While you could opt for basic baskets, this multi-functional storage table, from Wayfair hides everything from blankets to tech seamlessly, all without your guests suspecting a thing.

The best bit? This fabulous storage idea is currently 39% off for the 4th of July.

Why this blend-in storage table stands-out

Given how busy living rooms can be – offering a place for the family to gather or host guests – your living room storage ideas need to be efficient.

While you could opt for rows of shelving filled with baskets to try and organize a living room, this storage ottoman blends in seamlessly to its surroundings, posing as a simple coffee table but offering much more.

Because it doesn’t look like storage from the outside, the table helps you dodge one of the worst living room storage mistakes, preventing visual noise that can leave you feeling exhausted in your own home.

That is why organizing experts such as Marshall Webber, CMO of Stor-It, wouldn’t be without them in their homes. He shares, ‘Multifunctional furniture has been a booming trend in decluttering and organizational practices. There has also been an increase in ottomans and benches that have hidden storage compartments floating around the marketplace.

'I have absolutely been taking advantage of the trend, as there can be game changers for common areas within the home. For example, my wife and I have one in our front room that makes cleaning up for the kids so easy, as we can tuck and throw everything away when we need to have company over.

I also feel like it is a more stylish option than having a plastic tub or bin sitting in our living room. It’s a win-win for my home!’

Speaking of children, verified shoppers on Wayfair also love how family-friendly this table is, often adding it in as a part of playroom storage ideas or to help organize a family room, thanks to the soft edges and concealed storage.

Wayfair shopper Nichole, for example, shared, ‘This ottoman is perfect! We needed something softer with a little one starting to walk, and it's great. It's lightweight enough for us to move around easily, but not so light that it moves when the baby runs into it. Great color too!’

Similarly, Christine added, ‘Just what I was looking for. Very versatile. I needed a place for my granddaughter's toys in the family room, and it works perfectly and looks very upscale. It’s perfect for blankets, etc. The tabletop flips for two different looks. It came nicely packaged and very easy to assemble. Might just have to get another one.’

What to shop

No matter how good your storage is, there are some signs you have too much stuff in your living room that you should not ignore.

That's where the caveman cooling method comes into play. As our HVAC experts explain, keeping your home as 'cave-like' as possible, without opening windows, doors, and curtains, is the key to surviving the sunny summer.

Here, they share how to keep a home cool in a heatwave with this simple tip.

What is the caveman cooling method?

Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and founder of Air Conditioner Lab, explains the caveman cooling method in a nutshell. He says, 'The caveman cooling method is about keeping your living space cool by sealing it off from heat, much like how a cave stays cool underground.

'It works by limiting sunlight, hot air, and any other sources of heat that might raise the temperature. This approach is useful when you don’t have air conditioning or are trying to save energy to cut energy bills.'

If you've ever researched how to cool down a living room, or home remedies to stay cool to counter reasons your home feels hot, you might have come across advice telling you to keep your home dark, with your windows closed.

Limiting exposure is exactly the ancient method early humans used to survive harsh and hot conditions with limited means, hence this hack's nickname: The caveman cooling method.

How to try the caveman cooling method

To use this more unusual method for staying cool at home, advises Josh, start early in the day before it gets hot.

'Close all windows and doors to trap the cooler night air inside,' he directs. 'Cover windows with blackout curtains [such as the bestselling Mainstays Solid Blackout Curtain Panel Pair available at Walmart] or thick blankets to block out sunlight.'

Alternatively, you can just shut your curtains, blinds, or shutters.

Then, adds Josh, turn off lights as much as possible, and heat-generating appliances like ovens or dryers.

'Use towels or weatherstripping to stop hot air from leaking in through gaps,' he continues. 'The goal is to create a still, dark space that neither absorbs nor lets in heat.'

Drawbacks of the caveman cooling method

Importantly, though, advises Josh, the caveman cooling method isn't without its flaws. Most crucially, improving ventilation is something to consider, especially when your home remains sealed for extended periods of time.

'While the caveman method is effective at keeping heat out, it also restricts the circulation of fresh air,' he explains, which is usually considered among what not to do in a heatwave. 'This can sometimes lead to stuffiness or, in humid environments, even moisture buildup if not managed.'

In turn, this may leave you struggling with signs of high home humidity and needing to reduce your home's humidity.

'I always recommend opening up your home in the evening or early morning when temperatures drop outside,' he continues. 'Even just for an hour or two, letting in cooler, fresher air can make a big difference in the overall comfort and air quality of your home.

'It's all about finding that balance between keeping cool and maintaining good ventilation.'

In general, though, Josh says he's seen the caveman cooling method help to lower indoor temperatures by a few degrees, which can make a huge difference when dealing with extreme heat at home.

'It’s not a replacement for AC, but it’s an effective short-term way to stay cooler, especially if you’re only using one room,' he adds.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

What methods did early humans use to keep cool?

Even back as early as 2600 BC, humans are recorded as making DIY air conditioners, harnessing the benefits of evaporation to keep cool, hanging wet reed mats over doorways and windows to lower internal temperatures. Evaporation is the most effective method of cooling.

Meet our expert

Need to know how to keep upstairs cool in summer? Much like the caveman cooling method, experts recommend closing your curtains and shades, and sealing your home to prevent warm air entering.

Given that it's made from a blend of synthetic fibers, you could be forgiven for assuming these cleaning cloths may actually be toxic. However, professional cleaners are reassuring fans – this writer included – that the material is perfectly safe for your home, albeit slightly damaging for the planet.

Here, they reveal the exact effects of microfiber in your home and offer some plastic-free, non-toxic cleaning products you can try if you fancy a change.

Is microfiber safe?

The short answer is yes, these cloths are safe and considered non-toxic. In fact, microfiber cloths are the sustainable must-have, according to cleaners.

Dr. Chris DeArmitt, an internationally recognized expert in plastic materials and environmental science, explains, ‘Microfiber cloths are made of polyester, aka PET (polyethylene terephthalate). It is non-toxic.

'In fact, rats were given a diet of 5% PET for months with no effect whatsoever. PET is as safe as the most non-toxic substances, including clay from soil and cellulose, which is what plants and trees are made of.'

When used correctly to deep clean a home microfiber cloths do not shed these plastics, making them safe to use on a daily basis. The problem, however, arises when we wash the cloths.

Is microfiber bad for the environment?

Despite these cloths being non-toxic, washing microfiber cloths can release microplastics. While this is not immediately damaging to our health, they can have a cumulative effect on the environment, and the long-term effects are unknown.

As Dr. Li Li, associate professor at the University of Nevada, explains, ‘Synthetic textile fabrics are designed to be durable, so the synthetic microfibers, which we normally call “microplastics”, cannot be efficiently removed from the environment. Over time, they can even end up in us.

‘Several studies have confirmed that microplastics have been found in human tissues, including the brain. Of course, scientists are still debating whether the presence of microplastics in the human body really has something to do with human health, but we just do not want plastic to stay in our bodies when the science is not clear right now.

'If it turns out later that these microplastics do have harmful effects, it is not like we can go back and “undo” the exposure.’

Fortunately, there are several microfiber cloth mistakes you can avoid to minimize their impact and extend the lifespan.

Alicia Sokolowski, cleaning expert and founder of Aspen Clean, adds, ‘Besides choosing high-quality cloths made from natural fibers like organic cotton or unprocessed bamboo cloths [availible at Amazon], we recommend reducing overall microfiber shedding by washing cloths less frequently, using gentle cycles with cold water when doing laundry, avoiding fabric softeners or traditional chlorine bleaches.'

Opting for a gentle detergent, such as Tide Free & Gentle, from Target, can also help to prolong the lifespan of your cloths.

Alicia continues, ‘For cleaning, using reusable cotton towels or even natural sponges [such as cellulose sponges, available at Target] can also help minimize microplastic release if you want to try some alternative cleaning tricks to reduce plastic use at home.

'Ultimately, balancing effectiveness, durability, reusability, and reducing environmental impact is key to choosing the best cleaning tools for your home while keeping the planet in mind.’

What to shop

FAQs

What is OEKO-TEX microfiber?

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 microfiber is certified to be non-toxic, and indicates the absence of harmful chemicals such as azo dyes, formaldehyde, nickel, and other harsh compounds.

Are microfiber sheets non-toxic?

Many microfiber bed sheet sets are non-toxic; however, it is wise to opt for OEKO-TEX-certified microfiber sheets to ensure that they are free from potential harmful chemicals such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and flame retardants.

Meet the experts

Microfiber isn’t just safe, it is versatile, too, with several ways to use microfiber cloths beyond dusting, helping these common cleaning tools earn their keep.

In particular, I find 'maybe' or 'relocate' piles just don't work for me, and if I'm going to make a decision, I have to make it swiftly.

For that reason, I've found the 3-box decluttering method to be one of the very best decluttering methods for me and my home. I gave it a go, and here, professional organizers explain why it works so well and share their tips on how to use it.

What is the 3-box Decluttering Method?

To explain the 3-Box Decluttering method, I spoke to Julie Witherell, owner and founder at Julie's Organizing Services.

She explains, 'The 3-Box Decluttering Method is all about keeping organizing simple and manageable. It works well for people who tend to get overwhelmed, overthink the process, or get easily distracted,' making it ideal for decluttering your home when you feel overwhelmed, and overcoming a decluttering roadblock.

'You start in one area and sort your items into one of three categories: Keep, Donate or Sell, or Trash.

'The term “box” simply refers to a designated space, whether that is an actual box, a bag, or a clearly marked area. It helps to prepare in advance with supplies on hand: an area for items to keep, a bag for soft donations, a box with light wrapping for breakable donations, and containers for recycling and trash.'

In general, she adds that this method keeps things clear, simple, and easy to follow.

How does the 3-box method differ from the 4-box method?

This method may well be reminding you of the 'four box' decluttering method, and you'd be correct; they're very similar. But, the difference here is that this method doesn't include the 'relocate' box, which, as Julie says, 'can often snowball into a big, undefined pile that creates more decisions later and can derail your progress.'

Devon Fegman-Herdman, professional organizer and founder of Declutter with Devon, agrees. She says, 'I prefer the 3-box system. I think that as you add categories, the decision-making can become overwhelming.

'If you are using the 3-box system, after you complete sorting all of your items, you have to go back to the "keep" pile anyway and begin to put items away. At that point, you are either taking the item to its home or deciding where it will live in your home.

'To me, the fourth box is unnecessary. Folks often struggle with decision-making already, and adding an extra option doesn't help.'

As overcoming decision fatigue is something I struggle with, the 3-box method seemed like the best option for me. Here's how it went.

I tried the 3-box decluttering method

In a bid to clear visual clutter in my bedroom and declutter my bedroom once and for all, I decided to start there. I struggle to declutter as a maximalist, but with the 3-box decluttering method, I definitely found it easier.

I moved around different areas of my space, sorting items into 'Keep,' 'Donate or sell,' and 'Trash,' as recommended by Julie.

Unsurprisingly, my trash pile was easiest, and very quickly, my bin was filled as I got rid of paper clutter and other random rubbish that was cluttering up my room.

Then, with only two options, either donating or selling or keeping, it was easy to sort through the rest of my stuff, decluttering books, shoes, and other accumulation pieces in desperate need of decluttering.

Importantly, I found the lack of a 'relocate' box so much easier. If items I wanted to keep were in the wrong place, I simply sorted them there and then, rather than letting a pile build up, which I know will sit around for weeks at a time before I eventually get round to actually tackling it.

This is what Julie recommends, explaining that you will naturally come across items that need to be relocated.

'It is better,' she says, 'to create a small, manageable pile of items that need to move to another area. Then, at the end of your session, take 15 minutes to return those items to their proper places without getting distracted.

'By handling relocation at the end in one focused step, you are more likely to complete the session without losing momentum or getting distracted. This makes it much easier to follow through and finish the job.'

My verdict

In my opinion, the 3-box decluttering method is a brilliant way to declutter and get organized. After all, it's high time we all ditched our maybe piles and actually made those decisions, rather than putting them off.

As Julie says, 'With fewer categories to manage, there is less decision fatigue, and less chance of getting stuck.' I completely agree with Julie.

If you're still struggling with making decisions, the 'ODT' decluttering method can help to avoid and overcome 'analysis paralysis,' or, as Devon suggests, still make your 'maybe' pile, but date it when you do.

'Then, if you haven't needed anything after a period of time, say six months, you can feel comfortable donating the box without relooking through it,' she explains.

This is similar to the Dot and Ditch decluttering method, and a brilliant way to stop holding onto items 'just in case.'

What to shop

Meet our experts

If you're not sure what to do with items you are decluttering, there are plenty of great, sustainable options in our expert-led guide.

In our mission to find the best vacuum for pet hair, we've spent more than 1,000+ hours testing 75 vacuum cleaners. As Homes & Gardens' home tech editor and resident vacuum expert, I've been testing the best models at a local pet shelter to see what works against pet hair mess once and for all.

Cats and dogs walk through the pet shelter I test at all day, along with employees and customers, resulting in the ideal vacuum test environment for pet hair and mess. Here's what I've learned about getting rid of it properly.

Tricks I've learned from 50+ hours testing vacuums at a pet shelter

I've spent more than 50 hours testing cordless, corded, canister, handheld and carpet vacuum cleaners at the lovely Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, during which, I've discovered exactly what the right pet hair vacuum is capable of and how to get the best out of these essential cleaning tools.

1. Vacuum slowly and often

One thing I've learned from vacuuming fur from carpets is to stop vacuuming in quick motions. Slowing down helps the vacuum pull up more hair as the spinning brushroll spends more time impacting the floor (my vacuum jargon buster further explains these terms).

A vacuum's brushroll can spin anywhere from 1,000 to 7,000+ revolutions per minute – and the longer it's in contact with your floor, the more it's agitating your carpets.

This is how the best vacuums for carpet work. Debris easily becomes trapped within the carpet fibers, so it's up to the brushroll's bristles to dig between them and dislodge any dirt or hair. Whenever I use these slow passes (as captured in my video above), more hair has been vacuumed compared to when I've done quicker passes.

I've also noticed that most vacuums work more effectively when pulling backwards rather than pushing forwards. I imagine this is because the roller is moving in an opposing direction to the floor, and therefore scraping away hair more forcefully. This varies from vacuum to vacuum, though.

And after vacuuming fur on everything from low-pile carpets to thick rugs, it's always the hairs that have been there longer that are the most difficult to clean. The entrance mat that rarely gets cleaned is consistently the trickiest for me to vacuum.

So, when thinking about how often you should vacuum if you have pets, consider how many times somebody might step or sit on the spot of hair. Every time someone does, the hair gets embedded further into the fabric, making it harder to remove.

2. You can't vacuum everything

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has a mix of smooth floors, carpets, rugs, entrance mats, sofas and chairs – all of which get covered in pet hair every day. And even the most expensive, high-tech vacuum cleaners I've tested there can't vacuum everything.

Removing pet hair from fabric can be an arduous task, and one that can't always be handled by a vacuum cleaner alone. For the super stubborn hairs that won't budge, for example, those on a soft padded chair or a bumpy entrance mat – I often have to pull them out by hand or use a manual pet hair remover.

A classic lint roller usually does the trick, whether it's a sticky roller like the True & Tidy StickyPro XL at QVC, or a reusable one such as the best-selling Chom Chom Roller at Walmart.

Another fool-proof trick we've learned is to invest in one of the best robot vacuums for pet hair. After speaking with dozens of consumers and learning the ins and outs from the pet shelter staff, one of the biggest challenges is vacuuming often enough to avoid hair from building up.

A robot vacuum does that work for you, and from our extensive tests, we can confirm that using eufy robot vacuums is a game-changer for pet hair cleanup.

3. You do, in fact, need the right vacuum

Aside from the rotating brushroll, suction power is key when vacuuming pet hair. It's how the vacuum can yank such stubborn strands of fur that have stuck to the floor.

I always urge caution around budget vacuums offering strong pet hair pickup and anti-tangle brushrolls, as these cheap appliances don't have the high-performing motors required to actually pull hair from difficult surfaces, contributing to why pet hair is so hard to vacuum.

Almost every sub-$300 cordless vacuum I've tested has struggled to vacuum hair. These models are great for homes with hard floors such as tile and hardwood, but when it comes to rugs, carpets and furniture, you need something more robust. It's a key difference when comparing pet vacuums and regular vacuums.

More often than not, it's the best upright vacuums that vacuum pet hair most effectively. Their larger motors and lack of reliance on a rechargeable battery gives them more oomph.

But that's not to say you should write off cordless sticks completely; you just have to pay extra for the convenience. The best Dyson vacuums, most notably the Dyson V15 Detect, are some of the only cordless vacuums we've tested with suction that's as strong as a corded upright. And as they're much smaller and lighter, you'll find it easier to grab them whenever you spot fur building up.

Look for vacuums with suction power of 200 air watts or higher. Unfortunately, most brands don't list this information, so it's best to read thoroughly tested reviews, such as our guide to the best vacuum cleaners.

And make sure you're equipped with the best vacuum attachments for pet hair. It can be tricky cleaning fur from upholstery without them.

What to shop

These are three of our favorite pet hair vacuums with strong suction and agitating brushrolls that can clean fur from even the most stubborn surfaces. All prices correct at time of publication.

Next, learn how to maintain your vacuum when you have pets to keep it in its best shape for years.

These five essential categories can help to make your life infinitely easier throughout summer, from prepping hosting essentials to arranging summer maintenance supplies for easy access.

Here, professional organizers explain why these five things should be the focus for your energy in July.

5 things to organize in July 2025

1. Hosting essentials

Angelia York, professional organizer and VP of Saint Louis Closet Co., begins, ‘Keep your outdoor entertaining zones neat. Have grilling tools, outdoor tableware, and citronella candles in one easy-to-reach area for summer nights.

'Other items that are good to go through in the summer are holiday décor pieces – most notably, you should check for leftover 4th of July supplies and donate decor you won’t/didn’t use this year.’

For those decor pieces you chose to keep, use a large air-tight bin from Walmart to keep them free from pests. Pick a clear bin to easily see the contents, or label well so you do not lose items for decorating or hosting next year.

