pop over.

How we chose these Amazon living room furniture pieces

Unfortunately, we don’t have the space to call in thousands of Amazon furniture items buys to test ourselves — hey, we only live in small spaces! Instead, I have spent hours looking carefully through Amazon living room furniture listings, and picked out products with an average of four-star ratings and above, and ones with over 500 reviews from genuine buyers, taking particular note of their comments, any pattern of review snags, the item's specifications and the brand's shopfront information.

FAQs

Is Amazon a good place to buy living room furniture?

Amazon is a great place to buy living room furniture, as it sells a range of different products from numerous brands — from smaller independents to bigger brands. This makes it easy to find exactly what you want. 

The retailer also has a robust refund policy, and easy return processes in place so if something you've ordered for your home isn't quite right, you can start the return right from the app, or from your Amazon account. Simply navigate to orders, click on the item concerned and follow the link for return. You will often have an option to contact the seller directly, which makes it really easy to fix a small issue such as a missing component or to report damage and get a partial refund if you're happy to keep the damaged item.

Is Amazon living room furniture well-made?

This will depend on the product — be sure to check the materials and read the reviews before buying, to make sure you pick a piece that’s well-made and suitable for long-term usage. 

We generally look for items that have at least 4.5 star ratings, but will make exceptions for 4.0 star rated items if it has a lot of features we love.

Be thorough and check the pictures, materials, any videos of the items in the listing as this often shows the quality of the product better than static imagery, and pay attention to customer reviews and questions the brand has answered directly. There's often great tid-bits of information not originally listed which can become a factor in whether or not you choose to pick that item.

Now you’ve sorted out your living room, you might want to move on to shopping for a different room in the house — the office, perhaps? These Amazon office chairs are the best for supporting your back and sitting comfortably. 

Adding some additional small entryway lighting is the best way to add some ambiance to your tiny space. First impressions are everything, so make a great one with some of our expert ideas.  

Whether your entryway is a hidden corner behind your door or has an awkward layout, there are plenty of lighting options to create a better ambiance as soon as you or your guests walk through your front door. 

Here are some great small entryway ideas to set the lighting mood from the moment you set foot in your home. 

Small entryway lighting ideas according to experts 

Even in the smallest of spaces, entryways can always use a lighting upgrade. These are the tips that experts recommend for decorating a small entryway.

1. Highlight your decor

Vitaliy Vinogradov, an interior designer and lighting expert with Modern.Place believes that although lighting is often an overlooked element of design, it can make a big impact on the look and feel of your small space. 

Their advice? “Install wall sconces or pendant lights, like these paper lanterns from Urban Outfitters, on either side of a mirror or artwork to spread a warm and welcoming glow,” he says. This also allows your decor to be highlighted at the entrance. 

“These vertical lighting fixtures not only add a layer of ambient light to the space but also serve as decorative accents, adding a touch of sophistication and character.” 

2. Add a chandelier

Vinogradov believes in captivating guests as soon as they step through the door with some dramatic lighting ideas.

“Leave a lasting impression,” he says. “Indulge in the charm of a dazzling chandelier, like this light fixture from Anthropologie. Choose a design that complements the scale of the space while incorporating your personal style.” 

3. Try a funky floor lamp

For Vinogradov, adding depth and character in one go is simple with a dynamic floor lamp, like this lamp from West Elm. “Incorporating a stylish floor lamp,” he says. “These decorative lights can serve as focal points, illuminating dark corners and creating a welcoming atmosphere.” 

When choosing a design, Vinogradov’s advice is to choose one that will work well with your personal aesthetic. “Choose a design that complements your overall interior style, be it modern, industrial, or eclectic.” 

4. Add visual space with a mirror

Michael-Chase Strollo, Principal Designer at Strollo Interiors and Director of Dash Fine Arts, understands how to make a space feel bigger. Strollo’s advice is simple. 

“Hang a mirror strategically in your entryway to reflect light and make the space feel more open and bright,” he says. “Use natural light from windows to your advantage by using sheer curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to enter.” 

5. Light up your go-to items

When it comes to leaving and entering your space every day, finding a place that is well-lit for your go-to items is necessary. When it comes to finding a space for your belongings, it's great to find a space that is well-lit, whether by small lamps, like this mushroom lamp from Urban Outfitters, or overhead lighting. 

Feng Shui expert Victor Cheung also has a solution for dark spaces. “Under-cabinet lighting. If you have cabinets or shelves in your entryway, under-cabinet lighting can be a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice,” Cheung says. 

“These low-profile fixtures can be discreetly installed beneath cabinets, providing accent lighting to highlight decorative items or simply illuminate the workspace for tasks like sorting mail or keys.” 

6. Use a graceful table lamp

For Vinogradov, one simple solution is one that could be overlooked. “Graceful table lamps,” he says. “Place them on console tables or small entryway benches to not only enhance visibility but also create a warm ambiance as you welcome your loved ones.” 

Meet the experts

Small entryway lighting buys

FAQs

When it comes to lighting up your life, start with your entryway. A space that should be welcoming for you and your guests each time you arrive or leave, your apartment entryway is a great way to leave an impression. With plenty of design choices and styles of lighting out there, there are more than a few ways to create an entryway that welcomes all.  

To be totally honest, I think cleaning supplies subscriptions are the way forward. Staying on top of cleaning isn't always an easy process, and it gets more difficult when you end up running out of the product that you need when you need it. Anyone else running to Target in the middle of the night for a dish soap emergency?

That's where a cleaning supplies subscription service that delivers the perfect solution right to your door comes in. With a subscription, you don't need to worry about adding cleaning supplies to your weekly grocery run or lug home big bottles of detergent. On top of being convenient, many subscription services also offer significant discounts and reduce plastic waste.

Whether you want all the best cleaning supplies you could ever need delivered on a specific schedule, you're looking to investigate some greener alternatives to your current products, or you just want a cleaning solution with ingredients you can name, we have you covered! 

Best cleaning supplies subscriptions  

I compiled all the best cleaning supplies subscriptions so you never have to make those emergency runs to Target for dish soap when you've run out. Now you'll never have an excuse for not having cute cleaning supplies on hand.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Grove Collaborative

Grove specifically aims to help folks cut down on plastic waste and delivers sustainable brands for eco-friendly cleaning. They boast over 200 brands including Seventh Generation, Burt's Bees, Mrs. Meyers, and even their own home care brand Grove Co.

You'll find options for glass receptacles so that you can mix your own cleaner with water and concentrate, rather than buying a new one each time. Their prices are also super affordable compared to many brick-and-mortar locations, making them perfect for anyone balancing a budget.

Unlike many other subscription options, you'll pick the brands and products that you need delivered, along with the frequency of deliveries. This means you can ensure you have what you need, when you need it. Subscriptions can also be updated, changed, or edited at any time, making it easy to add new must-haves. With options for deliveries every 4 weeks, 6 weeks, or 8 weeks, you can also make sure that different items arrive precisely when you need them.

