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

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

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

1. Refresh your fabrics

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

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

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

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

2. Change up dishware and drinks

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

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

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

3. Declutter summer items

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

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

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

4. Give your home a thorough clean

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

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

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

5. Switch up your home fragrance scents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One of the most painful parts of living in campus accommodation for me was doing the laundry. We didn't have a washing machine in our flat, so I'd have to go down five flights of stairs, across the road, and to the shared laundry station, all while lugging my laundry hamper. This was not the vibe.

While scrolling through TikTok I spotted the laundry hack of putting it all in one bag and washing at a cold temperature, and I so wished I'd known about it when I was in dorms. I've asked cleaning experts about the pros and cons.

As well as this, I've also picked out the perfect laundry bags for trying it, in case you do want to give it a go yourself.

What is the TikTok laundry bag hack?

This hack is all about making the chore of laundry easier, with you putting all your laundry in one big, washable bag before placing it in the washing machine. You can also place laundry cleaning supplies like a pod inside the pocket.

“This keeps your clothes contained, reducing the chances of losing small items like socks or underwear, and the transfer from washer to dryer becomes easy,” says Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners.

Pros of the TikTok laundry bag hack

One of the major reasons why this is a game-changer is because it’s super convenient.

“On one hand, the laundry bag prevents small items from being mislaid in washing, and on the other hand, it speeds up and facilitates moving clothes from the washer to the dryer,” Daniel says.

Because of this, not only is it a great hack for those in dorms, but for those with families with lots of smaller items.

If you give it a go, Daniel advises using a good, breathable mesh bag that allows proper water and detergent flow. He also advises not using it for heavy clothes with stains.

“This hack will work more for lightly soiled clothes, delicates, or small loads rather than a full week's worth of laundry,” he says.

Cons of the TikTok laundry bag hack

While having all your laundry in one place can be useful, it might not make sense if you’re only washing clothes once a week.

“While I can see the benefits of it, I think it only makes sense if you’re washing a lot of clothes regularly, like every other day,” explains Alex Varela, cleaning expert and manager of Dallas Maids. “As you can see in the TikTok hack, the bag is filled less than 25% of its full capacity.” If you do try this hack, make sure not to overload the bag.

It’s also worth noting that clothes washed inside a mesh bag might not get as thoroughly cleaned as when they are free to move about in the washer.

“Water and detergent may not fully penetrate the fabric because the bag gets in the way, and that would be a problem when washing heavily soiled items,” adds Daniel.

Shop laundry bags

For those looking for ways to speed up laundry, this trick is worth trying in your dorm room or even at home.

Want to carry on scoping out more cleaning tips from this app? I tried the TikTok couch cleaning hack and found it worked a treat. I’m also a big fan of home reset TikToks.

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

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

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

Why I love the Scrub Daddy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top tips for using the Scrub Daddy

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

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

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

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

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

Other Scrub Daddy favorites

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Remove the screens

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Dust off dirt

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

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

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

3. Wash and scrub

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Rinse and dry

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Reattach the screens

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

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

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

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

Meet our cleaning experts

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

Next, check out how to clean fireplace glass. 

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

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

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

1. Pre-treat the stain immediately

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

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

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

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

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

2. Rinse with cold water

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

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

3. Apply a stain-fighting detergent

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

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

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

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

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

4. Wash in cold water

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

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

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

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

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

5. Check before drying

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

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

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

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

Meet our expert

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

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

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

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

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

1. Take the clothes outside

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

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

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

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

2. Pre-treat the stains

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Wash the clothes

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

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

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

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

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

4. Dry thoroughly

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

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

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

5. Prevent future mildew

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

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

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

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

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

Meet our experts

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

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

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

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

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

1. Shake it out

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

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

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

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

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

2. Vacuum thoroughly

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

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

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

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

3. Deep clean

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Freshen it up

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Fluff and restore

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

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

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

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

Meet our experts

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

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

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

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

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

Clean your shower drain like a pro

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

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

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

All prices are correct at the time of publication.

1. Remove the drain cover

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

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

2. Clear the debris

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

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

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

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

3. Flush with hot water

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

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

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

4. Apply baking soda

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

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

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

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

5. Add white vinegar

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Rinse again with hot water

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

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

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

Meet our cleaning experts

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

Next, check out how to clean a sink. 

I have to admit it: I'm not the best at cleaning. I'm a little forgetful and I'm a busy person, so I tend to leave vacuuming until my house really needs it.

If you're like me and you don't have the time to vacuum, regularly need to clean up mess, or have a larger house that's hard to maintain, a robot vacuum is a smart solution. I tried out the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum (available on Amazon), which functions as both a mop and a vacuum, and let me tell you: my home has never looked cleaner. I've said goodbye to dusty corners and crumbs under the couch and said hello to smooth and shiny surfaces.

This is my first time using a robot vacuum and I couldn't be more impressed. It's powerful, clever, and even fits seamlessly into my interior. While it is expensive, it is very much worth the price, as it eliminates the need for a regular vacuum and a mop.

What I thought of the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum

I can't imagine my home without the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum. All I do to clean my floors now is press the go button on this and let it do its thing. I tend to do this about three times a week and my floors and carpets have stayed immaculate. I've used this both upstairs and downstairs in my home without any issues. Yes — even to clean the bathroom!

It effortlessly avoids large objects furniture thanks to its no-go zones technology, instead going round and even underneath when required. Whether you connect the vacuum to the app or not, it cleverly maps out each room of your house, so it knows exactly where to go in order to clean quickly and efficiently. I was especially amazed when it dived under my bar cart — it really leaves no part of the floor untouched.

Its 7000Pa suction makes light work of small and large crumbs. In fact, I even had to rescue one of my stray socks from it. Plus, the mop function works brilliantly on hard floors and soft floors. I found it worked especially well on the latter, thanks to its three carpet cleaning strategies.

The only real negative that I have is the price tag. At just under $800 it is quite expensive, but I do think it will save money in the long-run, with it replacing the need for both vacuums and mops. It did go on sale during Prime Day this year, so if you like the look of it but are on a budget, keep an eye out for discounts on sale events like Black Friday.

For those who live busy lives, have a lot of floor space to clean, or who just love clever home gadgets, it's a game-changing option.

Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum specifications

Unboxing and setting up the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum

When unboxing the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum, I was a little worried that it would be super technical to set up. Thankfully, it turned out to be a total breeze. I picked up the vacuum from the box and found it to be a little heavy, but as I wouldn't be moving it besides to stop collisions, this wasn't a big issue for me.

It comes with a base, plugs, two mop heads to attach to the vacuum, the detachable mop base, the vacuum itself, and useful instructions. I liked the fact it didn't come with an unnecessary amount of plastic, with it just having a couple of bags and peel-away layers to prevent scratching.

Once I'd removed everything from the packaging, all I had to do was plug the base into the wall, fill up the tank with water, put the parts onto the robot vacuum, and let it charge up. It took around half an hour to get ready, but once it was ready, it didn't require any further set-up.

Setting up the mobile app proved a little tricky, as it only works on 2.4GB wi-fi and won't work on anything stronger (which mine is), so I had to spend a bit of time trying to switch over the wi-fi. Because of this, I don't use the app frequently, which means I'm not getting as much potential out of it as I could be.

Using the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum

Operation

In terms of operating the Roborock Qrevo S, all you have to do is press the go button and let it go on its merry way. You can use voice control to get it to go if you have an Amazon Alexa, but for me, just pressing the go button is sufficient enough.

Because of the room-mapping technology and reactive obstacle avoidance technology, it doesn't require any major operation while it's in use. It's a little heavy, but this isn't an issue as I have hardly had to pick it up, besides when it occasionally asks for help if it gets stuck or tries to suck up something it shouldn't. Honestly, I found this incredibly cute, so this wasn't an issue at all.

Once it's all done, it does go back into its dock by itself. But, if you decide it has done enough or if you're doing a speedy clean before guests arrive, you can press the home button to get it to return.

Performance

The first time it went around my house, I was amazed at how efficiently it cleaned up dust bunnies and crumbs underneath my couch and in the tightest corners of my kitchen. It carefully moves around chair legs, showing how well it maps out each individual piece of furniture.

I have a huge area rug in my living room that I hadn't cleaned before having the vacuum. It made light work of this, using its 10mm mop lift technology to move itself onto it, carefully moving around it. Now, my formerly grubby rug is now pristine.

After observing how easily it cleaned smaller pieces of dirt, I put it to the test vacuuming up cereal, coffee grounds, and flour, which is how we test vacuums here at Real Homes. It went through all three of them smoothly — even with the flour, it didn't spread any white debris around the rest of the house once picking it up. I also tried it on a stubborn dried-up coffee stain and it had no problem scrubbing it away.

It takes around half an hour to thoroughly clean downstairs and upstairs respectively, which has been a huge time-saver for me. I have it on while I'm watching TV, and it's a little loud, but it isn't distractingly so. The time that I used to spend vacuuming, I now spend thoroughly cleaning surfaces, meaning my whole house is sparkling more than ever before.

Cleaning and maintaining the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum

When it's all done cleaning, it parks itself back into its dock, self-cleans its mop heads and is all ready to go again for next time. All you have to do is fill up the clean water tank, which it then pulls from to top up.

It's self-emptying, self-drying, and self-refilling which makes it so low-maintenance. I've barely had to lift a finger in terms of cleaning it, as the second dirty water tank only needs to be emptied every seven weeks. I've found the automatic cleaning settings on the dock absolutely perfect, but you can adjust settings such as its energy mode, self-cleaning length of time, and washing mode on the app.

The dock itself is made from plastic, so I tend to give this a dust and a wipe every couple of weeks. The detachable mop base on the dock can also be taken off easily and wiped separately when required.

Should you buy the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum?

For those who have the budget to spend and don't want the hassle of cleaning your floors, the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum is a worthy investment. It's really great value for money as a robot vacuum at $799, with it doubling as both a mop and vacuum, mapping out each room effectively, and having smart functionality with its own app and Alexa voice control.

In terms of how it compares to other robot vacuums we've tested, it's a similar price to the iRobot Roomba 7+, which also works on carpets and hard floors. The iRobot doesn't need emptying for 60 days, which is more time than the Qrevo. But, it doesn't also function as a mop, so doesn't have as much water to clean out.

For those looking to have more control over their vacuum, one of the best vacuums with a handle may be better instead. Or, if you have a home with furry friends, finding out the best pet vacuums could be useful, too.

But, if you're looking for an all-in-one robot vacuum that will save you time, effort, and money in the long run, it's a total winner.

Where to buy the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum

The Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum is available to buy on the Roborock Amazon storefront, as well as other stores such as Walmart.

How we tested the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum

I was kindly loaned the Roborock Qrevo S Vacuum to test for Real Homes. When testing vacuums, we always use the following criteria, which I ticked off while testing this:

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

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

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

1. Seal entry points

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Eliminate food sources

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

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

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

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

3. Reduce humidity

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

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

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

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

4. Use natural repellents

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

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

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

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

5. Maintain cleanliness

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

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

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

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

Meet our experts

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

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

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

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

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

1. Do a mini declutter

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

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

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

2. Clean fittings, furniture, and floors

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

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

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

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

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

3. Disinfect surfaces

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

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

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

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

4. Refresh your fabrics

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

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

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

5. Add home fragrance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday reset essentials

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

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

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

1. Gather your supplies

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

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

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

2. Empty the ice maker

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

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

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

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

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

3. Remove the ice bin & parts

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

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

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

4. Clean all components

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Rinse & dry

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

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

6. Reassemble & restart

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

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

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

Meet our experts

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

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

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

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

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

1. Seal entry points

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

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

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

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

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

2. Clean the bedroom

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Use baits and traps

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

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

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

4. Use natural repellents

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

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

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

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

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

5. Maintain cleanliness

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet our experts

A pest-free bedroom contributes to a healthier, more restful living space, allowing you to sleep soundly without worry.

Next, check out how to clean your bedroom — fast. 

Vanessa Hudgens has been a style icon of mine ever since her High School Musical days. Now we're both adults, it's not just her clothing style I obsess over anymore —  it's her interior style, too.

On her TikTok I spotted a set of beautiful woven organizers, which I think are such a clever way to hide away miscellaneous items while maintaining a room's style. I've asked interior designers why they so work so well, what you can use them, plus tracked down a very close match.

If you're looking for small space organization ideas that will blend seamlessly into your interior, Vanessa's solution is worth checking out.

Vanessa Hudgens is known for boho-chic looks (hello, Queen of Coachella!), which she has brought into her home with these clever organizers.

“These not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of her space but also serve a highly practical purpose,” says Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina's Home Design.

The material brings in two of the year’s biggest interior design trends: sustainable design and coastal grandmother.

“Water hyacinth is celebrated for its durability and lightweight properties,” Nina explains. “Its natural, woven texture brings warmth and an earthy vibe to any interior, making it a favorite among those who seek to infuse their homes with nature.”

These also perfectly complement a variety of color palettes, ensuring that these organizers fit effortlessly into any decor scheme.

Because of this, you can use them in all different kinds of rooms when decluttering your home.

“For example, in the bathroom, woven baskets are ideal for storing extra towels, toilet paper, bath salts, candles, and other toiletries,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty. “They help keep countertops clear and make it easy to grab what you need, all while complementing neutral tile colors.”

She continues, “You could also use these as entryway storage, storing shoes, hats, gloves, scarves, and other seasonal items.” These help contain clutter and make it easy to grab what you need on your way out the door while adding warmth to the space.

You can also use them as a decorative accent in the home, adding warmth and texture to your space. Rachel suggests trying them on shelves like Vanessa, on coffee tables, and even on nightstands. 

Shop the look

Vanessa Hudgens' use of woven storage organizers is a masterclass in balancing style and utility. 

“Whether you're aiming to declutter, add a touch of nature, or simply infuse your space with timeless elegance, they’re a chic and functional choice,” Nina finishes by saying.

Want to carry on scouting out inspo from the actor-turned-influencer? I also found Vanessa Hudgens’ coffee maker, plus budget alternatives.

If a sudden infestation threatens to spoil your summer, you may want to know exactly how to get rid of ants in a garage. 

Our industry pros reveal the six straightforward steps to banishing ants for good.

Knowing how to identify pests in your home is just the start — the key is knowing exactly how to get rid of them. 

Get rid of ants in a garage like a pro

Getting rid of ants in a garage involves a systematic approach that tackles the problem from its roots to ensure they don’t return. Just as with getting rid of ants in a kitchen, a few simple steps will see you right.

From locating the source to securing the garage perimeter, our expert guide will walk you through restoring your pest-free space — and preventing future infestations. 

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

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

1. Find the source

The first step towards eliminating your ant infestation is identifying the entry point to your garage.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, " Inspect your garage thoroughly to locate where the ants are entering. Look for ant trails, which can lead you to their nest or entry points.

"Pay close attention to cracks, crevices, and gaps in walls, floors, and the garage door. Use a flashlight, if necessary, to check dark corners and behind stored items."

Exactly in line with the reasons why ants come into the house, ants typically enter garages in search of food, water, or shelter, so pay close attention to any dark areas, damp spots, or food sources.

Karina adds, "When you do find the source, it's really important that you don’t disturb the trail or the nest until you have a plan in place, as this could cause the ants to spread to other areas."

2. Clean the space

Once the source is found, clean the space thoroughly. Garages often accumulate dirt, spilled food, and moisture, all of which attract ants. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "Sweep and vacuum the garage floor thoroughly to remove crumbs, spills, and debris. Clean up any spills immediately, and make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids. 

"Store pet food or other potential attractants in sealed, airtight containers. By eliminating food sources, you reduce the reasons for ants to invade your garage in the first place, making it less attractive to them."

A simple 1:1 mixture of water and vinegar usually does the trick well when cleaning your garage. This Good & Gather White Distilled Vinegar from Target comes with great reviews.

Karina adds, "Avoid using sugary or scented cleaners, as these can attract more ants."

3. Seal entry points

After cleaning, it's time to seal the entry points. 

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, says, "Inspect the garage for cracks or gaps in walls, doors, and windows. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these entry points, preventing ants from re-entering. This not only helps keep ants out but also improves the overall insulation of your garage."

This DAP Alex Fast Dry White Silicone Caulk from Walmart is great value and dries within 20 minutes. This Stockroom Weather Stripping Foam Seal Strip Insulation Tape from Target provides reliable protection for doors and windows. For an alternative, try this HOMWMPA Garage Door Seal from Amazon. 

4. Apply ant bait

Next, apply ant bait strategically.

Tommy says, "Place ant bait stations in areas where you’ve seen ant activity. These baits contain poison that ants will take back to their colony, effectively eliminating the source. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results."

Karina recommends these Terro Store Liquid Ant Bait Stations from Amazon, which boast more than 100,000 five-star reviews from happy customers. 

Tommy recommends these Ortho Home Defense Bait Stations from Amazon, adding, "These are cheap and discreet, so can be placed out of sight in your garage."

Be patient, as it might take a few days for the bait to work fully.

5. Secure the perimeter

Of the many ways for keeping pests out of your home and garage, securing the perimeter of your garage is among the most essential. 

Create a barrier around the outside of the garage by using ant repellents, insecticide or natural deterrents like diatomaceous earth or citrus peels. Trim back any vegetation that touches the garage, as plants can provide a bridge for ants to enter.

Karina recommends Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter, available from Target. She says, "This product creates a long-lasting barrier that keeps ants and other insects out, providing up to 12 months of protection indoors."

For a chemical-free alternative, Vanessa prefers diatomaceous earth and essential oils. She says, "Natural deterrents are safe for use around pets and children and can be an effective way to prevent future ant invasions without harsh chemicals.

"Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of the garage and near entry points. You can also create a barrier using essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil by mixing them with water and spraying around the garage."

Vanessa recommends Harris Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer from Amazon, adding, "This natural product is great for creating a barrier that ants won’t cross. It’s safe to use around pets and children and provides a chemical-free solution to keep ants out of your garage."

6. Monitor and repeat

Monitor the situation and be prepared to repeat the process if necessary. Even after taking these steps, ants might still find their way back. Regularly inspect the garage for new signs of ants and reapply bait if needed. 

Tommy says, "Keep an eye on the affected areas for any signs of returning ants. You may need to repeat the baiting process to ensure complete elimination. Be patient, as it may take a few days to see results from baiting."

Keeping the space clean and sealed will help reduce the likelihood of a recurring problem. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to keeping your garage ant-free.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — how to get rid of ants in a garage. By following these six simple steps, you can effectively manage and eliminate ants from your garage, creating a cleaner and more comfortable space. 

Next, check out how to kill red ants and how to get rid of ants in your backyard.

In those scorching summer months, there's no greater relief than a handy air conditioning unit. While your AC may be working overtime to keep you cool, it may be building up potentially harmful dust and debris. 

It's important to keep your air conditioner clean as it may be sucking in pollen and other airborne particles. It may be a bit worrisome to tackle as you don't want to damage anything but don't stress. 

We asked professional cleaners and technical experts for their advice. You can rest assured your unit won't harm the air quality while cooling down a room.

The best way to clean an air conditioner unit

After investing in a cooling system, like this portable air conditioner going viral on TikTok, you'll want to make sure you're keeping it in top-notch shape so you feel the full effect. Not cleaning an AC unit can not only damage the efficiency of the machine but can harm your overall air quality. 

"Air conditioners accumulate dirt and debris through their normal operation. Dust, pollen, and other airborne particles are drawn into the unit, and over time, these contaminants can build up on the filters, coils, and fins. Outdoor units are particularly susceptible to dirt from the surrounding environment, including leaves, grass, and insects," says Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta Domestic Assistants.

Read on to discover how to clean an AC unit effectively so you can improve the air quality of your home and stay cool and comfortable.

1. Turn the power off

It may seem like an obvious step but double-check you've turned the power off on your portable air conditioner, window unit, or built-in system.

"Always turn off the unit and disconnect it from the power supply before cleaning to avoid any accidents," says Vanessa Terra Bossart, owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

2. Clean or replace the air filter

Now it's time to get to work banishing all those nasty contaminants. Start by cleaning the AC filter or replacing it entirely if it's time for a new one. 

Use a vacuum to suck out all the loose dust and debris clinging to the filter (a handheld vacuum like the Black & Decker Dustbuster, available on Amazon, works well for this). Then clean the filter with a soft microfiber sponge and soapy water. These non-scratch Scrub-it sponges and classic Dawn dish soap, both available on Amazon, are a fantastic combination.

"Check the air filter and either clean it if reusable or replace it if it's a disposable type. This should be done every 1-3 months, depending on usage and environmental factors," says Vanessa. 

Check how often you should replace your air filter if you're not sure about yours.

3. Clean the coils and fins

Now it's time for the details within the machine. Get into the inner workings of the unit to wipe down the coils and fins.

If you have an indoor AC unit, "Remove the access panel to expose the evaporator coils. Use a soft brush to gently remove dust. Spray a coil cleaner, following the product instructions, and let it sit for the recommended time before rinsing," says Muffetta. 