2. Yard furniture

With the weather finally hot and sunny, it might surprise to hear that it's a good time to organize your patio furniture ideas in July. This is to ensure they are all under cover when not in use or for summer showers.

When not in use, prolonged exposure to the sun could also damage your best wooden outdoor furniture, leading to costly replacements. This damage may be exacerbated with the heavy usage your outdoor sets will see when hosting throughout July until fall.

Mike Fretto, creative director at Neighbor, explains, ‘Summer heat can make the colorful fabric on your outdoor furniture fade. Specifically, direct sun exposure can do this.

'When those cushions and pillows are exposed to the bright, hot sun every single day, those UV rays can wear down the fabric and lead to the color fading. So, one of the best things you can do is keep your furniture covered as much as possible when you aren’t using it.

'Also, if you are on the market for new furniture, look for pieces that have UV-resistant finishes or that are more durable in general.’

Polywood furniture, available at Wayfair is particularly hardy and low maintenance.

3. Pool supplies

If you have a pool, it is probably seeing heavy use in July, increasing the need for proper pool maintenance. Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Cabana, says, ‘If you have a pool, now is a good time to declutter and organize all of your pool equipment and items, from your pool chemicals, to your cleaning products and floaties or toys.

'Going through your chemicals and cleaning products in particular is important so that you can check to see if anything has expired or needs to be purchased. That will allow you to tackle your deep cleans with ease.’

Arranging all of your supplies and restocking also allows you to quickly treat and shock pool water if you get an outlier result after testing your pool water.

It isn’t just the practical pieces that need arranging, but the fun stuff too. Angelia adds, ‘When organizing during summer, pool and beach supplies are important to keep tidy! Designate a clear, weather-resistant bin [such as the Keter Samoa Resin Deck Box from Walmart] or basket for pool toys, beach towels, and sunscreen near your entryway or garage for grab-and-go ease.’

4. Heat-beating essentials

When trying to keep a home cool in a heatwave, the last thing you want to be doing is digging around the furthest corners of your attic storage to find fans and cooling blankets. Organize cooling supplies and bring them to the front of your storage ideas at the start of July so that they are ready to use when the temperatures peak.

Uma Darji, MD of family medicine, says, ‘As a family medicine doctor, I always remind my patients that extreme heat can be more dangerous than we think – especially for young kids, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. Having a home cooling kit ready can literally save lives during a heat emergency.’

5. Freezer spaces

With hot weather and parties on the horizon comes an influx of frozen goods and pre-prepared meals and dishes ready to cover hosting large gatherings (or to simplify cooking on days where it is simply too hot to stand over a stove for longer than 10 minutes).

As such, it can be helpful to organize your freezer at the beginning of July to make space for all the new additions.

Meghan Cocchiaro, owner and professional home organizer at Organized by Meg adds, ‘It’s also a good time to refresh by working category by category, getting rid of food that didn't get eaten and is not usually part of your normal diets; this will make room for hosting essentials.’

With those items gone, pull anything that needs eating first to the front of your freezer, pushing newer items to the back. This simple organizing tactic will ensure nothing is left to get freezer burn.

These FreezeUp freezer racks, from Target, can help keep shelves and drawers neat when organizing boxes. This XL wide fridge and pantry bin, also from Target, is perfect for bags and loose items.

Meet the experts

If you have any energy left in the hot weather after organizing in July, tackle the things to clean in July for a fully refreshed home.

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a mild acid and powerful antibacterial compound that is naturally produced by the human immune system to fight off infections, making it one of the safest cleaning products to use in your home, especially around children and pets.

Here, professional cleaners share their tips for cleaning with hypochlorous acid to help you build your arsenal of effective non-toxic cleaning products.

How to clean with hypochlorous acid

Professional cleaner Scott Schrader, of CottageCare, begins, ‘Using hypochlorous acid (HOCl) for cleaning is not only a good idea – it is one of the most underrated innovations in safe and effective home cleaning. From my experience cleaning professionally, HOCl fills the void between becoming a commercial cleaner and safe, everyday cleaning.

‘It is smart cleaning – high impact with low risk, killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi on contact, yet is as gentle as saline.’

The best part of this cleaning tip is that it is gentle enough that you can use it practically everywhere around your home, from cleaning marble countertops to disinfecting high-touch spots such as door handles and remote controls.

These are our top five favorite tricks for creating a non-toxic home.

1. Countertops and surfaces

Scott shares, ‘Hypochlorous acid cleaning is perfect for any high-touch surface, such as cleaning kitchen countertops. Simply spray it on, let it sit for 60 seconds, and wipe off – no rinse needed. It's even food-safe, making it ideal for food prep areas.

‘Second, high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches. A quick spray and a quick chance disinfects – no bleach, no quats, no fumes.’ It is the perfect alternative to toxic anti-bacterial sprays.

Pair the spray with a similarly non-toxic tool, such as sponge cleaning cloths from Walmart, to easily disinfect surfaces without the risk of additional bacterial contamination.

2. Bathrooms

If you want to clean a bathroom like a pro, look no further than Hypochlorous acid cleaning, adds Taylor Riley, partner at AMR US Commercial Cleaning.

‘I started using hypochlorous acid when looking for a green cleaning solution that could disinfect without being a health hazard around the house. I use it on kitchen counters, in the bathroom, especially around the toilet.’

For tougher tasks that require a little more elbow grease, consider using hypochlorous acid to disinfect before following up with a damp, non-scratch Scrub Daddy Sponge from Target, to keep cleaning green.

3. Toys

Cleaning and disinfecting baby toys and pet toys is a constant struggle. You can’t use harsh cleaners, or else you risk making them sick, but you can’t leave them to collect germs.

That’s why Taylor suggests cleaning with hypochlorous acid instead, ‘If you’re looking for something that kills germs without harming your family, HOCl is the go-to solution. I even use it on my kids' toys and play areas, particularly if someone’s been sick. There’s not much you can’t use it on.’

In between uses, store toys (especially bath/wet outdoor toys) in mesh storage baskets, available from Walmart, to allow them to breathe and limit the risk of mold and bacterial growth.

4. Shoes and accessories

One cleaning habit I cannot live without as a cleaning editor is using a spray bottle of hypochlorous acid to quickly disinfect commonly used accessories such as my shoes, glasses, and gym headphones.

Because it is so gentle, a quick spritz kills bacteria (removing and preventing odors at the same time) without risking bleaching, staining, or water damage. I simply spray, leave it to sit for a minute, and wipe away with a soft cloth.

Keeping a small spray bottle, from Target, in my gym bag also means I can spray the solution over my face when I get sweaty to kill bacteria that could otherwise cause acne – there are not many home cleaning products I can use interchangeably.

5. Upholstery

Cleaning a couch and removing odors from upholstery is usually a painstaking task that requires machinery or a lot of elbow grease. For quick touch-ups, however, Scott says, ‘HOCl is completely safe for upholstery. Use it to spritz down furniture to deodorize and sanitize without saturating.’

Bear in mind that this solution won’t work to remove stains when cleaning upholstery; rather, it is a way of refreshing fabrics and killing bacteria for a more sanitary home. For stain removal, following the usual routine of a mild detergent (such as Tide Free & Gentle, from Walmart), water, and blotting with a clean cloth is your best bet.

The limitations of HOCl

As with any essential cleaning tool, there are some limitations to hypochlorous acid cleaning, although these are fewer than most other cleaning products. Most notably, how you organize your cleaning supplies is essential to keeping hypochlorous acid effective.

Scott explains, ‘HOCl is very sensitive to light and air; for these reasons, you should not store HOCl in clear containers or use it if it is past the expiration date, as it loses potency rapidly.’

What’s more, you should never mix hypochlorous acid with other cleaning products, even other non-toxic solutions, such as cleaning with vinegar to cleaning with baking soda.

Taylor explains, ‘You do need to avoid mixing it with other cleaners like bleach or vinegar as it can create harmful reactions.’

What to shop

FAQs

Can you mop with hypochlorous acid?

You can mop with hypochlorous acid to eliminate germs and odors. Start by spraying the whole area with the acid and let it sit for several minutes before mopping it away with a clean mop head.

Can you put hypochlorous acid in a washing machine?

For extra sanitization, you can add some hypochlorous acid directly to your washing machine with your regular detergent. This is especially useful for heavy-duty disinfecting tasks such as washing gym wear, or cleaning bedding and towels after illness.

Meet the experts

Switching to non-toxic cleaning alternatives such as hypochlorous acid is a great way to quickly eliminate some of the most surprising sources of phthalates in your home, making you and your family healthier.

It's a task that can be tricky and time-consuming, but there's one surprising fridge staple cleaning experts recommend using to get your grill sparkling like new. What goes hand in hand with a cookout? Beer.

Here, our cleaning pros share how to clean a grill with this beverage in no time at all.

Why is beer good for cleaning a grill?

You might have heard of using beer as a slug control method, but why exactly is it this a good cleaning tip for filthy grills?

Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, explains, 'Beer’s natural carbonation and acidity work wonders on cooked-on grease and food residue. The carbonation helps lift grime from grill grates, while the alcohol acts as a solvent that cuts through oils.

'Its mild acidity can also break down gunk without the harshness of commercial cleaners, making it an effective and surprisingly gentle option for a quick grill refresh.'

And, as Alessandro Gazzo, cleaning expert at Emily's Maids, adds, you usually have beer on hand during a barbecue, and therefore hopefully, some leftovers to tick off this essential outdoor cleaning task.

How to clean your grill using beer

Sprucing up your grill with beer is easy, but you'll need to make sure it's hot before you get started.

So, either use it on your grill directly after cooking on it, or preheat it for 15 minutes to loosen any food debris or grease. 'Use a high heat setting to help carbonize stuck-on food,' advises Karina.

Then, you're ready to follow this step-by-step method:

1. Pour on the beer: Once your grill is hot but turned off, pour about a half a can or bottle of beer directly over the warm, not hot, grates, directs Karina. 'A light lager works well because it's fizzy and not too sticky,' she says.
2. Scrub the grates: Then, 'use a sturdy grill brush to scrub down the grates while the beer fizzes,' advises Karina. She recommends the Kona 360 Clean Grill Brush available at Amazon, as it has a wide reach and is safe for all grill types.
3. Wipe down and rinse: Once scrubbed and cooled, use a damp microfiber cloth, such as the Great Value Microfiber Cloth available at Walmart, to remove residue, before rinsing with water, if needed, to remove any lingering smell, continues Karina.
4. Optional final polish: Finally, suggests Karina, you can add a little vegetable oil to a paper towel, such as the bestselling Sparkle Tear-a-Square Paper Towels available at Walmart, and wipe the grates to re-season them slightly.

If beer is not something you keep at home, you can also try cleaning with vinegar instead.

'It's cheaper, more acidic, and sometimes more effective,' Alessandro says. 'Just mix with water and spray on a warm grill. Let it sit for five minutes, then scrub with a brush.'

We recommend mixing your DIY cleaning solution in a 1:1 ratio, using a spray bottle such as the Mainstays Empty Plastic Spray Bottle available at Walmart.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet our experts

Interested in more household methods to clean a grill? You can actually use both onion and lemon for an effective clean, too.

Because, as it turns out, blasting the AC on full power for hours on end is not the answer, even if it does feel great when it is otherwise too hot to function. Using it in this way could result in some eye-watering energy bills and even damage your AC.

However, that doesn't mean you have to suffer through the sweltering heat. Here, HVAC pros explain how to use your AC efficiently to keep a home cool in a heatwave.

The most efficient way to run your AC in a heatwave

Despite being made to cool down a home in summer, many air conditioning types are not made to function in extreme heat. As a result, they can easily overheat if used incorrectly or for too long.

Luckily, regular maintenance and some unusual methods for staying cool at home can help to minimize damage to your unit while cutting energy bills.

1. Avoid turning your AC down

Although it sounds counterintuitive, the best temperature to set your AC in summer is not the lowest. The lower the temperature you set, the harder your AC will have to work.

Dereck Granados, HVAC instructor at Universal Technical Institute, explains, ‘Setting your thermostat to extremely low temperatures won’t cool your home any faster but will force your AC to work harder. Aim to set your thermostat around in the mid-70s and use ceiling or portable fans to help create a breeze and move the cooler air around without overloading the HVAC system.’

Similarly, keep your AC set to a consistent temperature to avoid temperature fluctuations, making your AC work harder. Scott Levene, VP of Levco, a family-owned HVAC service company, suggests, ‘Aim for 75–78°F when you're home. If you're going to be away, raise it a few degrees to help with energy bill costs.’

Using a smart thermostat, such as the Honeywell smart thermostat, available at Best Buy, can help you keep tabs on your AC settings more easily.

2. Make sure your AC is clean

Cleaning an air conditioner is key to running your AC efficiently in a heatwave. Shelley Nytes, manager at Valentine Plumbing and Heating, urges, ‘Make sure your air vents and filters are clean so air can flow freely; blocked or dirty vents can force the system to overwork and use more energy than needed.

‘Similarly, make sure the fins on your A/C unit outside are clear of pollen, grass clippings, and other debris. Small steps like these can make a big difference in keeping your AC running efficiently and preventing breakdowns in high heat.’

To make this task easier, you can vacuum an AC system to remove dust and debris quickly. The best lightweight vacuums, such as the budget Ultenic U16 Flex vacuum from Amazon, make this cleaning tip less physically taxing.

3. ‘Pre-cool’ your home

How long it takes for an AC to cool a room depends on several factors, with the starting temperature of the room one of the most important. To prevent your AC from overheating in a heatwave, take steps to pre-cool your home. The easiest way to do this is to use blackout curtains to keep heat out.

Richie Drew, VP of operations at One Hour Heating & Cooling, explains, ‘Installing blinds or heavy curtains can substantially decrease the amount of heat that seeps into the room via the window. This is an especially important step if your room faces the sun as it rises or sets.

‘While not right for every window or room, draperies are often the most decorative and elaborate window treatments you can choose. They can also be the most helpful when it comes to staying cool in the summer.

'Your choice of fabric will make a big difference in your interior decor, but it’s what’s on the other side of the drapes that matters more for energy efficiency. Drapes with light-colored material facing out will reflect more sunlight, working to keep the room cool on hot days.’

Walmart offers a series of blackout and thermal drapes in seven colors and 10 sizes to suit any space.

4. Cool room by room

The bigger the space, the harder it is to cool. To make your AC unit more efficient in a heatwave, Dereck says, ‘Make sure nothing is blocking your vents, like furniture or curtains, and close doors to unused rooms so your AC can cool larger or more frequently used spaces more efficiently.’

5. Use fans to circulate cool air

Don’t make your AC do all the work in a heatwave. To protect the unit from overheating, use fans to cool down a room too.

Scott suggests, ‘Use ceiling and box fans to help circulate the air. Make sure that your ceiling fans are spinning counter-clockwise to push cool air downward. Use box fans in open windows during the night to help draw cooler air in.’

FAQs

Why is my AC making it hotter?

An AC that is making a home hotter may be malfunctioning or overheating, especially if you are running it on maximum power during extreme heat. It may also need servicing to remove debris, clean filters, and top up refrigerant. A HVAC service pro will be able to diagnose the issue.

What happens if an AC unit overheats?

If an air conditioner overheats, the system can become less efficient, possibly causing dangerous refrigerant leaks and eventual compressor failure. Preventing your AC unit from overheating and turning it off as soon as it starts to get too hot can protect the unit from permanent and expensive damage.

Meet the experts

It is a good idea to have an emergency home cooling kit in your home throughout summer, especially if you live in an area prone to very high temperatures or heat waves.

These kits hold everything you need to stay safe and healthy, even if your AC fails or the power goes out.

The answer is simple, quick, and affordable, too. All you need are some weather-proof composite shims, available at Amazon.

They're ideal for perfecting all of your exterior DIY projects, and cost just under $8 for a pack of 12.

The affordable and simple $8 fix to stop fences from rattling

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

First things first, what actually causes a rattling fence? As annoying as it may be, the answer couldn't be more simple: your fencing is loose from the support posts.

Joe Marchionni, owner at Amity Home Maintenance Solutions, explains, 'You'll often see rattling happening on a vinyl fence where the panels rattle around the post that secures it to the rest of the fence and the ground.

'The same idea would apply to wood fences. There are boxes that often go around metal posts, which can lead to rattling, especially if they are close to a gate that has a lot of movement.'

Enter: composite shims, available at Amazon, the easiest fix for restoring the peace in your garden.

Begin by identifying where exactly the rattling is coming from, if you're not already sure, and then simply slip a shim, or more, into the gap. Filling this space should immediately stop movement, and therefore stop rattling too. Use a hammer, such as the IRWIN Hammer available at Amazon to ensure they won't come loose.

You'll likely need to do so in more than one spot, adds Joe, who advises using wedge to 'fine-tune' the placement in a few spots.

The best part about these shims is, unlike traditional wooden shims, they're weather-proof, rot-proof, and resistant to decay, meaning you shouldn't have to replace them.

They're also pre-cut and pre-scored, making it easy to simply snap them to size, but they won't crack under pressure.

Additionally, they can also be used to level heavy appliances, furniture, countertops, sheds, plumbing, and more.

The only place they're not suitable for? Chain link garden fence ideas. As Joe explains, these usually rattle because the fence fabric isn't stretched enough, so wedges are unlikely to help when applied to connection points on terminal posts or line posts.

In this instance, it's best to call in a pro to help you with the most suitable solution.

What to shop

If you're a keen DIY-doer, you might benefit from our genius DIY tips, for making your home look beautiful on budget.

Cleaning pros know that the key to effective and safe outdoor maintenance lies in preparation, the right tools, and proper technique.

We've compiled a list of 13 common outdoor sanitizing mistakes, along with tips on avoiding issues with your outdoor cleaning tasks so your home's exterior stays beautiful, well-maintained, and without any nasty surprises.

1. Skipping safety measures

Many homeowners jump into outdoor cleaning without considering essential safety precautions, including wearing protective gear. This oversight can lead to accidents or exposure to harmful substances.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Some cleaning tasks seem less dangerous than they really are. Safety steps can often feel like an unnecessary hassle when you’re trying to get something done quickly. But skipping them can come at a high cost. Injuries from falls, chemical exposure, or tool mishandling are more common than you'd think.