With options that cover everything from pet supplies to personal care, Grove Co. has tons of options for an earth-friendly home. By allowing you to customize and subscribe to the crucial items for your home, you know you can always access the brands you love, at prices that can't be beat. 

Blueland

For anyone who considers their carbon footstep, single-use plastic is one of the largest problems folks run into. Blueland delivers stellar cleaning products for the home that are all based around a tablet and reusable bottle system that eliminates single-use plastics, without compromising on the cleaning ability of their product.

To start, you'll pick a starter kit. There are seventeen options to choose between, and they cover everything from just glass and mirror all the way up to their Clean Suite Kit which has everything you need to get started with bathroom cleaning supplies, dishwashing, hand soap, multi-surface cleaner, laundry, and more.

When you pick out your starter set, you will get enough cleaning tablets for each surface, along with a Forever Bottle, Forever Tin, or Forever Shaker. You can outright buy the kit one time, but this is also when you have the option to subscribe to the tablets that make up the cleaning product supplied by Blueland. You have the option of deliveries every three months, four months, five months, or six months. 

You can also choose specific items to get refills on, at the same frequency if you only want to keep getting specific products. No matter what products you subscribe to, there is a 10% discount when subscribing, and they always come in the same eco-friendly packaging that Blueland is known for. All of their packaging is recyclable or compostable, if not both. 

Branch Basics

Not all cleaners are made equal, and not all people will react the same to cleaning agents brought into their homes. If you've found yourself having reactions to the harsh agents in other cleaners, then Branch Basics may be the first cleaner that keeps you in mind.

Branch Basics uses one concentrate that is broken down into specific sizes for use around the house. You can pick up all-purpose bottles, bathroom bottles, streak-free bottles, and even laundry bottles right from Branch Basics, to ensure they're diluting the concentrate at the correct levels. The perfect addition to your cleaning caddy.

The concentrate itself is plant-based with natural water softeners and flower extracts and is a gentle but thorough cleaner safe for skin and surfaces all over your home. The Branch Basics Oxygen Boost is also a powerful boost to whiten and brighten fabrics or surfaces that have been stained. 

Clean Cult

Clean Cult delivers top-notch cleaning products inside non-plastic containers to help break the reliance on plastic where it isn't needed. Their line of products includes hand soaps, cleaning sprays, laundry detergent, dish soaps & tablets, and bars of soap that you can add to your dorm cleaning supplies line-up.

Their cleaning supplies are all packaged inside paper containers that look like milk cartons. This means that the containers are biodegradable, and 100% recyclable, meaning you won't have to worry about them moldering away in a landfill once you've used them. The line of glass bottles available also features a silicon base to help keep them from slipping and are shatter-proof.

When you make a purchase from Clean Cult, you can choose between a one-time purchase or setting up a subscription then and there. A subscription will net you a 5% discount on recurring purchases, and they can be set to deliver anywhere from monthly, to every six months.

Clean Cult is also serious about the ingredients they use in their products. Every product listing has an ingredient list, making it easy for you to tell exactly what is coming into your home. For families with allergies, or environmental sensitivities this can mean the difference between a good clean and an outbreak of hives. You won't ever find phthalates, phosphates, SLEs, SLs, dyes, or parabens in their cleaning products, making Clean Cult a line of products you can trust in your home.

Dropps

Dropps has two lines of products, one for laundry and another for the kitchen. They have an eco-friendly laundry detergent, fabric softener, and even an oxi-booster, all of which are in a pod form. The detergent and fabric softener are both available in five different fragrances, and all the pods come in quantities of 64, 128, and 192.

Dropps also has a full line of kitchen products to continue cutting down on plastic waste in your home. They start with a pod-based dish detergent, which is available in three fragrances, and comes in quantities of 64, 128, and 192.

They also have a line of dish spray, and foaming hand soap. Both of these options require a starter kit, which comes with glass bottles to be filled up. The dish spray uses a concentrate that you'll add to the starter bottle, and each bottle of concentrate is good for up to six refills. Their foaming hand wash still comes in a pod and can be snagged in three different fragrances in quantities of 64, 128, or 192.

Whichever product of Dropps you snag, you'll be able to set up a recurring subscription or just grab what you need for a one-time purchase. Subscriptions will save you a whopping 25% and will deliver every four months. Dropps also has a 30-day risk-free trial, so if it doesn't work for you then you can get a full refund by reaching out to their team via email. 

Force of Nature

Trying to figure out which cleaner is best for which part of your home can be a headache that nobody wants to deal with. Rather than buying a cleaner for the windows, another for mirrors, and yet another for surfaces, Force of Nature delivers a one-solution-fits-all cleaner that is easy and safe to use in any room of your home. 

Force of Nature uses an electrolyzer to combine water with the small activator capsules in order to make the cleaning solution. It's then good for up to two weeks and can be used on any surface of your home including the carpets. The one caveat here is that there is no whitening solution in the chemical makeup of Force of Nature, so it isn't going to be great at lifting stains like hard water.

We recommend that you kick things off with a starter kit with handy cleaning tools since it includes the cleaning bottle, electrolyzer, and enough capsules to get started. The only thing you'll need to grab on a regular basis is the activator capsules, and you can set up deliveries monthly, every 2 months, every 3 months, or every 6 months. Capsules are available in packs of 24 or 50.

Force of Nature also sells a variety of reusable cleaning tools, glass spray bottles, and even travel bottles so that your favorite cleaning solution can roam with you, no matter where that happens to be.

Public Goods

Public Goods knows that people are always going to purchase the things they want and need for their homes. Their goal is to deliver a healthy, sustainable, and affordable option that allows people to make a choice that is net-positive, without sacrificing anything along the way. They create all of the products sold, and their product lines are way more than just cleaning supplies.

Instead of subscribing to get certain items delivered, when you subscribe to Public Goods you're getting a membership to their wholesale prices. Think of it like an organic big-box store without the lines, the sensory overload, or the need to fight traffic to get there. Everything they sell is eco-friendly and packaged to be recycled when you're done with it. Best of all since Public Goods sells so many different types of items, you can do much of your shopping all at once, cutting down on the amount of boxes arriving at your home.

Their cleaning supplies are all plant-based and their dedication to sustainability means that you won't find a bunch of useless extra packaging here. You can rest assured that the products delivered by Public Goods are safe to use and that you're supporting an ethical company trying to eliminate plastic waste in whatever ways they can.

Puracy

Puracy has a number of different products to choose from including laundry detergent, surface cleaners, shampoo, and dish soap. If there's a cleaning solution you need to pull off a cleaning hack, chances are they have a plant-based option that can get the job done.

They also have a unique new line of products called clean cans. These are aluminum cans, filled with the labeled cleaning solution, that pop right into a bottle and can be used immediately. When you're done with them just drop the can into your recycling and open the next one! Their clean can system does require a special bottle, but this system is super easy to use and eliminates the disaster of a messy cleaning solution when you move it from one container to another. The clean cans are available for laundry detergent, surface cleaner, stain remover, and dish soap.