For an outdoor unit, Muffetta recommends, "Remove the protective grilles to access the condenser coils. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose debris. Spray the coils with a coil cleaner and rinse thoroughly with a garden hose."

Finally, "Use a fin comb to straighten any bent fins and remove dirt. Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate metal," says Muffetta.

4. Check the drain line

Next, it's time to get rid of any mold that may be lurking within your machine. Mold growth can affect your air quality and over health so important to banish it quickly.

"Check the AC drain line for clogs and flush it with bleach and water to prevent mold and algae buildup," says Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and the owner of airconditionerlab.com.

5. Clean the external unit

Time to finish everything off and clean up the outside so your machine looks as good as it functions. Use some of the best cleaning supplies to wipe off any dirt or gunk from the outside.

"Remove debris from around the unit and gently hose off dirt from the fins, being careful not to damage the fins or coils," says Josh.

FAQs

How often should I clean an AC unit?

While you should clean your AC unit annually, you may need to clean it more often depending on your living conditions. 

"It's generally recommended to clean your air conditioning unit at least once a year. However, if you live in an area with high levels of dust, pollution, or pollen, you might need to clean it more frequently. Regular maintenance helps maintain efficiency and prolong the unit's lifespan," says Vanessa.

What happens if I don't clean my AC unit?

A dirty AC unit will not only be less effective, it can negatively affect your air quality. 

"Dirt and debris can reduce airflow and insulate the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. This inefficiency can increase cooling costs by up to 15-30%. Dirty AC units work harder to cool your home over time, which can lead to premature breakdowns and costly repairs. Unclean air conditioners can harbor mold and bacteria, leading to poor indoor air quality and respiratory issues," says Josh.

Improper maintenance of your unit may affect how long it takes for an AC unit to cool down a room. But if you're a little unsure about tackling your machine without damaging it, it's best to consult a professional. 

"Remember, while regular cleaning can be done on your own, certain tasks like checking refrigerant levels or electrical components should be left to professionals. If you suspect a major issue, it's best to consult a qualified HVAC technician," says Josh.

Knowing how to keep spiders out of the garage is key in those summer months when those creepy crawlies come out to play.

Our industry experts reveal their four top tips for keeping arachnids away. 

When it comes to identifying bugs in your home and garage, you'll want to act fast. From using essential oils to introducing natural predators, read on for our pros' top tips for maintaining a family-friendly space, free of pests...

1. Seal entry points

Just as with stopping spiders from coming into the house, the first step to keeping spiders out of your garage is to seal any entry points. 

Inspect the garage thoroughly for cracks, gaps, and holes in the walls, doors, and windows. 

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, says, "After inspecting thoroughly, use caulk to seal any openings around windows, doors, and foundation cracks. Weatherstripping can also be applied to garage doors to create a tight seal. This works because it eliminates the physical pathways that spiders use to get inside, making it much harder for them to find a way in."

This DAP Alex Fast Dry White Silicone Caulk from Walmart is great value and dries within 20 minutes. This Stockroom Weather Stripping Foam Seal Strip Insulation Tape from Target provides reliable protection for doors and windows. Tommy also recommends this BOWSEN Heavy-Duty Universal Garage Door Bottom Seals Weatherstrip Kit from Amazon, saying, "These kits help ensure your garage door seals tightly, preventing spiders from getting in. They’re easy to install and can also improve energy efficiency by keeping out drafts."

Pay special attention to areas where pipes or cables enter the garage, as these are common entry points for spiders.

2. Use essential oils

Essential oils can be a natural and effective way to repel spiders. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "Spiders are known to dislike the strong scent of certain essential oils, making them an excellent natural deterrent.

"Simply mix a few drops of essential oil — such as peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus — with water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture around the perimeter of your garage, paying extra attention to corners, windowsills, and doors. Reapply the spray every few weeks or after heavy cleaning or rain.

"The potent smell of these oils overwhelms the spider’s senses, discouraging them from entering the area. Unlike chemical repellents, essential oils are safe for use around pets and children, making them an eco-friendly option."

Reapply the spray every few weeks or after cleaning to maintain its effectiveness.

3. Introduce natural predators

Introducing natural predators can help control the spider population in and around your garage. Birds, lizards, and certain insects like ladybugs and wasps are natural enemies of spiders. 

Encourage these predators by creating a garden environment that attracts them. For example, by adding flowers that attract birds and beneficial insects can create a natural balance that keeps the spider population in check. However, be mindful of not attracting other pests in the process.

4. Maintain cleanliness

A clean garage is less attractive to spiders.

Vanessa says, "Spiders are attracted to cluttered, dark spaces where they can build their webs undisturbed. A clean, organized garage is less inviting for them.

"Regularly sweep and vacuum the garage to remove dust, cobwebs, and other debris. Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes, which can attract spiders. Keep the floor clear and remove any unnecessary clutter, particularly in corners and along walls where spiders tend to hide."

This IRIS USA Latching Storage Box Set from Wayfair is great for providing secure storage space that spiders can't creep into. 

Remember to also ensure that trash is properly sealed and disposed of regularly.

Vanessa adds, "A clean, well-organized space offers fewer hiding spots for spiders. By eliminating clutter and regularly removing webs, you’re making your garage a less attractive environment for them to settle in."

Meet our experts

So there you have it — four expert-approved ways to keep spiders out of your garage. By sealing entry points, using essential oils, encouraging natural predators, and maintaining cleanliness, you can create an environment that is less appealing to spiders. 

Next, check out how to get rid of ants in your backyard. 

When the weather gets cooler and the leaves get crunchier, different pests can try to invade your home and your backyard.

It's a good idea to know what these are, so you can take effective steps to deter them and get rid of them if they do cause a problem. Mice, spiders, and even ladybugs are just a few of the critters that can appear this season.

If you've been identifying bugs in your home throughout the year and want to keep an eye out for these and larger pests in the fall, these are all worth watching out for.

1. Mice

With the temperature dropping in the fall, mice will aim to go inside your house in the hopes of seeking shelter.

“Mice can actually damage your home, usually by chewing and destroying anything that remotely resembles food or nesting material,” says Brett Bennett, pest control expert and director of operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions.

To prevent them from getting in, close up any cracks and gaps around your windows and doors, as they can squeeze through the tiniest of openings. 

You can do this with sealant, such as the GE Advanced Silicone Caulk from Amazon which is waterproof and shrink-proof. 

2. Spiders

While spiders can enter your home throughout the year, they will start coming inside more in the fall.

“This is because they’ll be searching for new sources of food once bugs become less plentiful outdoors,” explains Brett.

While they won’t damage your home, they can be a hassle when they invade your space, especially thanks to the webs they weave.

You can get rid of them by decluttering your home, as they love to hide in messy, cluttered spaces. Plus, you can use an extendable duster like the Cleanse Home Microfibre Duster from Walmart to tidy up webs in hard-to-reach places like ceilings.

3. Wasps

Wasps and yellow jackets can be especially problematic in the fall, as they can become aggressive around people and food sources.

“As plants die back and animals start migrating or going dormant for the fall, yellow jackets quickly find themselves with limited food options at a time when they're trying to get as many calories as possible to help them survive the winter,” explains Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love.

He continues, “The best bet for discouraging them at this time of year is traps. Because they're so hungry, baiting a yellow jacket trap with something sweet will usually fill it up in a hurry.”

Or, you can grab a ready-made trap, such as the Rescue VisiLure TrapStik from Amazon, which has a bright color that also lures carpenter ants.

No matter what you choose, make sure you regularly maintain the trap throughout the season to keep numbers in your yard down.

4. Cluster flies

These flies can creep in through windows and doors, laying eggs in your home and creating a never-ending cycle of flying pests in your home.

“Certain types of flies such as cluster flies tend to emerge in the fall, so you might begin to notice flies indoors again even once temperatures outside are cool enough to discourage other types of these nuisance bugs,” says Brett.

The easiest way to remove them is by using a bug spray, such as the Mighty Mint Gallon Bug Spray from Amazon which is a bestseller and is made from natural substances. Or, you can always make your own homemade bug spray.

5. Ladybugs

While I agree that ladybugs are totally cute, they can actually become a pain when they invade your homes in large numbers.

“They’re just looking for a cozy spot for the winter, but they can be bothersome and leave behind yellow stains,” explains Brett.

You can repel them by using natural repellents like citrus peels and cloves to keep them from coming in, as well as using sealant to make sure they don’t creep through any cracks.

By finding out which pests can invade your home and yard in the fall, you can ensure that you take the appropriate steps, like sealing and decluttering, to ensure they can’t settle into your space.

Looking for more pro advice? Finding out how to keep pests out of your home for good will also come in useful.

If you're a regular at pilates or spin class, you may have noticed nasty odors clinging to your favorite Lululemon set. 

I'm obsessed with all things activewear so it's important to me to keep my leggings, sports tops, and jackets in good shape. Even after throwing my gym clothes in the wash, I can sometimes still detect a faint smell — my laundry pods alone aren't cutting it. 

The good news? I found the best method for washing gym clothes to banish those odors once and for all. I even asked laundry experts for their input and favorite products.

How to get odors out of gym clothes

Activewear proves to be difficult to clean as synthetic fibers can often harbor sweat, body odor, and bacteria (gross!). You may have thought you can't wash polyester in a washing machine without ruining your clothes but if you take a few extra steps, you definitely can.

"Sweat and body odor in gym clothes are caused mostly by bacteria, which grow best in moist environments. Synthetic materials like polyester exaggerate this problem through their moisture-wicking properties, holding sweat and bacteria more than natural fibers do," says Daniel Brown, CEO of handycleaners.com.

After much experimentation, I found the best method for getting rid of those gross smells. There's one ingredient that makes a world of difference.

1. Air out your clothes

Before doing laundry, you'll want to air out your gym clothes after your workout. Letting your sweaty leggings and sports bras sit in a pile for days on end will only make the odors worse. 

"After wearing, hang your workout clothes to air out. This helps prevent bacteria growth, which can cause unpleasant odors," says Vanessa Terra Bossart, owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

You can throw them on a drying rack after your workout, like this Amazon Basics drying rack which is loved by customers with 62,000 ratings and 4.7 stars.

This is also a good time to check the care label for any laundry symbols which will tell you how to wash the garment.

2. Soak with vinegar

Now it's time for the cleaning product I swear by — vinegar. It's a staple in my house as you can use vinegar to clean just about anything from glass surfaces to wooden floors. I like to use this Heinz white vinegar, available on Amazon, as it's super effective and budget-friendly, coming in under $3.

If the odors aren't too strong, you can simply add a splash of vinegar to the washing machine while you clean your clothes. For stronger odors, try soaking your gym clothes in a vinegar solution for some extra cleaning power.

"Make a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts cold water. Soak your gym clothes for 30 minutes to an hour before washing. Vinegar acts in such a way that it subdues odors very well and helps dissipate the gunk quickly," says Daniel.

3. Wash in washing machine

Next, it's time to throw your gym clothes in the washing machine. All you'll need is a mild detergent like this Tide Free & Gentle detergent from Amazon, with over 28,000 ratings and 4.8 stars.

Depending on how often you do laundry, those odors may have had more time to set in. If you're tackling a stubborn odor, investing in some extra laundry room essentials will help get the job done.

"Add half a cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine with your laundry detergent. Baking soda is excellent at neutralizing odors and can help eliminate the stubborn smells that linger in synthetic fabrics," says Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta Domestic Assistants.

You can pick up some classic Arm & Hammer baking soda in bulk from Amazon to use for a wide range of cleaning tasks.

I always wash my gym clothes with cold water to prevent shrinking or damaging the fabric. "Always wash your gym clothes in cold water. Hot water can damage synthetic fibers and set in odors and stains," says Vanessa.

4. Air dry

Not sure if you can throw your gym clothes in the dryer? When in doubt, always air dry activewear as the extreme heat in the tumble dryer may harm the fabric. 

"Whenever possible, air dry your gym clothes. The high heat of the dryer can damage synthetic fibers and lock in odors. If you need to use a dryer, opt for a low heat setting," says Muffetta.

As long as you avoid common laundry mistakes like using high heat or damaging cleaning products, your gym clothes should come out smelling fresh and clean. No need to worry about those laundry myths that claim these odors are impossible to remove.

Making a homemade bug spray is an effective, natural, and eco-friendly way to keep pests at bay — but what ingredients do you need and which are most effective?

Our expert guide walks you through the simple steps to craft your very own homemade spray for a fresh-smelling and intruder-free space.

When it comes to natural ways to repel bugs, look no further than this handy guide.

How to make a homemade bug spray like a pro

Though there are many ingenious ways to keep pests out of your yard, sometimes a carefully crafted spray is just the thing. 

Our industry pros reveal the simple steps and most effective ingredients for a safe and effective homemade bug repellent. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a bug spray that works for your lawn, home, vegetable plants, and yard.

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

All prices correct at time of publication.

1. Mix the key ingredients

An effective homemade bug spray requires a carefully-selected mix of ingredients.

In a bowl or jug, or directly into your spray bottle, combine a cup of distilled water with one cup of witch hazel and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps to disperse essential oils, making it an excellent base for a bug spray that's both effective but gentle on skin."

Both Karina and property expert James Heartquist recommend Thayers Witch Hazel from Amazon. James says, "It’s a high-quality, natural astringent that helps the bug spray dry quickly on your skin without causing irritation. It’s also alcohol-free, which makes it gentle and suitable for all skin types."

The vinegar is highly effective against ants, spiders, and flies due to its strong smell and acidic nature. James recommends Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar from Target. He says, "Known for its antibacterial properties and effectiveness in repelling insects, this comes from a trusted brand, so you know you’re getting a pure, organic product that’s safe to use in your homemade bug spray."

Other optional ingredients include a tablespoon of vodka — which can be particularly effective on soft-bodied insects such as aphids and mealybugs — and dish soap. John Target, of Target Pest Control, adds, "For extra potency, add a tablespoon of dish soap. The soap helps break down the bug’s exoskeleton."

For spray bottles, James recommends Sally's Organics Glass Spray Bottles from Amazon. He adds, "These are durable and prevent the essential oils from degrading. Glass bottles are also reusable and eco-friendly, making them a great choice for storing your homemade bug spray."

2. Add essential oils

Essential oils have an important dual function — not only do they contain natural compounds that are toxic or repellent to insects, they also smell great.

Add 10-20 drops of your preferred oils to the vinegar-water solution. Different oils provide different strengths, so combine them to suit your needs. For example, lemon eucalyptus, tea tree and citronella oil all make for strong mosquito or tick repellents, while peppermint and lavender oil can handle a variety of indoor pests including fleas, spiders and ants.

Karina says, "Personally, I'm a fan of combining eucalyptus and tea tree oil — not only do they provide a robust defense against bugs, they also have strong antibacterial properties."

This Spring Valley Pure Australian Tea Tree Oil from Walmart comes with great reviews and is good on your skin. 

John adds, "For extra potency, you can also add 10 drops of neem oil, which has insecticidal properties." 

This Natria Neem Oil from Target is easy to use and will keep aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites in check. 

3. Shake & spray

The last step is the easiest and most enjoyable. Simply shake your mixture vigorously in a spray bottle then get to work of repelling those unwanted intruders.

Apply the spray to areas where bugs are present or likely to enter. This can include door frames, window sills, and garden plants.

Avoid spraying directly on pets or near where children play. Some essential oils can be harmful if ingested or if they come into contact with sensitive skin. John says, "Keep pets away from the treated area for at least 30 minutes. Avoid using this spray on windy days to prevent it from drifting onto unintended areas."

Also, some plants may be sensitive to essential oils. Test on a small leaf before spraying extensively. John adds, "If you're using the spray in your garden, avoid spraying right before rain, as it can wash away the solution."

FAQs

What's the best homemade lawn bug spray?

Combine water, vinegar, and peppermint oil in a spray bottle. Spray your lawn weekly to deter mosquitoes, ants, and other pests.

What's the best homemade bug spray for the house?

Mix water, white vinegar, and a few drops of lavender and peppermint oil. Spray around entry points like doors and windows to keep spiders, ants, and flies out.

What's the best homemade bug spray for vegetable plants?

Combine water, a few drops of dish soap, and neem oil. Neem oil is effective against aphids, caterpillars, and beetles. Spray the solution on plants in the early morning or evening.

What's the best homemade mosquito yard spray?

Mix water, lemon eucalyptus oil, citronella oil, and a bit of witch hazel. Spray this mixture around your yard, focusing on areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed, such as standing water and shaded areas.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — how to make a homemade big spray in three simple steps. By using natural ingredients, you can effectively manage pests without relying on harsh chemicals. 

Next, check out how to stop spiders getting in the house.

I'm always envious of Sydney Sweeney's closet because it's filled with gorgeous outfits I'd love to wear. But, it turns out that I'm also in awe of the dressing room space itself.

I've asked interior designers why the Anyone But You and Euphoria star's space works so well, and they're as in love as I am. They've delved into warm textures brought in by features such as the wooden panels, the honey-colored drawers, and the boucle stool, and explained how to replicate the look at home.

Whether you're looking for bedroom ideas that integrate getting-ready areas or have a whole room like Sydney (jealous, if so!), her space offers tons of inspiration.

Sydney Sweeney's closet effortlessly blends together form and function with elegance and efficiency. 

“This stunning space, with its wall-to-wall mirrored doors featuring sleek round black inset handles, is as much about aesthetics as it is about utility,” explains Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“The mirrors, beyond providing a full view for outfit checks, ingeniously expand the room’s perceived dimensions and enhance the natural light,” she says.

This is a clever way to make a small room appear bigger, especially when placed near windows like Sydney’s closet, as this will bounce light around the room.

As well as doing this, she has chosen bright and warm Scandi-style colors throughout. “The closet's multi-toned wood floors are a striking feature, their vertical planks elongating the room and adding depth,” Nina says.

The wooden hues are varied, such as on the contrasting drawers that add to the cohesive color palette.

“The use of off-white and honey keeps the space from feeling monotonous while providing the functional value of ample storage,” explains David Silva, interior designer at HomRem LLC.

He also loves the roundness of the boucle stool, which provides a great contrast against all the clean lines throughout the room. “It helps keep the room from feeling too rigid, and is placed in a way to invite occupants to have a seat.”

“I would take it a step further and get one with storage to make your space less cluttered and more functional,” David adds.

All of this is given a serious glow-up with the multiple light sources, including perimeter ceiling lighting, which make sure the space is always well-lit. “This lighting, combined with the reflective surfaces and light color palette, keeps the closet bright and welcoming,” Nina says.

Shop our Sydney Sweeney closet edit

Sydney Sweeney's closet is a perfect blend of chic functionality and personal flair

“It’s a beautiful reflection of her impeccable style and is an inviting space to get ready and take selfies,” Nina finishes by saying.

Looking for more sophisticated celeb home storage inspiration? I also love Gigi Hadid’s office, which is filled with simple and sleek solutions.

Panicking about an accidental mess? Fear not, we found a one-product stain removal method that will tackle just about anything. 

This simple cleaning method is taking off on TikTok with over 100,000 likes and 28,000 saves. Safe to say lots of viewers will be trying out this easy solution. 

The best part? All you'll need is one budget-friendly product to banish stains once and for all. Learn how to do laundry, fuss-free.

The one-product stain removal method, as approved by TikTok

We've all been there - you're running out the door and notice you've spilled your morning coffee all over your white top. Or some beauty products have leaked in your luggage while on vacation. Whatever your situation, there is a stain removal method out there to tackle the mess.

TikTok user, Anastasia Gerrans, took to the video platform to share how she got rid of stains from white clothes after a bottle of liquid medicine spilled in her bag. Her genius method is not only easy to pull off, it's hugely effective. 

The achieve the same results, start out by soaking the stained clothes in a bucket of clean water, like this Ozark Trail 10-Quart Collapsible Sink available at Walmart (it has a 4.5 star rating and over 300 reviews). If you don't have a small basin or bucket on hand, you can also soak the clothes directly in the sink or bathtub. The pre-soak will help remove any part of the stain that dissolves in water and get rid of loose debris.

Next, drain the water and refill the bucket with clean water. Add a splash of Shout Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover (available on Amazon) to the water and mix together. The effectiveness of this method all comes down to this genius product. It's 50 times more concentrated than in-wash powder and has a triple-acting formula that clings, penetrates and lifts stains.

Add your stained clothes back into the basin and soak for at least ten minutes but Anastasia recommends at least 30-40 minutes. Once it's done soaking you can rinse or throw it into the wash with the rest of your laundry, and hang to dry.

More laundry essentials

Looking for some more laundry hacks that work? "Look for detergents that include oxygen-based bleach, which works well in lifting odors and stains without causing any damage to synthetic fibers," says Daniel Brown, CEO of handycleaners.com.

You can also add some vinegar to your mixture if your clothes are stuck with some tough-to-remove odors. "Make a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts cold water. Soak your clothes for 30 minutes to an hour before washing. Vinegar acts in such a way that it subdues odors very well and helps dissipate the gunk quickly," says Daniel. 

We found a few more products to add to your stain-removing arsenal.