'For example, when you're using common cleaning agents, it's easy to assume gloves or eye protection aren't really needed, but even mild solutions can irritate skin or eyes. And when cleaning high areas, I often see people just grab a ladder and get to work, without double-checking its placement or having someone nearby to help.

'Whether it's putting on a protective mask or stabilizing ladders, always build in a few extra minutes to prep safely. And before using any cleaner, actually read the full label & heed warnings and precautions. Most injuries are preventable, and taking small, consistent safety steps makes all the difference.'

The RBLCXG Store Half Face Mask from Amazon offers great protection for a range of debris from summer tasks, including during the cleaning of your patio or weekend DIY projects. It also comes with a pair of safety glasses.

Toner also recommends the Orbit Telescoping Gutter Cleaning Wand from Amazon, adding, 'It has great reach and water pressure control, so you can clean safely from the ground, with no need for any wobbly ladders.'

2. Selecting the wrong tools

With so many essential DIY tools out there, using tools that aren't suited for the specific cleaning task or surface is a common misstep, leading to ineffective cleaning or damage.

Toner says, 'With so many brushes, scrubbers, sprayers, and nozzles out there, it’s easy to assume that anything 'roughly close' will do the job. Sometimes it's a matter of convenience, grabbing what’s already on hand, and other times it’s just not knowing that a certain surface calls for a gentler touch.

However, using the wrong tools can leave scratches, cause unnecessary wear, or lead to a frustratingly ineffective clean that wastes both time and effort.

'Say someone uses a stiff wire brush to clean a composite deck. It might feel like it’s getting the grime off faster, but it’s actually damaging the protective layer and leaving behind grooves that trap even more dirt. Or using a pressure washer with the wrong nozzle on patio cushions – it can shred fabric or force water deep into the foam, leading to mildew.'

Instead, Toner advises matching your tools to the surface and task. She says, 'Opt for soft bristle brushes for cleaning outdoor furniture with delicate materials or wood siding, stiffer ones for concrete or stone. When in doubt, test a small area first before going all-in.

'And when it comes to powered tools or washers, always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for different surfaces and settings.' This will help you avoid a cleaning mistake you later regret, and have to spend money fixing.

Toner recommends OXO Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set, available from Amazon, adding, 'It's great for getting into tight spaces like grout lines, sliding door tracks, and outdoor furniture seams without scratching. This set includes both a large and small brush with firm, angled bristles, perfect for many different outdoor areas.'

3. Overusing a pressure washer

While powerful, a pressure washer is often misused, leading to significant damage on delicate surfaces like wood, vinyl siding, or even mortar joints.

Lina DaSilva, founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, says, 'Overuse of a pressure washer often happens because people see it as a quick and powerful solution for any dirty surface.

'However, not everyone understands the different pressure settings, such as the types of nozzles or how different materials react to the intense force of the water. The wrong settings can easily remove paint, scratch wood, erode concrete, break window seals or force water behind siding, leading to mold and rot.

'One very common scenario is using a pressure washer on a wooden deck or fence at too high a pressure. People think they're getting the wood super clean, but actually the intense jet of water is tearing the wood fibers. This can leave 'zebra stripes' or make the surface of the wood fuzzy and splintery. Even if it looks clean at first, the moisture can accelerate the growth of rot and mold from within!'

There are other ways to clean a deck without a pressure washer, and many things you should never clean with a pressure washer.

If you're at all unsure, DaSliva suggests beginning with the lowest pressure possible, and using the Tool Daily Foam Cannon from Amazon. She adds, 'This fits onto the pressure washer and allows you to apply a good layer of detergent over the surface. This action does a very good job of loosening dirt and grime, which means you can rinse with much less pressure.'

4. Cleaning in direct sunlight

Attempting to clean surfaces in direct, hot sunlight is a frequent mistake that can leave unsightly streaks and residue. People with clean windows always avoid the sun.

Toner says, 'It’s easy to assume that a bright, sunny day is the best time to tackle outdoor cleaning. The weather’s nice, there’s good visibility, and things seem like they’ll dry faster.

But sometimes, that’s exactly the problem: some cleaning solutions start evaporating before they’ve had time to work. This can lead to residue buildup, uneven finishes, or even permanent marks. It's best to steer clear if you want to clean windows without streaks, for example.

'One of the most common cases is on exterior windows. On a hot, sunny day, you’re more likely to end up with streaks and water spots than sparkling glass. The cleaner dries too fast, leaving behind a cloudy film, no matter how well you wipe.

'Instead, plan your cleaning window (pun intended!) ahead of time. Aim for early morning, late afternoon, or even slightly overcast days for anything that needs time to soak, dwell, or rinse clean, like windows, patio siding, or painted surfaces. Timing is everything.'

Toner recommends Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner from Amazon, adding, 'It's streak-free even in trickier conditions, but works best when applied in cooler times of day.'

5. Forgetting to rinse surfaces

A common oversight is failing to thoroughly rinse off cleaning solutions, leaving behind chemical residues that can attract dirt, damage surfaces over time, or create slippery spots.

Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, 'In the satisfaction of seeing dirt disappear, many people forget that cleaning solutions need to be completely removed. Leftover products can leave residues that attract dirt faster than before.

'A soapy patio is a good example – it turns sticky and slippery if not rinsed, posing safety risks. Instead, you want to rinse thoroughly using a hose or pressure washer with a wide-angle.'

Ye recommends the Greenworks 1500 PSI Electric Pressure Washer, available from Walmart, adding, 'It's lightweight and highly efficient for rinse cycles.'

Rinsing properly will stand you in good stead when the cooler months arrive, and you're left tackling moss on your patio.

6. Forgetting to dry your deck

After cleaning a wooden deck, many homeowners neglect the important step of allowing it to properly dry before applying sealants or bringing your furniture back. Trapped moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and warping.

Ye says, 'After the satisfaction of cleaning, many people simply pack up their equipment and leave wet surfaces to air dry. However, standing water on decking can lead to water spots, streaking, and can reverse some of your cleaning efforts by allowing dirt and debris to resettle on the wet surface. A damp deck may grow slippery moss within days, posing a slip hazard.'

Instead, Ye recommends using towels or a leaf blower to ensure surfaces are fully dry. The Leisch Cordless Leaf Blower from Amazon is one of the most affordable on the market and has a rechargeable battery. Lightweight and with adjustable speeds, the Greenworks 40V Leaf Blower from Amazon is also a popular option to make your driveway look more inviting.

Our look at the many surprising but useful uses for a leaf blower has more tips and tricks to making use of this essential tool year-round.

7. Using incorrect cleaning techniques

Improper techniques, such as scrubbing in circles on wood grain or cleaning sections inconsistently, can lead to uneven results, streaking, or even permanent marks. Methodical application is key for a professional finish.

Cleaning expert Jessica Gonzalez, chief operating officer at Sparkly Maid San Antonio, says, 'Using the wrong scrub brush or applying too much force can ruin outside surfaces. I've seen people destroy painted patio sets or scratch stone trying to scrape the dirt off, when all it needed was the proper product and some patience.

'My simple rule is this: let the cleaner sit, loosen the grime, and get the lion's share of the work done before scrubbing.'

Gonzalez recommends Krud Kutter Exterior Cleaner from Walmart, adding, 'It's tough on grime, but a cinch to rinse out without too much elbow grease.'

8. Neglecting the house exterior

Many homeowners focus solely on patios or driveways, neglecting the house exterior itself, which accumulates dirt, mildew, and pollutants. Over time, this buildup can degrade siding materials and diminish curb appeal.

Gonzalez says, 'The outside of the home typically falls by the wayside, particularly around door frames, window sills, siding, and even porch lights. We commonly notice heavy dust and cobwebs that individuals no longer notice over time.

'A simple monthly washing with a hose and a soft-bristled brush can avoid accumulation. You don't have to spend money on advanced tools, just something soft and long-handled to access those higher zones and maintain things.'

With a 6-ft reach, the Swiffer Dusters Heavy Duty Super Extendable Handle Dusting Kit from Target is ideal for getting to those hard-to-reach spots on the outside of your home.

You can also prevent faucets freezing and avoid potential pipe bursts during cold snaps by installing faucet covers and wrapping exposed pipes. Toner adds, 'This Frost King Outdoor Faucet Cover from Amazon is great. It comes in a four-pack, is easy to install, and it protects faucets from freezing temperatures.'

9. Not using guards

When trimming hedges or using string trimmers near structures, forgetting to use appropriate guards can lead to accidental damage to siding, fences, or garden features. Overspray from pressure washers can also prove an issue.

Ye says, 'Many people don't realize that surrounding landscaping, windows, and adjacent surfaces need protection during cleaning. Overspray from cleaning solutions and pressure washers can damage plants, etch glass, or stain nearby surfaces, for example, creating additional problems that are often more expensive to fix than the original cleaning project.

'Instead, use guards or shields around nozzles and keep nearby items covered. The Sun Joe SPX-TLTB Turbo Lance with Splash Guard Brush from Amazon perfectly controls the spray pattern and prevents overspray.'

10. Not checking for cracks

While cleaning your patio is among the top outdoor cleaning tasks to do right now, failing to inspect for cracks or damage first is a significant mistake. Cleaning can worsen these issues, or sealing over them can trap moisture and accelerate decay.

Axel Avery, professional cleaner at Oakville Maids, says, 'Not checking for cracks is a really common mistake – both around the house exterior, and on patios. Most decks and sidings are made from wood, so if you clean them with your pressure washer, water will seep through any cracks and make things worse.'

Avery recommends Bondo Wood Filler from Amazon, adding, 'This wood filler works quickly and – after sanding and painting – will create a sturdy barrier against water and mold. Fill the cracks using a putty knife, wait 30 minutes, sand down the excess, prime and paint. Finally, let it sit overnight before cleaning.'

Inspecting and sealing gaps around your home prevents drafts and leaks. It's also vital for preventing mice from getting in, as well as other common indoor pests.

Start by sealing any cracks around doors, windows, vents, and the foundation. Combine Gorilla Waterproof Caulk & Seal Silicone Sealant from Walmart with the Red Devil Extreme Duty Caulk Gun, available from Amazon, which has an ergonomic rubber trigger.

11. Overlooking sealing maintenance

Neglecting to re-seal outdoor surfaces such as concrete, pavers, or wood decks allows moisture, dirt, and UV rays to penetrate, leading to faster deterioration, staining, and costly repairs down the line.

Ye says, 'Many people focus solely on the cleaning aspect without considering the protective treatments that keep surfaces looking good longer. Failing to maintain sealers and protective coatings means that future cleaning will be more difficult and surfaces will be more susceptible to permanent damage.'

Instead, apply a quality sealant after drying, especially for decks and pavers. Ye recommends Thompson’s WaterSeal Wood Protector from Amazon, adding, 'This is a reliable product that prevents water and sun damage on wood.'

For driveways, MasonryDefender Store's Concrete Sealer from Amazon protects against pitting and cracking, while for asphalt, Black Jack Drive-Maxx Sealer from Walmart is a reliable option.

12. Using harsh chemicals

Opting for overly strong or abrasive chemicals, such as undiluted bleach or industrial-strength degreasers, without understanding their impact can severely damage plants, discolor surfaces, or pose health risks.

Gonzalez says, 'Strong cleaners are dangerous for surfaces and will kill plants with no notice. I've even visited a home where someone applied full-strength bleach to his patio and ended up with burned grass, stained rock, and an odor that persisted for days.'

Gonzalez advises avoiding bleach, opting instead for milder, effective cleaners, and following dilution instructions carefully. Always test products on an inconspicuous area first.

13. Neglecting regular maintenance

The biggest mistake is often simply neglecting regular outdoor cleaning and the tasks on your outdoor maintenance calendar. Allowing dirt, mildew, and debris to build up over time makes subsequent cleaning much harder and can lead to permanent staining or damage.

Toner says, 'Most outdoor cleaning is reactive – we often notice dirt, mildew, or buildup after it’s a problem, and then scramble to fix it. Regular maintenance feels optional, or like something you’ll just “get to next time”. But without it, grime sets in deeper, damage goes unnoticed, and you’re left with bigger, more expensive clean-up jobs later on.

'Take outdoor furniture, for example: if cushions aren’t brushed off and stored properly between uses or seasons, they start to grow mildew or fade from sun exposure.

'Or cleaning concrete floors outside: Ignoring routine sweeping and rinsing lets organic debris break down into stains that become stubborn over time. These surfaces then need more aggressive treatment later, which can wear them down faster.'

Instead, change up your cleaning approach by creating an achievable cleaning routine that includes the outdoors.

Alternatively, Avery recommends this Editable Cleaning Schedule from Etsy, adding, 'Don't wait for the perfect time to do these tasks, as it won't arrive. This schedule is great if you're a visual person – just print it out and pop it on your fridge door.

'You can choose between one that’s already full or an empty one to customize. Place outdoor cleaning tasks under the monthly or quarterly sections.'

Meet the experts

So there you have it – 13 outdoor cleaning mistakes, and what to do instead. By being mindful of these common mistakes and incorporating our expert advice into your routine, you can more easily maintain the long-term beauty and health of your home.

Next, explore new front yard paving ideas.

To keep my cushions ready to go whenever I am, I’m splurging on this multi-functional waterproof outdoor cushion storage bench from Amazon.

This outdoor storage idea for small yards is the perfect addition, and will keep my cushions dry when not in use, whilst doubling up as handy extra seating for guests, negating the need for me to commit to extra seats I won’t often need.

Why an outdoor cushion storage bench is a winner

I sifted through hundreds of listings across multiple retailers and settled on the one above for its versatility, reasonable price and high-quality materials.

Crucially, the box is lockable so if you want to stick anything else in there, instead of having to traipse to your dusty shed, or the garage, it’s right on hand. Plus, you won’t get said hand caught in the lid, as it has hydraulics for slow and safe opening and closing of the lid.

The roomy Amazon outdoor storage bench, which doubles up as comfy seating for guests, is the perfect solution for sudden summer showers. It’s made of high-density waterproof resin, is fade-resistant, and in an imitation rattan pattern (a popular outdoor decorating trend) to help it blend in with other backyard storage ideas, rather than sticking out like a sore thumb.

The cushion it comes with is waterproof, and the resin is crack- and rust-proof. More than 5000 shoppers have rated it, giving it an average of 4.4/5 stars.

Verified shopper Taryn T, says it's 'spacious, sleek and truly waterproof.' She explains further in her review, 'This deck box fits everything, from pool towels and floaties to gardening tools, and keeps it all dry during Oregon downpours.

'It was simple to assemble (took me under 30 minutes solo), and the lid has a smooth hydraulic lift that feels more premium than I expected at this price point. Bonus points: it doubles as extra seating on our patio. If you want functional outdoor storage that doesn’t look bulky, this is it.'

Similarly, this box will serve you well as a porch storage idea, in case you need to keep firewood, or other outdoor items handy, such as walking boots or dog leads, but out of reach of pests and opportunistic thieves.

It's the perfect fix for my predicament. I am disabled, with limited mobility and high pain, so I often don't leave the house for three weeks at a time. It can send me a little stir crazy, which is why my small patio setup is so vital for my well-being.

That's why I’ve had enough of my beautiful, thick outdoor cushions getting drenched and being out of action for days at a time till they dry off. I do have waterproof furniture covers available at Walmart, but often, if I’ve sat outside for a morning cup of joe or my lunch break, and expect I’ll be back out there within a few hours, I’ve left the covers off.

Enter: Sudden rain clouds to ruin my day and soak through my outdoor cushions, which can be cleaned, but let’s face it, who actually has the time?

A waterproof storage bin for my cushions is the perfect answer.

What to shop

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Next, learn how to clean your white outdoor cushions, clean your patio, and clean your grill, ready for a summer of hosting and fun.

Although made from paper rather than plastic, paper towels are a big part of the single-use waste problem and are not as efficient for cleaning and disinfecting a kitchen as you might initially think.

As a result, professional cleaner Karina Toner long ago ditched them for good. What does she use to clean a kitchen instead? The hardy, humble and helpful microfiber cloth.

Swapping paper towels for microfiber cloths

According to environmental studies, paper production is responsible for the felling of around 270 million trees annually (that’s 35% of all harvested trees), resulting in huge losses of natural habitats and an acceleration of climate change.

What’s more, the processes needed to harvest and manufacture paper towels are highly water-intensive and pollutants are released into waterways. Whilst it's easy to think paper towels are a non-toxic cleaning product, the bigger picture shows they are not all that good for the planet.

Additionally, relying on paper towels alone is one of the biggest home cleaning mistakes, making chores harder, experts say.

Karina Toner, professional cleaner and operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, shares, ‘If you’re still relying on paper towels for everyday cleaning, you’re definitely not alone. They’re convenient, familiar, and always seem to be within reach.

'But here’s the thing: once you try high-quality microfiber cloths, it’s hard not to notice the difference. It’s a simple swap that saves time, money, and a whole lot of waste without sacrificing results.’

Karina continues, ‘Microfiber isn’t just your regular fabric; it’s engineered for cleaning. The ultra-fine fibers grab onto dirt, grease, and bacteria instead of just pushing them around like a paper towel. Plus, they’re absorbent enough to soak up several times their weight in water, so you’ll use fewer passes and leave less behind.’

As a result, Karina says, you achieve a streak-free shine when cleaning windows, adding, ‘It works great on glass, mirrors, and stainless steel; no lint, no smudges, no second wipe needed.’

The best bit? Microfiber is machine washable and durable enough to last through hundreds of washes, she adds, which means fewer rolls of paper towels in your cart (and your trash bin!).

Just made sure you do not wash them with items that might snag, such as jeans or clothing with zippers.

How to use microfiber cloths correctly

There are several ways to use microfiber cloths beyond dusting, and luckily, microfiber cloths are easy to integrate into your existing cleaning routine. That being said, it is important to avoid some common cloth mistakes to prevent cross-contamination.

Karina urges, ‘Use different cloths for different tasks to avoid cross-contamination: one for glass, one for the kitchen, one for the bathroom. For best results, lightly dampen the cloth before use, especially on reflective surfaces, and fold it into quarters. This gives you multiple clean sides to work with before needing to rinse or swap.’