All of Puracy's products are available to be delivered regularly via a subscription. Each item is set up on a subscription separately, and you're able to adjust the frequency and exact details of your subscription at any time. If you're trying to keep your home tidy while also using the best eco-friendly cleaners available, then Puracy should absolutely be a brand on your list.

Honest

Honest has a huge line of products, all of which work well, and are created with sustainability in mind. Honest has banned over 3000 ingredients they found to be questionable. Their dedication to sustainability is also written over everything from fully recyclable packaging, and using less plastic than some competitors.

There are two basic options when bundling products from Honest. The first is a diaper and wipes bundle, which lets you choose 7 sets of diapers and their patterns, along with 4 wipes options. It gives you a 20% discount on diapers and wipes, free shipping, 15% off on additional add-ons, and includes a freebie of your choice with every 3rd shipment.

If you're more interested in specific products, you can also build out a personalized bundle from the entire line of Honest products. Each bundle can contain 5 total items, with up to 3 premium items. They're priced at $54.95, and depending on the items you snag can deliver up to a 30% discount over buying them one at a time. You're able to set when deliveries are supposed to arrive, and like their other bundle, it comes with free shipping.

FAQs

Between the labor involved in cleaning the whole house, along with buying the items you need, hauling them home, and ensuring you have them when you need them, keeping your home tidy isn't always an easy proposition. If you lack personal transport, have kids, or are cramming in tons of events to your schedule then a subscription service can make life a bit easier by delivering the products you need, on a schedule that works for you.

I'll admit — household essentials subscriptions are the ultimate treat to yourself. Save yourself the hassle of running to the store every time you run out of something important like toilet paper or dog food.

Keeping up with everything that needs to be done around the house is a massive project in and of itself, even before you take into account everything you need to get it done. That task only becomes more difficult if you don't have reliable transportation, have kids to keep an eye on, or are disabled.

You've probably seen meal delivery kits already but there are tons of awesome household essentials subscriptions that include the things you need for your home, like the best cleaning supplies.  

Best household essentials subscriptions

From cleaning products to deodorant and pet supplies, there's a household essentials subscription for just about everything these days. See which one might be right for you to make your weekly shopping so much easier.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Grove Collaborative

Grove Collaborative offers up more than 200 different brands with products for everything from cleaning and laundry supplies to personal care and pets. They're also serious about sustainability, so you can find excellent eco-friendly brands and get everything you need all in one place.

Instead of offering one-size-fits-all bundles, each time you pick a product you can choose to get continuing deliveries. You'll be able to choose the delivery frequency that works for you as well, so you can get the items you need when you need them and not before.

Grove Collaborative also offers up tons of freebies when you get started, making it easier to load up without breaking the budget. After this first order, they'll suggest items to you, as well as let you personalize continuing shipments for any items you want to subscribe to.

Grove Collaborative also offers a VIP membership for $19.99/year. You'll get access to quarterly VIP swag, get free shipping on all orders over $29, and get first access to new products, exclusive deals, and a VIP-only online shop.

Public Goods

Public Goods sells everything from the best bed linens to facial cleansers, to household cleaners and paper towels. All while promising sustainable products from start to finish. You'll have to sign up for an annual subscription (which will run you $79 )which will get you access to every product available, all at wholesale prices.

Their effort to cultivate a sustainable business goes the full mile too. They use 100% post-recycled plastic, tree-free paper, and organic ingredients. They even partner with Eden Reforestation project, and for every sale they plant a tree. Right now, they're up to 376,00 and counting. Public Goods also believes in properly sourcing everything that goes into their products. They clearly label what the product is, along with labels for a variety of things like vegan-friendly, biodegradable, or paraben-free.

Once you have a membership, there is a 'manage auto-shipments' section on your account settings. From there you can add all of the items you'd like to subscribe to, as well as fine-tune how often you want individual items to arrive.

Public Goods has free shipping for orders of over $45, but otherwise will charge $9. As a note, right now they do not offer returns but will refund any damaged merchandise that you receive. 

Papaya Reusables

Papaya's paper towels are made of 70% cellulose, and 30% cotton. When they're dry they have a fairly stiff look and feel but are super absorbent, don't retain smells, and are easy to clean. When they're not in use you can hang them, and your first order will come with a hanger.

You don't have to worry about them staying damp and gathering mold or bacteria because the material dries extremely quickly. It's safe to go into the dishwasher or washing machine. Just don't toss them in the dryer, as they can shrink. When they're done being washed, just hang them up again to dry and you're good to go! 

If your towel is getting daily use, you can expect it to last somewhere between two and four months. However, if you have a rotating collection, you may see them last as long as nine months before needing to be retired. According to Papaya each towel is capable of replacing up to 17 rolls of paper towels. When the paper towels do finally give out, they're 100% compostable so you don't have to worry about it rotting away in a landfill for years to come.

The towels come in packs of two, four, or six. Subscriptions are delivered on your schedule every three, four, five, or six months. While there are prebuilt bundles, Papaya also gives you the option to pick out your own options. This lets you pick as many towels as you would like and lets you mix and match solids and patterns to your heart's content.

We are Wild

We Are Wild delivers fantastic, sustainable deodorant that gets the job done, without adding more plastic waste to the world in the process. Wild uses the best ingredients they can find when making their deodorant and includes a full ingredient list on their website so you can check for any allergens.

Wild has a dedication to creating sustainability while also delivering quality products that work. Instead of deodorant in a plastic case, they use a refillable aluminum case meant to last for years. With every refill, you're saving plastic from going to the landfill and saving money while you do.

When you get started with Wild, you'll pick a starter set. First, you'll pick out your aluminum case. The case is what holds your deodorant, and is available in a variety of colors, including a few limited editions that will cost a bit more. You can even add an engraving to the case if you want to!

You can opt for a one-time purchase, or snag a continuing subscription. Subscriptions save you 15% overall and deliver three refills. They can be set for every two, three, or four months, and can be paused or canceled at any time. Lastly, you'll pick the scent for your deodorant. They have several different options to choose from, along with limited edition options as well. Along with deodorant, Wild also offers a few varieties of bar soap and shampoo bars. 

Who Gives a Crap

Who Gives a Crap has a paper subscription for toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues. They started with toilet paper back in 2012 with a 50k Kickstarter and have been delivering the best product possible ever since. Their toilet paper comes in two varieties; bamboo or recycled paper.

The bamboo toilet paper is the softer, and the stronger of the two options. However, recycled paper has a smaller environmental impact, and is the cheaper of the two options. The Bamboo option is three-ply paper, while the recycled paper option is two-ply. There are over 350 sheets of paper in either roll, and they come individually wrapped within the shipment box.