From removing sweat stains to getting coffee out of clothes, your laundry routine just got a little easier with this brilliant one-product method. Say goodbye to stressing about ruined outfits and expensive dry-cleaning. Just sit back and let the stain remover to the work!

If your pet or someone else has had an accident on your clothes, make sure to act quickly and use the right techniques.

I've asked cleaning pros how to get urine scents and stains out of them. They've recommended a host of easy tips and tricks that are worth trying out on your garments. From natural solutions like deodorizing baking soda to using the right temperature water, there are plenty of factors to consider. I tried out the steps they gave me on my white t-shirt and, spoiler alert, it came out sparkling.

For those looking to clean up urine and are specifically targeting wearables, it's a good idea to seek out specific advice for these so your favorite pieces won't be ruined.

What you'll need to remove urine scents and stains

• Cold water 
• White vinegar — the Heinz Distilled All Natural Vinegar from Amazon is one of our top cleaning products here at Real Homes.
• Baking soda — the Arm & Hammer Baking Soda from Amazon is the site's choice.
• Mild detergent — over 20,000 shoppers have given the Tide Free & Gentle on Amazon five stars.
• Clean cloth — the Homexcel Cleaning Cloths from Amazon are washable and come in cute colors.

Step 1: Rinse the stained area

Before you even open the washing machine, make sure to hold the soiled clothing under cold running water. 

“Cold water is essential in removing urine stains because it helps avoid protein, present in the urine, from binding with the fibers of the fabric,” explains Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners.

“In fact, hot water may fix these proteins and firmly stick the stain into the fabric, hence making it hard, if not impossible, to remove,” he adds. 

Step 2: Prepare and apply the cleaning solution

Once the garment is damp, you can then blot on a mixture of white vinegar onto the stain. I love cleaning with vinegar around the house, as it's a strong natural solution.

Before applying this, Daniel says to test the mixture on a discreet part of the fabric. “This precaution is taken so that the product doesn't discolor or ruin your clothing in any way,” he adds.

“Mix one part white vinegar with two parts cold water, as this will break down the urine components,” Daniel adds.

While doing this, I measured it out in a jug, to ensure I poured out the correct amount.

He also advises avoiding ammonia-based cleaners, as these can trigger the chemical compounds in urine, enhancing the smell and deepening the stain.

Allow the solution to sit on the stain for about 10-15 minutes so that it can flow well in the fabric. 

Step 3: Wash the garment

Before putting the clothing piece in your best washing machine, rinse the urine stain again under running cold water.

Daniel says, “Rigorously clean the area where you applied the cleaning solution to remove any residue.”

From here, you can wash in your regular wash cycle using your regular detergent. For special instructions, always refer to the care label.

“You can also add one cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle for extra odor removal,” adds Vanessa Terra Bossart, cleaning expert and owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

Step 4: Leave to dry

Once your garment is done spinning, you can leave it to dry.

“I recommend air drying and avoiding using a dryer until you're sure the stain and odor are gone, as heat can set any remaining stain or smell,” Vanessa explains.

You can also clean with baking soda on the area that is affected, to draw out smells that might persist. “Lightly dab it into the fabric and let it be there for a few hours before shaking it off and washing again for a fresher finish,” Daniel suggests. 

If you’ve done all of this and your stain persists, then do it again. “You can get a second round if the urine stain is really bad, and an enzymatic cleaner really helps for the organic stains,” he adds.

For example, the AmazonCommercial Multi-Purpose Enzyme Cleaner from Amazon is non-corrosive, breaks down complex organic proteins, and has a mint scent that will help cut through any bad smells.

The key to successful urine stain removal is quick action and thorough cleaning. 

“Always check the care label on your clothing and test any solution on a small, hidden area first,” Vanessa finishes by saying.

If you’ve had to deal with urine accidents elsewhere in the home, learning how to get pee smell out of a couch and how to get pee out of a mattress could also come in useful.

Are you drinking out of a coffee cup while reading this, and thinking it could use some TLC? Don't stress — it's actually so easy and quick to do.

I asked professional cleaners for four easy steps for doing this and followed them myself on my boyfriend's mug. He drinks black tea and coffee, so his go-to cup was in serious need of a makeover. I did with just baking soda, water, and a sponge, and was amazed by the results.

If you've cleaned your coffee maker and want to move onto your accessories to make your space sparkle like Starbucks, this guide is worth following.

What you'll need to remove coffee stains from mugs

• Baking soda — I used one in my baking cupboard, but Arm & Hammer's Baking Soda from Amazon is one cleaning pros have recommended to me time and time again.
• Water — just a couple of drops from the tap.
• A sponge — I used one from my Scrub Daddy Set from Amazon, which is my go-to for kitchenware dirt and stains as it doesn't scratch and cleans incredibly well.

Step 1: Rinse with cold water

This starting step may seem obvious, but I have cleaned my boyfriend’s mug several times and have never done this before the cleaning pros advised doing it.

“First, rinse out the cup with a bit of cold water,” says Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners. “This serves to loosen the stain and prevents it from further setting in.”

He says to make sure to do this immediately while the stain is fresh on your cup. If you’re dealing with old stains like me, don’t panic — I did this and I still saw stains start to lift straight away.

Step 2: Make your baking soda paste

Make up your baking soda paste in a separate small bowl or jug, so you can easily apply it to your mug.

“Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water, making sure the paste is thick,” Daniel says.

He continues, “Baking soda is a mild abrasive that will raise the stain, but not scratch your mug.”

I’ve tried cleaning with baking soda before, but have previously added way too much water, meaning the mixture was watered down and didn’t work effectively. This time around though, I didn't make this mistake, and now definitely advise going for a more solid paste.

Step 3: Apply the baking soda pasta

Using a soft sponge or cloth, apply the baking soda paste liberally in the stained areas. I used a Scrub Daddy and soaked it a little bit in water, so it was easy to work around the mug. This is one of the best cleaning supplies that I own.

“Do this in a circular motion to make sure that the mug is fully covered, then leave for about 10-15 minutes,” Daniel explains.

As you can see from the picture, even after initially applying the paste, the coffee stains came away from the mug.

My paste was a little crumbly but still easy to work with, but if you do find it isn’t latching onto the cup properly, just add a couple more drops until you get a firmer consistency.

After sitting for a while, Daniel says to scrub the stain gently using a sponge, taking care not to use any abrasive materials since this may ruin the surface of the mug. I did this again with my Scrub Daddy.

Step 4: Rinse

Finally, Daniel says to rinse your mug thoroughly under warm running water to wash out all the baking soda and the loose stains.

If it’s still stained, he says not to worry and go back and try again. “Tough spots may take a little more time for the baking soda paste to work on, or at other times, just a bit more muscle can help,” he says.

Don't have baking soda to hand or want to use something stronger? Daniel suggests filling your mug with equal parts white vinegar and water, then leaving for 10 minutes. I love cleaning with vinegar at home, as it's a great natural cleaner.

“For stubborn stains, you can also scrub the mug with an abrasive sponge and with bleach. Carefully follow directions and rinse thoroughly after bleaching,” adds Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and owner of E.C. House Cleaning.

By using just baking soda and water, I was able to remove coffee stains from a mug and made it look so much better.

“With the proper technique and products, your mugs will sparkle like new. I've found the key is starting with the gentlest method, then increasing abrasiveness only as needed,” Eliana finishes by saying.

Want to remove stains from other areas of the house? Learning how to remove coffee stains from wood tables and how to remove coffee stains from carpets will also be useful.

When it comes to doing laundry, the choice of detergent can make a significant difference in the cleanliness of your clothes and the overall efficiency of your washing routine.

Our cleaning experts provide a detailed look at the pros and cons of pods, liquid detergent, and powder to determine which one comes out on top.

Though our list of the top laundry detergents is dominated by liquids, are these really the best for you? Read on for a detailed look at the arguments... 

How to choose between pods vs liquid detergent vs powder

Knowing how often to do your laundry begins by deciding on your chosen detergent option. 

In this guide, our experts will examine all the pros and cons to pods, liquid and powder options, providing opinions and product recommendations, as well as a look at how well they work with different types of machine. 

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

All prices correct at time of publication. 

1. Pods

Laundry pods offer a convenient, pre-measured solution that minimizes the risk of overuse. They are easy to store and reduce the mess typically associated with traditional detergents. 

Lina DaSilva, founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, says, "Pods are highly convenient, offering pre-measured doses that eliminate the risk of spills and make storage more simple. However, they are more expensive, can be a choking hazard for children or pets, and sometimes don't dissolve well in cold water."

Lina recommends Tide Spring Meadow Pods from Target and Persil Discs from Amazon, especially for High Efficiency (HE) machines. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "Though great for busy households who value convenience, the fixed dosage of pods means less flexibility for heavily soiled or particularly light loads. They can also stain clothes if coming into direct contact with wet fabric."

Vanessa recommends these Dropps Stain & Odor Laundry Detergent Pods from Walmart, which contain natural enzymes to eliminate persistent smells. 

Pods offer great convenience but can be more expensive per load compared to other options, and come with safety concerns, particularly around children and pets.

2. Liquid detergent

Liquid detergent is versatile and effective on a variety of stains, especially those that are oily or greasy. It dissolves easily in both cold and hot water, making it a good choice for different washing temperatures. 

Lina says, "Liquid detergent can be good choice for families with diverse laundry requirements, including tough stains and delicate fabrics. It's effective in all water temperatures, making it versatile for various laundry needs, including pre-treating stains. It dissolves easily, leading to cleaner clothes.

"The downsides are it can be messy and heavy to carry, plus overusing can lead to residue build-up. Compared to powder detergent, it also tends to be more expensive per wash."

Lina recommends Arm & Hammer Clean Burst from Target. Its low-suds formula means it won't block HE machine sensors. 

Taylor Riley, co-owner of Impact Cleaning Professionals, says, "The only problem I have found with liquid laundry detergents is they can sometimes leave behind residues, particularly when too much has been poured into the wash. These residues can build up over time but as long as you keep a good cleaning schedule you won't have any issues. 

"My favorite is Seventh Generation Concentrated Laundry Detergent from Amazon. This laundry detergent is cost effective and ideal for my toddler that has sensitive skin. This product, and most other liquid detergents, dissolves easily and evenly to ensure your laundry gets a proper clean."

3. Powder

Powder detergent is often the most cost-effective option and comes in recyclable cardboard packaging, which is a plus for the environment. It’s particularly effective on ground-in dirt and clay, making it ideal for outdoor clothing. 

Lina says, "Powder detergent is cost-effective, has a longer shelf life and performs well in hard water conditions. It's best for budget-conscious households and for cleaning heavily soiled clothing. 

"However, it may not dissolve well in cold water, leading to residue and clumping, and its bulky packaging can be inconvenient."

Vanessa says, "Powder is effective at removing outdoor stains like mud and grass, has a longer shelf life than liquid detergents and usually has more eco-friendly packaging, like cardboard boxes rather than plastic bottles.

"However, it can leave residue, especially in cold water or water-efficient machines, can be messy to measure and pour, plus it may cause skin irritation for some users due to higher pH levels."

Eliana Coca, founder of E.C. House Cleaning, adds, "Powdered detergents can work well for heavily soiled loads but often don’t dissolve fully, leaving behind clumps that damage fabrics. They also frequently contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that irritate skin."

Lina recommends Tide Powder Laundry Detergent from Walmart and Gain Original Powder Detergent from Target, which is HE-compatible and boasts five-star reviews. Powder detergents are effective in both HE and standard machines.

4. Machine compatibility

The type of detergent you choose can also depend on the compatibility with your washing machine. 

Vanessa says, "Pods are designed to work in both top-loading and front-loading machines. However, they're particularly well-suited to front-loaders and HE machines, as these typically use less water, which helps ensure the pod dissolves completely.

"Liquid detergents are versatile and work well in both top-loading and front-loading machines. They're particularly well-suited to front-loaders and HE machines, as they produce fewer suds and dissolve more easily, reducing the risk of residue buildup.

"Powder detergents work well in both top-loading and front-loading machines, but they're particularly suited to top-loaders. In front-loading machines, it's crucial to add the powder to the designated dispenser rather than directly into the drum to ensure proper dissolution."

High-efficiency (HE) machines require low-sudsing detergents, and while many pods and liquid detergents are HE-compatible, not all powder detergents are. It’s important to check the detergent packaging for HE compatibility to ensure it doesn’t damage your machine or leave excess residue.

Eliana adds, "For high-efficiency machines, liquid detergent is really the only viable choice. Top-loaders can work with any form of detergent but liquid remains the gentlest, most effective option. 

"Following the recommendations in your owner’s manual is key to optimizing your washer’s performance and avoiding damage, regardless of the detergent."

Our conclusion

Each type of detergent has its strengths and weaknesses. 

Pods offer convenience and are generally effective but come at a higher cost and with safety concerns. Liquid detergent provides flexibility and excellent stain removal but can be prone to overuse and has environmental drawbacks. Powder detergent is cost-effective and eco-friendly but can struggle with cold water dissolution and measuring accuracy. 

Eliana says, "With over 20 years of experience cleaning residential and commercial environments, I have found liquid detergents to generally be the best option. Liquid detergents dissolve easily even in cold or energy-efficient wash cycles, thoroughly cleaning fabrics without leaving excess residue. They are also gentle and fragrance-free, suitable for sensitive skin and allergies."

Lina says, "I would agree that for those with sensitive skin, liquid detergents — particularly hypoallergenic or fragrance-free options — are usually better. In terms of cleaning quality, liquid and powder detergents generally perform better on different stains and fabrics, while pods offer the most convenience."

Vanessa says, "The choice between powder, liquid, and pod detergents really depends on various factors including your laundry habits, machine type, budget, and environmental concerns. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice may vary depending on your specific needs and preferences.

"Powder is typically more cost-effective but can leave residue more easily than liquid. Liquid dissolves more easily in cold water, making it better for cold washes and delicates. Though powder is more eco-friendly in terms of packaging, pods are convenient and mess-free."

Taylor adds, "All in all, I use liquid detergent because it dissolves easily, is cost efficient, delivers a superior clean, and can be used on both top-loading and front-loading washing machines."

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific laundry needs, washing habits, and environmental considerations. By weighing these factors, you can select the detergent that best suits your household.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — pods vs liquid detergent vs powder. Armed with our expert advice, you're ready to select the laundry-cleaning solution best-suited to you. 

Next, check out how to clean a top-loading washing machine in four easy steps. 

Balconies offer a refreshing outdoor space for relaxation, but these areas can be easily forgotten when it comes to cleaning and being exposed to the elements, be prone to dirt and mold build-up.

Backed by decades of experience in the cleaning industry, our experts reveal the six spots you're probably forgetting to clean on your balcony — and explain exactly how to spruce them up to their former glory. 

Cleaning your balcony properly begins with knowing the key spots you're likely to miss. So let's dive in and bring your balcony back to its brilliant best...

1. Furniture and cushions

Balcony furniture and cushions are often exposed to the elements, leading to a buildup of dust, dirt, bird droppings, and even mildew. While wiping down surfaces might seem sufficient, a deeper clean is necessary. 

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "Your approach will entirely depend on your furniture material. For metal furnishings, dish soap and water will do the trick. For wicker or plastic furniture, try a 1:1 combination of warm water and white vinegar. Use a spray bottle to daintily fog the furniture, then wipe it down with a microfiber cloth."

For tougher grime or bird droppings, Wells recommends this ecover dish soap from Walmart. It's fragranced with geranium, one of my favorites. Wells says, "This plant-based formula successfully removes oil and grime while being kind to surfaces. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub a tiny amount straight onto the stain, then rinse thoroughly."

For cushions, HappyCleans chief operating officer Will Cotter recommends a sprinkle of baking soda. He says, "I like to let it sit overnight to really deodorize, then vacuum it up the next morning. 

"For a natural bleaching and disinfecting solution, leave your cushions in the sun for a few hours. If your cushions are looking a little wrinkly, use a fabric steamer to remove the wrinkles and give them a refresh. 

"If possible, invest in cushion covers so you can easily throw them in the washing machine — just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. For added protection, spray them with a fabric-protecting finish such as the Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield from Amazon ."

2. The floor

The balcony floor endures a lot, from foot traffic to weather changes, yet it often receives only a cursory sweep — or nothing at all.

Will says, "The balcony floor is easily forgotten, especially under the furniture. It's out of sight, plus dragging around heavy outdoor furniture is a pain. But the thing is — that overlooked area can gather up a ton of dust and grime. 

"To clean the floor thoroughly, sweep away all the loose dirt and leaves. I personally use the Yocada Heavy-Duty Broom from Amazon — the corn bristles get everything and ensure no leftover streaks! Remember, don't just get what you can see — move the furniture onto a tarp or old blanket to avoid any scratching, and attack the rest.

"Next, pull out the vacuum to suck up the smaller bits, especially in those corners and edges. To make sure there’s no dirt left, I like to tie a damp mop or a microfiber cloth to the broom handle to catch any dust that the broom and vacuum might miss."

Our expert guide on the best vacuums to buy in 2024 can give you a steer if you're in the market for a new appliance.

Will adds, "For any stains or sticky spots, mix warm water with some Dawn Dish Soap from Target. Rinse with clean water, wipe it again with a microfiber cloth, and let it air dry. Before putting the furniture back, wipe the bottoms and legs too."

Regular deep cleaning of the floor not only enhances the appearance but also prevents long-term damage.

3. Light fixtures

Balcony light fixtures can quickly become caked with dust, cobwebs, and insect debris. Over time, this can dim the light and make your balcony look neglected. 

Joseph Passalacqua, owner and CEO of Maid Sailors, says, "Balcony light fixtures can easily gather dust, dead bugs, and cobwebs over time. To keep them clean, start by turning off the power. Take off the fixture cover and soak it in warm, soapy water to loosen dirt. 

"While it soaks, use a can of compressed air like this Dust-Off Disposable Compressed Gas Duster from Amazon to blow away debris from inside the fixture. Its strong spray reaches into tight spots effortlessly."

For more stubborn dirt, a soft brush can help. The OXO Deep Clean Brush Set from Target is small but effective, with great customer reviews. 

Joseph adds, "After drying the cover, put it back on, and you'll have a brighter, fresher balcony in no time."

This also applies to the smart surface of any solar powered items on your balcony. Give those a wipe with a damp cloth to maximize solar energy conversion.

4. The railings

Railings are another area that often gets overlooked. They collect dust, pollen, and bird droppings, which can make them look unsightly and become slippery. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "To clean your railings, put on rubber gloves for protection, then prepare a bucket with warm water and mild dish soap. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe off any dust or loose dirt from the railings then use a scrub brush or old toothbrush dipped in the soapy water to clean the railings, focusing on crevices and joints.

"Using a soft-bristled brush avoids scratching painted or metal surfaces. For tough spots, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be very effective."

The Great Value Latex Household Gloves from Walmart are effective when cleaning, and the EasyHonor Toothbrush Set from Amazon has extra-soft bristles. Vanessa also highly recommends Mr Clean Magic Eraser Original for tough stains and grime on balcony railings. 

She adds, "Rinse the railings thoroughly with clean water. If you have a drain on your balcony, you can use a hose; otherwise, use a clean, damp cloth. Finally, dry the railings with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water spots and rust."

Be mindful of the amount of water you use, especially if you have neighbor downstairs as you don't want to flood out their balcony.

5. Door tracks

The tracks of your sliding door can accumulate dirt, leaves, and other debris, making the door difficult to open and close, or attracting pests.

Will says, "When it comes to balcony door tracks, you might not even realize how much dirt and grime can build up until you really take a close look. To clean them, use a small brush, like an old toothbrush, to loosen any dirt, then use a handheld vacuum with the crevice attachment. 

"If you really want to scrape off any stuck-on mess without scratching the tracks, wrap a plastic knife with a microfiber cloth. Spray with the water and dish soap mix, let it sit for a while, then scrub again. Once it’s clean, take a damp cloth and wipe away all the dirt and grime. Dry everything off really well with a dry cloth before applying a bit of lubricant to keep those doors sliding smoothly."

For an extra-thorough clean, use a can of compressed air like this ATEngeus Compressed Air Duster from Amazon to blow out any remaining dust particles. Will adds, "It’ll help stop dirt and junk from making its way into the tracks, making your life a whole lot easier."

Regular cleaning of door tracks ensures smooth operation and prolongs the life of your sliding door.

6. Plant pots

Plant pots and their drip trays are often neglected in balcony cleaning routines. Over time, they can develop mineral deposits, algae, and mold, which can be harmful to your plants. 

Joseph says, "It's not uncommon for mildew, peeling paint, and mineral deposits to build up in flower boxes and balcony planters over time. To clean, first drain the pots and brush away any loose material to give them a refresh. 

"Spray both the inside and outside of each planter with 30 SECONDS Outdoor Cleaner from Amazon, allowing it to sit for a few minutes. Then, use the Rubbermaid Power Scrubber from Target to scrub away any stains and residue. This lightweight, cordless tool makes scrubbing easy with its oscillating head. 

"Finally — before re-filling the planters — give them a good rinse and allow them to air dry."

Regular cleaning of plant pots not only maintains a tidy balcony but also promotes healthier plant growth.