Most multipacks, such as a 50-pack of microfiber cloths from Amazon, are brightly colored in distinct hues for exactly this reason. Head of Solves, Punteha van Terheyden says, 'I allocated one color to each of the three bathrooms, and my kitchen, so everyone in the household knows where to put the cleaning cloths away, and which ones to use where. I keep a stack in each space so I always have one on hand to use.'

This technique will help you avoid giving in and buying paper towels for convenience.

Finally, make sure to wash microfiber clothes correctly. Karina advises, ‘Skip the fabric softener when laundering as it clogs the fibres and affects its cleaning performance. Just toss in the wash with mild detergent [such as Tide Free & Gentle, from Walmart] and air dry or tumble on low. Similarly, store them correctly between uses, letting cloths dry completely to avoid mildew or odour build-up.’

Always skip the fabric softener to maintain microfiber cloths' ability to soak up water.

What to shop

When fleshing out your cleaning supplies checklist, be sure to pick the right microfiber cloths for your home. Not all are made equal, Karina warns. ‘Some are thin or less absorbent, so be on the lookout for tightly woven, high-density cloths for the best results.’

Karina also suggests color-coding cleaning, helping to prevent contamination. ‘Color-coding by room or task keeps things hygienic and helps your routine feel more dialled-in.’

Meet the expert

When creating a non-toxic home through reusable cleaning supplies, take the time to organize cleaning supplies and dispose of any products containing harsh chemicals.

Opt for plant- and mineral-based products instead, such as the EWG-approved Attitude cleaning sprays, from Walmart, for a healthier home.

As July rolls around, it's likely you've been spending more time outdoors, with windows and doors thrown open to welcome in the summer sun. While this is one of the best parts of the season, it does, unfortunately, result in new messes and hidden dirt spots to tackle.

With that in mind, these are the five things to clean in July, with smart and expert-approved cleaning tips to keep your home hygienic in the hottest months and prepare your space for hosting guests.

5 things to clean in July 2025

1. Pools

July is a key season for pool maintenance. While you should have spent a good amount of time preparing your pool for initial use at the start of the spring and summer season, regular maintenance is essential to keep it hygienic, says Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors.

He explains, ‘The more frequently you use tools like pool skimmers and pool vacuums, the easier it will be to keep your pool clean and save wear and tear on your filter.

'Ideally, you should clean your pool once a week during the season, and clean the filter at least once a month.’

Using a pool net, such as the POOLWHALE Professional Pool Skimmer Net available at Amazon, daily is a great way to keep your pool free of leaves, debris, and dirt.

2. Planters and pots

Summer is the most enjoyable time to get outside and do some gardening. Before you start repotting plants, however, you should always clean flower pots and planters, says Tanu Grewal, chief cleaning officer at Chloralen.

She advises, ‘A lot of people don’t realize you should be cleaning your flower pots and planters before they become permanent homes for your plants. Particularly for planters that haven’t been used in a while, they can be breeding grounds for bacteria and diseases that could harm your plants.

'A bleach and water solution typically does the trick. Just mix together a small amount of bleach with water and – using gloves – wipe down the inside and outside of the pot. Rinse again with water, and allow the pot to air dry. Then, plant away.’

We recommend using waterproof gloves, such as the Mamison Waterproof Cleaning Rubber Gloves available at Amazon, rather than gardening gloves for this, to protect your skin.

It doesn't hurt to give your already potted plants a quick once-over at the same time.

Use a damp sponge free from chemicals, such as the AIRNEX Cellulose & Coconut Natural Sponges available at Walmart, to freshen up the pots and remove dirt and pests from the exterior for a more professional-looking yard.

3. Patio furniture

Sticking with the outdoor theme, July is the perfect time to clean outdoor furniture again. The hot sunny days mean they will dry quickly, preventing rust or water spots, and freshening them up ready for outdoor hosting, advises Rafi.

Spot clean soft furnishings, too, by cleaning outdoor cushions and cleaning mold from outdoor cushions. This is particularly important when it comes to cleaning white outdoor cushions.

'With frequent use in summer, they pick up sunscreen, sweat, and grime,' warns Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless. 'Vacuum with your best handheld vacuum, then spray them with a fabric cleaner, such as the Resolve Liquid Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon, which is effective on mildew, grease, and food stains.

'Let them dry in the sun,' she adds, which will also help to further kill mold and bacteria.

4. Entryways

It is recommended to clean your entryway weekly, but July is a good time for a deep clean, particularly if you need to get rid of musty smells in your entryway, says cleaning expert Tanu.

‘The more time you spend outdoors, the more likely you are to track dirt, grass, and other debris into the house,' she explains. 'This is especially true for those of us with pets or kids who are often running through the yard with muddy feet.

'If you have hardwood floors, this can be made easy with a quick soap and water wipe-down.'

For this, we recommend using the Method Squirt + Mop Hardwood Floor Cleaner available at Walmart, paired with the popular EasyWring™ Spin Mop & Bucket System, also available at Walmart.

'But if you have carpets, keeping the entryway clean can be more difficult,' continues Tanu.

'To simplify the process, I recommend getting a washing machine-safe entryway rug or doormat,' such as the Muddy Mat® available at Amazon, which is top-reviewed for ease of cleaning.

'When the doormat gets dirty, you can throw it in the wash with detergent and cold water,' she adds.

5. BBQ grills

It wouldn’t be summer without a cookout. In fact, as Will Cotter, cleaning expert and founder of HappyCleans says, 'It's the peak grilling season. All that BBQ buildup needs scrubbing so it doesn't mess with the flavor of the food.'

So, while BBQ grills were on our list of things to clean in May, if you haven't done so already, take advantage of the hot sunny days of July and deep clean your grill, urges Vanessa Terra Bossart, cleaning expert and owner of Green Terra Cleaning.

‘Disassemble the grill grates and other removable parts and soak them in warm, soapy water to loosen any built-up grease and grime,' she advises.

We recommend using the bestselling Dawn Ultra Liquid Dish Soap available at Walmart for this, which powerfully cuts through grease and grime with 100 percent biodegradable surfactants. Alternatively, Will suggests using Goo Gone Grill and Grate Cleaner Spray available at Amazon.

'Then, scrub with a grill brush or sponge, and use a baking soda and water paste for stubborn stains,' Vanessa continues.

‘Rinse thoroughly and let them dry completely before reassembling, remembering to also wipe down the exterior of the grill with a damp cloth [such as the MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Walmart] and mild detergent.’

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet our experts

These monthly special cleaning tasks are, of course, to be done on top of the household chores you should be doing weekly. This might seem like a lot of extra work, but they are essential to keeping your home, particularly your outdoor areas, clean and safe to use in the warmest months of the year.

Create a good cleaning plan and schedule to keep yourself accountable to ensure they are all achieved in good time. Using some summer cleaning hacks and tackling the things to organize in July can really help get things moving.

Where you place your washer/dryer is key to keeping this household task moving as efficiently as possible. We look at the best places you can keep yours, depending on your layout and the space available.

Whether you do laundry every day or a few times a week, a well-organized space is paramount to make laundry easier. Here, we talk to experts who've remodelled houses and have put washing machines in all types of rooms in the house for their top seven spots.

1. In the laundry room

A dedicated laundry room, if you have the space, is our experts' top pick and the most common.

Professional organizer Marie Potter says it's definitely her preferred place, 'The best laundry room setup I’ve ever seen is the one I designed in my own home.'

Marie has her washer and dryer side by side, each raised approximately 30 inches off the floor.

'It's the model I recommend to clients who are in a position to design their own laundry space. It's all about ergonomics, saving time and conserving energy,' she adds.

For ease, adjust the height based on your washer and your body to eliminate bending.

'The washer is on the left and the dryer is on the right, with the doors opening away from each other (washer door swings left, dryer door swings right). This allows you to transfer clothes in a simple left-to-right motion, reducing strain on your back and streamlining the process,' Marie advises.

One of Marie's other top laundry hacks is to have color-coded laundry wash bags. She explains, 'Have each member of the household pre-separate socks and underwear as they take them off and before they hit the washer, which saves loads of time sorting and prevents lost sock syndrome.'

The Solved team has tried out the Joseph Joseph three-section laundry organizer, available at Amazon, and found it saved lots of time as the dirty laundry sorts itself as you go.

2. In the hall closet

This can be an entryway closet or an upstairs hall closet, depending on whether your home is one floor or many.

'For one of my most recent flip jobs, I relocated a washer from a small, cluttered basement space to a re-purposed coat closet near the main hallway,' says Carter Crowley, president and owner of CB Home Solutions.

The hallway was near three bedrooms in the middle of the house, Carter continues, 'The owners who bought the house said that they spent 40% less time doing weekly laundry chores than they had in their last house, where the washer was situated in the garage. I put custom shelving over the unit for detergent storage and included a fold-down countertop that served as a sorting station.'

Look out for clever storage solutions for your laundry room to help keep you organized.

3. Walk-in closet

If you have a large walk-in closet, that can be a perfect spot for a washer.

Kelly Otero, owner and principal designer at Ovation Interior Design explains, 'Oftentimes, there is not just one laundry space, but two in the home. With the primary suite often located on the first floor, clients are looking to integrate their washer/dryer into their walk-in closet for close access – these are often stackable units and space savers.'

'In smaller homes or apartments, I’ve worked with people who got really creative with closet space,' says Eric Bramlett, realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate. 'A narrow closet can fit a stacked washer and dryer surprisingly well. Add a folding door or even a set of curtains, and you’ve got a clean, hidden setup that doesn’t steal from your main area.'

4. A multi-functional space

In many homes, the washer can be housed in a space that has multiple uses. Kelly explains, 'Clients are not always looking to dedicate a full room to laundry but see it is as part of family life and want easy access that is multi-purpose, this tends to be more of a multi-use room that is a shared craft space, office space or even part of a decluttered mudroom.'

Having one space that serves laundry, coat, and boot storage, and possibly even acts as the pantry as well, can make good use of limited space, too.

Eric agrees, adding that we often overlook how well our spaces can be utilized, 'A powder room, a sunroom no one uses, or even a corner of a large bedroom can all be redesigned to handle laundry without being an eyesore.

'I recently helped someone turn part of their guest room into a combo laundry and storage zone, and it worked beautifully. We added sleek cabinetry, soft lighting, and folding doors that kept the washer and dryer out of view.'

Pop this handy two-section laundry hamper from Walmart on your shopping list; it has two pull-out bags for keeping washes separate.

5. En-suite bathroom

Generally speaking, you don't need a huge space for your washer and dryer, which is why Meghan Cocchiaro, founder and lead organizer of Organized by Meg, suggests an en-suite.

'I would place a washing machine off the primary bedroom if not in the en suite bathroom. I have seen this in many clients' homes, and they love it because it is so convenient for washing and putting away clothes quickly. If it's not right off the primary bedroom, it is on the main upper floor where all the bedrooms are, inside of a closet or a small room that is converted into a laundry or utility room.'

When space is tight, invest in magnetic shelves from Amazon that are designed specifically for the side of your appliance.

6. In the garage

The garage is usually the first option people think about – and for good reason, according to Eric. 'There’s space, it’s tucked away, and with a little effort, you can keep it organised and even stylish. I’ve helped families turn one side of a garage into a clean, efficient laundry zone with cabinets, drying racks, and enough counter space to fold clothes without feeling like you’re doing chores in a storage shed.'

It also pays to organize your laundry room as soon as possible so that anything that could potentially make clean clothes grubby is tucked out of the way. The other consideration is that the garage may not be temperature-controlled like the rest of your house.

'Make sure you deal with temperature swings,' advises Eric. 'Insulating your garage door and using enclosed cabinets keeps it comfortable and protects your machines from wear.'

Amazon's Madesa hazel wall storage cupboard is a great choice for keeping laundry supplies clean and dry.

7. In the kitchen

Washer/dryers in the kitchen is a common occurrence in European countries, and something that's starting to be adopted in the US if space is tight.

'The kitchen is another space where you can hide laundry if needed,' Erik suggests. 'With some thoughtful cabinetry and a good design plan, it’s possible to install compact machines in a way that blends into your existing kitchen look. A well-designed sliding door or cabinet front can keep it subtle.'

Meet the experts

So there you have it. Seven great spots you can place your washer and dryer to help streamline this endless household chore.

Once you've got your space running smoothly, the next thing is to learn laundry tips from pros so your laundry looks fabulous every time it comes out of your machine.

In this guide, cybersecurity experts share three easy ways to secure your robot vacuum, plus insights about what your device might be quietly collecting behind the scenes.

Whether you’ve already invested in one of the best robot vacuums or are considering getting one soon, this advice will help keep your data safe from opportunistic hackers.

The data security risks of evolving robot vacuum technology

In May, I reported on robot vacuums being programmed to do other household tasks, such as charging your phone and streaming live videos.

But it raised an important question: Should we be excited or worried about this developing technology? The key risk to your home's security is the fact that Wi-Fi-connected devices such as robot vacuums can become a data gold mine for potential hackers.

Sally Applin, a technology anthropologist and researcher at HRAF, takes a broad view. She asks, ‘Does it have a microphone? Could it listen to the home? Does it have a camera? Could it photograph the home?'

Yoshiaki Shiokawa, a PhD student at University of Bath who has programmed robot vacuums beyond their usual vacuuming function, explains why these features exist.

‘We need to add cameras to understand what the user is doing and the environment,’ acknowledges Yoshiaki, adding, ‘These robots are also connected to the internet, so the security issues need to be considered.'

Poor data security is a common mistake that can lead to identity theft. And securing your home for the holidays can pose a risk, too, as hackers could know when you're out of the house.

So, when bringing a robot vacuum into your home, you need to know how to protect yourself and your home.

1. Set up a separate network

While robot vacuums might seem like a harmless smart home must-have, they’re part of what’s known as the Internet of Things – devices that connect to your Wi-Fi to automate everyday tasks.

But unlike laptops or smartphones, many of these gadgets don’t have the same level of built-in protection. That’s why experts recommend isolating them on their own network.

'Keeping these devices on a separate network from your primary devices can be an extra layer of safety,’ says Jenna Waters, an information security risk consultant at BOK Financial.

‘It helps protect your sensitive data if one of your smart gadgets gets compromised,’ she adds.

One practical way to do this is by setting up a guest network, or if you’re more tech-savvy, a VLAN. This kind of 'digital room' keeps your vacuum from communicating with your phone, laptop, or work files – so even if it’s hacked, the threat stops there. It’s one of the most important steps when learning how to set up a smart home.

Vlad Cristescu, head of cybersecurity at ZeroBounce, explains, ‘If a hacker ever gets in through your vacuum – yes, it happens – they’ll hit a wall.’

2. Adjust settings and update software

Once your vacuum is connected, it’s easy to overlook how many permissions it’s been granted, including access to your camera, microphone, or cloud storage. As soon as you set it up (and whenever you're setting up smart tech gadgets that transform your home), adjust the settings to maximize privacy.

'Disable any unnecessary features or settings on the device and adjust privacy settings to limit data collection and sharing,’ says Jenna. That includes turning off video recording if it’s not essential, and denying the app access to things like your photo library or location.

Updating your robot's firmware might not feel urgent, but it’s one of the most effective ways to stay protected. ‘Firmware updates often include security patches that close known vulnerabilities,’ Waters explains. Make it part of your digital decluttering routine – especially if you’re adding new smart home cleaning tools to your setup.

For robot vacuums that sync with a mobile app, regularly check for updates and don’t ignore push notifications asking for new permissions. Being able to control what your devices can access is a smart home feature designers love for added security.

3. Choose a different email and password

Robot vacuums usually require an account to function, which means your personal email might be tied to an entirely new data stream. Jenna advises creating a dedicated email address just for smart devices.

'It helps mitigate the risk of phishing or social engineering on your day-to-day email accounts,’ she says. That way, even if one device is compromised, the rest of your digital life stays protected.

Avoid common robot vacuum mistakes and choose a strong, unique password. According to Vlad, ‘If your vacuum asks you to set up an account or link to Wi-Fi, always reset the password. Don’t reuse a former one. Use a new, strong password – and store it in a password manager.’

If you’re comparing models, many of the best robot vacuums for pet hair offer password-secure options and support multifactor authentication.

FAQ

What do robot vacuum brands do with our home data?

Robot vacuums aren’t just mapping your floors – they may be collecting data on when you’re home, what your rooms look like, and even what’s said nearby. Some models include microphones or cameras, while apps gather usage patterns, device metadata, as well as door and window locations.

‘While this data is primarily used to improve functionality, many companies sell it to third parties or share it with supply-chain providers,’ warns Jenna. ‘It’s all outlined in the privacy policy – and by agreeing to it, you’re allowing that data to be used in ways you may not expect.’

For those looking to reduce exposure, choosing a camera-free model or one that works offline can help, as these small steps are some of the best security measures for a house.

What to shop

If you're still choosing a robot vacuum cleaner for your home, follow this simple advice to protect your data.

'It is recommended to stick to more reputable brands simply because off-brands may be less likely to have a robust security and privacy program,' Jenna advises.

'It's best to cultivate a zero-trust mindset when choosing any smart devices, including robot vacuums. Some robot vacuum brands prioritize data security and privacy, but it's still crucial to be aware of potential data security and privacy risks,' she continues.

So, here are three robot vacuums we've tested and loved from reputable brands, but for added security, be sure to read through their privacy statements before buying.

Next, learn a military dad's top security picks for the home.

That’s why the Joseph Joseph two-tier cabinet organizer, available from Amazon, is perfect for small kitchens like mine, or if you're renting. With its current 25% discount, it's gone straight into my basket.

It’s perfect for getting my kitchen cabinets organized and will help prevent food wastage, as well as avoid costly duplications.

Why this Joseph Joseph organizer is so handy

In the past, I’ve used plastic bins for organizing tins of food, but pulling out these heavy bins causes the plastic handles to snap after a while. I’ve also taken to adding extra kitchen cabinet shelves to make use of some nifty vertical storage ideas and maximize my storage space.