Considering that over a million trees are harvested daily just for toilet paper, and worldwide deforestation is a serious issue, by switching over to Who Gives a Crap you're also making an impact on the world. The average person uses 127 rolls of traditional toilet paper a year, globally that's 42 tons of toilet paper.

When you snag a subscription to Who Gives a Crap you'll be able to pick how much toilet paper you receive in each shipment. You can opt between 24 or 48 rolls, and subscriptions can be delivered every two, three, or four months.

Athena Club

Self care comes in many forms, from treating yourself to a spa night, to taking care of some personal grooming. You want options that are high quality, as well as affordable, even on a tight budget. Athena Club aims to bring you all the self care products you need, delivered on your schedule.

Every product they sell is developed with high quality ingredients, sourced to be effective and sustainable. Everything from Athena Club is gluten free, lactose free, cruelty-free, vegan, and free of synthetic fibers. They also list out every ingredient used in their products right on their website where it's easy to access.

The products from Athena Club are broken out into five categories: body care, skin care, wellness, period care, and lifestyle. Each product from Athena Club is available to be delivered on your schedule, letting you get all your self care products in one place.

While different products have different pricing and subscription options, you won't be hit with sticker shock at Athena Club either. Their razor start kit, which comes with a handle, two blades, and a magnetic holder is just $10. Likewise, their pimple patches are just $12, and nothing is unreasonably priced making it easy to treat yourself without blowing your budget in the process.

Chewy

Having a pet means having a companion that trusts you to provide everything they'll need. From toys and food to medications or handling special needs, Chewy aims to be your one-stop shop for absolutely anything you need for your pet.

Chewy aims to be not only the most convenient destination for pet accessories but the most trusted as well. They take that mission seriously, with top-of-the-line customer service that makes social media waves every so often. Each year they donate to a variety of shelters and animal welfare societies, along with connecting pet lovers with organizations that could use some help. They even have a pet finder, if you're currently on the hunt for a furry friend to adopt.

Their dedication to great products shines through on the website too, with everything a pet lover could need at a price that can't be beat. Chewy runs tons of deals, with products relating to everything from dogs and cats to horses and reptiles. They even provide a pharmacy to ensure that you can always get Fido's medication when you need it.

There is also a huge variety to choose from, including the brands you already know, and specialized brands for specific diets. They offer weekly deals and keep prices low, and you can save even more by subscribing. Chewy even offers specialized subscription boxes built for cats or dogs. Each box includes a few toys and treats, and they're available in three different sizes. 

Blueland

Keeping the house clean is hard enough, without having to remember which cleaner you're out of. This prospect only gets more difficult if you have children, or lack independent transportation, especially when it comes to hauling home detergent. Blueland is a sustainable cleaning subscription that ensures you have what you need to keep your home sparkling.

Blueland's mission is to eliminate as much single-use plastic as possible, so you won't find any giant plastic tubs. Instead with their cleaners, you'll get a shatter-proof glass bottle, and cleaning tablets. Just fill the bottle with warm water, add the cleaning tablet and you're good to go!

Blueland offers more than just multi-surface cleaners too. They also have options for your dishes, laundry, and the toilet. These options all operate differently than the spray cleaners with tablets that are stored in an aluminum container. 

FAQs

Picking the right subscription services for your home means taking a look at where you spend your time on errands that could be done away with. It may take a bit to tweak your deliveries so they aren't too frequent, or too spaced out, but once you do the convenience is well worth out.

While there are plenty of great options that made our household essentials list, the number one pick is Grove Collaborative. Their wide collection of brands and options at a great price makes them the easiest place to pick up most of what you need all at once. 

If your space is in desperate need of some greenery, houseplant subscription boxes may be the perfect answer. Everyone needs a little leafy friend in their house to brighten up the room and bring some more life in. 

However, not everyone has time to stop by the nursery to find the perfect houseplant. If you aren't known for having a green thumb then it can seem really intimidating. This is especially true if you have pets at home since you want to ensure that the plants are safe for your furry companions. 

That's where a houseplant subscription comes in. Subscription boxes for groceries and clothes are already wildly popular, but there are some pretty easy ways to stock up on houseplants for small spaces. From succulents to exotic varieties, these boxes have plenty of options to help you find the perfect plant for your home.

Best houseplant subscription boxes

We've rounded up our favorite houseplant subscription boxes to the find the best options whether you're in a tiny studio or roomy house. Once you know all the best ways not to kill your plants, you can get started setting up your own home jungle.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

The Houseplant Box

When choosing the right houseplant subscription, you want an option that fits well with your decor, as well as being safe for your furry companions. The Houseplant Box understands that well, and offers up the choice between 12 different boxes that cover everything from air plants and succulents to rare plants, and even seeds!

The cheapest box starts at $15.99, but some boxes can run as much as $99.99. Each month you'll receive a new plant, soil, a planter, and a care card that details how to take care of your new plant.

For most boxes you can expect to receive one plant, however, the air plant box includes two or three small air plants. Additionally, this box does not come with soil or a planter because of how air plants root themselves. The aquatic box is also a bit unique since these are plants intended to be rooted inside an aquarium.

If receiving a new plant every month seems a bit overwhelming, there is also a quarterly subscription available. Changing or canceling your subscription is pretty easy, you just have to send an email. From here you can edit, pause, or cancel your subscription without any extra steps required. There's a 30-day guarantee included and if a plant does arrive damaged or dead, Houeplant Box will replace it.

Your first subscription box will arrive during the first half of that month. If you sign up later in the month you can expect your first box within 7-10 business days. After that, all of your continuing plants will be delivered in the second half of the month. 

The Sill

The Sill operates off a pretty simple premise: plants make people happy. Not everyone wants to spend the time to try and find a decorative or hanging planter that will look good with their plants, which is why The Sill delivers their plants potted within a planter that fits inside a decorative pot.

The Sill has three different options for their subscription boxes: Easy-Care Plants at $55 monthly, Plant-Friendly Plants at $58 monthly, and Orchids at $88 monthly. Their subscriptions run for either three months, or six-months, and you'll pay for the entire subscription when you check out. Each plant comes in a nursery planter where it is rooted and fits within a larger ceramic planter that will look good wherever you decide to display it.

The Sill does not have auto-renewing subscriptions which means after you sign up, you won't need to worry about any unforeseen charges hitting your bank account. You can gift subscriptions to friends or family, just make sure you get them the subscription that suits their lifestyle!

If you're on the hunt for a specific plant, you can also shop through The Sill and they have an amazing selection that covers everything from orchids in specific colors, to olive trees. 

Hey Horti

Whether you're just getting started with plants, or you already have a thriving indoor garden, you want an option that is suited to your skill set. Some plants don't require much care, while other varieties will wilt and drop all of their leaves if you move them too far away once they've gotten comfortable.

Hey Horti understands that and curates their subscription boxes to exactly what you need to be successful with plants. Their subscriptions include options like My First Plant, 12-Month Journey, and Six-Month Journey. There is also a monthly, quarterly, and even a rare plant option!