Meet our experts

By paying attention to these often-overlooked areas, you can keep your balcony looking fresh and inviting all year round. 

Next, check out the six best patio cleaners to transform your outdoor space this summer, and learn how to attract hummingbirds to your balcony.

Is there anything worse than finding an eight-legged and very unwanted guest in your bedroom just as you're about to turn in for the night? I hate it too and as the allocated spider-catcher in my home thanks to a squeamish wife, I've realised stopping spiders getting inside in the first place is much less stressful than trying to capture intruders.

I spoke to home and cleaning experts for their tips and they've come to the rescue with six brilliant strategies from mesh screens to lowering the lights to keep spiders away. 

What's better than knowing how to get rid of spiders? Keeping them out in the first place.

1. Install mesh screens

Installing mesh screens on windows and doors is a simple yet effective way to keep spiders and other insects out. 

Ensure your screens are in good condition, with no holes or tears that spiders can crawl through. Opt for fine mesh screens to block even the smallest spiders and other pests from entering your home, especially if you cool down your house by keeping windows or doors open.

Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service, says, "Mesh screens are particularly effective because they block entry points for spiders while being relatively easy to install and maintain.

"Ensure there are no gaps around the edges, as even small openings can allow spiders to get through. Measure the dimensions of your windows and doors carefully, purchase screens that fit, and secure them tightly with a screen frame kit or adhesive strips. 

"Regularly inspect and repair any tears or damage to the screens to maintain their effectiveness."

Tommy recommends the Saint-Gobain ADFORS Extra Strength Window Screen from Amazon. He adds, "This quality product is durable, easy to install, and provides excellent protection against spiders and other insects."

2. Seal gaps

Much like how ants come into the house, spiders can also enter through tiny cracks and gaps around your home. 

Inspect your exterior for any potential entry points, such as gaps around windows, doors, and utility pipes. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings. Pay special attention to the foundation and basement, as these areas are common entry points for spiders.

I found the sealant at the bottom of our front door frame had come out when I caught a spider there recently so I filled it immediately to stop a repeat invasion.

Tommy says, "Sealing gaps and cracks around your home is crucial for keeping spiders out, especially the joro spider, which is known for seeking entry points into homes. 

"Inspect your home's exterior, paying close attention to areas around windows, doors, utility openings, and the foundation. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any gaps or cracks you find."

Tommy recommends the GE Advanced Silicone Sealant from Amazon for its weather-resistance and long-lasting seal. It is white though, so if you'd like a more invisible finish, opt for the Gorilla Waterproof Caulk and Seal in clear on Amazon.

Tommy adds, "For larger gaps, consider using expanding foam sealant. This method is effective because it eliminates the small openings that spiders love. Sealing gaps and cracks can also improve your home's energy efficiency by reducing drafts."

The Wurth Expanding Foam Sealant from Walmart is ideal for larger gaps and shoppers rate it a 4.5/5, often commenting in their reviews how easy it is to use on big gaps, and that the foam dispenser is controllable, which will help minimize waste and mess.

3. Clean your home's perimeter

Maintaining a clean perimeter around your property is another important way you can keep pests out of your home. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Reducing outdoor clutter decreases the number of spiders around your home that could potentially move inside. Keep the perimeter of your home clean by removing leaves, grass clippings, woodpiles, vegetation, and other debris."

Karina recommends the BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower, Vacuum and Mulcher from Amazon. This versatile machine is powerful and light, helping you  establish a clear perimeter with ease, and leaving nowhere for spiders to hide as they try to find a gap or opening to crawl into your home. 

When attending to the area around your home, it is also worth trimming shrubs and trees away from the house to eliminate bridges spiders can use to creep into your home.

4. Choose lighting carefully

Outdoor lights attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. To reduce this tast meal for spiders, minimize the use of outdoor lights near entry points, and use yellow or sodium vapor lights that are less appealing to insects. 

James Heartquist, homes expert at Modern Property Solutions, says, "Outdoor lighting can attract insects, which in turn can attract spiders looking for food. Joro spiders are particularly known to hunt prey, so they will follow any insects attracted into your home. 

"By keeping outdoor lighting to a minimum or using motion-activated lights, you can reduce the number of insects near your home, thus making it less appealing to spiders. Additionally, using yellow-tinted bulbs can help, as they are less attractive to many insects."

James recommends UNILAMP Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs from Amazon. He says, "These are a great, energy-efficient and long-lasting solution for discouraging insects and, consequently, keeping spiders away. 

"With a lifespan of 20,000 hours, these lights are a reliable investment that won't need frequent replacement. Most importantly, they deter insects, which is key to keeping spiders at bay."

Whatever lighting you opt for, ensure window blinds or curtains are drawn at night to prevent indoor lights from attracting insects and spiders.

5. Grow eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a natural spider repellent. Consider planting eucalyptus near entry points around your home or placing eucalyptus branches indoors. 

As with cinnamon, the strong scent of eucalyptus deters spiders and adds a pleasant aroma around your home.

James says, "Eucalyptus plants are known for their strong scent, which is unappealing to spiders — planting them near entryways can act as a natural repellent, deterring spiders from entering your home. Alternatively, spray eucalyptus essential oil in all potential entryways for spiders."

You can make a pungent spray using two cups of water and 10-20 drops of essential oil. James recommends this Organic Eucalyptus Essential Oil from Amazon for its pure, but potent formula.

6. Prevent hitchhikers

Spiders often hitchhike into homes on items brought inside, such as boxes, firewood, and plants. Inspect these items carefully before bringing them indoors. 

James says, "Joro spiders are notorious hitchhikers. To keep them at bay, it's crucial to meticulously inspect any boxes, bags, furniture, and other items before bringing them into your home. 

"This is particularly important after engaging in outdoor activities like camping, as these items can inadvertently become carriers for these arachnids. By taking the time to thoroughly check and clean your gear, you can prevent these unwelcome guests from establishing themselves in your living space."

Shake out shoes, bags, and clothing that has been drying outside to ensure no spiders are hiding within. It's also a great way to spot and get rid of roaches.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — six smart ways to stop spiders getting into your house. By implementing these simple strategies, you can create a spider-free environment in your home. 

Next, check out how to get rid of ants in your backyard.

Knowing the top kitchen cleaning mistakes is crucial if you want a gleaming kitchen that not only looks great, but also ensures a hygienic environment for preparing meals.

Our industry expert reveals the five most common kitchen clangers, along with top tips on how to avoid them. Using the same sponge for long periods of time and assuming your dishwasher is clean are just a few of these.

When it comes to cleaning a kitchen, it pays to be aware of potential pitfalls that can undermine your efforts, helping you achieve a sanitized, sparkling space.

Swerve these common kitchen cleaning mistakes

So many of the most common cleaning mistakes occur in the kitchen. Thankfully, this expert guide will help you get yours both beautiful and bacteria-free.

From overusing sponges to neglecting the dishwasher, our industry pro reveals the top five kitchen cleaning mistakes to avoid, alongside top tips for what to do instead.

Where our expert has suggested products, we've sourced high-quality items from trusted retailers.

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

1. Using the same sponge for too long

Sponges are kitchen workhorses, used for everything from wiping countertops to scrubbing dishes. However, they are also notorious for harboring bacteria. Using the same sponge for an extended period can spread germs around your kitchen rather than removing them. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Overusing your sponges means you're basically spreading bacteria around your kitchen.

"I always advise replacing sponges frequently — at least every two weeks. Alternatively, use a sponge that can be sanitized in the dishwasher or microwave."

Karina recommends the Scrub Daddy Sponge from Amazon. She adds, "These sponges are durable, can be sanitized in the dishwasher, and change texture based on water temperature for versatile cleaning."

Our Real Homes content editor Eve Smallman swears by her Scrub Daddy and uses it for scrubbing difficult-to-clean dishes and pans. It's also one of our top cleaning supplies we've tried here at Real Homes.

Establishing a routine for sponge cleaning and replacement will help keep harmful bacteria at bay and allow you to maintain a hygienic kitchen.

2. Assuming your sink is clean with regular use

It's easy to assume that because water and soap are frequently running through your sink, it remains clean. However, the sink is one of the dirtiest places in the kitchen, often more contaminated than your toilet. Food particles, bacteria, and grime can build up in the sink and around the drain. 

Karina says, "Your sink can all-too-easily become a breeding ground for bacteria from raw food and dirty dishes.

"It's important to remember that regular use and exposure to dishwashing soap does not eliminate bacteria and grime that accumulate from food particles and dirty dishes.

"Instead of relying on regular dishwashing, scrub the sink with a disinfectant cleaner at the end of each day and rinse it thoroughly after washing dishes to prevent buildup and odors."

Karina recommends the Bar Keepers Friend Cleanser from Target, adding, "This cleanser is excellent for tough stains on stainless steel, ceramic, and porcelain surfaces."

A mixture of baking soda and vinegar also works well. The Good & Gather Baking Soda from Target is a reliable option, while the Aunt Fannie's Cleaning Vinegar from Amazon has 6% acidity and comes with great reviews. 

I love cleaning with vinegar around the house, as it's a budget-friendly and sustainable option.

Don't forget to clean the faucet and handles, as these areas are frequently touched and can harbor germs.

3. Overlooking the tops of cabinets

Out of sight, out of mind — this adage often applies to the tops of cabinets and the refrigerator. But it's important they're on your kitchen cleaning checklist, as ignoring them can lead to a buildup that is not only unsightly, but can also attract pests. 

Karina says, "Though they're easy to forget and also a hassle to get to, dust and grease can accumulate in these hard-to-reach areas.

"Use a step stool to reach and clean them every few months with a degreasing cleaner like Goo Gone Kitchen Degreaser from Amazon. This cleaner is specially formulated to break down grease and sticky residues in the kitchen, leaving surfaces clean and shiny without much elbow grease."

4. Forgetting to disinfect cutting boards

Cutting boards are essential kitchen tools, but they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, especially if used for both raw meat and vegetables. Simply rinsing them with water after use is not enough. 

Karina says, "Disinfect cutting boards after each use by mixing water and bleach, then follow up with a disinfecting wipe. Ensure the cutting boards are thoroughly air-dried before storing them."

Create a solution of one tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water. The Clorox Splash-less Liquid Bleach from Target comes in a thicker formula for less splash. 

Alternatively, you can use white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. The gallon of Heinz White Vinegar from Walmart is good quality and will last you a good while.

Karina recommends Clorox Disinfecting Bleach-Free Cleaning Wipes from Target. These wipes are convenient and effective for quickly disinfecting cutting boards after use, killing 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, making them a reliable choice for kitchen sanitation.

Wooden cutting boards require extra care; apply a food-grade mineral oil periodically to maintain their condition and prevent cracks where bacteria can hide.

Karina adds, "For even better food safety, use separate boards for raw meat and other foods to avoid cross-contamination."

5. Assuming your dishwasher is clean with regular use

A dishwasher cleans dishes, so it must clean itself, right? Unfortunately, this is not the case. Over time, food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up inside the dishwasher, leading to unpleasant odors and less effective washing up. So, it's a good idea to learn how to clean a dishwasher properly.

Karina says, "Firstly, make sure you're regularly cleaning the filter — usually located at the bottom of the machine. Use a microfiber cloth along with warm, soapy water to ensure it's totally clean and free from food remnants. 

"Next, run a monthly cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to remove buildup and maintain a fresh, clean appliance."

Karina recommends these Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets from Amazon. She says, "These are specifically designed to remove limescale and odor-causing residues from your dishwasher, ensuring a clean and efficient appliance. They can be used monthly for maintenance and are safe for use with dishwashers."

Alternative cleaning options include running an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack once a month to help break down food residue and remove odors. For an extra deep clean, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run another empty cycle. These are a just a couple of our creative dishwasher cleaning hacks.

Meet our expert

By avoiding these common kitchen cleaning mistakes, you can maintain a cleaner, more hygienic kitchen and ensure it remains a safe and pleasant place to prepare meals.

Got your rubber gloves on and want to carry on cleaning? It's also worth finding kitchen cleaning hacks for more tips and tricks.

Knowing how to kill red ants is key if they've begun to infiltrate your home or backyard as their bite stings and, like any other creepy-crawly, you don't want an infestation.

Our pest and cleaning experts reveal the five simple steps to banishing red ants, including how to locate the source, which red ant killer to use, and how to stop them returning.

Keeping pests out of your home is essential if you want to enjoy life free from the fear of nasty skin pinching and pest invasions.

How to kill red ants like a pro

If red ants have made themselves at home, but you want to avoid the most common pest-control mistakes, look no further. Our industry experts walk you through the simple steps to kill red ants and restore your peace of mind once again.

Where our pros have suggested products, we've sourced high-quality items from reliable retailers to help you tackle your red ant problem.

All prices correct at the time of publication.

Step 1: Find the source of the red ant infestation

The first step in dealing with red ants locating the source of the infestation. They typically build their nests outdoors, but may enter homes in search of food and water, especially during hot or wet weather. To locate the nest, follow the red ant trails. 

John Target, owner of Target Pest Control, says, "First, ideally you want to locate where the red ants are coming from. This might be a visible ant hill in your yard or a small crack in your house foundation."

Follow the trails to find the main nest. Red ants usually travel in a line from their nest to their food source, so tracking their path should lead you to the colony. Look for mounds in your yard or garden, especially in sunny areas. Indoors, check along baseboards, under sinks, and in cabinets where ants might be entering your home.

Much like banishing ants from your kitchen fast, identifying the source of your red ant problem is crucial for effective treatment. 

Step 2. Clean the area

The next crucial step is to clean the area thoroughly. John explains, "Red ants are usually attracted to food crumbs and spills. Clean up any food sources, making sure to wipe down counters, sweep floors, and seal food in airtight containers."

Clean all surfaces, especially countertops, floors, and inside cabinets, using water and vinegar mix, or your favorite all-purpose household cleaning spray. We like MRS. MEYER'S CLEAN DAY Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner Mint Scent, available on Amazon, as its plant-derived smell will repel pests such as red ants, and the product has not been tested on animals.

Wiping down all these areas, will eliminate food residues and red ant pheromone trails that attract more of them. Mixing the Good & Gather White Distilled Vinegar from Target with water can create an effective solution, as vinegar breaks down ant trail chemicals with ease.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "I highly recommend a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water to clean surfaces and disrupt red ant trails. The strong smell of vinegar disrupts their pheromone trails, making it harder for them to navigate and find food sources."

For outdoor areas, remove any food scraps, fallen fruits, and pet food bowls. Regularly mowing the lawn and trimming shrubs can also reduce the number of hiding spots for ants. Disposing of garbage properly and ensuring that trash cans have tight-fitting lids can prevent red ants from being attracted to waste.

Step 3: Choose your method of red ant extermination

Once identified, select the appropriate method to kill the red ants. There are several approaches, including chemical treatments, natural remedies, and baiting systems.

Chemical insecticides such as sprays, granules, and dusts specifically designed to kill red ants are highly effective and fast-acting. However, they can be harmful to pets, humans, and the environment, and may require multiple applications. 

John says, "Insecticides can be particularly effective where infestations are severe. Use an insecticide spray specifically designed for ants, spraying around entry points, baseboards, and any ant trails you see."

The  STEM Store Insecticide from Amazon is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, killing red ants quickly. 

Natural remedies like diatomaceous earth, boric acid, or essential oils (such as peppermint or tea tree oil) are safer for the environment and non-toxic to humans and pets. These methods may take longer to see results and are often less effective for large infestations. 

Karina recommends Diatomaceous Earth from Amazon. She says, "This natural powder is safe to use around pets and children but deadly to red ants. Sprinkle it around the nest and along red ant trails."

She adds, "If you find the source, use a duster or applicator to ensure the dust reaches deep into the nest."

The Duda Energy Boric Acid Powder from Walmart kills red ants but the label says it is safe to use around children. Always read the label full first before opening, and keep insecticides out of reach of little ones.

Baiting systems use poisoned food to attract red ants, which then carry the poison back to the colony. This method targets the entire colony and minimizes immediate exposure to chemicals, but it is slow-acting and requires patience and multiple placements.

John recommends Terro Liquid Ant Baits, available from Target. He says, "These are a fantastic choice for getting rid of red ants. The bait contains a sweet liquid that ants love. They take it back to their nest, spreading the poison and eventually killing the entire colony. It's easy to use and very effective for indoor and outdoor use."

Step 4. Apply the red ant treatment

Follow the instructions for the selected method carefully. Ensure you cover all areas where the pests are present, including red ants nests and trails. 

Direct application of insecticides or natural remedies to trails and nests offers immediate action and allows you to see where the treatment is applied, but it may miss hidden nests and requires consistent reapplication. 

Widespread application using granules or sprays over a broader area covers more ground and is useful for larger infestations, but it involves higher chemical usage and potential environmental impact.

Step 5: Prevent future red ant infestations

Once you've controlled the current infestation, take steps to prevent future ones. This includes sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and regular yard maintenance. 

Chemical barriers, such as residual insecticides applied around the perimeter of your home, create a long-lasting barrier against red ants but involve continuous exposure to chemicals and potential environmental impact.

John recommends Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer, available from Walmart. He says, "This product works great for both prevention and active infestations. It creates a long-lasting barrier around your home that kills red ants on contact and keeps them from coming back."

Natural pest repellents such as citrus peels, vinegar, or essential oils are safe and eco-friendly with a pleasant smell, but they require frequent reapplication and are less durable. 

Create physical barriers to stop ants getting inside, including sealing cracks, fixing screens, and removing debris from around the home, offer long-lasting protection and improve home integrity.

John says, "Red ants can find their way through the tiniest of gaps. Caulk is your best friend here — use it to fill any cracks or openings around windows, doors, and floors. It's not just about blocking their current paths; it's about preventing future unwelcome visitors too."

Chemical barriers, such as residual insecticides applied around the perimeter of your home, create a long-lasting barrier against rants but involve continuous exposure to chemicals and potential environmental impact.

Meet our experts

FAQs

Can I use boiling water to kill red ants?

Yes, pouring boiling water directly onto ant mounds can kill ants on contact. However, it may not reach the queen and deeper parts of the nest, requiring multiple applications. It's also risky to plants, killing grass and plants alike, and can be dangerous if not handled properly.

Are there any pet-safe methods to kill red ants?

Yes, using natural remedies such as diatomaceous earth or essential oils is generally safe for pets. Ensure pets are kept away during application and until the area is dry or settled to prevent any potential irritation.

How long does it take to see results from ant baits?

Results from ant baits can take a few days to a couple of weeks. The poisoned red ants need time to carry the bait back to the colony and share it with others, including the queen.

Can I put ant bait indoors?

Yes, ant bait can be placed indoors, particularly along ant trails and near entry points. Ensure the bait is kept out of reach of children and pets, and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

What should I do if I have a persistent ant problem?

If your red ant problem persists despite multiple treatments, it may be best to consult a professional exterminator. They can provide a thorough assessment and apply more potent treatments if necessary.

So there you have it — how to kill red ants in five simple steps. By following this guidance and considering the pros and cons of each method, you can effectively control and eliminate red ant infestations while maintaining a safe environment for your family and pets.

Next, check out how to get rid of ants in your home and stop them coming back for good.

Ever had a whiff of something nasty at home and realised the stink was coming from your top-loading washing machine?

The good news is 5-10 minutes of cleaning will get it freshened right up, and a monthly maintenance clean will keep it that way. Our cleaning experts also reveal what to avoid doing during cleaning to protect your machine in the long haul.

If you're lucky enough to have one of the best washing machines on the market, you can take these steps as a preventative measure to keep yours operating well.

Step 1: Prepare the washer and supplies

Setting up for cleaning a washing machine need a few cleaning supplies, including white vinegar (we like Aunt Fannie's Distilled White Vinegar on Amazon and it can be used around the home for all sorts of cleaning jobs) and a washing machine cleaning tablet

But first, why do these machines get dirty in the first place?

Cleaning whizz Taylor Riley, co-owner of Impact Cleaning Professionals and did extensive training on cleaning household appliances including top-loading washers.

He says, "Unpleasant washing machine odors often result from residual detergent and fabric softener buildup, moisture retention, washing in cold water, poor ventilation, infrequent cleaning, or hard water deposits. Regular cleaning, hot water cycles, and proper ventilation can help prevent and eliminate these odors, ensuring fresh and clean laundry."

To begin cleaning yours, remove any clothes or items from the drum, gather your supplies and allow yourself 10 minutes to do this task. If you need to use the machine, bear in mind when your manual work is done, the machine will need to run through a rinse cycle.

Step 2: Add vinegar

Riley says, "Run a hot water cycle with four cups of vinegar. Let the solution agitate for 5-10 minutes, then pause the wash and let the solution sit for up to an hour. You can also scrub the upper portions of the drum if they didn’t get wet during the cycle."

This works by breaking down any built-up grime and eliminating odors caused by bacteria and mold.

Whilst vinegar is great for fixing a sudden stink, regular cleaning of your top-loader should include solutions designed specially for washing machines such as Amazon Bestseller, Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablets.