However, the Joseph Joseph tiered organizer does all of that in one fell swoop. I’m a big fan of the brand and use many of its great organising solutions across my home, from pan lid holders inside my cabinets, to stacking shoe boxes from Amazon, and its tiered dish rack, available from Wayfair.

Joseph Joseph’s products are always durable, practical, and look expensive, unlike some other brands that can look as cheap as their price tags with flimsy plastic components and shiny finishes.

The sleek matte plastic and metal combination of the Joseph Joseph tiered cabinet organizer makes it look like a modern and integrated solution inside your cabinet, and is perfect if you're renting, or unwilling to drill anything into increase your vertical storage in cabinets.

Amazon shoppers agree that it looks as good as it functions.

Verified shopper Eva gave this item five stars, adding, ‘So far everything that I have bought from this brand have[sic] made my space and kitchen so much more functional’, while Nonameatball also gave it five stars for being ‘really useful in a cupboard’, adding, ‘Very sturdy. Great design. Fits a lot inside. Save a lot of space. Really good in organising.’

I will use it to organize my herbs and spices, as well as the many tins of food we have, so I can have better visibility in my lower cabinets.

What to shop

We also love the Joseph Joseph cleaning system, which allows you to do away with multiple tools taking up lots of storage space and clean across your home with one handy kit.

With a few focused efforts, your home can feel lighter, cleaner, and easier to manage, without chores impacting your big summer plans.

Here, professional home organizers share the six things you should declutter in July 2025, with the best decluttering methods for each zone.

6 things to declutter in July 2025

1. 4th July Fireworks

In the run-up to your 4th of July party ideas, double-check your fireworks stash. Old fireworks could be dangerous or simply deliver lackluster displays.

Angelia York, professional organizer and VP of Saint Louis Closet Co., says, ‘A great category to declutter in summer is old fireworks. Check through any leftover 4th of July storage and dispose of any damaged or expired fireworks safely.’

Before getting rid of fireworks, submerge them completely in water for at least 48 hours. Then, double wrap them in plastic bags, tape them up with all-weather duct tape from Walmart, and dispose of them in your household waste.

2. Gardening tools

If you didn’t declutter these items in June, it's a good time to take stock and clear out any tools you no longer need.

Angelia says, ‘July is a good time to declutter a shed and tackle spring gardening supplies and tools. If tools are broken or seeds didn’t get planted, it’s time to let them go. Free up garage or shed space for current season needs.’

For the tools you are keeping, store them in a convenient tool caddy from Lowe's, so they are easy to find next planting season. Keeping everything together is also a great way to optimize your home storage and avoid costly duplicates.

3. Your garage

Decluttering a garage is not the most fun task, but it is a prime clutter magnet. While the weather is nice, July is a prime time to open up all the doors and work through some of that clutter.

Sejal Parekh, realtor, former-home stager expert, and founder of Innovae Designs, recommends, ‘Do a quick survey of your garage items. A wide variety of things tend to end up here. Make an easy access area for summer supplies such as gardening items, pool supplies, beach bags, hats, sports equipment, and 4th of July items such as fireworks, etc. You can organize these items in large tote bins.

‘For each item to organize, ask yourself, “Is this something I am actively using or want to use in the next six months?” If the answer is no, load it in your car for donation or discard it.’

4. Your car

Time off work and school means that Summer road trips have likely left your car looking a little worse for wear.

While you are working through your decluttering checklist outdoors and in your garage, Amanda Polton, professional home organizer at OrganizePro, says, ‘Take time to declutter any trash or clutter from road trips, checking for broken sunglasses, bags, or unused maps or manuals.’

5. Expired products

Angelia suggests, ‘Go through your expired or excess summer items. Go through items like sunscreen, bug spray, and pool chemicals because these all have expiration dates. You should toss anything past its prime or that you didn’t use last season.’

Don’t limit this task to decluttering a bathroom, either. Remember to check through any vacation bags, beach totes, and sports bags, too.

6. Your kitchen

Before you can organize a kitchen for the 4th of July, you need to declutter your kitchen to make space and assess what you have and what you need, while avoiding duplicates.

Sejal urges, ‘To prepare for summer entertaining, do a quick pass through of your cabinets and countertops. Let go of any small appliances and gadgets you are not using, excess water bottles, expired spices, expired food, excess coffee mugs, and extra Tupperware.

For Tupperware, I find it easiest to store the container and lid assembled together so you don’t have a drawer full of mismatched items – this automatically will force you to let go of the ones you don’t have space for.'

This expandable cabinet organizer, from Walmart, can help to keep things neat and prevent a tsunami of containers when you open the cabinet door.

‘If you are going to be hosting a 4th of July barbecue, look at your kitchen through the lens of hosting and entertaining. What items do you need for hosting, and what haven’t you been using? Create a section of hosting supplies from paper products to fun serving dishes.’

Decluttering before the big events will make cleaning up after the 4th of July far easier on you and your guests.

Meet the experts

After you have decluttered in July, consider the things to clean in July and things to organize in July to fully refresh your space, ready to welcome guests.

Here, home organization pros reveal the four things you're better off relocating or getting rid of in the summer when humidity is high.

Take control of this space and banish mold risks with a timely basement organizing session.

1. Cardboard boxes

Cardboard boxes often migrate to the basement after a house move or a large online purchase, and never leave. But they're a prime target to absorb high moisture with their porous structure.

Interior designer Lara Nancy Cupido, of LN Studio, says, 'Cardboard is basically a mold magnet. Trust me – even if your basement seems dry, humidity spikes will turn those boxes into a soggy, green nightmare.

'Instead, transfer keepsakes into sealed plastic bins, then let go of anything that’s been boxed for more than two moves ago.'

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, agrees. He says, 'Cardboard boxes create the perfect 'out of sight, out of mind' item.

'People see the basement as a make-it-go-away space, and because you can't see what's inside, cardboard boxes are a popular choice. But they can gather mold, and at some point, the basement will flood or a pipe will burst – usually while you're on vacation!'

Soreff and Cupido advise opting for clear, weathertight, plastic bins, such as IRIS USA Stackable Plastic Storage Bins from Amazon.

Cupido adds, 'These bins lock out moisture and stack neatly. No more collapsing boxes or moldy surprises.'

2. Old paint cans

That half-empty can of 'Sherwin-Williams Pure White' from a renovation five years ago? It's likely dried up, separated, or utterly useless now. Old paint cans take up valuable space, and if they're not sealed properly, they can leak, creating a sticky, messy, and potentially mouldy problem.

Cupido says, 'Paint cans rust and leak over time, filling your basement with toxic fumes and sticky splatters. If it’s latex paint and nearly full, pour it out to dry, then toss it in the trash once it’s solid. If it’s oil-based, take it to a hazardous-waste drop-off. You’ll be amazed how many people forget this step and end up with a nasty spill.'

Cupido recommends a paint can opener such as the Hyde Paint Can Opener from Amazon. She adds, 'This will get even the nastiest, rusted lids off without bending them. Perfect for deciding if that bottom layer of paint is still usable or truly junk.'

Our expert guide 'Does paint go bad?' explains exactly how and why paint can expire, plus what to do about it.

3. Outdated holiday decor

Many basements are home to bags and bins of holiday decorations that are dirty, tangled, or haven't seen the light of day in years.

This can make them a prime target for mold, especially any with fabric elements, such as bows and ribbons. There are other problems, too.

Cupido says, 'Broken ornaments and frayed cords aren’t just eyesores – they’re fire hazards and accident risks. Sort through your holiday bins every year, and if you haven’t used it in two seasons, say goodbye.

'For those fragile ornaments that you do decide to keep, opt for compartmentalized boxes so they don’t get crushed.'

ProPik Ornament Storage Boxes with Dividers, available from Amazon, provide five layers of safe storage and have handles for easy relocation.

Using a lidded bin will help to keep moisture away, too.

Consider also whether vertical storage can help keep delicate items in better condition, as well as providing easier access to your possessions.

The Alden Design 5-Shelf Adjustable Storage Shelf Unit from Walmart and the Seville Classics 5-Tier Wire Shelving with Wheels from Amazon are two reliable options.

4. Suitcases you'll never use

Suitcases take up a considerable amount of space. But how many do you really need?

Toner says, 'Hard-sided luggage may eventually crack when stored in spaces with fluctuating temperatures, and fabric ones become a cozy nesting spot for spiders and mice. Plus, we’ve seen mold and musty smells ruin perfectly good bags just from sitting too long.

'Instead, keep only your go-to travel bags. Donate extras to foster care organizations or shelters; they’re often needed for transporting personal items.'

Toner recommends Cedar Space Cedar Blocks from Amazon, adding, 'For suitcases you do intend to keep and use, toss these in to prevent musty smells.'

Meet the experts

So there you have it – four items in your basement you should get rid of right now to stop that pesky summer humidity from creating a hidden problem out of sight.

Next, check out the things people with nice-smelling basements always do and the items to never store in yours.

It might not be the most well-known solution for removing burnt food, but coffee grounds are one of the best non-toxic, food-safe abrasives for cleaning cookware, though there is one type of pan to avoid using it on.

Here, professional cleaners explain how to use coffee grounds to clean pans, adding to the long (and somewhat bizarre) list of ways you can clean a kitchen with coffee grounds.

How to clean pans with coffee grounds

Cleaning pans with coffee grounds works the same way as cleaning with baking soda.

When the coffee grounds are damp and form a spreadable paste, you can use a cloth, such as a Swedish dish cloth from Walmart, to buff away at stuck-on food or burnt spots on your pans, but steer clear of enameled or non-stick pans.

Scott Schrader, professional cleaner at CottageCare, explains, ‘Coffee grounds work the best for cleaning cast iron and cleaning stainless-steel pans; the coarse texture of the grounds works to lift off stuck-on food and residue with minimal chemicals.

'Simply grab a small handful of used, cooled coffee grounds and gently scrub with a damp sponge or towel. Rinse well to avoid residual grounds.

‘Do not use coffee grinds on non-stick pans or enameled cookware,’ Scott warns. ‘This is where the coffee grounds will be too abrasive and can scratch the surface or leave behind tiny pieces of the grounds that can affect the integrity of the pan over time.’

Generally, we advise investing in the best non-toxic cookware rather than non-stick, to help create a non-toxic home.

Coffee grounds have the added benefit of being one of the best natural deodorizers for use at home, Scott adds. ‘They are a good option to remove odor from things like garlic or fish without having to use a synthetic cleaner, not to mention, a clever alternative to repurpose something that you would likely toss.’

What to avoid

This is not to say that you should use coffee grounds to clean pans all of the time, however.

Jade Piper, operations manager at BetterCleans, adds, ‘I get the appeal because it sounds clever and eco-friendly. Coffee grounds can be a handy natural scrubber; however, they will clog the drain. They don’t dissolve and instead will clump together like damp sand. And if there’s grease, the grounds will latch onto it. It’s like building a little cement wall inside.’

It is one of the many reasons why unfiltered coffee is one of the many liquids you should never pour down your sink.

Luckily, there is one way around it, Jade adds. ‘If you’re curious and still want to try it, just don’t rinse the grounds down the sink. Scrape them into the trash or compost. But honestly, I’d rather use Dawn dish soap, available from Walmart, and a sponge to clean my pans. Way less risky and no problem rinsing down the drain!’

If you do end up with a clogged sink that won't drain, our dedicated guide will help you fix it.

What to shop

FAQs

Can bacteria grow in coffee grounds?

Wet coffee grounds can grow bacteria and go moldy, so if you are planning to use them for cleaning, ensure you do so as soon as they are cooled enough to touch after brewing coffee. Do not allow damp coffee grounds to sit out overnight.

Meet the experts

Coffee grounds are not the only foods you can clean your home with, if you are looking for some non-toxic, zero-waste alternatives to commercial products.

Staying on top of clutter can also help to make your shed safer, giving you more space to move and work while limiting the risk of items falling and breaking or landing on you.

Here, professional home organizers explain how to declutter a shed properly and dispose of those awkward items, to make your shed organization ideas shine.

How to declutter a shed

Streamlining your shed ideas is not unlike tackling any other area of your home.

Setting aside a good chunk of time, keeping focus, and using the best decluttering methods can help you quickly pare back the impractical for more functional storage space in your shed.

1. Empty everything out

If you're not sure where to start when decluttering your shed, simply take everything out. It might seem like a lot of work, but laying out all of your items, categorizing them by use or season, can help you see the bigger picture and make getting rid of items simpler.

This is known as the chaos method, as it looks pretty chaotic for a short while, but trust us, it has so many benefits and really works.

This step can also help you weed out any items that you can toss right away. Having some extra heavy-duty trash bags, available from The Home Depot, can help with this.

To protect your hands, consider wearing thick work gloves, also from the Home Depot, to avoid splinters and prevent cutting yourself on any unexpected screws, glass, or metal.

2. When did you last use it?

With your storage ideas for sheds empty, work out what to keep by picking out what you use most.

Angelia York, VP of Saint Louis Closet Co., suggests, ‘ask yourself when the last time you used the item was. If you haven’t used it within the last year, and it's not seasonal or sentimental, it’s time to let it go. Broken tools, items that are repeats, and outdated supplies are your top items to get rid of. Keep only what you actually use and have space for.’

The same goes for duplicate items, adds Carrol Cartwright, professional home organizer and founder of Neatly & Co.. ‘Edit down your selection. Do you really need eight of the same size shovel? If it’s something you use and love, keep it. Just store it in a way that makes sense to optimize storage to avoid duplicates and avoid making another last-minute run to the hardware store.’

3. Prioritize function

When working in a practical space such as a shed, it pays to be ruthless when decluttering. Keep only the items that work well, getting rid of anything that has seen better days, and store them in a way that will not only make them easier to find but will keep them in top shape, too.

Carrol continues, ‘If you’re digging around to find your favorite trowel every time you garden, something needs to change. Make sure there’s proper storage for both small tools and bigger items like rakes and shovels.'

A freestanding rack for organizing yard tools from Amazon will come in handy.

'If you're unable to dedicate drawers, get creative. Use baskets [such as these black wire grid baskets, from The Container Store] to store different tools, but ensure everything has its place! When everything has a home, it’s easier to keep things in check.’

4. Check expiration dates

You might not be decluttering a pantry, but several common shed items have similar expiration dates. Items such as paint, pool chemicals, and fertilizer can all ‘go off’.

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO at Cabana, says, ‘Go through all of your items that have an expiration date and check those dates. This could be anything from pool chemicals to cleaning products, to fertilizer. Discard whatever has expired and make a note of what you need to repurchase.’

For products that you need to decant, or where the packaging is likely to be damaged, make expiration dates clearer by using a label maker, from Walmart, to keep tabs on use-by dates.

It's worth adding your shed to your expiration sweep, which experts recommend doing through the house and yard at least once a year.

5. Check local guidance for tricky items

Unlike decluttering a closet or bathroom, not everything you choose to get rid of from your shed can be tossed in the trash or donated.

Angelia says, ‘For tricky items like paint, pesticides, and large tools, check your local waste management or recycling center’s guidelines. Never toss these in the regular trash.’

6. Donate extras

Not sure what to do with the items you are decluttering? Carol suggests, ‘If your tools are still in good shape but you no longer need them, consider donating to a local charity, school garden, or community plot. Many will gladly take gently used tools and supplies.’

Assess the quality of the item and its usefulness to help you decide if you should donate or sell decluttered items. Larger tools and appliances could find good homes through local online marketplaces, for example, giving you a few extra funds towards a new shed or home organizing essentials.

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Meet the experts

While you are decluttering a shed, check for some of the items never to store in a shed and remove them, too. Not only will it make your shed more organized, but it can also help items such as electronic tools, seeds, and paint last longer, too.

That’s why for nearly a decade, I have sworn by a portable blackout blind from Amazon in the hottest, sunniest rooms of my home.

It's been a great way to cool down a home without AC, both while my daughter was a baby and now for our south-facing rooms in the summer.

Why portable blackout curtains are so useful

Portable blackout curtains are affordable, usually costing $20-40, quickly and easily suction onto your windows, and can be removed without damage.

They can be adjusted with Velcro tabs to fit the sits of your window, and be packed away neatly, or taken with you on vacation or short trips when you need.

And, once summer, or a particularly gnarly heatwave, has finished, you can fold it up and store it in its pouch.

This leaves your usual window treatment ideas looking as lovely as ever, without any permanent alterations for extra cooling power.

Portable blackout curtains are made from dense materials that help block the sun’s heat from entering through your windows, or warming up your furniture, flooring or the air inside your home.

This helps to physically stop the heat coming in when not much else can.

I began using it in my daughter’s nursery when she was a few months old as a good way to cool down a bedroom fast, and we hit a hot summer, and simply packed it up in its pouch to take everywhere we went.

Doubling up with a portable blackout curtain is a great way to keep a home cool in a heatwave.

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Using a cross draft in your home is another way to cool down rooms, as well as switching the direction of your fan.

The newest wave of smart home must-haves is quieter, more intuitive, and easier to integrate than ever before. Forget the jargon – this year’s smart tech trends are enduringly rooted in wellness, comfort, and ease.

We’ve spoken to leading experts to find out how smart homes are evolving and how these changes can benefit you in meaningful ways.

Smart home technology trends in 2025

1. Wellness is leading the way

At the heart of the 2025 smart home is a renewed focus on living well. Lighting, air quality, and even your sleep schedule are being supported by carefully chosen technology.

‘We’re seeing a growing interest in home technology that supports health and wellness,’ says Betty Brandolino, founder and creative director of Home Environments. ‘Circadian lighting systems, for example, are becoming increasingly popular.

'These systems are programmed to be timed with the sunrise and sunset, helping to regulate sleep cycles and boost serotonin levels,’ she continues, highlighting the importance of smart tech for the bedroom.

Betty recommends lighting that can mimic natural daylight: ‘In the morning, it provides bright, cool light to boost energy and focus; by evening, it shifts to warmer, dimmer tones that encourage relaxation and melatonin production.’

Combining one of the best SAD lamps with ways to set up your bedroom to beat morning grogginess will achieve this at home. The Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light at Amazon is one of the best options available.