Monthly subscriptions are $25, and quarterly subscriptions will run you $22 a month.  With these boxes, you can also choose between new-to-planting, pet-friendly, or Horti's pick, for your plants. The other plant subscription boxes are all more expensive since you're paying for the whole subscription at once, but they do include planters and will help you develop your green thumb.

All of Horti's larger subscription boxes also have made the effort to include non-toxic plants. This means that the plants won't cause serious damage to your pets if they ingest them. However, if your furry friends do take a chomp of your plants you should still expect some tummy upset from eating plant matter. 

My Garden Box

You always want the best option for your space whether you're getting plants for an apartment or a bigger set-up. My GardenBox delivers a variety of different options to let you find exactly the kind of plant or project that you're looking for.

There are six varieties of subscription boxes: House Plant Box, The Plant Club, My Garden Box, Air Plant Box, Succulent Subscription, and the Tikes Garden Box. A subscription will run you anywhere from $25 to $55 a month, and every option is available to be prepaid for up to a year.

No matter which box you decide to check out, you can expect the same quality from My Garden Box. Each option will come with a beautiful new plant for your home, along with the care and instructions to ensure that it thrives. The House Plant Box and Air Plant Box are perfect for folks who already have their own decorative planters they want to use. Meanwhile, The Plant Club, My Garden Box, and Succulent Subscription Boxes all also include a beautiful decorative planter perfect for displaying your new additions.

The Tikes Garden Box is one of their best selections, and it's built specifically for kids 6-10 years old. Each box includes a seasonal plant project, an instruction booklet, garden care tips, and a new plant. The projects include both indoor and outdoor plants depending on the season and are intended to help get kids interested in plants and garden care. 

Succulent Studios

Having a full-blown personal nursery isn't a feasible option for many people. If you share space with roommates, spend most of your time in an office, or are currently living in a dorm then you might have been missing out on adding a few houseplants to your space.

Succulent Studios is a monthly subscription box that even students should be able to afford at just $11 each month, and it delivers two high-quality succulents. Their nursery is located out of Southern California, and they've been growing beautiful succulents for 40 years now. Each month's succulents are seasonally appropriate and you can expect a gorgeous variety that runs from dusky afterglow echeveria to knobby baby toes. 

Succulents are small and don't require constant supervision, making them a great option for keeping plants in a dorm, or to spruce up your office. If you've had bad luck with succulents in the past you're also in luck, because each plant comes with a card that tells you exactly how to care for it, including a photo of a healthy plant. The shipping boxes are also biodegradable, which means you don't have to worry about it moldering in a landfill once you toss it out. 

Plant of the Month Club

Adding indoor plants to your home offers a variety of benefits from giving you a living thing to take care of, to helping to improve the air quality in your space. However, when looking at plants for your home, you always have to consider the space you have available to fill.

Plant of the Month Club offers a subscription that will deliver a new plant each month, and there are three options to choose from. The small plant subscription will deliver a four-inch houseplant each month, the medium plant option will deliver a six-inch option, or you can snag their combo plant subscription which delivers both a small and a medium plant each month.

Since you know how large the plants being delivered are, it makes things easier on you when planning. Each month's plants have care instructions on the website, so if a plant is throwing a fit or dropping leaves, you can double-check that you're taking appropriate care of it. Subscriptions are paid month by month and run from $15 to $45. You can cancel at any time, and each month's plants are a surprise, making it a fun delivery when it arrives. 

Lively Root

Lively Root offers a subscription service with tons of options that include monthly and quarterly subscriptions catering to pet-friendly plants, easy-care plants, miniature roses, and more! You can easily edit or cancel subscriptions, as well as move between different types of subscriptions so you never end up with a plant you don't like.

For personal subscriptions, you have the option between monthly or quarterly deliveries, and there are a variety of box options to pick from. You'll also pay for each subscription before it delivers, instead of a pre-pay option.

When it comes to gifting subscriptions, they have a specific option just for gifts. You'll pay for a year of quarterly deliveries, and choose when, and where they will arrive. When you set it up you'll also be able to choose what kind of plant subscription they'll receive, but the exact plants will stay a surprise.

Lively Root also includes a 100% Happiness Guarantee. This means if you, or the gift recipient are unsatisfied with the delivery you can reach out, and Lively Root will make it right. It's also easy to adjust, or cancel your subscription right from your account page on their website! 

Bloomsybox

Houseplants may live for years, but sometimes you want the bright colors and scent of fresh flowers in your home. That's where Bloomsybox comes in, offering subscriptions for both fresh bouquets and houseplants. They offer weekly, biweekly, and monthly subscriptions. Their weekly and biweekly only offer one option, but there are three tiers of monthly blooms available at different price tiers.

They also offer specialty subscription boxes. These include houseplants, roses, tropical flowers, houseplants, pet-safe blooms, and a special bouquet that is inspired by the New York Botanical Garden.

When choosing a subscription you can make it a gift, making this an easy way to deliver plants or flowers to friends and family. You're billed immediately when signing up, and if you choose auto-renew, you can expect the bill 8 days before your next subscription ships.

FAQs

Plant subscriptions offer a fun and easy way to fill your home with life without having to worry about sourcing them yourself, or figuring out how you'll get them to your space. Our favorite pick for most folks is The Houseplant Box. It has several different options for subscription boxes, includes everything you need to get started, and ensures you'll know exactly how to take care of your plant when you receive it.

For anyone looking to spruce up a smaller space, our pick is Succulent Studios. Their succulent subscription is super affordable even on a budget, and since succulent stays small they can easily fit on a desk or shelf without question. 

Finding the best Walmart furniture can be a tricky task. The site and store both have so many different pieces to shop through — and while we do love having options, this can be a lot to go through.

The furniture at Walmart is really affordable and stylish, with it often collaborating with celebrities. This makes it a great place to shop for pieces for around the house, particularly around Walmart sale time.

This is why, as far as the best furniture stores go, Walmart is one of our top picks. Looking through the site and aren't sure where to start? We've done the hard work for you and found pieces that are highly rated and that shoppers have written rave reviews about.

The best Walmart furniture buys, as rated by shoppers

Ready to get started? If you’re looking for places to buy furniture, look no further than these affordable and chic Walmart furniture pieces. We’ve rounded up 12 buys for various rooms of the house, so no matter what room you want to re-vamp, you can browse with ease. 

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

The best Walmart living room furniture

These chic living room furniture buys will add serious style to your small space.

The best Walmart bedroom furniture

These furniture buys will make your bedroom the dreamiest place to hang out in.

The best Walmart kitchen furniture

Adding furniture to your kitchen will make the space more useful and usable.

The best Walmart bathroom furniture

You might think that your bathroom already has everything you need — but these might just change your mind.