Over time, vinegar can degrade the seals or cause discoloration on metal surfaces over time.

Step 3: Run a rinse cycle

Riley recommends running a rinse cycle to ensure no residue is left behind. He explains, "Unpleasant washing machine odors often result from residual detergent and fabric softener buildup, moisture retention, washing in cold water, poor ventilation, infrequent cleaning, or hard water deposits."

Once the cycle is finished, leave the door open. This will help keep mold and mildew from building, and when learning how to do laundry, this is one of the top tips for keeping the appliance fresh your laundry free of musty odors.

Step 4: Maintain

Riley advises keeping a monthly schedule, so setup a diary reminder to prompt you every four weeks to clean your top-loading washing machine, no matter how often you do laundry.

The vinegar will have hopefully knocked out any funky smells, but for monthly maintenance cleans, Riley recommends using one of the best washing machine cleaners specifically designed to target odor-causing bacteria and mold.

He says, "These tablets are convenient and easy to use. A favorite of mine is the Active Washing Machine Cleaner, (available on Amazon). This product is septic safe, eco-friendly, and can be used monthly."

Simply place one tablet in the empty drum, run a normal cycle on high heat, and once complete, wipe out any remaining residue with a towel.

After each wash, leave the door or lid of your machine open to allow for proper ventilation and drying. Riley advises against using too much detergent as the excess can contribute to washing machine smells building up over time. Plus, it's not very economical.

I used to fill up the cup that came with the detergent for every wash, but actually, you only need half an inch worth of detergent to clean laundry well, unless you're dealing with enormously soiled washing. Even then, modern laundry detergents are engineered to break down all sorts of stains with minimal heat and water, so don't waste money (or energy) using more than you need to.

You can also add half a cup of white vinegar and a sprinkle of baking soda to your laundry for extra laundry deodorizing so there's not need to go overboard with detergent.

Now you have nailed cleaning a top loading machine, but do you know how to use a washing machine for max efficiency and results? Alternatively, if like me you have open plan living with your noisiest kitchen appliances making a daily racket, our guide on the best quietest washing machines is for you.

Banish creepy crawlies with Amazon's pest control bestsellers. These top-rated home products will help combat everything from roaches to ants and more.

I trolled through hundreds of pages on Amazon to pick out the best-selling products that really work to get rid of those bags once and for all. I found sprays, traps, and more that receive thousands of highly-rated reviews from customers dealing with pest issues.

My top picks are all great prices, but if you do want to save even more money, it's worth keeping an eye out for Amazon sales events.

Amazon's pest control bestsellers

As the months start to warm up, you may have noticed bugs coming into your home. While it's never nice to have to combat these pests, the first step in getting rid of them is to know what you're working with. Once you identify the bugs in your home, you can make a B-line to Amazon to snag the appropriate solution. 

Why Amazon? They have hundreds of options when it comes to pest control products, with everything from electric lanterns to sticky traps. I took a look at Amazon's bestsellers — an award brands can't pay for — to find the best of the bunch.

Check out the Amazon pest-control bestsellers, highly rated by shoppers. You'll be able to get rid of bugs for the summer in no time.

Prices were correct at the time of publishing.

Amazon's #1 bestseller

When looking for things that repel pests, you're best bet is to start off with highly-rated products to know they really work. Snagging the top pick of the bunch is a great way to avoid making any pest control mistakes, like misusing traps.

So who's the star of the show? Amazon's number-one bestseller in pest control products is the Zevo Flying Insect Trap with over 100,000 purchased in the past month. That's a lot of dead flies! 

The frying insect trap works by plugging it into an outlet, attracting flies to the specially designed blue and UV light. They then get caught on the sticky tape inside the trap. 

With over 23,000 ratings, shoppers praise the subtle appearance, easy assembly, and how well it works. "I bought these and it works really well. The blue light base lures the pests in and the sticky pad captures them without me having to worry about randomly walking into or onto a sticky mess," says one shopper in a review.

More Amazon pest control bestsellers

There's plenty more pest control where that came from. Trying to get rid of ants in your kitchen? Set some liquid ant bait traps to eliminate the entire colony. Maybe you're eliminating cockroaches from the nooks and crannies around the house. You're going to need a super-powered spray to kill them on contact. 

Whatever your pest problem is, I have curated brilliant Amazon solutions to help you quickly to banish those bugs. Here are some other top-ranking products loved by customers, with great reviews and buyer ratings.

Have pests taken over your backyard? We found an Amazon backyard bug spray to fight off mosquitos, ticks, carpenter ants, earwigs, lady beetles, and more. It's approved by gardening experts for clearing up the whole yard. Your home will be pest-free inside and out in no time.

Protect your furry friends with our pet-friendly pest-control ideas that are effective in getting rid of those creepy crawlies without harming your dogs, cats, or other pets. 

Whether you need to get rid of ants, roaches, or any other insects that may have invading your home this summer, we've asked pest control and animal experts for their top non-toxic solutions.

They've also earmarked which ingredients to watch out for when buying commercial pest-control products to keep your pets safe. As soon as you identify the bugs in your home, you'll be ready to start getting them under control.

Why pet-friendly pest-control ideas are key

During the warmer months, you may find yourself in a panic looking for things that repel pests. You may be trying to get rid of ants or combating spiders left and right. But before you go all-out with the ant spray, you may want to give some thought to the health of your furry friend. 

"Many conventional pest control products can harm animals. Ingredients like permethrin and pyrethroids, often found in insecticides, are particularly dangerous," says Dr. Kathryn Dench (MA VetMB), Chief Scientific Advisor at Paw Origins.

These ingredients can be pretty harmful to cats and dogs. 

"In my clinical experience, I've seen cases where pets suffered from tremors, seizures, and even fatalities due to exposure to these chemicals. Rodenticides containing anticoagulants can cause severe internal bleeding if ingested by pets. It's also essential to be cautious with snail and slug baits, as these often contain metaldehyde, which is highly toxic to dogs and cats," says Dr. Kathryn.

While that sounds pretty worrying, don't fret. There are actually some non-toxic ways to keep bugs out of your home this summer.

Brett Bennett, Director of Operations, PURCOR Pest Solutions,says, "Lots of common pest control products will harm animals, although increasingly there are more and more options that use gentler or more naturally sourced ingredients that will get rid of bugs while still being non-toxic to pets like cats and dogs. There are also tons of more DIY pest control methods you can try."

If you're unsure whether a product may be toxic to your pet, please consult with a veterinarian before buying and check the Pet Poison Helpline’s toxicity list. If you think your pet may have come into contact with a toxic substance, contact your veterinarian immediately.

• Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435

Try Diatomaceous earth

Avoid making common pest-control mistakes like improperly using pest-control products and instead try a non-toxic substance. Experts agree diatomaceous earth, a natural powder made from fossilized algae, is a good way to start.

"Diatomaceous earth is a natural option that can be effective against ants and other insects. It is safe for pets when used correctly and works by dehydrating pests," says Dr. Kathryn. 

Simply sprinkle the powder anywhere you think you're going to need it and will get to work fighting those nasty bugs and pests. 

Brett adds, "The top option I tend to recommend is diatomaceous earth, which is great at killing insects like ants, wasps, and more while being completely harmless to pets. You can apply diatomaceous earth around thresholds you've noticed pests entering through, or even use outside around your plants and yard to help keep your garden pest-free," says Brett.

DIY solutions

Don't have any diatomaceous earth on hand? There are even more ways to get rid of roaches and fight flying ants. "Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella can repel insects; however, they should be used with caution around pets, particularly cats, as some essential oils can be harmful if ingested or applied directly to the skin," says Dr. Kathryn. 

This peppermint oil spray is Amazon's #1 bestseller with one reviewer saying, "I spray regularly in the bathroom, especially around the drains and bathtub, and I haven't seen a single earwig or spider."

You can use more specialized ingredients for specific pests, too. "For roaches and ants, a mixture of sugar and boric acid can be an effective bait that is less toxic than conventional chemicals but should still be placed out of reach of pets," says Dr. Kathryn.

Pest management techniques

Instead of products, you can also take some action to fight off pests, like cleaning your house from top to bottom. 

Dr. Sabrina Kong, DVM & staff veterinary writer at WeLoveDoodles, says, "Integrating pest management techniques can also help manage pests safely. This includes keeping your home clean, sealing entry points, and using physical barriers like screens and door sweeps. Regularly cleaning pet feeding areas and storing pet food in sealed containers can also help prevent attracting pests."

You can also combat pests with other predators that will fight them off. 

"Another non-toxic approach is introducing natural predators, such as beneficial nematodes for garden pests," says Dr. Sabrina. These are usually sold by specialist retailers.

What should pet owners look out for when buying pest control products?

Check the ingredients on any commercial pest killer and what out for these.

Dr. Kathryn recommends "looking for keywords like 'pet-friendly' or 'safe for pets'" and steering clear of ingredients such as permethrin, pyrethroids, and organophosphates, which can be toxic to animals. 

She adds, "Additionally, consider the mode of application — sprays and powders can easily be ingested by curious pets, whereas traps and baits can be more controlled and less likely to come into contact with your pets."

There are plenty of chemicals and cleaning products you may be using indoors that could potentially harm your pet but the same goes for outdoors, too. Be sure to check the plants and flowers around your yard for any harmful properties. 

Get to know which houseplants are toxic to dogs before investing in new greenery and look for pet-friendly plants instead.

Learning how to get rid of ants in the bedroom will help you sleep soundly at night without worrying about any creepy crawlies may have invaded as you snooze.

I have asked pest control experts for their top tips to removing these pests, from identifying the root of the cause (spoiler alert: it's those midnight snacks) to removing them effectively with bait traps and natural resources.

If you're looking to get rid of ants in your home and are targeting this room specifically, I advise tackling the problem ASAP so you don't end up with long-term problems in your peaceful sanctuary.

What you need to banish ants from your bedroom

Once you've identified the pests in your home are ants, take action swiftly. You'll need a few cleaning products such as vinegar or a cleaning spray, which we've detailed in our ant removal essentials kit.

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

Step 1: Stop eating in the bedroom

This first step is bad news for anyone who enjoys a little midnight snack — but it’s got to be done if you want to rid of the ants currently marching around your bedroom.

“My first recommendation would be to stop eating in the bedroom. Instead, keep all eating to areas like the kitchen or dining room,” says Brett Bennett, pest control expert and director of operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions. 

“Even the smallest leftover crumbs, wrappers, can attract ants,” he says. 

If you sleep with anyone else in this room, make sure to stress to them the importance of doing this.

Step 2: Relocate any food sources

Remove any food left in your bedroom. I'm afraid that means your emergency stash of midnight stash have to wing their way back the kitchen.

“Ants are attracted to food sources, so do a thorough cleaning of your bedroom to eliminate access to food crumbs and spills,” says Peter Rania, pest control expert and president of Waltham Pest Control Co.

“Get rid of any food stored in the bedroom as well, including pet food. If your pets' bowls are stored in your room, it's time to find them a new spot,” adds Brett.

It’s a good idea to keep food in airtight containers to stop any pests from getting to them, such as the OXO Good Grips POP Container from Amazon which is BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and stackable.

Step 3: Target the ants with pest control products

When choosing pest control products, make sure to use ones suitable for indoors when learning how to get rid of ants in the bedroom.

“For home ant treatments, I don't recommend aerosol sprays since they just disperse the ants to other areas,” Peter explains.

Using gel baits (like the Combat Max Roach Killing Gel from Amazon that’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use) or borate powder, you can eliminate the colony. 

“Baits should be applied in areas away from children and pets, along walls in cracks and crevices,” he says.

Peter also advises replacing the baits every three months to control recurring invasions. Ants are more active in the summer, especially during hot or weather weather when resources become more scarce.

Step 4: Seal any cracks or holes

Now you've removed the resource tempting ants inside your home, identify exactly how the ants are getting into your bedroom.

“Seal any cracks or holes leading into the walls or floors where ants can enter,” says Peter.

If you don’t want to ruin the aesthetic of your beautiful bedroom ideas, go for a clear sealant such as the Flex Caulk All Purpose Clear Pressurized Can from Walmart which is a bestseller and won’t shrink or crack with changing temperatures.

Step 5: Clean your bedroom thoroughly

Make sure you can sleep easily in your bedroom by cleaning your duvet, sheets, pillows, and mattress regularly. Our cleaning panel recommend cleaning your sheets weekly, mattress a couple of times a year including in the summer (unless you're a sweaty sleeper or experience stain) and pillows once every few months.

Whilst banishing ants from the bedroom, Brett recommends a clean sweep. He says, “I would wash all bedding to ensure there aren’t any ants lurking in there, as well as vacuuming the carpet with a strong vacuum,” Brett says.

For deep carpet cleans, I always recommend the Dyson Animal 3 from Amazon, which I have at home and love the suction power of.

“If you know generally the direction ants have been coming from, you can also make a diluted vinegar spray and spray your carpet to help eliminate ant scent trails leading into the room,” Brett adds.

Ant removal essentials

While these steps will help you get rid of ants in the bedroom, if the infestation is severe, you may need the help of a professional pest control expert. 

“We have access to stronger products and can treat the entire home to eliminate satellite nest,” Peter finishes by saying.

If the bedroom isn’t the only place you’re dealing with these pests, learning how to get rid of ants in the kitchen could also be good to know.

When it comes to sales, Amazon Shark deals are some of the best ones to seek out, as the site regularly has discounts on this brand.

I love Shark vacuums and think they're brilliant quality, but they can be a steep initial investment (even though the long-term payoff is worth it). So, I've scouted out seven Amazon Shark vacuum deals that will genuinely save you money.

As a content editor at Real Homes, I've seen many Shark vacuums reviewed and tested some myself, and I think this brand delivers some of the best vacuums on the market, making these deals a worthy spend.

FAQs

Do Shark vacuums go on sale for Prime Day?

Shark vacuums do go on sale for Prime Day, with models ranging from cordless varieties to robot ones being heavily discounted during this sales event. Apart from Black Friday, this is the best time of year to shop them in my opinion.

What is the best Shark vacuum on sale?

The best Shark vacuum that we've tried and tested is the Shark IZ862H Stratos Cordless Vacuum, which on Amazon at a great price right  We loved its suction power, flexibility, and suitability for homes with pets.

If you like Shark but want to compare it against the other big vacuum brands, finding out the differences between Shark and Dyson and seeing the best Dyson cordless vacuum cleaners may come in useful.

Finding cleaning products from Amazon is an easy way to make sure your home scrubs up well quickly. With the site's speedy Prime delivery and subscriber options, you can make it sparkle in no time and never run out of key products.

I've asked cleaning pros for the products they swear by daily, which they and their teams use to make homes big and small sparkle. From wonderful window cleaners to dazzling dish soap, there are so many brilliant basics they always have ready to use. As well as sharing our experts' advice, I've put together all the relevant specs and info for each of these items, and carefully checked hundreds of reviews from real customers who bought these items, so you're fully informed before heading over to Amazon.

If you're searching for the best cleaning supplies out there and are just searching for ones specifically on Amazon, these are all worth scouting out.

Finding cleaning products from Amazon that the pros use daily is a great way to tick off your cleaning caddy checklist and fill it with highly rated, quality items.

Still browsing the site after stocking up on cleaning supplies? The best Amazon furniture brands and finds are super for decorating your home.

Are your windows looking a little grubby? It may be time to roll up your sleeves and give them a good clean.

I've asked cleaning experts for their top tips for perfect panes and put together this guide that uses the simplest steps possible. Picking the right day and choosing the right supplies are key for success. Staying on top of cleaning windows will ensure light floods into your home and grime doesn't build up.

Even the best cleaning supplies won't work if you're using the wrong tools or haven't nailed the technique. Don’t worry though — our step-by-step guide on how to clean windows without streaks has got you covered.

What you’ll need to clean windows without streaks

• Squeegee — we love the Oxo Good Grips Squeegee on Amazon, which is made from stainless steel and is Amazon's Choice.
• Window cleaning solution or distilled white vinegar — we use the Heinz Cleaning Vinegar from Amazon which is strong and can also be used for cooking.
• A spray bottle — the Wedema Glass Bottle on Amazon looks chic and has a 16 oz. capacity.
• A microfiber cleaning cloth — over 70,000 people love the Amazon Basic Microfiber Cloths.

Step 1: Pick the right day for streak-free clean windows

Is it a sunny day? Hold off washing windows until it's cloudy out, like I did.

“I know it might be tempting to do household chores when the sun is shining, but cleaning windows on a hot day can actually be a bit of a challenge,” explains James King, cleaning expert at DeluxeMaid.

He continues, “The high temperature makes the cleaning solution dry up super quickly, which can make it tough to get a smooth and streak-free finish.

If this happens over time, James says this can actually damage the glass and cause it to deteriorate. 

“The solution doesn't stay on the window surface long enough to properly break down dirt and grime,” he adds. “It can also be frustrating because the solution doesn't spread evenly, and you end up with a partially cleaned window.”

This also means that you tend to scrub more, which is a lot more work and can add pressure to the glass.

We've got more info on why you should never clean window panes when the sun shows its face.

Step two: Remove curtains and blinds

Once you’ve got the right weather, take down any curtains, blinds or other window dressings. 

Then, remove any dust or cobwebs from the frame with a vacuum cleaner, handheld vac, or a duster.

“If there’s mold, use soap and warm water, then scrub that with a brush and rinse thoroughly,” James adds.

Step 3: Gather your cleaning supplies

Gather essentials including a squeegee, microfiber cloth, and your choice of cleaning solution. 

“I highly recommend a homemade solution made from equal parts vinegar and water,” says Yessica Bello, cleaning expert at Bello's Cleaning. “It’s not only economical but also better for your health and the environment.”

I use this solution and added a few drops of essential oil to make the scent smell better.

Learning how to clean windows with vinegar is easy and there are a few top tips you can learn along the way. 

If you’re looking for an even stronger solution, James recommends the Windex Glass and Window Cleaner Spray Bottle from Amazon, which has a bottle made from 100% recovered coastal plastic and resists build-up for 30 days. 

Step 4: Begin cleaning

Start by spraying your solution onto the glass and use a microfiber cloth to spread it evenly. 

“Microfiber is fantastic for this purpose as it cleans without leaving any lint,” Yessica says.

For those stubborn spots or window grime, James says a paste made from baking soda and water can do wonders. 

“Just apply it to the spots, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe clean,” he says.

Step 5: Squeegee and let dry

From here, you can use a squeegee (the Mr. Siga Multi-Purpose Silicon Squeegee from Walmart has a rubber blade and a handy suction hook), starting from the top corner of the window, making vertical or horizontal strokes. 

“After each stroke, wipe the squeegee blade with a clean cloth to prevent streaks,” Yessica adds.

Put some on a microfiber cloth and wipe in a zigzag or circular motion to avoid streaks. The same motion works for mirrors.  If you don’t have microfiber cloths to hand, chances are that you have an old newspaper lying around instead.

“Crumple it up, and buff the mirror — the texture of the newspaper helps to absorb excess moisture and leaves behind a sparkling shine,” James says. 

Once you've done this, all you need to do is leave your windows to dry, before hanging up your curtains and blinds back up again.

Our favorite window cleaning essentials

By following these easy and effective steps, you’ll have cleaned your windows properly and will be left with streak-free, shiny surfaces.

“Go through each one carefully and you’ll leave your windows sparkling clear, rain or shine,” Yessica finishes by saying.

Now you’ve learned how to clean windows without streaks, you can move on to other areas of your home, such as cleaning your floors.

Finding out how to repel ticks in your backyard will help you relax in your outdoor space without worrying about being bitten.

I've spoken with landscaping pros who both have experience warding off ticks in their clients' yards. Creating a protective barrier and trimming your lawn are just a couple of their easy tricks for waving goodbye to these pesky pests.

Once you've found out how to identify bugs and have figured out that ticks are taking over your yard, it's time to repel them properly.

How to repel ticks in your backyard, according to landscaping experts

Learning the things that repel bugs and finding specific solutions for the one you're dealing with will help you wave goodbye to them for good.

Not only have I curated highly-rated useful buys whenever the experts I've spoken to have recommended products, but I've also put together a tick-repelling essentials list with top picks from trusted retailers.

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

1. Maintain a well-manicured lawn

I know that learning how to mow a lawn can seem daunting. But, it’s actually easy to do and is a key step in repelling ticks from your yard.

“Regular mowing at the appropriate height for your grass type helps keep ticks at bay,” explains Steve Sylva, landscaping expert and owner of Steve’s Services.

“I always advise my clients to avoid letting their grass become too tall, as it provides a conducive environment for ticks,” he says.

If you want to freshen up your lawn with a new mower, the Greenworks Cordless Lawn Mower from Amazon is one of the most highly-rated on the site, is lightweight, and adjustable for comfort when mid-task..

2. Create a protective barrier

Ticks are typically found in grassy areas, so to control ticks in your yard, it’s a good idea to create a barrier around your lawn

“A three-foot-wide barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and wooded or brushy areas provides a dry environment that ticks avoid,” explains Steve Schumacher, landscaping expert and owner of Boston Landscape Co.