George Carrillo, CEO of the Hispanic Construction Council, is also seeing health-conscious trends take off, from air quality monitors to fall detection systems that support elderly family members, adding, ‘These innovations bring peace of mind with features that track wellness in real-time and ensure safer living spaces.’

2. Invisible tech that blends in

In 2025, smart homes are embracing subtlety. Forget clunky gadgets and flashing lights, the smart home tech that designers love is built to blend seamlessly into your home.

‘One trend we’re seeing more is the move toward “invisible” technology,’ Betty explains. ‘It’s all about that quiet luxury feel. Homeowners want their spaces to feel warm and inviting, while still benefiting from technology behind the scenes.’

She points to solutions like motorized drapes and automated dimmable lighting as key examples. These features help to shape the atmosphere without interrupting the visual flow of a room, perfect for anyone who values calm, considered design.

3. Sustainable tech is the future

Smart home tech is playing a major role in the transition to greener living – and it can save you money in the process by cutting energy bills.

‘Today’s smart home technology is helping consumers live more sustainably while saving on energy costs,’ says Laura Finson, director of project management at Brinks Home. ‘Tools like smart thermostats, solar panel integrations, and water-efficient systems provide valuable insights and automation that reduce environmental impact.’

George agrees, adding that features of sustainable design go hand-in-hand with energy efficiency: ‘Solutions such as solar panels combined with smart storage systems drastically reduce utility costs and carbon footprints. These trends are all about making life easier, safer, and more efficient.’

The good news is you don’t need to be a tech expert to get started. ‘Devices like smart thermostats and voice assistants are designed for easy setup, often guided by step-by-step apps,’ George says. More complex systems may benefit from professional installation, but there are options to suit every confidence level.

4. Smart, simple, seamless

The biggest shift this year? Smart homes are finally becoming simpler.

‘As consumers face an ever-expanding array of devices and platforms, there’s a growing demand for technology that streamlines and consolidates,’ says Will Shippee, director of business development and strategy for solar and storage at Schneider Electric.

‘We’re already seeing this happen in the home space where consumers are seeking interconnected products that reduce complexity and centralize control,’ he continues. A great example is in smart smoke detectors, which can connect to your lights and speakers at home to make sure you never miss a life-saving alert.

Smart home panels are leading this charge – intuitive interfaces that allow homeowners to manage everything from lighting to climate from a single screen. The Amazon Echo Hub is a popular option, particularly if your home has any Alexa products or Philips Hue bulbs.

Ultimately, smart homes are becoming more human. With streamlined systems, user-friendly apps, and a focus on meaningful improvement, the smart home of 2025 is built for everyday life – and it might be easier to achieve than you think.

Next, learn how to add smart kitchen technology to your home, or delve into the best robot vacuums that will let smart, automated helpers do the housework for you.

However, Shark has changed the game with their FlexBreeze fan and InstaCool Mist attachment, on sale now at Walmart. Not only can it work cordless, but it's made for indoor and outdoor use, too.

It’s one of the best ways to keep your home cool this summer, whether you have AC or not.

Why we love the Shark FlexBreeze

In our Shark FlexBreeze review, our expert home tech editor Dan Fauzi hailed our best fan as ‘about as perfect as a fan can be.’

They explained, ‘The Flexbreeze is a seriously powerful fan, offering a satisfying, cooling flow of air that you can feel at least 60 ft. away with zero faults after weeks of testing. Importantly, it is super quiet, meaning you can sleep with the fan on at night.

‘The best bit is the flexibility,’ Dan continues. ‘As hinted at in the name, the FlexBreeze is fully portable. You can charge the fan to use it cordlessly, convert it from a standing fan to a desk fan in seconds, and you can use it both indoors and out, meaning you can quickly convert from cooling a room with fans to staying cool when hosting outside in summer.’

We are not the only ones who love it, either.

Verified Shark customer Tana shared in her review, ‘My husband and I are in our 70's and in poor health, this Texas heat could quite literally kill us without some kind of relief. We have one in the house and two outside, one on the front porch and one on the back patio. The misting feature is absolutely wonderful at making these Texas summers tolerable.’

While we did not get the chance to test the InstaCool Misting attachment ourselves, Shark promises that 'you can enjoy immediate, on-demand cooling mist,' with the fan 'easily connecting to your hose to rapidly reduce temperatures to feel up to 10 degrees cooler.'

While increasing humidity by misting might sound like the last thing you want to try in a hot summer, science backs the FlexBreeze up.

For example, one study found that '[A] misting system was capable of reducing the ambient air temperature by 2.4–4.9 °C and increasing the relative humidity by 17.1%–17.8%. Participants in the misting condition reported lower thermal sensation and higher thermal acceptability.' Overall, 'the misting system significantly improves human thermal comfort.'

So, what's not to love?

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Meet our expert

The handy FlexBreeze fan will certainly be a worthy addition to any emergency home cooling kits.

For retired museum curator Lorilee, a lifetime of collecting had become less about joy and more a quiet burden, prompting a gentle yet profound journey of decluttering to free her home, and her soul.

She worked with a professional organizer and some of the best decluttering methods to ruthlessly declutter five key categories at 60.

Why your 60s is the perfect time to go from 'keeper' to 'chooser'

Retired museum curator Lorilee's Illinois home was warm and welcoming, but burdened by clutter. As a highly sensitive person (HSP), she found herself easily overwhelmed by external stimuli, including the sheer volume of possessions she had accumulated over several decades.

Looking to create a more purposeful space to enjoy with her granddaughter, Lorilee sought the help of professional organizer and KonMari success coach Rebecca Jo-Rushdy.

Rebecca says, 'It was immediately clear how much care and intention Lorilee brought to her space, especially in how she preserved items connected to her professional identity and personal history. After 35 years as a museum curator, Lorilee saw herself as a steward, responsible for caring for objects with both historical and emotional value.

'But through the KonMari Method and our work together, Lorilee came to a powerful realization that she didn’t have to be the keeper of everything. She could choose what to carry forward. Reframing her role from 'keeper' to 'chooser' made the process more empowering, intentional, and gentle.'

These are the five categories the pair cleared out together:

1. Collectible ornaments

First on Lorilee's decluttering checklist was a vibrant collection of animal sculptures – brightly-colored birds, sleek cats, and other whimsical creatures she'd amassed from various sales and travels.

Lorilee says, 'Though I'd loved them once, I realised that these lively, hand-painted creatures no longer suited the calm environment I sought – they felt more like museum pieces than companions.

'With a soft cloth and a quiet thank you, I passed most to the museum. It felt good to give them to a space of learning, where their stories would continue.'

2. Jewelry

Lorilee's jewelry collection was a poignant mix of her cherished pieces and numerous items gifted over the years – some worn, some never. Each piece held a story, memory, or emotional tie, making decluttering them particularly difficult.

There were elegant necklaces, delicate earrings, and antique brooches, many tucked away in boxes, unseen for years. With the help of the one-emotion decluttering method, Rebecca guided her to try on each piece and consider how it felt.

Rebecca shares, 'Gifted items often carry invisible expectations. We explored the idea that gratitude doesn’t require keeping. If something no longer sparks joy, it may have already served its purpose. Letting go doesn’t erase the memory – it simply clears space for what’s most aligned now.'

Lorilee chose a special selection of jewelry to keep, packing them carefully for future family generations, with notes on their unique history. The rest were donated, with similar notes, to a charity close to her heart.

Rebecca also taught Lorilee value-based decluttering – that it was acceptable to be grateful for something while still choosing to release it. She showed her that it was time to purposefully select what brought joy and to display those cherished items more visibly, so they can be truly appreciated, rather than gather dust in a box.

Rebecca adds, 'As our declutter progressed, I saw a transformation in Lorilee, and letting go began to feel less like loss and more like liberation.'

3. Old user manuals

One area where Lorilee's curatorial instinct for preservation truly showed was in her collection of user manuals. Rebecca pointed out that almost all current manuals are available online, and historical ones held little practical value.

Lorilee says, 'My filing was certainly thorough – I even found a manual for a 1979 vacuum! But ultimately I realized it was nothing more than dusty clutter.'

Looking through her manuals and personal documents, Lorilee made sure to keep hold of important paperwork, but then set about getting rid of paper clutter. She scanned any important documents for digital keeping, then recycled the rest.

Lorilee adds, 'Getting rid of all that paper freed my soul. I realised I no longer needed to carry 'proof' of my life – I had lived the story.'

4. Expired cleaning sprays

Under Lorilee's kitchen sink had become affectionately know as her 'hidden komono' – a space that looked fine from the outside but was chaotic within.

It housed an astonishing array of cleaning sprays – many expired – plus plenty of miscellaneous items (or komono) that had mysteriously arrived there over time. The sheer volume was overwhelming, but Rebecca knew that helping Lorilee sort through it properly would significantly reduce the mental load.

Rebecca helped her realize that a smaller, curated collection of multi-purpose, effective cleaners was all she needed. They emptied, properly disposed of (following local guidelines for hazardous waste), and then organized the space for just a few essential products.

You can also ditch multiple tools for a compact and easy-to-store but versatile set, such as the Joseph Joseph cleaning system, available on Amazon. Our news writer Ottilie Blackhall tested and loved this system.

5. Inherited keepsakes

Decluttering sentimental clutter at any point in your life is difficult, but by 60, Lorilee had inherited many fascinating family heirlooms, some approaching their very own milestone birthday of 100. They included a 1930s cosmetics box, a vintage clear glass leech bowl from Rexall Drugs, and delicate 1930s Nippon ceramic hair receivers.

While Lorilee appreciated their history, holding onto every single piece felt less like an honor and more like an obligation, making her feel overwhelmed to declutter them. Rebecca guided her through a process of deep appreciation followed by mindful selection.

Lorilee says, 'First, I asked my daughter what items she wanted. Knowing the many she did and didn't gave me the clarity and freedom to start my declutter.

'I kept certain items, and even displayed some, transforming my basement family room walls into an eclectic art gallery. I figured that if I'm going to keep them, I may as well enjoy them. For those items that were sellable, I researched their market value and history, then placed a note with each for a rescue dog charity shop to sell.'

Though they may feel almost illegal to declutter, releasing long-held keepsakes, known as discharge decluttering, can lift a weight from the shoulders.

Professional organizer Rebecca adds, 'This was perhaps the most emotionally-layered category. Instead of keeping everything, we focused on preserving select, meaningful pieces. Lorilee found peace in keeping mementos that told her story and releasing the rest through thoughtful donations, in line with her values.'

Meet the expert

Lorilee's journey from 'keeper' to 'chooser' was a profound one. It wasn't about discarding indiscriminately, but about making conscious, joyful choices about what truly enriched her life and deserved a place in her home and legacy.

By ruthlessly decluttering these five categories at 60, you too can go from loss to liberation.

Clutter contributes to overwhelm and anxiety – that’s why Homes & Gardens’ head of Solved Punteha van Terheyden recently ruthlessly decluttered things at 40 for a fresh start to a new decade. You can also discover why 'emotion magnets' are among the 4 things to declutter at 50.

From utilizing my favorite fan to switching to my preferred bedding, there are three simple swaps and affordable additions in my home that do the heavy lifting to keep me comfortable during hot and humid summers.

Here, I share the three summer home essentials I couldn't live without to keep my home cool in a heatwave, without the luxury of air-conditioning.

3 summer home essentials I couldn't live without

1. My fan

My bedroom is south-facing with large windows and while it's a beautiful, bright space, it gets extremely hot. And, without air conditioning, I was struggling to keep it cool and comfortable at night.

The solution has proven to be the humble fan – just like the bestselling Honeywell Table Fan available at Walmart. Paired with the simple cross-draft trick during the day, this is the best way and most affordable way I've found to keep my bed cool in summer and, importantly, cool down a bedroom fast.

I'm not the only one on the Solved team here at Homes & Gardens who relies on cooling a room with fans in summer. Dan Fauzi, our home tech editor, agrees.

They say, 'I use the Shark FlexBreeze Fan available at Amazon whenever the weather's hot. It's the best fan I've tried, and is perfect for quickly cooling me down while creating a comforting breeze throughout the room.

'And, as it's completely portable, I can take it around the house or even outside!' This is perfect for me for al-fresco working from home days, which I'm enjoying more and more as the weather warms.

For particularly hot nights, I also point my fan out of the window to cool down a room even more, which is a clever eco-cooling method you can enjoy anywhere around the house.

2. My summer bedding

I've realized recently that I'll just never be one of those people who solely sleep under a sheet in summer. Even in the sweltering heat, I still need the comfort of my duvet.

But, in order to avoid any hot weather sleeping mistakes, I do switch out my duvet and bedding for something a little more summer suitable, which, in turn, helps me to sleep better.

The most important step here is switching to my best cooling comforter. Our sleep editor Emilia Hitching rates the LaCrosse Premium Down Light Warmth Comforter available at The Company Store as her overall top pick for warm weather, which is available in 11 colors, five sizes, and four warmth variations.

The light one is recommended for hot nights and hot sleepers, with rooms reaching 69-74° Fahrenheit. Alternatively, there are plenty more affordable options available, such as this Lightweight Comforter from Amazon.

Then, I also switch my warmer, fleece sheets to my best cooling sheets. My favorites are the BERGPALM Duvet cover and pillowcases available at IKEA, in the gorgeous green striped colorway. They look just as luxe as they feel, and the best part is they're super affordable.

That being said, you definitely don't have to swap your bedsheets. Chiana Dickson, content editor on Solved, says, 'In warm weather, I just use a light duvet but the same covers. This helps me to save space in my small linen closet storage ideas, but it's still crucial to store the comforter you're not currently using correctly.'

For this, it's best to simply fold your winter comforter before putting it away in a cool, dry place. If you're tight on space, you can use vacuum storage bags, such as the bestselling Hefty Shrink-Pak Vacuum Compression Storage Bags available at Walmart, but just be careful when compressing any duvets or comforters filled with feathers, to avoid damage.

3. My dehumidifier

Finally, I can't live without my best dehumidifier in warm weather. While I use this year-round, I've found it to be most crucial in summer. Hot and humid weather might be lovely outdoors, but inside, I find it a recipe for disaster when it comes to mold and mildew.

Luckily, a dehumidifier is one of the most effective ways to help prevent mold at home, drawing excess moisture out of the air and reducing humidity.

High moisture content in the air around you makes it much harder to cool down, which is why a dehumidifier can also make a room feel cooler, too.

I just use a small, budget-friendly, and portable dehumidifier, similar to the BREEZOME Dehumidifier available at Amazon.

Being aware of the vital things you need to know before buying a dehumidifier will help you pick an appliance that's most suitable for you and your home.

The best place to put a dehumidifier is also important, particularly if you're using yours to curb mold, mildew, and damp like me. For the best effect, position yours where the humidity is at its highest.

Be mindful, however, that putting a dehumidifier in a bathroom (known as a wet room in electrical circles) will pose an electrocution risk and should be avoided. Instead, put yours in the hallway and run it after showering or bathing is finished, with the bathroom door open.

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All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet our experts

Looking to revamp your space for summer? These are the summer home improvement upgrades we'll be making – including ceiling fans, garden shade, and elevated lighting.

A DIY air conditioner, also known as a DIY swamp cooler, blows air over ice to reduce indoor temperatures. Also known as an evaporative cooler, this is a simple DIY project that takes around an hour and costs less than $60.

So, if you’re looking for a fast way to cool a house, give this quick project a try with our expert tips.

How to make a DIY air conditioner

It is worth noting before you begin that DIY evaporation coolers, such as swamp coolers, work best in low humidity as the cooling process naturally increases humidity in a house.

Lane Martin, Co-Founder at Modern PURAIR explains, ‘The key thing to remember is it’s most effective in dry air – if the humidity’s already high, you won’t get the same impact. But as far as quick fixes go, it’s not a bad trick to keep in your back pocket.’

As it relies on cooling a room with fans, this project is generally able to produce an air stream that is 15°F cooler than the room air. As a result, it is best used for moderate heat and should not be solely relied upon in extreme heat situations. For this, an emergency home cooling kit and a window AC is your best bet.

For a DIY air conditioner, you will need the following:

• A desk fan. We love the Shark FlexBreeze, available at Best Buy, as it can be used indoors and out, and has a 24-hour battery life so you can stay cool in a power cut, too. If you need a more budget-friendly option, the Honeywell 10” fan from Walmart is perfect for the job, too.
• A medium-sized plastic container, bucket, or styrofoam cooler, with a lid large enough for the fan to sit on top of
• A sharp box cutter tool, available from The Home Depot
• Ice or cold water. Alternatively, plastic bottles filled with water and frozen solid.
• Optional: flexible ducting or a plastic tube cut into four-inch sections, such as this two-inch PVC piping from The Home Depot, to direct the flow of air more precisely

1. Set up the cooling base

To make your DIY air conditioner and cool down a home in a heatwave, start with a large plastic container, bucket, or box. With your box cutter, cut one to three two-inch holes in the sides towards the top of the container, spacing them at least four inches apart, facing in the same direction. This will be where the cool air escapes to cool you down.

If you are using PVC piping, slot this into the small holes to help direct the cooling air. For extra precision, use silicone caulk, such as GE Window and Door Sealant from The Home Depot, to secure them in place and prevent air leaks.

For the lid, Lane says, ‘Cut a hole in the lid just big enough for the fan to sit snugly on top, blowing air down into the container.’ It can be helpful to use a permanent marker, such as a Sharpie from Walmart, to draw around the circular face of your fan to ensure it is not too big and the fan does not fall through into the container. You want it resting snugly on top so that it is facing down into the container.

2. Add the evaporative element

To actually cool down a room with a swamp cooler, you need to fill the base of the container with very cold water, ice packs, or frozen water bottles. ‘The colder, the better,’ Lane says.

Michael Zohouri, HVAC expert and founder of Pyramid ECO, adds, ‘If you can elevate the container slightly, it helps direct the cool air into the middle of the room instead of just along the floor. You’re essentially creating a small evaporative cooler, using chilled water to cool the air as it moves through.’

3. Keep it running

As with many unusual methods for staying cool at home, Michael says, ‘This system works best with a bit of maintenance. When the water warms up or the ice packs melt, swap in fresh ice or refill with cold water. Using ice packs or bottles in rotation makes it easier to keep the cycle going.’ There are a few smart ways to reuse air conditioner water around your home to help limit waste, especially if there is an active drought.