The best Walmart outdoor furniture

From smaller patio sets to larger dining sets, there’s plenty of outdoor furniture on offer. If you do want to grab one, be sure to add a protective cover set from Walmart to your order, so it doesn't get damaged by the weather.

How to choose the best Walmart furniture for you

Want to browse the site yourself for furniture? Here are four things to look out for:

• Check the materials: Most Walmart furniture materials are either listed in the product titles or in the descriptions. Durable materials to look out for include metal, wood, and linen fabric.
• Check the size: It’s important to make sure the furniture will actually fit in your home before buying it. Measure the space that you’re planning on putting it, and cross-check with the measurements in the product description.
• Read the reviews: Walmart’s reviews are split out between positive reviews and negative reviews, which make it easy to see any information that you should be aware of before purchasing.
• Look at the star ratings: On the Walmart site when you have searched a particular product, you can filter the products by customer rating by clicking ‘customer rating’ in the navigation menu, and then filtering by ‘four stars and up.’

How we chose these Walmart furniture buys

We can’t fit the whole of Walmart’s furniture catalogue into our rentals and apartments, so instead we have spent hours looking through thousands of products on the Walmart site. In this guide, we have only selected products with ratings of four stars and up, that have plenty of glowing reviews from real-life shoppers.

FAQs

Is Walmart a good place to shop for furniture?

Walmart is a great place to shop for furniture both in person and online. The site has a dedicated Walmart furniture deals page, which already has thousands of promotions live. We'll be regularly checking the furniture sets on sale and curating the best discounts on this page.

Why is Walmart a great place to shop for furniture?

Walmart has a variety of different furniture pieces for every room in the house, from the living room to the bedroom. It also regularly does furniture collaborations with popular brands such as Better Homes and Gardens and celebrities like Drew Barrymore.

What is the best Walmart furniture brand?

The best Walmart furniture brand in our opinion is Mainstays, as this is its in-house brand. The pieces are simple, timeless, and affordably priced.

No matter which room in the house you're shopping for, it's also a good idea to make sure the Walmart furniture that you pick matches your home's style. This is the best way to ensure that even if your place has furniture from lots of different places, it still looks stylish and cohesive.

Shopped Walmart’s best furniture pieces, and wondering what other stores do useful and stylish furniture? We’ve also rounded up the best Target furniture, which also has beautiful and budget-friendly pieces. 

The best Christmas reed diffusers — perfect stocking stuffers, in our opinion — are here to embrace the festive spirit, whether it's through the aroma of a Douglas Fir or the sweet peppermint sprinkled into our favorite cookies. 

Although it might be hard to believe that the end of 2023 is quickly approaching, one thing we can look forward to towards the tail-end of the calendar year is all things cozy. Needless to say, we're ready for the hygge, starting with scents. 

If you're looking for the best reed diffusers in your collection to get a wintry mix, consider your wishlist covered. Even better news? If you're more likely to strike a match, our edit of our best candles has Santa's stamp of approval.

Best Christmas reed diffusers: what you need to know

Whatever the winter lacks in temperature it makes up for with premium home fragrances. You'll love the bursts of firewood and fir, so why not narrow down your list to Kris Kringle? Added bonus? Seasonal reed diffusers not only make your abode smell delightful, but the packaging is so lovely, that it can double as Christmas decor.

And if you ask the experts, a fragrance is a hosting essential that everyone needs, particularly during the busiest season of the year. Stocking up on a reed diffuser (or a few) is one of the clever things people with nice-smelling homes always do, but you already knew that.

15 Christmas reed diffusers

How we chose

We took a look at a variety of fragrances and ultimately chose Christmas reed diffusers with positive consumer reviews, high star ratings, and fair price points from a variety of retailers.

What to consider

1. The diffuser's location
Where will you be using your reed diffuser and how do you want it to smell? For example, you might want something cozier in the living room but more citrusy in the bathroom. Take into consideration where you're going to place the diffuser before narrowing down a scent.

2. Your environment 
If you have a lot of little ones coming in and out of your abode come Christmastime, perhaps opting for candles isn't the best way to go. A reed diffuser can provide a similar fragrance but leave your digs flame-free. Be sure to keep the reed diffuser out of reach of young children and pets to ensure they don't consume the liquid, or knock it over accidentally.

3. The diffuser's size
How long are you planning for this winter reed diffuser to last? Opting for a larger bottle will obviously buy you more time, but check each label to see specifics in terms of longevity. The number of reeds, and how many times a week you rotate the sticks can also have an impact on the strength or 'throw' of the scent.

4. Whether or not refills are available
Generally speaking, you will get more bang for your buck if you fill an old vessel with fragrance yourself. So instead of buying a new glass bottle each time, see if the brand sells the diffuser oil as a separate standalone product. You can also save money by buying reeds in bulk from Amazon. This 100-piece set from Vikrom store is highly rated and on sale for Black Friday.

FAQs

Where to shop

Still thinking about treating yourself? Make like Kris Kringle and stock your bag with your favorite reeds or one of the best Christmas candles. (You have the elves' permission.)

• Amazon Christmas reed diffusers
• Anthropologie Christmas reed diffusers
• Aromatique Christmas reed diffusers
• Crate and Barrel Christmas reed diffusers
• Etsy Christmas reed diffusers
• H&M Christmas reed diffusers
• Kohls Christmas reed diffusers
• Nordstrom Christmas reed diffusers
• Pier1 Christmas reed diffusers
• Pottery Barn Christmas reed diffusers
• Sephora Christmas reed diffusers
• Thymes Christmas reed diffusers
• Walmart Christmas reed diffusers
• Wayfair Christmas reed diffusers
• Williams Sonoma Christmas reed diffusers

In search of other fragrance alternatives? We have that all on lock, folks. Our edit of the best essential oil diffusers for a safe (and cute) way to make your space smell amazing will inspire a purchase.

Knowing what the best Target furniture pieces are is a great way to make sure you’re getting stylish buys, are great value for money, and will last you a long time.

Shopping for furniture at Target is so easy to do, whether you’re browsing its site or heading into the store. It has a whole range of different products, that are simple and stylish enough for a variety of homes. That being said, it has a lot of pages to sift through — and you might not have time to go through them all, especially around Christmas (FYI: Target already has a furniture deals page, but it can be quite taxing to sift through the selections, not to mention the red and grey roundels can be a little off-putting to some.

If you’ve been searching for where to buy furniture and have decided to do your shopping at Target, I’ve got you. I’ve rounded up the best Target furniture, looking at shopper ratings and reading real reviews to ensure that they’re top-quality.

The best Target furniture, according to shoppers

Target is one of our favorite online home stores here at Real Homes, as there's so much to choose from. I’ve split this guide up into different rooms, so no matter if you’re decorating your small space living room or your bedroom, you’re totally covered.