Steve Sylva recommends trying gravel or mulch — for example, the Jolly Gardener Natural Mulch from Walmart helps retain soil moisture and can be used around trees, shrubs, and flowers.

3. Properly clean your yard

There’s no point in bringing the best backyard ideas into your outdoor space and not maintaining your space properly. In fact, not keeping on top of things can lead ticks to your yard.

“Clearing brush, and leaves, and keeping your yard free from clutter reduces tick habitats,” Steve Sylva explains. “I've handled numerous spring and fall yard cleanups, and removing decaying organic matter is essential for preventing tick infestations.”

I recommend using a robust rake to do this such as the bestselling Expert Gardener Rake from Walmart, which is easy to maneuver and comes with a five-year warranty.

4. Try natural repellents

I always prefer using natural bug repellents, which should be your first port of call if you’ve tried the tips above and still need to treat ticks in your yard.

“I recommend natural-based products like cedar oil sprays, which can be effective in repelling ticks without harming beneficial insects,” explains Steve Sylva.

Make sure to find one that actually has cedar oil in it (rather than just being cedar scented), such as The Crown Choice Store Natural Cedar Spray from Amazon that’s safe for kids and pets and has 200 sprays worth of mixture.

5. Reach for store-bought options

If you’re dealing with a whole load of ticks in your backyard or need a fast solution for that all-important dinner party, it’s time to try stronger formulations.

“If infestations are severe, products containing permethrin can be used, but these should be applied cautiously and according to safety guidelines,” Steve Schumacher says.

For instance, the Sawyer Products Permethrin Insect Repellent from Amazon has over 19,000 five-star reviews and works on clothes. One shopper even used it in the jungle to repel pests and said it worked brilliantly. The active ingredient is a common synthetic insecticide.

Tick repelling essentials

By combining these strategies, you can create a tick-free zone in your backyard. 

“Consistency and regular maintenance are key to keeping your outdoor space safe and enjoyable,” Steve Sylva finishes by saying.

If ticks aren’t the only things bugging you in your outdoor space, learning how to remove ants in your backyard may also come in useful.

Knowing how to get pee out of a mattress is key if you live with children or pets who are accident prone. 

Our cleaning experts will guide you through the five simple steps to removing urine from a mattress so you can sleep in fresh-scented peace, including their homemade solutions and product recommendations for successful cleaning.

Knowing the best ways to remove urine stains will ensure you're armed and ready to return your bed to its brilliant best if an accident happens.

How to get pee out of a mattress like a pro

Just like getting pee smell out of a couch, any accidents on your mattress can be addressed with swift action and careful use of the right products. 

Where our industry pros have suggested the best cleaning products, we've sourced high-quality, affordable items from trusted retailers. 

All prices were correct at time of publication. 

Step 1: Blot the stain

The first and most crucial step in addressing urine on a mattress is to act quickly. Urine can seep deep into the mattress fibers, making it harder to remove and potentially leading to lingering odors and stains. 

Shaun Veran, chief operating officer at OURA, says, "Urine is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi because it's packed with water, salts, urea, and other organic compounds. 

"When urine soaks into a mattress, it creates a damp environment that invites these microbes to grow, leading to nasty smells and potential health issues. Because of this, it's incredibly important to clean and disinfect the mattress quickly and thoroughly to stop these unwanted guests from taking over."

Begin by blotting up as much of the urine as possible with a clean, dry cloth or paper towels. Acting quickly is essential because the faster you respond, the less time the urine has to soak into the mattress. 

Shaun adds, "Press down firmly but avoid rubbing, as this can push the urine deeper into the mattress. Blotting helps to remove as much liquid as possible before it soaks in further, reducing the moisture that can support bacterial growth."

These Scott Paper Towels from Walmart are highly absorbent and ideal for attacking fresh urine stains should an accident occur. Alternatively, use clean, dry microfiber towels, such as the 15-pack of colorful ones from Walmart, which are known for their excellent absorbancy.

Step 2: Apply a cleaning solution

Once you've blotted up as much urine as possible, the next step is to clean the area with a solution. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, "Mix up a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and give the stained area a good spritz. The vinegar's acidity helps break down the urine and eliminate odors.

"Let it sit for around 10 minutes to really penetrate the stain and work its magic, then grab some fresh paper towels or a clean cloth and blot the area again. This time, you should start to see the stain lifting."

There are so many household jobs you can do with vinegar. This Good & Gather White Distilled Vinegar from Target comes with thousands of great reviews and — at 128 fl oz — will last you a long time and budget-friendly.

The Better Homes & Gardens Glass Spray Bottle from Walmart looks great and holds 16 fl oz, making it ideal for housing your homemade vinegar-based cleaning solution for use indoors and out (vinegar is great for keeping pests out of your home, too).

Step 3: Sprinkle baking soda

After applying the vinegar solution and blotting, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda, which is great for cleaning and removing odors, over the entire affected area. 

Karina says, "Now for the best bit — when it comes to neutralizing those pesky odors, baking soda is your bestie! Seriously, this stuff works wonders. It's a natural deodorizer and helps absorb moisture, making it perfect for tackling pee stains.

"Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain. You can be pretty liberal here — we want to ensure all the smells are fully absorbed. Leave the baking soda to work its magic for a few hours, or even overnight if possible. The longer it sits, the better it'll absorb any remaining moisture and odors."

After the baking soda has had time to work, vacuum it up using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Vacuuming removes the baking soda and any absorbed urine and odors with it, leaving the mattress cleaner and fresher.

The Black+Decker dustbuster Handheld Vacuum from Amazon comes with more than 20,000 five-star reviews and is a budget steal.

4. Use an enzymatic cleaner

For particularly stubborn animal urine stains or strong odors, an enzymatic cleaner can be very effective. Enzymatic cleaners are specially formulated to break down the proteins found in urine, effectively eliminating both stains and smells. 

Shaun recommends Rocco & Roxie Enzymatic Cleaner from Target, which boasts great reviews and is specially formulated to tackle pet urine.

He says, "Enzymatic cleaners break down urine proteins, effectively removing stains and odors at the molecular level. Spray generously and allow to sit to give the enzyme enough time to break down the compounds. Blot the area well to remove any excess moisture."

Will Cotter, chief operating officer at HappyCleans, also likes Rocco & Roxie, as well as Bubba’s Super Strength Enzyme Cleaner from Amazon, which offers a full refund if it can't banish your stain. 

He says, "These are great products that will most likely do the trick, but another method that works pretty well is mixing one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water and a few drops of dish soap. 

"Get a spray bottle, put the mixture in there, then generously spray it on the stain. Let it sit, then grab a clean cloth and blot that stain away. Just don’t soak your mattress too much, you don’t want to make it all soggy."

Karina recommends Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor Remover from Amazon. She says, "This enzymatic cleaner is specifically formulated to break down urine stains and odors effectively. It's safe to use on mattresses and other surfaces."

Another popular choice is Bissell 2X Pet Stain and Odor Remover from Target. Karina adds, "Their pet stain and odor remover is a reliable choice for removing tough stains like urine from mattresses, and carpets too."

Step 5: Allow to dry

The final step is to ensure the mattress dries thoroughly. This is crucial to prevent mold and mildew from developing inside the mattress when you clean it.

If possible, move the mattress to a well-ventilated area or place it outside in the sun. Sunlight helps to naturally deodorize and dry the mattress more quickly, as well as having a bleaching effect on stains. 

You can also use  your best fan to increase air circulation around the mattress, positioning a fan near the wet area and letting it run for several hours. If the weather is humid, consider using a dehumidifier in the room to speed up the drying process. 

The NineSky Dehumidifier for Home, 85 OZ Water Tank, available on Amazon, is labelled as its bestseller and comes in four finishes. Customers bought it more than 6000 times last month and on average, rate it 4.3/5 stars.

Make sure the mattress is completely dry before putting any bedding back on it. This can take up to 24 hours, depending on the extent of the cleaning and the environmental conditions.

Meet our experts

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.

By following these five simple steps, you can effectively remove urine from your mattress, eliminating stains, odors and keeping your mattress clean and fresh.

Next, check out how to get cat pee out of carpet.

You might be wondering the ways to repel mice from a house, if you've noticed signs that these squeaky pests are trying to get in.

We've spoken with home improvement and pest control pros to find out their top tips for fending them off. There are plenty of easy or natural methods, such as sealing off gaps and using essential oils to repel small rodents.

For those looking to get rid of mice in the home, you'll need a two-pronged attack: stopping their access to your home, then keeping them away. 

Pros reveal their top ways to repel mice from a house

Once you've identified the differences between mice and rats and figured you have the former trying to fight their way into your home, it's time to stop them.

If you want to scout out shoppable solutions, we've also curated our top-rated mice-repellent picks to help you start putting our advice into action and banish these unwanted visitors from your home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

1. Locate entrances and seal them

The best place to start when repelling mice from a house is by figuring out where and how they are getting in.

“Inspect your home to pinpoint mice entrance spots, such as doors and windows, cracks, and holes in walls or floors,” explains Tommy Mello, home improvement expert at A1 Garage Door Service.

From here, Tommy says you can seal these such as with hardware cloth, steel wool, or caulk (the water and crackproof GE Silicone Caulk from Amazon has over 8,000 five-star reviews from shoppers that say it's easy to clean and is unnoticeable), to keep the mice out.

“I tend to recommend simple fixes like caulking around any vents or anything that leads outside, using draft stoppers under doors with big gaps, and so on,” adds Brett Bennett, pest control expert and director of operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions.

2. Keep your house clean

Just like in the cartoons, mice love sourcing little tasty snacks — so it’s a good idea to make sure there aren’t any crumbs on the ground or clutter for them to nibble.

“Ensure your house is kept clean by storing food in air-tight containers, cleaning up spills and crumbs, and removing any pet food left out overnight,” Tommy says.

He adds you should also make sure to store everything neatly, such as by using storage ottomans and utilizing the best small space storage ideas to keep your floors clear of clutter and removing cozy spaces for mice to nest.

3. Tidy up your home's exterior

As well as making sure those interior entry points are firmly sealed up, it’s also a good idea to make sure the exterior of your home isn’t attracting mice, either.

“Prevent access using door sweeps, keep garbage bins tightly sealed, and trim away overgrown vegetation from the outside of your home,” Tommy suggests.

For those looking to tidy up their outdoor space, we recommend investing in a quality pair of pruners, such as the Gonicc Professional Pruning Shears from Amazon that shoppers love thanks to their sharpness, how comfortable they are, and their longevity.

4. Use natural solutions

You don’t need to invest in hundreds of mouse traps to repel mice from your house. Instead, we’ve got a much more natural, low-maintenance option for you.

“You can soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and vinegar, and then strategically place them around your home in small dishes,” Tommy suggests.

If you want to try this budget-friendly idea, the Mainstays Essential Oil from Walmart is just under $5, is ultra-strong, and can be mixed with other oils.

However, Brett recommends not doing this solution by itself. “You can also try using essential oils around entry points, but I would say things like this tend to have mixed results,” he says.

5. Consult local pest control pros

Tried all the above and still finding signs mice are entering your home? It might be time to call in the pros.

“If the problem is truly severe, I recommend speaking to your local pest control company to help assess the situation properly,” Tommy suggests.

These have access to special tools and treatments you likely don’t have to hand and will be able to remove mice from your garage or any other part of your home safely and effectively. 

By following these steps and keeping key points in mind, you’re sure to stop those meddlesome mice in their tracks.

“The most important things to keep mice from ever entering your home are sealing up access points and keeping landscaping at least three feet away from your home,” Brett finishes by saying.

If you’re still struggling, it’s worth clueing yourself up on pest control mistakes, as you could be doing something unintentionally that’s preventing results.

If you're a cat owner, knowing how to get cat pee smell out of your home is key to maintaining a clean, fresh and welcoming environment because even the best-behaved floofs can have accidents.

From couch to carpet, our cleaning and animal experts will walk you through exactly how to remove cat pee smell from the most tinkle-prone spots around the home.

If you need to remove pet urine smells and stains, look no further. Though cat pee is a strong odor, following these simple steps will help you eliminate it with ease.

How to get cat pee smell out of your home like a pro

For cat owners, your house cleaning checklist starts with tackling feline-favored spots. Whether that's cleaning pee from a couch, your hardwood floors, upholstery, your mattress or even stubborn stains and spills in or around the litter box, our experts will walk you through the five simple steps to remove pungent cat urine smells effectively.

Where our experts have recommended products, we've matched their suggestions with highly-rated items from trusted retailers to help you shop the fix now.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Cleaning cat pee from carpets

Cat urine on carpet is easily dealt with if you act fast.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, "As soon as a fresh carpet puddle appears, you must move immediately! Utilize a clean, absorbent material, such paper towels or a microfiber cloth, to suck up as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as doing so could make the problem worse."

Once you've soaked up as much urine as possible, spray a solution of one part white vinegar, one part water, and thoroughly soak the area. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before blotting it dry.

Wells says, "Next, it's time for your secret weapon — baking soda. Sprinkle a good amount over the impacted region, allowing it to sit. All the moisture present in that area will be absorbed and the smell will be neutralized in the process too."

After 30 minutes (or more if you can spare it), vacuum away the baking soda. In most cases, the smell should now have gone. If not, turn to an odor-busting enzyme cleaner specifically for the job. Wells recommends Begley's Natural Pet Stain & Odor Remover from Amazon, which has a fresh citrus scent. 

Wells adds, "For an extra punch, consider an enzymatic cleaner. These contain odor-eating bacteria that break down the uric acid crystals causing the stench. Leave it for around 15 minutes, or whatever is recommended on the bottle.

"Blot the cleansed area with a fresh, microfiber cloth, then leave the area to air dry completely."

Cleaning cat pee from hard floors

Knowing how to clean floors with vinegar is handy should your feline friend have an accident. Whether wood or laminate, quick action and a spritz of vinegar will have things sorted in no time. 

Vanessa Bossart, founder of GreenTerra Cleaning, says, "Whether tile or wood, hard floors require prompt and effective cleaning to prevent urine from seeping into cracks and causing long-term odors. 

"Start by wiping up the urine immediately with paper towels or a cloth. Clean the area with a solution of one part white vinegar and one part water. It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals on wood floors, as they can damage the finish — vinegar is safe for most hard floor surfaces and helps neutralize odors effectively."

Then, use a damp cloth to remove any vinegar residue on the area, and dry thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent moisture damage. Excessive moisture can warp some floors including laminate as it seeps into the cracks and causes swelling of the materials.

For persistent odors, a paste of baking soda and water, left to sit for a few hours, should absorb the odor. Wipe and dry thoroughly afterwards. 

Amy Poulton, editor at Hometalk, adds, "Scrub the floor with an enzymatic cleaner and be prepared to apply more effort for tougher stains and repeat if necessary."

Both Amy and Vanessa recommend Nature's Miracle Cat Urine Remover Spray from Target for its effective bio-enzymatic formula. 

Amy points out it's best to avoid using bleach. "When mixed with the ammonia in urine, it can create harmful chlorine gas," she says. "Plus, it doesn't neutralize odors, so the cat pee smell will return."

Cleaning cat pee off your couch

When cat urine gets on your couch or chair, it’s important to act quickly. Start by blotting up as much of the urine as possible with paper towels or a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the urine deeper into the fabric.

Once you've blotted the area, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and generously spray the affected area. Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in cat urine, which helps to reduce the smell. Let the solution sit for about 10-15 minutes, then blot it dry with a clean cloth. 

Afterward, sprinkle baking soda over the area. Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, “Baking soda is like fairy dust for odors. Sprinkle a generous amount over the area, making sure the entire stain is covered. Let it work its magic overnight, absorbing the unpleasantness.”

Finally, use the upholstery attachment as you vacuum up the baking soda. This step not only removes the baking soda but also any remaining dried urine particles that it has absorbed. 

Read our review of the Brigii Crevice Vacuum and how it gets into those tough spaces, or our review of the Bissell Symphony Pet Steam Mop & Vacuum, which cleans both wet and dry messes.

If you're looking for a new vacuum, our best vacuums guide is a great place to start. As a cat owner, our guide on best vacuums for pet hair has many great buys, including our overall number one, Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Vacuum, which we gave five stars to in our review for function, suction, and ease of use.

For particularly stubborn smells, you can follow up with an enzyme cleaner, which breaks down the proteins in cat urine. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner for the best results.

Cleaning cat pee from a mattress

If your cat urinates on your mattress, immediate action is ideal due to the thick and dense nature of the item. 

Amy says, "Act quickly, using paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much urine as possible. Next, combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. 

Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes, before blotting up any remaining liquid with a clean cloth. Finally, cover the area with baking soda and leave it for 8-10 hours to absorb odors, before removing the baking soda residue with a vacuum cleaner."

Dried cat pee smells and stains on your mattress require a different approach — the exact steps will depend on whether your mattress is made of memory foam or not.

If your mattress is not memory foam, begin by wetting the area by spraying a light mist of water over the stain.

Amy says, "Combine hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap in a bowl. Apply the mixture to the stain with a clean cloth, letting it sit for 30 minutes. Blot up any excess moisture with a fresh cloth. Repeat until the stain is gone."

This up&up Hydrogen Peroxide from Target is a bargain.

For a memory-foam mattress, tackling dried stains begins by combining hydrogen peroxide and baking soda in a spray bottle. 

Amy says, "Being careful not to shake the bottle, lightly spray the stain until damp, not soaked. You don't want to over-wet the mattress, especially with memory foam. Let the solution sit for one to two hours, then blot up any excess liquid with a clean cloth. Repeat until the stain disappears."

Cleaning cat pee smells from litter boxes

Preventing cat pee smell from taking over your home starts with proper litter box maintenance. 

Twila McGee, founder of NOLAs Finest Pet Care, says, "Though, it's common for pets to have accidents when they are overly excited, scared, or nervous, if your cat frequently urinates in inappropriate places, it may be an issue with their potty area.

"Firstly, consider the location of your litter box. Cats tend to prefer having their litter box in a low-traffic area. For multiple cat households, you'll usually need more than one box as cats don't tend to like to share."

Next, consider cleanliness. Scoop the litter box daily to remove urine and feces, and change the litter completely at least once a week. Wash the litter box with mild soap and water during litter changes to remove any lingering odors.

Twila says, "Another important consideration is accessibility. If you have a stocky cat such as a Maine Coon and the litter box flips or moves when used, more than likely your cat won’t trust it and will refuse to use it. If you have an aging cat, similar to humans, they may encounter health issues like arthritis that can hinder their ability to reach the litter box."

If none of these seem to be the issue, it's possible your cat has a health concern.

Twila adds, "There are several other possible causes. For example, cats may develop UTIs and link them to the litter box, causing them to seek other places to relieve themselves. Seek advice from your veterinarian to address the issue."

Users of the Arm and Hammer Baking Soda on Amazon mentioned above say they sprinkle some into their kitty's litter tray to tackle smells. As an owner of two busy cats myself, I've found the quality of the litter you use really impacts how effective it is at handling the urine smells. The pattern we've noticed in our household is the cheaper the litter, the less effective is it at keeping cat pee smells locked in.

We've tried clumping and non-clumping, gravel and pellets and found non-clumping less high-maintenance.

The PetSafe ScoopFree Lavender Non-Clumping Crystal Cat Litter, Lightly Scented Litter on Amazon promises superior odor control and more than 45,000 customer reviews puts the average star rating at 4.4, with more than 10,000 purchases last month if you fancy giving this type a go. 

Meet our experts

Now you know how to get cat pee smell out of your home, you can effectively eliminate pet pee stinks from your home and create a more pleasant environment for both you and your feline friends.

Next, learn how to remove pet odors from a small space, and the things people with nice-smelling homes never do.

Good news! You can remove coffee stains from clothes fully. So if you were in a rush this and splashed your cappuccino on your clean white top, don't panic.

It's actually easier than you think to clean up a mess left behind by your favorite cup of Joe and in this guide, our cleaning and laundry experts share their best tips and tricks to get rid of that coffee stain ASAP.

After investing in one of the best coffee machines, you'll want to know the best way to remove pesky stains. With just a few laundry essentials and a little bit of patience, your cotton, linen, and synthetic clothes will look as good as new.

Remove coffee stains from clothes like a pro

After a coffee splashing incident, you'll need to know how to do laundry the right way to lift stubborn stains. It happens to us all: you're in a rush out the door in the morning, bump into something, and suddenly there's espresso everywhere. 

While this can be difficult to deal with if you're on a time crunch, you don't need a ton of supplies. With just a few laundry room essentials like a mild detergent, you'll be all set to conquer stains. Although your white clothes may need a little extra TLC to get rid of every trace.

Step 1: Check the care label

It may seem like an obvious step, but you'll need to check the care label before getting started. The method you choose to get rid of coffee stains will all depend on the material of the garment. The laundry symbol meanings will tell you how to treat the item in question.

"Always consult the care label before washing. Different materials may have specific instructions, so it's best to review these first before attempting to clean," says cleaning expert, Karina Toner.

Step 2: Rinse with cold water

Once you get to cleaning the stain, the first thing you need to do is flush out the coffee with clean, cold water. 