How to use a DIY swamp cooler efficiently

The best way to keep a home cool this summer is to work proactively, preventing your home from becoming too hot in the first place, rather than trying to beat the heat after it has set in.

Michael suggests, ‘Start early before the heat builds up. If the room gets too hot before you begin cooling, it’s harder to bring the temperature down. You can block sunlight with curtains or reflective blinds to reduce heat gain. And use a ceiling or oscillating fan with the setup to help distribute the cool air further.’ Just remember to set the best fan direction to cool a room and avoid making the problem worse.

Michael continues, ‘You can even point one fan out a window to draw hot air out while another cools the room from inside. Additionally, if you’re using this setup in a small room, keep the door closed to trap the cool air.’

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FAQs

How do you make an evaporative cooler colder?

To make your fan blow colder air and your DIY evaporative cooler colder, stay on top of the melting ice packs, replacing them often to maintain a constant temperature inside the cooler box.

Using frozen water bottles can be great for this as they take longer to defrost, offering you longer between refreshes.

How long does it take for a DIY air conditioner to cool a room?

How long it takes an AC to cool a room depends on several factors, including the size of the room and the starting temperature of the room.

A DIY air conditioner/swamp cooler will take a lot longer to cool a room than a built-in AC or window AC, and will only affect the overall temperature by around 3° Fahrenheit. The colder/more ice packs you use, the cooler it will feel.

For the best results, you should sit directly in front of the air outlets to cool down your body, rather than expect the whole room to cool down a lot.

Meet the experts

While it is fine to use a fan in a heatwave, there are several household appliances you should unplug in a heatwave to prevent a fire risk and reduce the temperature in your home.

These small drainage openings can quickly become clogged, leading to leaks in intense summer storms and monsoons.

Here, expert contractors reveal their top cleaning tips for weep holes and explain why frequent maintenance is essential to prevent water damage in your home.

Cleaning window weep holes

Cleaning weep holes in windows and doors should be a part of your bi-annual home maintenance tasks, but it is especially crucial when preparing your home for a thunderstorm.

Kevin Brown, heritage home renovator at The Heritage Window Company, explains, 'This is a general maintenance tip which often goes overlooked, but this quick task is essential, especially for windows and doors made from either UPVC or slimline aluminium windows.

'Weep holes are small drainage channels you find at the base of most modern windows and doors, designed to prevent drainage and water build-up. However, the winter months and long stints without cleaning can cause these to become clogged with dirt and debris, meaning the water can no longer drain properly.

'This can cause structural problems within window frames over a long period,’ Kevin warns. This can result in swelling, mold, and even cracked glass if left unchecked.

Whilst the build up comes in winter, it's often heavy summer downpours that catch homeowners out.

How to clean weep holes properly

Whether you're tackling weep holes when cleaning your windows or preparing your house for hurricane season, the task itself is simple.

Bar Zakheim, contractor and CEO of Better Place Design and Build, begins, ‘For most weep holes, a small bottle brush [or straw brush, from Walmart] is the best tool for the job. Something you'd use to wash a reusable straw works great. Toothpicks [also available at Walmart] or even twigs can also do the job in a pinch.

‘Your goal here is simply to get any debris out of the weep holes by scraping away what's there. Avoid adding more water,’ he adds. ‘Weep holes are one of the many things you should never clean with a pressure washer.’

This is not a task you have to do too frequently, either.

Rather, you can do it now ahead of summer showers, and add it to your annual spring home maintenance checklist for a head start, says Andre Kazimierski, co-owner and president at HomeHero Roofing. ‘Luckily, weep holes shouldn’t need to be cleaned more than once or twice a year.'

Getting ahead of rainy seasons will help, so add this to your home maintenance calendar.

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FAQs

Should weep holes in windows be covered?

You should never cover weep holes in windows or doors, as it can cause water damage, rust, and corrosion, reducing the lifespan of your window/door, the surrounding walls, and any carpentry (including sills and shutters).

As such, they are one of the places you shouldn’t caulk around windows to avoid damage.

How do you prevent weep holes from clogging?

It can be difficult to prevent weep holes from clogging, so regular maintenance and cleaning are essential, removing debris as you spot it to prevent a serious buildup that could result in structural damage or a leak during sudden rainy downpours in the summer.

Meet the experts

Neglecting your window and door weep holes is not the only bad habit that increases the risk of mold in your home. Poor ventilation, clutter, and not checking for other leaks can also result in otherwise avoidable structural damage around your property.

That’s certainly what I learned when my husband and I decided to clear our home of unused goods and decided to get our daughter involved.

She’s only eight, so she previously struggled to let go of items. However, with the fun promise of selling our wares at a nearby flea market over the weekend, she was all aboard to declutter our whole house.

How to turn decluttering into a fun family bonding activity

1. Do it together

One thing I’ve learned about being a mom is that kids don’t much care what you’re doing, as long as you’re doing it together. They just want to spend time with you.

We turned on the music and had our family playlist running the whole time as we tackled decluttering our child’s room and our family's shared living spaces with all their various drawers and storage ideas together.

2. Pay kids a commission

We gave our daughter, Amelia, a 10% cut of our profits, which, in the end, totalled $250. She banked most of it, but spent a few dollars at the flea market picking up two new dolls, a mermaid tail for the pool (yes, it's as amazing as it sounds), and some new books.

With the cash incentive in mind, as our streamlining session got underway, our daughter became surprisingly ruthless at decluttering and cleared out all manner of puzzles, games, and books without batting an eye or feeling overwhelmed during the process.

Things she had previously wanted to keep, despite never using them, were now potential dollar signs in her eyes, making it not only easier to let things go, but exciting in and of itself.

3. Treat yourselves along the way

It was truly a decluttering blitz, but doing it when chronically ill added another layer of difficulty altogether.

That’s why the three of us streamlined room by room, sometimes just a drawer at a time, over the course of a week to make it manageable (something known as adaptive pacing) and followed it up with a treat.

Sometimes that was an actual treat, such as an ice cream, or simply watching a film together to unwind.

You can also try the 20/10 rule: 20 minutes of activity followed by a 10-minute break. This makes it easier on the children, but is also a welcome break for adults to avoid burnout, or decluttering successfully with health challenges.

4. Make it a game

We used empty bins and for anything that wasn’t going to break, such as cuddly toys, clothes, and soft furnishings, we used it as a fun opportunity to test our aim in a throwing game.

My daughter and I enjoyed ribbing her dad about how many ‘hoops’ he missed. Even when we were loading the car up to head over to the flea market, my daughter was acting as the go-between for me and her dad, who was stuffing everything into the car.

Fair to say that Amelia got lots of tickles when she reached either of us, so giggles abounded during what was, honestly, the most mundane element of the process.

What to shop

I’ve really taken to streamlining my home, so being able to combine it with quality time spent bonding as a family was a real bonus.

Learn what I ruthlessly decluttered at 40, and what a professional organizer decluttered at 50, or delve into our 50+ tested methods for clearing clutter from your home, organized by time, what's blocking success, or specific to a room to help you kickstart your summer streamlining.

Luckily, say professional cleaners, there's one super simple, sustainable way to reduce plastic in your cleaning routine – by buying and using refillable products.

Here, they share their top cleaning tips for overhauling your supplies with the environment in mind.

This is the best way to reduce plastic in your cleaning routine

As Scott Schrader, professional cleaner at CottageCare, says, 'Cutting plastic out of your everyday cleaning methods is not just better for the planet – it's often healthier and more streamlined on your wallet!'

The easiest way to do this is to swap your cleaning supplies to refillable options, which is also a great way to stop unnecessary trash and reduce your impact on the environment.

Samantha Shpeen from Clean Cult recommends, 'The average kitchen is a hotbed of plastic, from dish soap to sprays. Swapping these for refillable aluminium bottles makes a big impact, fast.'

The aluminium here, she explains, is important. 'Many "eco" cleaners still come in plastic,' she says. 'Look for paper-based cartons or refillable aluminium bottles, to adopt cleaning systems designed to eliminate single-use waste entirely.'

For example, the Cleancult Dish Soap Liquid Refills available at Amazon use 90% less plastic, and the Cleancult Wild Lavender All Purpose Cleaner, also available at Amazon, comes in a refillable aluminium bottle.

And, while recycling is good, refilling is better, she adds, particularly if you want to avoid greenwashing.

Scott agrees, saying, 'Opting for refillable bottles, rather than recycling and replacing, is better for the planet oftentimes, since it minimises the waste of manufacturing and shipping. Reuse is always a more sustainable option than recycling.

'Brands like Cleancult and Grove Collaborative available at Amazon, sell systems of refills for household cleaning products which are durable, effective, and environmentally friendly!'

We like the amber glass spray bottles from Amazon for making DIY glass sprays using essential oils. It's a versatile cleaning spray that can be used across many surfaces and the amber bottle is sturdy, refillable, and protects the solution from UV damage or breakdown.

Additionally, advises Armando Calderon, owner at Joy's Cleaning Services, using refillable products also means you can buy in bulk, helping you to save money at home in the long run.

'We've been a professional cleaning company for over 12 years in the Chicago area,' he says. 'To keep costs down, we often buy in bulk, and get gallons of cleaners at a time, then refill the smaller spray bottles.

'We made the decision to do that based on economics of better price points for volume purchases, but it does actually save a decent amount.

'For example, something like a glass cleaner or degreaser we can often get in one to five gallon jugs. It saves on plastics by recycling a single five gallon jug versus dozens of 32 oz spray bottles with their squirter heads.'

This cleaning trick to reduce plastic at home is particularly effective when paired with replacing disposable wipes for microfiber cloths, adds Taylor Riley, partner at AMR US Commercial Cleaning, so long as you know how to wash a microfiber cloth.

'I use microfiber every day because they trap dust, dirt, and bacteria better than your standard paper towels, and you can wash and reuse them hundreds of times,' he explains.

'Not only does this reduce plastic packaging waste, but it also saves money in the long run. Personally, I like to get multiple colors so I can coordinate which cloths are used in which areas. That way, you're not using the same microfiber to scrub your toilets and your countertops.'

Color-coded cleaning is also our top tip for a more hygienic routine.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet our experts

'You don’t need to overhaul your routine,' says Samantha. 'Just one high-use product swap can save dozens of plastic bottles a year.'

If you're interested in reducing plastic use, it's also a good idea to invest in non-toxic cleaning supplies to make your home less toxic.

From specialist towels to the perfect appliances that are worth the spend, there are plenty of quick tricks to help beat the heat, even without AC to lend us a hand.

Without further ado, here's how we keep our homes cool in a heatwave.

What our team is shopping to beat the heat

1. Door and window covers

The last thing you want to do on a roasting hot night is close all the bedroom windows, but how do you stop insects from entering your home?

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden shares, 'I swear by mesh door and window covers, as they are great for those without built-in screens. It means at night, when the heat of the day has dissipated, you can throw open all your windows and let the cooler breeze come through as a cross draft, without letting in lots of flying bugs, including mosquitoes.

'I use the ones you can cut to size and stick on with the included Velcro adhesive tape, and these are on my sliding door into the yard.'

If you choose to invest, too, brush up on the best way to clean window screens to keep them bug-free.

2. Cooling towels

Rather than trying to find the fastest way to cool a house, why not cool yourself down instead? This helps beat the heat when you're outside, too.

Solved's home tech editor Dan Fauzi shares, 'Since my gym started laying out cold towels to use after sessions, I started doing the same at home whenever it gets too hot.

'It worked so well that I ended up buying a specialized cooling towel that lasts longer – just like this top-rated Arctic Cool Instant Cooling Towel at Amazon – and now I can take it with me when I head out on a hot day, too.'

3. Desk fans

Whether you work from home or have to commute into a hot office, the best fans can do a lot to make your working environment that little bit more comfortable.

Zara Stacey, Homes & Gardens' managing editor, says, 'I swear by my small USB desk fan. It plugs into my laptop so I can use it anywhere without having to fuss over charging it the night before.'

This Mainstays USB fan from Walmart has over 800 five-star reviews, with verified shoppers praising it for its excellent air flow and durability.

Looking for something a bit more intensive? Learn how to cool a room with fans. For this, we like the Shark FlexBreeze Fan, from Shark. With a 24-hour battery life and adjustable stand, this portable fan is perfect for use both indoors and out. We gave it five stars in our FlexBreeze review.

4. Insulated cups

Staying hydrated throughout the day with cool liquids can help you feel cooler while protecting your health. After all, the one thing you should never do in a heatwave is allow yourself to become dehydrated.

Kitchen editor Lydia Hayman adds, 'I swear by the Stanley Cup, from Amazon. It keeps my drinks cold for hours and hours, which helps me stay hydrated whether I'm working at my desk or braving the heat outside.'

5. Electrolytes

While electrolytes are not one of the unusual methods for staying cool at home, replenishing lost fluids and salts can help you feel better during periods of extreme heat, especially if you find yourself sweating a lot or if you have an existing health condition.

Punteha, who is chronically ill, adds, 'Speaking of hydration, I take daily electrolytes to properly rehydrate in the summer heat. It's especially important during heat waves and will help you alleviate that feeling of fatigue that comes with high temperatures while replenishing vital electrolytes lost through sweating. I've tried a lot of brands and always come back to Fast Up, available on Amazon.'

Electrolytes are so important that one doctor we spoke to named them her 'must-have' for your emergency home cooling kit.

6. The Ninja Creami

It isn't just what you drink, but what you eat that can have an impact on your comfort during heatwaves.

Lydia says, 'I'm lucky enough to own a Ninja Creami, which has become my go-to for making refreshing morning smoothie bowls and homemade ice cream and sorbets without the added sugars and processed ingredients – there's even a small discount in the sale on Amazon.'

We gave the Ninja Creami Deluxe Ice Cream maker 4.2 stars in our review, loving its huge capacity and 11 different frozen functions. The only downside is that you need to prepare your frozen treats 24 hours ahead, so it is not the quickest way to handle extreme heat at home, but it certainly is one of the tastiest.

7. A hot water bottle

Ottilie Blackhall, Solved news writer, says, 'It might sound counterintuitive, but in summer, I swear by myHomeTop Premium Classic Rubber Hot Water Bottle available at Amazon.

'Simply fill it with tap water, leaving a couple of inches at the top empty, then pop it in the freezer, and wait until it's fully frozen. Then, you have a portable ice pack for carrying around your house, using as a cooling foot rest, and even taking to bed at night, too.

'With four dogs and no air conditioning, we also rely on this trick to offer them a bit of cool respite from the heat.'

Just be sure not to use the same hot water bottle for boiling water in the future. Most hot water bottle rubber is not designed to endure fluctuating temperatures, so they may leak and cause burns. Have separate bottles for winter and summer accordingly.

Meet our editors

While most of our team are finally feeling a little cooler in these crazy summer temperatures, we will all be looking for better ways to future-proof our homes against extreme weather for longer-term solutions.

The Dreame H14 Pro, currently discounted by $200 solves this problem. It's a vacuum and mop all-in-one, cleaning whatever's on the floor in seconds, and leaving the floor dry only a moment later.

From the 75 vacuums and floorcare gadgets we've tested at Homes & Gardens, the Dreame H14 Pro is the best vacuum-mop. Act fast if you want to transform your weekly clean on a budget.

Why I love the Dreame H14 Pro for quick, thorough cleans

Keeping this vacuum-mop near the kitchen has genuinely been transformative in my house. Whenever we spot a mess, whether it's oil dripped from cooking or crumbs from the counter, we grab the Dreame H14 Pro, and the floor is sanitized moments later.

Even if you're mopping floors the right way and doing it as thoroughly and efficiently as possible, it won't come close to the H14 Pro. It's like grabbing your best cordless vacuum and doing a few passes, except with the H14 Pro it's actually washing your floors, too.

As a home tech editor, this is a smart home must-have. It detects how dirty your floors are and adjusts its suction power and moisture levels to clean at its best. Plus, it has LED headlights so you can spot any remaining dirt.

Its tiny charging dock can also self-clean the appliance and dry the rollers to kill bacteria and prevent mold, so between cleans, all you need to do is empty the dirty water tank and refill the clean tank when needed.

The smart controls aren't at all complicated, and the vacuum itself is super flexible and can lie completely flat to reach under furniture. I couldn't recommend it more to any household with hard floors, especially at this low price.

Buy the Dreame H14 Pro for $499.99 from Dreame.

What to shop

Not what you're looking for? Don't worry – we've spent 1,000+ hours testing all types of floorcare gadgets, and here are some more of our favorites. All prices correct at time of publication.

Next, learn how to clean a floor without streaks, or follow our ultimate guide on how to deep clean your house.

Here, HVAC experts share their favorite ways to make the most of this demineralized water from your air conditioning types, from watering plants to cleaning windows.

How to collect air conditioner water

As Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician and founder of Air Conditioner Lab, explains, when your air conditioner runs, it pulls moisture from the air inside your home.

'That moisture condenses on the evaporator coil and then drips into a drain pan before being funneled outside,' he says. 'This can add up to several gallons of water per day in hot, humid climates.

'That’s clean water from the air, not from your plumbing, and while it’s not filtered or treated, it doesn’t contain chlorine or salt like tap water. That makes it useful in more ways than people think.'

To collect it, he advises, simply place a container or bucket, such as the bestselling Sterilite Spout Pail available at Walmart, under the condensate drain line where it exits your home.

'If your system drains into a utility sink or floor drain, you can reroute it with some tubing,' continues Josh. 'Just make sure the container doesn’t overflow and the line doesn’t get pinched or blocked.'

Additionally, adds Lane Martin, co-founder of Modern PURAIR, just be sure to empty it fairly often. 'No one wants stagnant water sitting around,' he warns.

Once you've collected it, here's how to use it:

1. To water plants

One of the best ways to be sustainable at home and reuse air conditioner water is by watering your plants with it, says Alex Atkinson, plumber and HVAC technician at Super Brothers.

'It's most suited for ferns, orchids, blueberries, or azaleas,' he advises.