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

The best Target living room furniture

This is the place your guests will see and where you might spend the most time, so it’s an important place to get fab furniture for. Here we've focused on multifunctional furniture, including an end table (that could double up as a coffee table), a storage ottoman that could play understudy for a footstool, table, or seat, and a sofa that turns into a bed when you've got guests sleeping over. Because when you've got a small space, it's not about your bank balance, but rather how you spend the money. Work smart, not hard peeps.

The best Target bedroom furniture

Sweet dreams are certainly made from these bedroom buys, which will allow you to get a good night’s sleep in style. 

The best Target kitchen furniture

These furniture kitchen ideas will make cooking up a storm so much more stylish. This trio of finds includes formal and informal seating for guests and a portable kitchen island with caster wheels. 

The best Target bathroom furniture

Your bathroom will scrub up well after decorating it with these bathroom furniture pieces. And, because we know wash spaces are incy wincy in rentals, we've focused our attention on chic and practical storage for towels and toiletries. The trolley we've picked out is perfect for if you like reading in the bath, but don't want the pages to get wet!

The best Target outdoor furniture

Want to make your backyard look beautiful? These will all help you glow up your outdoor space. BTW, if you do decide on one of these, be sure to add a Target patio furniture cover to your cart, to protect your furniture from the elements.

The best chic Target furniture

These buys are ultra-stylish and will make your small space look seriously luxe. 

How to choose the best Target furniture for you

Want to know how to choose the best Target furniture for your place? Here are four top tips:

• Filter by star rating: When searching through any category, click on filter, guest rating, over four stars, and then click ‘see results’. This will ensure that you’re only seeing furniture that reviewers have given positive ratings for.
• Read the reviews: Looking through real-life reviews by shoppers who have used the products is a useful way to find out how others have found assembling the furniture and using the furniture.
• Check the materials: Look for materials that are hard-wearing, such as wood and MDF, as these will last you longer than furniture made out of plastic. If you're buying upholstered furniture, check the cleaning instructions and care. 
• Check the size: Check the dimensions of each furniture piece, and be sure to measure up the space you intend on putting it before purchasing, to ensure it will fit properly.
• Check for any constraints: If you are buying chairs or a table, check the load to see how much weight it holds.  

How we chose these Target furniture buys

We can’t test every single piece of Target furniture ourselves (our rentals and apartments just aren’t big enough!), so instead we looked for pieces that shoppers love. We looked through Target’s website by category (living room furniture, bedroom furniture, kitchen furniture, bathroom furniture), filtered it by star ratings, and picked three products from each category with a high amount of ratings and written reviews. 

FAQs

Now that you’ve discovered what the best Target furniture is, you might be wondering what other stores have great furniture ranges. Urban Outfitters furniture is a little more high-end in price, but its pieces are colorful and eye-catching. 

With a few weeks to go until Xmas, it's time to indulge in Christmas decoration deals. After all, those hand-me-down decs you bring out year after year are starting to look a bit dusty, and that poor tree topper doesn't shine as bright these days.

While you're nailing down apartment Christmas decor ideas and trying to find a look that works well for you, these discounted items will do nicely in your studio. And, for the record, we believe in nailing home fragrances, too, no matter the season. Might as well pick up one or ten Christmas reed diffusers while you're at it to complete the feel of your winter wonderland. 

Christmas decoration deals: what you need to know

Whether you're opting for the neutral Christmas decor route this year, or if you're planning on going a little bold and Barbie with pink Christmas decorations, there's a sale you'll want to know about, trust us.

Options abound when it comes time to stock up on festive home accessories: the Nordstrom holiday gift shop has officially opened, and everyone's swooning over this year's Anthropologie holiday collection (per usual). And if you haven't fallen in love with the viral new Pottery Barn holiday collection, you might want to refresh your FYP. Plenty of retailers are feeling holly-jolly already

Christmas decoration deals

What to consider when shopping for Christmas decorations

1. Choose what makes you happy
"We believe that art trends are diverse and can vary widely from country to country. What’s important is to explore and appreciate what resonates with you personally, whether it aligns with a current trend or not," says Annica Wallin, the executive creative director at Desenio. "Decorate in a way that speaks to you."

2. Think about the style you want to achieve
Are you going for a bold, festive look, or something more natural? Will you add modern touches, or opt for something more rustic? Choose various items that are in line with the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve. Incorporating different textures such as twine, and burlap is another way to add interest.

3. Choose colors wisely
Though red and green are of course the main staples for a traditional look, Wallin suggests playing with two to three key colors as a theme, even if they're different shades of the same hue. "When choosing these colors, it’s good to consider the color scheme of the room first," she adds. "Select shades that harmonize with your wall color, furniture, and accessories."

4. Think long-term
"By incorporating decor with longevity, you'll save time, space, and money, Jennifer Verruto, Founder and CEO of Blythe Interiors previously told us. "Invest in decor that isn't just for a specific holiday, but rather that can last you from fall through winter and even into the new year."

5. Keep things neat 
Remember, not every single square inch of your scheme needs to be filled with decor. It's OK to say no to a few things here and there, especially when styling a small space.

"Try not to pack every surface with décor," Jennifer Verruto, Founder and CEO of Blythe Interiors, previously recommended. "Overcrowding with holiday items can look cluttered and overwhelming. Less is more and editing is key!"

Meet the Christmas decoration experts

FAQs

If you're channeling Santa, you'll need to nail down Christmas tree themes before December 24. Time's ticking, folks! 

Where to shop Christmas decoration deals

• Amazon Christmas decorations
• Anthropologie Christmas decorations
• Bloomingdale's Christmas decorations
• Crate & Barrel Christmas decorations
• Etsy Christmas decorations
• H&M Christmas decorations
• Home Depot Christmas decorations
• Nordstrom Christmas decorations
• Pottery Barn Christmas decorations
• Target Christmas decorations
• Urban Outfitters Christmas decorations
• Walmart Christmas decorations
• Wayfair Christmas decorations
• World Market Christmas decorations

Sure, space is few and far between, but bath mats for small bathrooms are non-negotiable. Do you *really* want your wet, slippery toes to step out onto a cold, hard, tiled floor? We didn't think so. 

To avoid any style discrepancies—or worse, safety hazards—don't sleep on the essential. After a long bubble bath session, we promise you're going to be glad the fuzzy companion is there to greet your feet. 

If you're noodling on small bathroom ideas to switch up your already microscopic space, or if you're a renter who can only execute so many apartment bathroom ideas sans landlord, placing a bath mat near the tub or shower is an easy upgrade both stylistically and practically. Even better? Only minimal upkeep is required.

Bath mats for small bathrooms: where to shop, how we chose, and more

We have all the intel you could possibly need while adding to your actual or virtual shopping cart.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

9 bath mats for small bathrooms

Where to shop for bathroom mats

In search of the small bathroom must-have? No W.C. is complete without a mat, and we're here to help you narrow down the search: 

• Shop Amazon bath mats 
• Shop at Bed Bath & Beyond
• Shop IKEA bath mats
• Shop Target bath mats
• Shop Wayfair bath mats

How we chose the bath mats

Given that space isn't always available in ample supply for renters and dorm dwellers, dimensions were carefully reviewed before selecting products. We also took customer recommendations and safety factors into consideration as we compiled our guide of bath mats for small bathrooms. 