Angela Rubin, a cleaning expert from Hellamaid, says, "Rinse the clothing under the sink in cold running water. The goal is to dissolve and remove the brown coffee tannins stuck in the fabric. This may take several minutes to properly dilute the coffee."

Step 3: Treat with detergent

After the stain is rinsed out, it's time to use products to remove the food stain. "Rub a couple of tablespoons of a mild detergent into the stain using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. You may need to rinse and repeat the process a couple of times to scrub out all of the coffee," says Karina.

If the detergent isn't cutting it, you can also use a specialized stain remover like this Shout stain remover spray available from Walmart which will pack a harder punch.

Step 4: Wash in cold water

Once you feel confident you've scrubbed out as much of the coffee as you can, it's time to throw your clothing in the washing machine. Make sure to wash on a cold, gentle cycle as heat can just make the stain worse. For extra strength, add a cup of white vinegar to the wash or stain remover like this OxiClean powder available on Amazon, with over 13k reviews.

"After the cycle is finished, check to see if any part of the stain is remaining. Try washing it again if there are any remnants left," says Angela. 

Step 5: Air dry

If you're confident the stain is gone, you can air dry the garment in a cool place. If you use heat in the tumble dryer, the stain will just set in permanently. 

While you may have thought your clothes were a lost cause after spilling coffee on them, it turns out all you need is a few easy laundry hacks to try. If you're washing a white button-down shirt, you may be temped to use bleach, but be sure to check the care label first as it can damage sensitive fabrics.

You might want to find out how to get rid of mice from a garage if your storage space is sounding a little squeaky, you're seeing signs of these critters around, or you've come face to face with these unwanted furry guests.

As panic-inducing as this can be, try to first stay calm. It takes seven steps to get rid of mice in your garage and in this guide, our pest control pros share where to check for signs, how to eliminate mice from your storage space, and how to ensure that they don't come back in.

If you're trying to get rid of mice in your home and are specifically stuck on what to do in your garage, we've got you covered with a whole range of tips and tricks.

Pros reveal 7 steps to rid your garage of mice

Once you've figured out the differences between mice and rats and are sure you have mice in your garage, it's time to get rid of them.

Our pros have recommended some products to help you do this, and we have carefully curated highly-rated matching buys from trusted retailers.

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

Step 1: Find entry points

As with many pesky pests, the most critical step in eliminating or preventing a mice or rodent issue in a garage, to find the entry points being used by the critters to get in and out.

“Mice can fit through an opening roughly the size of ¼ inch, and a rat needs an opening roughly ½ inch,” explains Damian Marcello, pest expert and associate certified entomologist with Fox Pest Control.

“The structure should be thoroughly inspected from the foundation to the roofline for any gaps, cracks, or holes that may allow rodents access to the interior,” he says. 

Special attention should be paid to overhead and main doors. “To properly inspect doors, turn all lights off inside, close the doors and look for light coming through,” Damian adds.

If there is light coming in from the exterior and the gaps are greater than ¼ inch, then appropriate repairs should be made. 

Step 2: Seal gaps

Once you’ve figured out where the mice are gaining access to your garage, it’s important to pick the right materials for sealing up areas. 

“Materials used for exclusion should be able to withstand the elements of the environment that the building is located in,” explains Damian.

He recommends choosing flexible caulk or silicone for gaps (the Shemall Silicone for Gaps from Walmart can be cut to size and are dishwasher safe) and copper or galvanized wire mesh (the Californistan Copper Mesh from Amazon is specially made for rodent control and is thickly textured) for larger holes.

Step 3: Remove nesting sites

So, you’ve blocked the entry routes to stop mice from going into your garage. The next step is making sure they aren't tempted to make their home there.

Damian explains, “After all the entry points are excluded, then all possible nesting sites and nesting materials such as paper, cardboard, and cloth should be inspected and removed or elevated from the floor.”

He recommends making sure there’s an 18-inch minimum gap between the floor and where you keep these items. 

Consider garage shelving solutions stacked with sealed boxes to store your items, rather than having them loose.

Step 4: Declutter your garage

If you’ve utilized garage storage ideas and have miscellaneous boxes in it, it’s time to take stock of what you have and declutter your home.

“Rodents will nest in just about anything but prefer to harbor in areas where there is little to no disruption,” Damian says. 

“The less clutter in an area, the less likely the rodents will want to stay in an area,” he adds.

Once you’ve removed any unwanted items, you can then learn how to organize your garage to ensure it stays neat and tidy in the future.

Step 5: Lock up food

It’s a good idea to remove any reason for mice wanting to enter your garage, which includes not allowing them to get to snacking sources.

“Place bird seed, pet food, and any other food items into airtight containers and keep them off the floor,” suggests Bob Gilbert, pest control expert and entomologist at Blue Sky Pest Control.

“Getting rid of other foods will drastically increase your chances of attracting mice to your bait,” he adds.

We recommend finding out the best places to buy storage boxes and stocking up. We also advise checking ratings before you buy  — for example, the Chef's Path Airtight Food Storage Containers on Amazon have over 63,000 five star reviews (yes, really!) from shoppers who love the quality, size, and airtight seals.

Step 6: Set traps

This isn’t the nicest part of the process, but if you’ve blocked out entry points and removed clutter but still found mice in your garage, more action will be needed.

“I recommend placing several traps in areas where mice are traveling — you can check for droppings or urine stains to determine where the rodents are going,” says Bob.

If you need to stock up on traps, the Victor M035-12 Mouse Traps from Amazon have over 12,000 five-star ratings and are reusable and disposable.

“Mice are small animals and are high on the menu for many predators including domestic cats, so think like a mouse when placing traps,” he suggests.

Bob says this means they should be someplace where the mouse will feel secure, not out in the open, and away from children or pets.

Step 7: Try rodenticides

For those looking for a no-nonsense, guaranteed solution, using rodenticides could be the route for your garage mice problem.

“Rodenticides can be toxic and or fatal to non-target species, so caution must be used when they are placed out,” says Damian.

We recommend eco-friendly cleaning supplies such as the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Rodent Repellent Spray from Amazon, which is extra-concentrated and will scare rats away without having to harm them.

“It is always recommended that with a rodent issue or any other pest issue, a professional be consulted prior to attempting,” Damian adds.

Learn how to repel mice from your home in our dedicated guide.

By applying these steps when removing mice from a garage, you’re sure to wave goodbye to these whiskered pests.

“The main takeaway answer is to exclude the mice from entering and to eliminate food supplies, so your garage is less attractive to rodents in the first place,” Bob finishes by saying.

If you’ve tackled mice but have also found creepy crawlies in your garage while cleaning, finding out how to remove ants from your home may also come in useful.

Knowing how to get pee smell out of a couch is key if you have pets or kids prone to accidents. 

There’s nothing worse than the smell of urine exactly where you want to relax in the evening or invite guests to sit. Luckily, our cleaning experts have six simple steps to oust pee odors from your couch and keep your living room fresh and inviting. 

As with removing urine smells and stains from around your home, the key is acting quickly and carefully, with the right products. 

The six pro steps to remove pee smell from a couch 

Accidents happen, especially when you have pets or young children, but whether cleaning a velvet couch, a leather couch, or upholstered seats, taking swift action and using the right products should have your couch back to its best in no time.

Our industry pros will walk you through the six straight-forward steps to sanitize your couch in the event of an accident. 

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

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Step 1: Blot the pee stain

The first thing you need to do is blot the stain as soon as possible. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much urine as you can. 

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, “Gently blot the area to soak up as much liquid as possible. Press down firmly, but don't rub, as rubbing can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fabric. Think of it as giving your couch a gentle pat to say: it’s okay, we’ll fix this!"

This E-Cloth Microfiber Cleaning Cloth from Target come with a 100-wash promise, meaning you can expect decent use and durability from the reinforced stitching and the materials itself.

If the stain is fresh, wearing gloves can protect your hands from coming into contact with the urine. These Great Value Multipurpose Reusable Gloves from Walmart are skin-safe and durable.

Step 2: Spray vinegar on the pee stain

Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, so it's no wonder there's so many household jobs vinegar can do, including tackling pee smells. 

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Generously spritz the affected area, making sure to saturate the fabric. The vinegar will help neutralize the odor and break down any lingering urine particles.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, “If the couch cover is removable, then fill a sink or bucket and soak it in the solution; if not, spraying the solution all over the area is fine.”

Let the vinegar solution sit for about 10-15 minutes. This gives it time to penetrate the fabric and start working on the odor.

Wells says, “Now use any porous cleaning tool like a sponge or microfiber cloth and rub it on the wet spot to remove the stain and absorb the moisture.”

Karina adds, “This second round of blotting is crucial to lift away moisture and absorb any remaining pee.”

Step 3: Sprinkle baking soda over the pee stain

Next, it’s time for the ultimate around-the-house cleaning must-have: baking soda. Baking soda has endless uses around the home and is excellent at absorbing odors such as urine from the couch fabric. 

The Good & Gather Baking Soda from Target comes with more than 1,000 five-star reviews, is perfect to cleaning, deodorizing, and can double up for cooking baked goods.

Karina says, “Baking soda is like fairy dust for odors. Sprinkle a generous amount over the area, making sure the entire stain is covered. Let it work its magic overnight, absorbing the unpleasantness.”

Letting the baking soda sit for several hours will often do the job, but aim for overnight if possible — the longer it sits, the better it will absorb the urine smell.

Step 4: Vacuum the baking soda

Once the baking soda has had time to work its magic, vacuum it up. 

Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to thoroughly remove all the baking soda. This step not only removes the baking soda but also any remaining dried urine particles that it has absorbed. 

Be sure to vacuum the entire area, including any crevices or seams, to ensure no baking soda is left behind.

Read our review of the Brigii Crevice Vacuum and how it gets into those tough spaces, or our review of the Bissell Symphony Pet Steam Mop & Vacuum, which cleans both wet and dry messes.

If you're looking for a new vacuum, the tried and tested recommendations in our best vacuums guide are a great place to start. If you have a furry pet at home, our guide on best vacuums for pet hair has many great buys, including our overall number one, Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Vacuum, which we gave five stars to in our review for function, suction, ease of use (even though it does take a while to charge).

Step 5: Spray enzyme cleaner on the pee stain

By this stage, it’s possible your couch is smelling as fresh as the day it was delivered — but for that extra layer of odor-removal, use an enzyme cleaner.

Enzyme cleaners are specially formulated to break down biological stains such as urine and contain beneficial bacteria that feed on the organic matter in the urine, effectively eliminating both the stain and the odor.

Well adds, “Enzyme cleaners are quick and easy to use, making them one of the best options! Simply spray the enzyme cleaner over the stained area, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then use a cloth to gently tap the spot and absorb any excess liquid.”

We love Nature's Miracle Stain & Odor Remover from Walmart, which has been banishing pet stains and smells effectively for more than three decades.

Step 6: Allow to dry

After applying the enzyme cleaner, it’s important to let the area dry completely. You can speed up the drying process by opening windows, turning on your best fan, or using a hair dryer on a cool setting. Ensure the couch is completely dry before using it again to prevent any residual dampness that could lead to mold or mildew.

If you think your couch is nearly dry, but you’re not certain, one tip is to place a clean towel over the area and sit on it to help to spot any remaining moisture.

Meet our experts

Accidents are inevitable, but with quick action and the right cleaning methods, you can keep your couch and home smelling clean and pleasant. 

Next, check out how to get rid of cat pee from carpets, how to get rid of a burnt smell in the microwave and how to get rid of a smell in the fridge.

You might be in need of this Amazon backyard bug spray if you often find mosquitos, flies, and ticks buzzing around you as you're trying to garden or dine out.

I've seen so many people rave about the Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray on Amazon. It has over 22,000 five-star ratings on the site and over 10,000 were scooped up last month alone. So, I've chatted to gardening pros who have both used the spray to find out why it's their go-to, as well as shopping for alternatives.

If you've identified pests in your home and think they're coming from outside, harnessing this useful spray could help eliminate them once and for all.

This Amazon backyard bug spray is seriously powerful

For those looking for things that repel bugs, the Cutter Backyard Bug Spray is a powerful option to get rid of ants from your backyard.

I've shown you where you can shop it, as well as picking out alternative options in case you're looking for something different.

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

Why experts love the Cutter Backyard Bug Spray

This Amazon backyard bug spray is one that backyard, landscaping, and gardening experts across the country reach for when they need to properly get rid of pests.

“In one of my recent projects, we integrated the Cutter spray into a client's outdoor resort area, which included an outdoor kitchen and entertainment space,” says Bob Berriz, landscaping expert and founder of Berriz Design.

The significant reduction in mosquito activity allowed the family to enjoy their backyard amenities without constant interruptions from pests. “This kind of effectiveness is why many of my clients prefer Cutter — it delivers noticeable results quickly and consistently,” he adds.

This is because the formula kills mosquitoes, fleas, and other pests on contact and offers up to 12 weeks of protection, which Bob says is invaluable for homeowners looking for long-term solutions.

Another major advantage is its ease of use. “The Cutter spray comes with a hose-end sprayer, making it simple even for those without extensive gardening knowledge,” explains Steve Sylva, gardening expert and the owner of Steve’s Services. “This accessibility means that homeowners can achieve professional-grade results on their own.”

Along with all this, the cost-effectiveness of the Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray cannot be overstated. 

“It offers a practical, budget-friendly solution without compromising on quality, saving homeowners money in the long run by preventing the need for more expensive pest control services,” Bob explains. 

Steve adds that making the small spend on this (the Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray on Amazon is $19.74 for two) can prevent more serious pest problems down the line. “This will save money on potential property damage and additional pest control measures,” he adds.

Shop the Cutter Backyard Bug Spray

Shop alternative bug sprays

For those looking to keep pests out of their home this summer, picking an easy, effective bug killer like the Cutter Backyard Bug Spray from Amazon is a smart idea.

“In my experience, clients appreciate solutions that are straightforward and don't require a lot of effort, and the Cutter spray fits this need perfectly,” Steve finishes by saying.

Once you’ve got your bugs under control, you can learn how to mow your lawn properly to make your yard look as neat as possible.

Finding bugs in rice? It's never nice when you go to make your favorite weeknight dinner and discover you have an infestation in your cabinets. 

While you may be initially grossed out, don't panic. We consulted pest and cleaning experts for their know-how when it comes to creepy crawlies.

Learn how to identify the bugs in your home and how to get rid of them, once and for all.

Everything you need to know about finding bugs in rice

Finding bugs in rice can be an unpleasant surprise, but it's a common issue in many kitchens. Here's some expert advice on why these pests invade rice, the types of bugs you might encounter, and effective strategies to get rid of and prevent them including household items that repel bugs.

How to identify bugs in rice

The first step in getting rid of nasty pests is knowing what you're working with. Before deep-cleaning a small kitchen, you'll need to figure out which bugs are infesting your rice supply. Common problems like ants in the kitchen are straightforward to solve so it's good to know what you're up against. 

"I've seen how pests can wreak havoc in homes and businesses. Bugs in rice are a common issue, often caused by pantry pests like weevils, moths, and beetles that can contaminate stored food products. These pests enter through tiny openings or from already-infested items brought into the home," says Eliana Coca of E.C. House Cleaning.

If the insects are tiny and dark brown, weevils are the most likely culprit. "The bugs you find most commonly infesting rice will tend to be weevils, which feed on it and can quickly multiply once they've found an adequate food supply. I would say the top reason you're finding bugs in your rice is either because they were already in the bag, as adults or even as eggs, or they were able to access an unsealed bag," says Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy, an on-demand home improvement service platform.

However, if they're lighter in color and long in shape, they may be pantry moths. "Pantry moths feed on all kinds of food items, from rice to flour, to nuts, to pasta, and more. Anything they can get access to in your pantry, essentially," says Brett Bennett, Director of Operations of PURCOR Pest Solutions.

How to get rid of bugs in rice

Once you've identified the enemy, it's time to evict them from the premises. As long as you don't make common pest control mistakes, they'll be out of there in no time. 

The first step in tackling weevils is to toss any affected food, ASAP. "Unfortunately, your best bet once you begin finding bugs in your rice is just to discard all the affected food. You can also stick it in the freezer to kill off all adults and eggs, but I'd still recommend tossing it afterwards," says Andre.

Then it's time to scrub everything down and clean out the kitchen cabinets. "To get rid of weevils, you must start with thorough cleaning. Dispose of any infested food immediately. Vacuum and wipe down your pantry shelves with hot soapy water, followed by vinegar to deter any pests. Ensure you get into crevices and corners where eggs and larvae might hide," says Eliana.

The process is similar for pantry moths as well. "The first step is to throw out any and everything in your pantry that may have been infested. This usually will include everything that isn’t tightly sealed off. You will then need to deep-clean all of the shelves, walls, and doors of your pantry with a bleach solution. Wait a few days before putting anything back in your pantry, and make sure that whatever does go in your pantry now is kept in sealed containers," says Brett.

How to prevent bugs in rice

Once you've tackled the problem, it's important to prevent bugs from coming inside again. "Prevent future infestations by storing your rice and other dried goods in airtight food storage containers. Regularly inspect these containers for any signs of pests. I also recommend placing bay leaves inside your pantry or containers as a natural deterrent. For a case study, we had a commercial client whose consistent cleanout and proper storage protocol significantly reduced pest reoccurrences, saving them from repeated infestations," says Eliana.

From ants coming into the house to an infestation of fruit flies, there are many pests that could be plaguing your kitchen. But don't fear, there are many simple steps you can take to get rid of these nasties, fast. From deep-cleaning your cook space to storing food in air-tight containers.

The Swiffer PowerMop is my secret for keeping my floors sparkling. Whenever I have a spillage, have quick crumbs to clear up, or have guests coming round, it's the only thing I reach for.

Okay — it was my secret. I've spilled on why I'm obsessed with it, show you where you can shop for it, plus picked out alternative options. I have also asked cleaning pros why a spraying mop like this is much more efficient than a regular one.

For those looking for the best mops and don't want anything complicated to use, I think this mop is no-fuss and highly effective.

The Swiffer PowerMop is a cleaning dream

This mop saves you from getting out your best cleaning supplies when you have minor spills on the floor and even prevents the need to use your best vacuum on smaller crumbs.

I have scouted out where you can shop it, as well as picked out alternatives so you have lots of options to choose from.

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

Why I love the Swiffer PowerMop

I'm not the biggest fan of cleaning in the world. Some people love it, but I am not one of those people. This is why I am always looking for solutions that are simple to use and will save me time in the long-run. 

The Swiffer PowerMop ticks all those boxes for me and more. It couldn't be simpler to use — just press the button on the top and wipe away your debris. The head picks up crumbs and mops away spills, without the need to bend down on the floor with a dustpan and brush or microfiber cloth. I can imagine this would be especially useful for those who struggle to do this normally.

As well as this, it comes with the most delicious floor cleaner that lives up to its promise of keeping floors fresh for 24 hours. I go over mine with the Swiffer PowerMop before guests arrive and I always get comments on how wonderful my home smells. It dries super quickly, making it a much more effective choice than a damp mop and bucket.

While it does come with scrubbing strips that I did find hugely effective and absorbent, I wasn't a huge fan of the fact that you have to throw them away. Instead, I use reusable pads that I can wash and reuse — the Juvale 10-Pack Microfiber Mop Pads from Amazon are similar, come in a pack of ten, and can be used on all surface types.

It also has a slimline frame, which is much less cumbersome than using a mop with a heavy head. This makes it easy to grab, use, and quickly put away. At the top it has a handy loop which means you hang it up when you're done. I have mine hung up on the basement door in the kitchen for convenience.

Shop the Swiffer PowerMop

Why cleaning pros love spray mops

I love using my Swiffer PowerMop thanks to its ease of use and efficiency — and cleaning pros agree that spray mops are a brilliant option.

“Spray mops are especially great for quick clean-ups in high-traffic areas, such as in homes with kids or pets where spills and messes are frequent,” explains Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and founder of E.C. House Cleaning.

She says that a spray mop can tackle these immediate concerns swiftly without the hassle of preparing traditional mop water. “The Swiffer PowerMop, for instance, comes with a powerful battery-driven spray mechanism that provides an even, controlled application of cleaning solution, allowing for thorough and even cleaning across all types of flooring.”

The fact it eliminates the typical gross, heavy bucket is a big bonus. “The lightweight design makes it easier for anyone to use, including those who may have physical limitations or prefer to avoid the back strain associated with traditional mopping,” says Yessica Bello, cleaning expert and founder of Bello Cleaning.

“We've found in our operations that utilizing spray mops like this one improves overall cleaning speed and quality, allowing us to focus on more complex tasks and leading to a more thorough and satisfying cleaning experience for our clients,” she adds.

This is one of my favorite parts of using the Swiffer PowerMop — the quicker I can rattle through my house cleaning schedule, the better.

Shop alternative mops

I can’t imagine life without my Swiffer PowerMop, and if you’re a low-maintenance cleaner like me, I highly recommend it.