FAQs

Still on the hunt? You'll love the Y2K vibe of Urban Outfitters' bath mats and appreciate the viral sensation that is the Diptyque-style bath mat. 

And, when working with limited space, you're going to have to keep things neat and orderly, but thankfully the experts can assist with all the ways to declutter a small bathroom.

It’s official: string lights for dorms are a game-changer. Aside from offering that extra bit of brightness when you’re pulling an all-nighter on an overdue essay, they’re an easy way to add warmth and coziness. Yep, having survived college life myself, I can confirm a humble set of string lights made the chaos that much easier to manage.

Indeed, it’s about romanticizing the short bursts of me-time you do get. Amidst all the sorority and frat parties — not to mention lectures — keeping yourself in check can fall by the wayside. So, rather than burning the candle at both ends, invest some time (and very little money) into bringing a sense of ambiance on a budget.

Of course, when it comes to dorm room lighting ideas, you want to keep it chic, so opt for something that’s either classic or a little quirky. We’ve got your back when it comes to sourcing best dorm string lights out there.

9 best string lights for dorms

Whether you’re looking for something a little bit extra, a little bit funky, or pared-back and simple, our hot pick of string lights will have any dire dorm looking light and airy once again. From starry bulbs to flamingo-shaped filaments, these small bedroom lighting ideas are your answer to a brighter semester.

Pricing is accurate at the time of publishing.

Highly-rated string lights for dorms

Things to consider when buying string lights for dorms

Keen to start shopping? Hold your horses for the moment. While we’re glad you’re eager, it’s worth cross-checking some of the key factors to account for when purchasing string lights for dorms to avoid disappointment. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you.

Size: First things first, you need to ensure the lights are aligned in size to what is most likely a pretty dinky little dorm. Here, bigger ain’t always better. Yep, you’ll want something in the range of six to 35 feet, ensuring there’s enough to wrap and adorn your new home, but not so much you’re struggling to find room for all the wiring.

Input: Next, you’ll want to weigh up how you intend to power it. If you’re only going to be using your lights on occasion, then battery-powered is best. However, if you’re expecting daily use, lean into the plug-in designs. 

Color: This comes with two sub-factors. Not only do you need to think about what color the lights emit (i.e. blue, yellow, white, or any hue in the rainbow) but also the color of the wires. For low-key rooms, a classic white light does the trick, as does a white or clear wire. As for bolder tastes, don’t be afraid to up the color ante. 

Design details: Again, it sounds obvious, but think about how the peculiarities and nuances of your lights’ design affect the mood of the room. For something girly, beaded designs work a treat, but for edgier tastes, it might be something a little bolder. Flamingoes, anyone?

FAQs

Where to shop for string lights for dorms

If you’ve not yet found your perfect match, don’t sweat it. We’ve listed our go-to retailers below.

• Amazon string lights for dorms
• Etsy string lights for dorms
• Target string lights for dorms
• Walmart string lights for dorms
• Wayfair string lights for dorms

How we chose these string lights for dorms

We spend hours searching online for only the best products, ensuring each and every pick listed not only improves users’ lives but also earns healthy compliments and star ratings of at least four. While we haven’t been able to personally trial all the products shown just yet, you can rest assured that reviewer testimonials, which we use to guide our choices, are always brutally honest.

Looking for lighting picks that make a bolder statement? Our round-up of the best Urban Outfitters lamps is perfect when the big light starts to give you the "ick"

You'll need an Amazon queen bed frame to get a great night's sleep. Aside from elevating your mattress and giving you a place to rest, a queen frame is also an excuse to showcase your interior taste on a large scale. 

Indeed, aside from the restroom and your work desk, there are few places you spend more time than your bed. Why would you choose to make your nightly experience of counting sheep anything less than perfect? A quick look at Amazon reveals an abundance — more than 4,000 Amazon queen-sized bed frames to pick from. The best part? A whole load of them are affordable and stylish, coming from trusted furniture brands worth knowing.

I built a roster of the best beds out there, separating the good from the not-so-great so you don't have to. Whether you're living your best rustic life, all about the tufting, or looking to channel farmhouse chic, I've got you covered.

12 of the best Amazon queen bed frames for your best sleep ever

No one wants to wake up in the night with a wooden slate or spring poking into their best mattress. Here, quality is key, as are looks. It's a centerpiece. Fortunately, being an interiors nerd, I was able to source hot-topic designs at a price we could afford (low, you'll be pleased to hear). Here, I share that same expertise, helping you on your way to better sleep hygiene and bedroom decor. 

And for the record, some of Amazon's furniture brands are up there with your more familiar stores. The high-star ratings and reviews prove so!

All prices were correct at the time of publishing

How we chose

As you no doubt know, the internet is full to the brim with bed frames, especially queen-sized ones. As such, testing each one in person is an impossible feat. 

However, we do ensure that our pick is based on only the best-rated designs out there. So, I got into the nitty-gritty details of what reviewers thought about each product, ensuring only products that actually improve lives make the cut. 

At the bare minimum, my selections earn four stars and some pleasant words from shoppers. Combining this research with an on-the-pulse awareness of today's trends (sorry to boast), I came up with the divine dozen above. Happy shopping!

Personally, I love shopping for furniture on Amazon because it's affordable and I know I can get it delivered quickly. Once you have your bed frame picked out, you'll need some tips on where to put a bed in a small bedroom.

Every bedroom needs a good place to stash all your essentials and a Target nightstand is just the solution. Whether you're curling up with a book or having an all-out lazy day, however you choose to relax, you're going to need your phone, hand cream, and a few other odds and ends nearby. 

Before you dive headfirst into the world of small bedroom storage ideas, a little forethought. At present, there are some 947 nightstands listed on Target's site, making the search for something both affordable and premium a little tricky. You know the old adage, "Seeing everything is seeing nothing."

We've put our expertise into sourcing only the top easy-assembly nightstand designs, picking out an array of colorways and styles, spanning minimal white designs to more rustic wooden ones. So, next time you wake up in the middle of the night thirsty, you'll be glad to have the nightstand there, primed with a glass of water and looking chicer than ever.

12 of the best Target nightstands for the ultimate bedside setup

Anyone looking for chic small bedroom ideas will likely need a nightstand, if not just for decoration. Indeed, student housing and shared apartments are rarely decked out upon arrival. It's wise to give your boudoir a personal touch — something I kept in mind during my not-so-distant days as a freshman. 

Here, I'm sharing that same wisdom — now enhanced with a few more interiors-obsessed years behind me — towards your search, whether you're after something kooky for that alt-girl aesthetic, Scandi, or mid-century modern. 

White Target nightstands

Wooden Target nightstands

Gray Target nightstands