“Spray mops like the Swiffer will allow you to clean more efficiently without compromising on quality,” Eliana finishes by saying

If you’re looking for other ways to freshen up your home, be sure to find the best home fragrances, candles, and diffusers, too.

The Brigii Crevice Vacuum has changed how I vacuum around my house. Instead of having to lug around a huge machine whenever I drop crumbs or get dirt in my hallway, I just grab this to quickly remove the mess.

For corners and tables where it just doesn't make sense to have a large machine, it's so easy to pick up, turn on, and start using. While I wouldn't recommend having it as the only vacuum in your house due to its size and short battery life, it works well as a quick fix.

I've been using it in my home for six months, and think that it's one of the best handheld vacuum cleaners out there thanks to its budget-friendly price, lightweight, and high power.

Brigii Crevice Vacuum review

Brigii Crevice Vacuum product specifications

What I thought of the Brigii Crevice Vacuum

After six months of use, I can't imagine my home without the Brigii Crevice Vacuum. Whether I have crumbs on my coffee table, mud in my entryway, or dust on my windowsill, it's a simple way to clean without having to reach for a larger appliance. It's also easy to remove dirt from, with the detachable dust container simply twisting off.

The only thing I would improve about it is its short 20-minute battery life, as you have to put it on charge pretty much every time after using it. But, I have it in my home office and keep it on my laptop's USB-C cable, so this isn't too much of an issue for me.

Unboxing and setting up the Brigii Crevice Vacuum

Just like the Brigii Crevice Vacuum itself, its boxing and packaging are no-nonsense and simply have the essentials. Apart from a couple of plastic bags and foam squares for protection during delivery, everything in it is what you'll be using.

The box is made from basic cardboard which can be recycled, with a clear illustration of the handheld vacuum on the front. Inside it contains the handheld vacuum, a cute little paper instruction manual, a USB-C cable (in case you don't have one), and a dust bag. 

I love the smart dust bag, meaning you can keep it neatly tucked away without it gathering dirt on it. It also has a drawstring, which you could always hook up on your entryway storage rack, for example.

It comes pre-assembled, so there's no messing about when it comes to setup. I recommend putting it on charge before you use it though, just to ensure it maintains power for the full 20 minutes.

Using the Brigii Crevice Vacuum

Operation

Once the Brigii Crevice Vacuum is full of juice, it's completely ready to operate. Pick it up, press the dark gray oval button, and start going around your desired area. When you're all done, just press the same button again to immediately turn it off. I told you it was simple, right?

The vacuum has a brush nozzle on it which is very soft. I use it on hard surfaces such as tables and soft surfaces such as carpet, and have no problems at all with scratches or fabric coming loose. 

It's lightweight to use, meaning that I have never got tired picking it up and using it around the house. I live in a two-story house with a living room/dining area, a kitchen, a large bathroom, a home office, and a bedroom, and have been able to vacuum it all without any issues.

I do wish that the top of the vacuum was a touch more comfortable to hold. While it has a curve in it, I feel like a rubber material around it would make it easier to grip. I get quite bad cramps in my hands (I'm a journalist who types a lot) and do find myself having to stretch them out after using.

Performance

As far as cleaning up dirt goes, it works very well. I tested it out on coffee grounds, cereal, and flour, and found that it was able to go through all of those effectively without stopping. 

On a day-to-day basis, I use it to clear up small crumbs and dirt, and find it has no problems sucking these up. The small, narrow brush nozzle also gets right into the cracks of the stairs, which my Dyson Animal 3 doesn't. You can also remove this to expose the larger suction hole, in case you have bigger pieces of debris to deal with.

Not only is it useful inside the house, but it also works well outside of it, too. I have used it inside my boyfriend's car to remove dirt from around the gearstick and cup holders and found it gets right into the teeniest of gaps. 

The fact it charges on a Type C cable means that you could keep it in your glovebox to clean, if you have a car charger such as the Wocoruo Car Charger from Amazon that's fast-charging and has a dual port.

Cleaning and maintaining the Brigii Crevice Vacuum

Cleaning and maintaining the Brigii could not be easier. Once the dust cup has collected enough dirt, you can simply twist the top of the vacuum handle off and throw the dirt away in your kitchen trash can. 

When the cup itself needs a wash, the whole dust cup and filter can be fully taken off from the vacuum. I recommend washing these in soapy water and then just leaving them to dry before reassembling, putting back on the handle, and putting the brush back on. You can do the same thing with the brush, as this can be removed from the bottom of the dust cup. These are all standard steps for cleaning a vacuum.

The exterior of it can just be wiped with a microfiber cloth (I use the Homexcel Microfiber Cleaning Cloths from Amazon which are reusable and washable) and all-purpose cleaning spray (the Mrs Meyer's Clean Day Spray from Amazon is my go-to and it's one of our top eco-friendly cleaning supplies).

Should you buy the Brigii Crevice Vacuum?

At $54.99 full price, it's a brilliant, budget-friendly handheld vacuum and is well-worth the price tag. I find myself using it daily to swiftly clean parts of my house and have found it to be ultra-convenient.

It has a similar shape and features to the Prosenic S1, which is our number one handheld vacuum. While the Prosenic S1 has a larger capacity at 1.2L and has a charging dock with it, the Brigii is half the price, offers the same features, and even changes light color when it's fully topped up.

If you don't mind a heavier model and are a big fan of Shark vacuums, our former acting head of ecommerce Christina Chrysostomou found the Shark Wandvac Power Pet (available on Amazon) to be sleek, powerful, and one of the best pet vacuums for cleaning after her family pooch. 

But for those just looking for a simple, small handheld vacuum that you can grab, go around the house with, and maintain easily, the Brigii is a total winner in my books.

How we tested the Brevii Crevice Vacuum

I was kindly sent the Brevii Crevice Vacuum to test for Real Homes. When testing vacuums, we always use the following criteria, which I ticked off while testing this:

“What is a candle warmer?” you ask, wondering why you’d need anything besides a standard lighter or even a match. Trust us, a candle warmer is so much more than a way to light a candle.

This is a way to alleviate your stress every time you leave a room and wonder if your candle is going to go rogue and somehow ignite your drapery across the room. It’s a foolproof trick to never, ever wonder if you remembered to blow out the candle before leaving the house. And it’s the best thing you can do to throw fragrance throughout your space without burning through your candles in record time.

To get into the specifics of what a candle warmer is, how it works, and whether it’s actually a safer option for burning candles, we talked to home and candle experts for their perspectives on 2024’s hottest candle device. Plus, we rounded up a few of the best candle warmers on the market right now.

What is a candle warmer and how does it work?

Candle warmers do exactly what their name indicates — they warm candles. But it may not have occurred to you that simply warming one of the best candles could bring the same end result as taking a match and lighting a wick. 

“Candle warmers work by heating a candle or wax melt to release its fragrance without the need for a flame,” says Melanie Summers, professional organizer and owner of I Speak Organized. “This method not only maximizes scent dispersion but also extends the life of the candle.”

The candle warmer can either use a bulb to heat the candle from above, or it may have a warming plate below, acting as a coaster to heat up the candle. While igniting the wick of a candle with a match or lighter will use the wax as fuel and melt it away, a candle warmer heats the wax to replace the fragrance, but it does not burn it. A candle warmer also does not cause the wax to evaporate. The only thing that disappears — eventually — is the fragrance, but most experts will tell you that the candle warmer actually extends the lifespan of your candle. 

“With a candle warmer, the wax melts slowly, often resulting in a longer-lasting fragrance compared to burning a candle, which consumes the wax more quickly,” says Tay Baker, founder and owner of Claranda Tay Candles Co.

Are candle warmers safe?

Summers, who specializes in home and organizational strategies with an ADHD perspective, points out that candle warmers are a safer home fragrance option because they reduce the risk of an unattended open flame (who hasn’t walked away from a candle only to scurry back into the room?). She notes that safety with a candle warmer starts with proper placement. If you see a wobbly surface, keep on looking for the next spot.

“Ensure that the warmer is on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials,” says Summers.

Also, pay attention to the size of the base on the candle warmer. Not every base is designed to accommodate every size of candle. “Use candles that fit well within the warmer’s design to ensure even heating and prevent spillage,” says Baker.

And don’t get carried away thinking that no flame means no heat. Kate De Palma, Founder of Scented Designs Candle Co., explains, “Keep in mind that its surface and the candle vessel itself can get hot. Without the flame of a burning candle to remind us that it's hot, it may be tempting to move or adjust it while it's not safe to touch.”

When it comes to children and pets, candle warmers can be safer than an open flame, but that doesn’t mean there’s zero risk. A curious child can easily burn themselves on a hot warmer. Baker advises keeping both candle warmers and their cords out of reach of children, while also educating them on what it is and that it is hot. 

Summers adds, “It’s wise to look for models with automatic shut-off features for added security.”

How to use a candle warmer

Candle warmers are super easy to use. If you have a candle warmer that’s similar to a lamp with a bulb above the candle, you’ll place the candle on the base, turn it on, and the bulb will slowly heat the wax, which releases the fragrance. Many of these candle warmers are dimmable so you can choose how much you want the light to heat the wax (pro tip: the higher temperatures will always throw more scent). Others have a timer so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn it off. 

If you have a candle warmer that looks like a coaster, you’ll place the candle on the base, turn it on, and it will heat the candle from below. Both of these candle warmer styles will heat the wax evenly, so you won’t have to worry about the tunneling that happens when you use a match or lighter to ignite a wick.

After the first use, you’ll be hooked, especially when you realize your celeb-approved candles are lasting twice as long. “Candle warmers are a great option for filling a room with fragrance because they consistently release the scent over time without the need to blow a candle out after the recommended 4 hours-at-a-time maximum burn time,” says De Palma. 

FAQs

How long can you leave a candle warmer on?

Generally, you should only leave a candle warmer on for about four hours, which is the same as a candle that’s burning. However, the beauty of a candle warmer is that you can get one with a timer that you can set for four hours so you don’t have to remember to turn it off.

How hot does a candle warmer get?

While it doesn’t have an open flame, a candle warmer still gets hot enough to burn you if you touch it! The average candle warmer will reach temperatures of 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, with some getting as hot as 200 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep all fingers, toes, and pets away.

Chances are, you’re already looking into putting your beloved Diptyque candle on a candle warmer rather than ever getting a match near it again. If you’re considering buying a candle warmer, you’ll want to consider the price (there are tons of affordable, under $50 options out there!), bulb wattage, whether it has a dimmer and a timer, and, of course, style. 

As long as TikTok keeps catapulting the reputation of candle warmers, retailers will keep trying to beat each other to the punch to make the most stylish and tech-savvy of models. And that means you have options to get a candle warmer that’s just as chic as your most precious candle.

Love summer, hate bugs? Luckily, we know 10 ways to keep pests out of your home this season.

Stop flying ants, spiders, roaches, mice and many more unwanted guests getting into your home as the weather hots up and critter colonies get busy. Our expert guide is packed with things you can do now, and action you can continue to take over the summer to keep pests out of your home.

Whilst we can't do anything about your in-laws popping over uninvited, we can help with keeping ants and other bugs you identify firmly out!

10 ways to keep pests out of your home this summer

So you've successfully killed the weeds in your lawn and prepped your patio or balcony ready for warmer weather and BBQs, but have you protected your home, however big or small, against pests? 

Our critter control, home maintenance, and cleaning pros have great tips to offer including the steps to action, and product recommendations to help you enjoy a pest-free home all summer.

All prices correct at publication.

1. Seal gaps and cracks

This one is our favorite tips because it's so easy to action and very effective. If you seal up any exterior cracks, holes and gaps, this will reduce the opportunities pests have to sneak into your pad.

Jordan Woolf, owner of Huntsville Roofing Solutions, says preventing entry points can easily deter small pests such as ants, spiders, and even rodents.

"Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings. For larger gaps, fill with steel wool before sealing with caulk. Focus on areas where utilities enter the home, as these are common entry points for pests."

This means keeping an extra keen eye where piping, electrics, vents or waste disposal works enter or leave your home.

Brendan Anderson, of Brix Roofing Systems advises, "Look around your home’s exterior for any gaps or cracks, especially around windows, doors, and the foundation. Clean these areas to help the sealant stick better on small gaps (less than 1/4 inch). Use expanding foam or steel wool for bigger gaps."

Brendan's recommendations GE Silicone II Window & Door Caulk, available at The Home Depot, and Great Stuff Pestblock Insulating Foam Sealant, available on Amazon are reliable options for this task. Both items have also been rated an average of 4.5/5 stars by thousands of happy customers.

We recommend Gorilla Silicon Sealant, available on Amazon for its versatility in indoor and outdoor use, and moisture-resistant sealing properties. It also dries clear so it can be used on brick, window sills and anywhere else you need without looking obvious.

Sealing gaps will stop small and large pests getting in, which is useful if you're trying to remove mice from a garage, for example.

2. Install mesh screens

Mesh screens will keep insects like mosquitoes, flies, and larger pests such as squirrels out of your home whilst still letting fresh air flow in. If you have an indoor cat, or a dog that needs supervision in your backyard or balcony, a mesh screen doubles up as a great way to keep your furry friends in.

Jordan recommends fitting mesh screens on all windows and doors and ensuring the mesh size is small enough to block even tiny insects. He adds, "Regularly check the screens for any tears or holes and repair them immediately using a screen repair kit."

I have personally used a white screen mesh with zip closure, that is stuck on with a strip of double sided Velcro tape, on the sliding door that goes into my backyard. It's been on for the last three years and is a lifesaver in the summer to stop pests getting into my home when the lights are on at night and the doors open to let out the heat of the day (my home has no air conditioning). 

I highly recommend this option for renters who cannot nail or screw screens on. Whilst I bought mine from Amazon in the UK, the Anti-Mosquito Door Heavy Duty Mesh Curtain with Zip on Amazon USA has exactly the same features as mine and comes in 23 different sizes, and a few colors to match to your aesthetic. I went for white so it didn't darken my small kitchen.

If you're tempted by the magnetic ones, I tried that in my old home and it was fine, but I wouldn't advise it if you have cats like I do who like to hunt mice, voles and frogs and bring them inside... alive! Those furry buddies are smart at figuring out the magnets.

Brendan offers some expert tips on installing your mesh screen.

He says, "Measure your windows and doors. Buy mesh screens (fiberglass or aluminum) that match those measurements. Cut the screens to size with scissors or a utility knife. Use a spline roller to press the screen into the frame and secure it with a spline. Trim any excess screen material. Try the Saint-Gobain ADFORS Premium Window Screen (available on Amazon) and a spline roller tool for a smooth installation."

3. Fix leaks

Prevent moisture attracting pests such as cockroaches, silverfish, ants, and mold-loving insects by fixing any leaks or persistently drippy outdoor taps. Moisture will entice termites and carpenter ants, which both extend their outside colonies indoors by following moisture and setting up satellite colonies inside the wooden structures of your home including in walls, basements, attics and outhouses.

Jordan says, "Regularly inspect plumbing for leaks and repair them promptly, and ensure proper home ventilation to avoid moisture build up. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms to keep humidity levels low. 

We've tried and tested many of the best dehumidifiers here at Real Homes and the General Electric 35-pint Portable Dehumidifier, available at Walmart can be moved around the home where it is needed, but has a small tank size. You can alternatively opt for the Frigidaire FFAD2233W1 Dehumidifier from Amazon which is great for small spaces and has a removable dust filter you can clean.

Brendan adds, "Check your home for leaks, especially in the kitchen, bathroom, and basement. Repair any leaky pipes or faucets right away. Make sure water drains properly around your home to prevent pooling and use a dehumidifier in damp areas."

Brendan recommends using Flex Tape Rubberized Waterproof Tape, available at Walmart) and the hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier, available from Amazon. The latter has an average customer rating of 4.5/5 and has been rated by 52,700 customers.

4. Store food properly

Avoid attracting pests by keeping food inaccessible. 

Brendan says, "Properly storing food outdoors helps prevent attracting pests like raccoons, ants, and rodents. Use airtight containers for food. Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Containers and Rubbermaid Food Storage Containers are excellent choices."

Clean up crumbs and stains right away. We recommend using white vinegar to clean, as it's versatile and pests hate the smell. A double whammy to protect your home from bugs.

Use white or distilled vinegar, such as Walmart's Heinz All Natural Distilled White Vinegar, and wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, uses equal parts white vinegar and water, then generously spritzes to clean. He previously told Real Homes he recommends the lint-free E-Cloth Window Cleaner Kit from Amazon for a streak-free clean.

Jordan adds, "Ensure pantry items like grains and cereals are sealed properly in airtight containers. Regularly inspect the pantry for signs of pests and clean up any spills immediately."

5. Maintain your yard

Maintain a tidy yard to eliminate hiding spots and breeding grounds for pests.

Jordan says, "Remove debris such as fallen leaves, grass clippings, and piles of wood. Keep the lawn mowed and the garden well-maintained. Properly store outdoor items like toys and gardening tools to reduce potential hiding places for pests."

Piles of wood outdoors are an open invitation for termites and carpenter ants.

6. Use natural repellants

Natural repellents deter pests without the need for harmful or potent synthetic chemicals. The great news is there are many things that repel bugs, and you probably already have them in your kitchen cabinets or around the home.

Brendan says, "Use essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil to repel pests. I like Plant Therapy Essential Oils, available on Amazon. Mix 10-15 drops with water in a spray bottle and apply to entry points.

"Plant herbs like basil, lavender, and mint around your home to naturally repel pests. Use Harris Diatomaceous Earth, available at The Home Depot, around your home’s perimeter to deter crawling insects."

Jordan advises also placing sachets of dried herbs like bay leaves, mint and cloves in the pantry to deter pests as well, since they do not like these scents.

7. Regular garbage disposal

Regular garbage disposal sounds like a no-brainer but it's a great thing to keep on top of in the hotter months especially to avoid attracting pests including rats, mice, and flies.

Jordan says, "Take out the trash regularly and use trash cans with tight-fitting lids. Clean the bins periodically to remove any residue. Consider using outdoor garbage bins that are animal-proof to prevent raccoons and other larger pests from accessing your trash."

Most of the ones we've looked at are very pricey but these smaller animal-proof trash cans from Bearicuda could work well with their screw top lids.

If you can't afford a splurge, Brendan adds, "Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and away from the house using bungee cords or heavy-duty clips to secure trash can lids."

Amazon stocks an array of heavy duty clips you can have delivered to your home within 24 hours, whilst their trash can bands are super too. A trash can cover can avert clever critters and larger animals that like fishing around in your rubbish. Try the Wayfair Suncast Utility Garbage Shed.

8. Outdoor maintenance

Maintaining the exterior of your home will reduce the temptation and opportunity for pests who want to get inside.

Jordan says, "Trim bushes and trees to prevent contact with the house, and eliminate standing water by cleaning gutters and ensuring proper drainage. Store firewood away from the house and off the ground to deter termites and rodents.

Brendan reckons regular roof and gutter maintenance should go on your list of outdoor tasks.

"Keeping your roof and gutters in good shape prevents pests like birds, squirrels, and insects from nesting," he says. "Clean gutters regularly to avoid debris buildup. Inspect your roof for damaged shingles or tiles and fix them promptly. Install gutter guards to keep leaves and pests out. Trim tree branches away from your roof to reduce access points for pests."

Brendan highly recommends the Raptor Gutter Guard available from Amazon for its contractor grade steel (don't worry, it's DIY-friendly) and the DeWalt 20V Max Cordless Drill Driver Kit for this kind of outdoor maintenance.

9. Keep things clean indoors

To keep pests out of the house, you'll need to give them less reason to come in.

Prevent ick-inducing pests such as ants, cockroaches, and mice by eliminating food sources indoors.

Jordan says, "Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and vacuum regularly, especially in areas where food is consumed. Pay special attention to kitchen appliances like toasters and microwaves where crumbs can accumulate unnoticed."

Ants, cockroaches, mice, and many other small pests head inside to evade heat and when they find a food source, quickly set up shot and call their colony mates in with their scent trails.

Brendan adds, "Sweep and vacuum floors regularly, wipe down countertops and dining areas after meals and  clean the trash can periodically."

Our best vacuum guide is packed with great picks, many tried and tested by us, whilst Brendan's recommendations for the job are the Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum, available on Best Buy, and Lysol Kitchen Pro Antibacterial Cleaner, which you can buy in a double pack at Walmart.

10. Install door sweeps

Finally, installing door sweeps will block easy points for pests who can squeeze in under doors. 

Jordan says, "Install door sweeps on all exterior doors to seal the gaps at the bottom. Ensure the sweep is properly fitted to block any possible entry. Check the sweeps regularly for wear and tear and replace them as needed."

Most hardware stores carry a range of door sweeps, including Lowe's, such as these brown door sweeps installed with screws. There are also white door sweeps that slide on at Lowe's, and sweeps that stick on with adhesive. 

Meet the experts

By implementing these 10 tips, you can significantly reduce the chance of pests traipsing inside your home and enjoy your summer to the max. When you've knocked out the pest parade, learn how to entice some much more magical hummingbirds to your backyard or balcony and enjoy these summer-loving  creatures. Or, if you have bugs outside, these plants will repel pests.

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.