Tammy Sons, a seasoned plant expert, and founder and CEO of TN Nursery, agrees, adding, 'I water my outdoor plants with it during dry spells, especially for more delicate flowers.'

You can also reuse dehumidifier water for the same purpose.

2. For cleaning

Another clever way to reuse your air conditioner water is by cleaning with it.

'This water works well for everyday chores,' says Martyn Fowler, founder of Elite Renewables. 'For example, you can use it to clean floors, or clean windows.

'Because it lacks minerals, it won't leave streaks or build-up like hard tap water often does,' he explains.

Outdoors, Lane suggests using it for outdoor cleaning tasks, like cleaning garden tools or outdoor furniture, and, as Josh adds, you can even use it to do laundry, for soaking stains or spot-cleaning, paired with an effective detergent.

We recommend the ARM & HAMMER Plus OxiClean Odor Blasters available at Walmart.

'If you’re using it to rinse workout clothes or spot-clean rugs, it helps stretch your wash cycles without running your machine every time,' he says.

3. When ironing

Beyond doing laundry, you can use air conditioner water for ironing with an ironing board and unwrinkling clothes without an iron, by steaming garments.

'I even use it in the steam iron,' says Tammy. 'This saves me from using distilled water every time.

'It's one of those simple little habits that add up over time and feel good to do. Reusing what we have already makes sense, and it feels like the kind of small act that honors both nature and home.'

And, as Alex adds, this water will never leave behind minerals that could clog the iron or steamer, or stain your fabrics.

Importantly, though, only do so if you know the water's coming from a clean system, warns Lane.

Can you drink air conditioner water?

There might be many ways to reuse your air conditioner water around the house, but that's certainly not to say that it's suitable for everything.

'It’s important to note that although it looks clean, this water isn't potable,' says Alex. 'It may carry bacteria or contaminants from dirty coils or air filters, so it's not safe for drinking or cooking unless properly filtered and treated.'

It can also run the risk of mold, as the pipes and tubing inside the unit and the HVAC system may harbor mold.

But, says Josh, 'For most cleaning and outdoor uses, it's a good way to reuse something that would normally go straight down the drain.'

Similarly, you can also try rainwater harvesting.

What to shop

Meet our experts

'For practical uses around the house, air conditioner water is a free resource that can help lower your mains water use without any downside,' says Josh.

Just remember: You can't drink it or cook with it!

If you're looking for more ways to be more sustainable at home, why not invest in the best eco-gadgets for sustainable living.

Luckily, there are some smart gadgets that can help control our internal climate and create a relaxing escape from the blazing heat.

Here, we reveal the five best investments from The Home Depot to help you design a home that stays cool.

5 ways to keep a home cool this summer with clever appliances

According to data from Climate Central, temperatures are increasing across all seasons across the United States, with summer temperatures hitting all-time highs year after year.

That makes smart cooling investments all the more important to keep a home cool in a heat wave, protecting your health and your property from all the ways summer heat can damage your home.

We suggest starting with these five essentials for a more comfortable summer.

1. Alter your fan direction

In the ceiling fan vs. air conditioner debate, air conditioners usually come out on top in terms of cooling.

However, investing in a quality ceiling fan can help to keep cool air circulating, helping you to feel cooler and reducing how long you have to run an AC unit, cutting energy bills over time, with savings up to 40%. adds Lane Dixon, VP of operations at Aire Serv, a Neighborly company.

The trick, however, is ensuring that you switch to the best fan direction to cool a room. Lane explains that running a fan anti-clockwise pulls hot air up and away from you, pushing cooler air back down. This then creates a ‘wind chill’ effect for those below.

Ceiling fans can also be more convenient than cooling a room with fans, as you do not need to move them around, nor find space in your home storage ideas to keep them out of the way in the colder months.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. Consider extra AC Units

AC units are more expensive than a fan, but they actively cool down the air in a room, rather than move it around. This makes them a smart investment in very hot areas where the temperatures regularly reach dangerous levels.

If installing a particular air conditioning type is not an option, or you have spotted the signs it’s time to replace your air conditioner, but don’t want to fork out for expensive replacements, consider a portable unit instead.

When comparing portable air conditioners vs AC units, portable or window units are a lot more affordable up front, and can be moved to cool down the room you are using the most.

As Asif Bux, service manager at Comfort Union, explains, ‘This targeted approach reduces overall energy use and makes your home more comfortable,’ helping you to save money at home during the hotter months.

3. Block out the sun

It may seem like a good idea to open all windows in an attempt to lower the temperature in your home, but in fact, it actually does the opposite.

Keeping all windows and blinds closed stops any hot air from circulating around your home, but once the temperature has dropped and it’s almost time for bed, you may want to open them to allow some cooler air to enter.

The caveat to this is if it's hotter or more humid outside at night than inside, in which case you should keep them closed.

Although blackout curtains can help keep heat out, blocking out all of the light is one of the many ways your home is making you feel tired. Instead, block out most of the sun's rays using light-filtering shades, helping to keep your home bright and accessible for use throughout the day.

4. Don't underestimate your thermostat

Many of us equate smart thermostats with winter heating schedules, but they can be just as important to keeping a house cool this summer.

Asif explains, ‘Pairing your AC with smart thermostats allows for precise control. These devices learn your schedule, reducing cooling when you’re not home and ramping it up just before you return.’

James Longley, managing director at Utility Bidder adds, however, that it is vital to pick the best temperature for a thermostat in summer for this to be effective. He warns, ‘It is also important to note that lowering your thermostat drastically doesn’t cool your home faster.

'Air conditioning units won’t typically operate at a consistent pace, and lowering your thermostat as low as possible will just mean it is working for longer. Instead, you should gradually lower the temperature in small bursts until you hit the sweet spot you want.’

5. Use covered outdoor areas

Some homes are naturally very warm, retaining heat easily and proving difficult to cool down. If this is the case, consider using covered outside areas around your home to stay cool.

Shaded outdoor seating areas, kitted out with hydration stations, can offer you some respite, especially if outside humidity is low or there is a breeze. Alternatively, create a cross draft with an outdoor fan.

Similarly, creating shaded areas around your doors and windows can limit the effect of the sun in your home, blocking out harsh sun rays and making ventilating your home in summer more pleasant.

Just be sure to install bug screens, such as these cut-to-size adhesive bug screens from Amazon, to prevent pests from getting in.

FAQs

How hot is too hot indoors?

It is advised that you keep your home below 80° Fahrenheit in summer. A home any hotter can pose a health risk, especially to young children, the elderly, and pets.

Meet the experts

Struggling with sudden temperature increases? We have rounded up all of the fastest ways to cool a house for quick acting comfort in summer heatwaves.

That's where an air purifying tower fan comes in. Combining one of the best fans with one of the best air purifiers results in an appliance that can rapidly cool you down while cleansing the air of pollution and allergens, while using up much less energy than your AC.

I've been using the Dreo Air Purifying Tower Fan MC710S for almost a year, and it's saved the day countless times during heat waves. It has also banished harmful gases and pollutants, reducing my allergies to virtually none.

Why I love this Dreo air purifying tower fan

The only downside to using a fan is the fact that it blows dust and other common household allergens into the air, worsening your allergy and asthma symptoms.

However, Dreo's combination of a fan and air purifier gives you the best of both: you can cool down in a heatwave and cleanse the air of harmful pollutants. And as the fan creates a breeze, it can pull pollen, dander, smoke, and other particles from further parts of the room.

A major benefit is improving air quality when living in a city or anywhere with outdoor pollution, as opening the windows to improve your home's ventilation can bring in air that's dangerous to breathe.

It's also a savior when cooking, as you can keep the kitchen cool while removing harmful cooking gases from the air. Ignoring VOCs from cooking is one of the more surprising mistakes compromising your air quality.

But perhaps most important: sleep. Sleeping with a fan on at night can be comforting, especially in the sweltering heat, but it can affect your breathing and dry your throat if you're inhaling dust. The Dreo purifying fan can blow clean air all night, thanks to its True HEPA filter that captures 99.9% of pollutants.

Another great feature is its dual motor, meaning you don't have to run the fan and purifier at the same time. If your air quality is good and you just need a breeze, or if it's a cold day but the air quality is poor, the MC710S can adjust to that, and do it automatically if you set it to.

I've been using the Dreo MC710S for just under a year, and it's been a lifesaver during the hot days of summer when allergy season is in full swing. I also love its app connectivity and the complete customization I get over every setting.

Buy the Dreo Air Purifying Tower Fan MC710S for $299.99 with code AOD15.

What to shop

Not what you're looking for? We've tested 22 fans and air purifiers at Homes & Gardens and can recommend plenty more.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Next, learn what not to do in a heatwave, and the home remedies to stay cool without spending.

With chronic pain and weakness in my wrists and grip during flares, the HOTO electric spin scrubber, available from Amazon, has become my favorite and most essential cleaning tool, saving me time and physical effort whilst also bringing the best cleaning results I've seen.

It's now a key part of my cleaning routine in the kitchen, bathroom, and beyond.

Why I love using an electric scrubber

In the same way an electric toothbrush saves you time, effort, and cleans better than a manual one, the same applies to an electric scrubbing brush, making it an essential cleaning tip, in my view.

This one comes with nine heads for different surfaces, and is ergonomic and comfortable to hold and use. Even with my wrist and joint issues (I have a genetic connective tissue disorder), it doesn’t cause pain or send painful vibrations up my arm, which has been a problem for me in the past.

Since getting this one, I've used to it to blast tea and coffee stains from my stainless steel sink, clean the grout in my shower, and get rid of hard water stains in my bathroom, especially in my shower, as well as scrubbing pots and pans I usually leave for my husband and his brute strength force.

The speed the HOTO spins (300 rotations per minute) also cuts down the amount of time I have to spend scrubbing or contorting into an awkward position for a thorough clean. It's also not so fast that it can damage surfaces, making it perfect for use on multiple types.

If you suffer pain, fatigue, or chronic illness like me, having tools like the HOTO, available from Amazon, that make things quicker and easier is an essential part of successful adaptive pacing when cleaning.

I’ve used it when cleaning my home with baking soda, dish soap, and harsher commercial cleaning products without any issue across any of its heads. I particularly like the stiff bristle brush head, which has, over months of use, been indestructible.

What to shop

I’m still a big fan of manual crevice scrubbing brushes for awkward, slim gaps and corners, but the biggest change I've made in my home cleaning is using my DIY essential oil cleaning spray across my home as a versatile and non-toxic cleaning spray.

It works on glass, mirrors, kitchen countertops, door handles, stainless steel, and so much more, helping make my home less toxic.

Whether you're looking for the latest smart home must-haves or you want to create a fully digital home with smartphone-controlled lights and voice-activated thermostats, it can seem quite overwhelming, especially to those who are less tech-savvy than others.

Knowing where to start can be the hardest part, but luck is at hand. We've put together a beginner's guide to creating your very own smart home.

How to set up a smart home

These are the basics of setting up a smart home – you won't need to invest in everything at once unless you are tackling a home renovation, in which case it's worth integrating smart home tech trends into your design plans. Many elements of smart tech can also be retrofitted.

1. Make sure your Wi-Fi is up to scratch

The first thing you need to make sure is that you have a strong wireless connection, so whatever smart home devices you use aren’t affected by patchy Wi-Fi spots. And with more and more of us working from home, responsive broadband is a must for all those Zoom, and Google Meet calls.

This may involve investing in a Wi-Fi booster or extender, which can help expand the range of your wireless network. However, if the internet connection entering your home is already slow, or if the booster is too far from the router, it may be disappointingly ineffective. So, contact your provider to see what they can do – or suggest – to help you before spending any money.

2. Invest in a virtual assistant

This is the perfect place to begin as the smart speakers can allow you to control other smart devices with simple voice commands. There are several popular smart speakers available on the market with each having its own benefits.

Each speaker listens to your instructions on command and can be set up to operate many features around the home from lighting and thermostats to security cameras. Not only are the devices useful within our four walls but are also helpful for organizing personal and family schedules. The speakers can create, edit, and remind you of events on your calendar, monitor your work commute and audibly run through recipes with you step by step.

3. Set the scene with a smart lighting system

Smart lighting is not only one of the most affordable smart home devices but it can also be quite easy to set up – whether you buy a smart light, have your lighting mains wired to respond, or simply fit smart lightbulbs into existing fittings.

Once in place, you just need to connect them to your smartphone via the dedicated app, after that, you can control the lights as and when you see fit. They allow you to schedule your lights, arrange them to turn on or off at specific times, and make the house look naturally occupied when you’re away.

Best of all, most smart bulbs consume less energy than regular light bulbs making them more energy-efficient and financially friendly in the long run.

4. Stay secure with a video doorbell

If you’re looking to amp up your home security, a video doorbell, such as the Ring, can offer just this.

These devices allow you to see who is at your door and talk to them in real time, even if you’re not at home. They work like a traditional doorbell but also alert homeowners on their phones via an app where video surveillance and recordings can be found.

Being connected is essential to get the most out of what a video doorbell offers. Many work seamlessly with Alexa, Google Home and more, so you can bring up the live feed on your smart display or make your speaker double as a chime.

Another genius way some video doorbells can integrate with a wider smart home is by acting as a trigger for certain actions, with a ring signal to devices such as smart light bulbs, other cameras and speakers.

For example, if you struggle to hear a chime, changing the lights in the room will signal that someone is at the door. It’s also great for safety – activating flood lights will help you better see what’s happening when motion is detected.

5. Add extra protection with a smart lock

High-tech, super-secure ‘smart’ locks have been the preserve of spy thrillers for years, but now they’re available in reality – and at prices that will allow you to install one on your own front door.

The latest locks off keyless entry using your smartphone, fingerprint, or keypad, as well as the ability to open the door remotely and grant access to people on specific days – it is a smart gadget that works hard for your home.

Wireless devices can be hacked, of course, but the best smart locks are protected by bank-grade encryption and are constantly kept up to date.

6. Keep warm (or cool) with smart thermostats

Smart thermostats, such as the Nest or Tado, are not only useful but can also help save money in the long run, with some users saving an average of 31% on heating costs.

Easy to operate, these devices establish a schedule for the home’s temperature based on when you and your family need it. The product can inform you about your energy usage and its associated costs, making it simple to monitor your home’s energy expenditure.

In addition to cost monitoring, the device detects when you and your family are at home, so if you forget to turn off the heating, you can rest assured that your smart thermostat has you covered.

7. Install smart plugs

Setting up a smart home on a budget is easily done and all you need are smart plugs – Amazon's smart plugs are a great go-to. They can turn your regular appliances into smart devices without completely re-wiring your home or buying brand-new appliances.

This is a far less expensive way of starting the transition to the new age of living. You can then also connect your smart plug to your smart speaker, so you can control your appliances with voice commands.

Adding smart gadgets around the home might seem like a recipe for an energy crisis, but they can actually lower your electricity usage. You'll be so glad you set up a smart home, and only wish you started sooner.

Now, with a heat dome event threatening most of the US, it is more important than ever to have the right tools you need to stay cool, even if the power goes out.

Here, emergency preppers and medical professionals have revealed the seven essentials you should have in an emergency home cooling kit to help you handle extreme heat at home safely.

How to make an emergency home cooling kit

Getting your home emergency ready can help to keep you and your family safe and healthy in any crisis. Although some summer sun might not sound all that bad, extremely high temperatures can pose a health risk (and that’s besides all the ways the summer heat can damage your home).

To stay safe in heatwaves, experts recommend keeping the following at home:

1. Battery-powered fans

Even if you have AC in your home, it is always a good idea to have the best fans as a backup to help you stay cool if the power goes out.

Uma Darji, MD of family medicine, shares, ‘As a family medicine doctor, I always remind my patients that extreme heat can be more dangerous than we think, especially for young kids, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. Having a home cooling kit ready can literally save lives during a heat emergency.

‘My top picks for a home cooling kit include battery-powered or rechargeable fans. A lot of parents have small versions of these for their kids’ strollers. Just get some bigger ones and have some extra batteries on hand for them as well. Fans can make a huge difference when the AC is out and can magnify cooling when paired with damp towels, ice packs, or misting spray bottles.’

This twin pack of refillable misting spray bottles from Walmart is perfect for cooling down, as one press of the trigger releases a long blast of misty droplets.

Understanding how to cool a room with fans correctly can also make a huge difference if you are left without AC during peak temperatures.

2. Electrolyte drinks

Neglecting hydration is one of the worst things to do in a heatwave. Uma continues, ‘Hydration is always key in the heat, so keeping some electrolyte solutions or hydration powders in your kit is also crucial. When we sweat, we are losing water and electrolytes, which are needed to keep our organs, muscles, and nerves working properly.’

The Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder from Walmart is a great choice, as it has a long shelf life and can be mixed with normal water for ages eight and above. It is also wise to have some bottles of water ready, in case extreme heat weather events lead to drought and water shortages.

As with packing a DIY hurricane preparedness kit, it is wise to have around one gallon of water per person, per day. The top-rated Reliance Products 7-Gallon Aqua-Trainer from Amazon holds a one-week supply of water for one person and has a built-in spigot for easy dispensing.

3. Cooling vests

One of the best ways to stay cool at home is to cool your body, not just the air around it. Jeremy Gocke, army veteran, survivalist, and CEO of Entropy Survival, says, ‘We have a couple of phase change cooling vests on hand; we bought them for our sons' high school soccer training, which overlaps the hot part of the season.’

A phase change cooling vest, available at Amazon, holds ice packs, usually frozen in the freezer ahead of time, to help keep the core body cool for up to three hours. For powercut situations, you can use an evaporative cooling vest, also from Amazon, which you soak in cold water for a few minutes before wearing to help keep you cool for several hours.

If the power goes out, avoid opening your fridge and freezer as that will help it retain the cool temperature for a while.

4. Chemical ice packs

Chemical or instant ice packs, available at Target, are a fantastic, affordable cooling product to beat the heat and do not need a freezer, making them a great emergency item to have on hand in either cooling kits or first aid kits.

To use them, you pop an internal packet, usually by hitting the ice pack very hard, allowing a chemical reaction that instantly cools the pack. They are single-use, but perfect if you do not have access to a working freezer.

Uma explains, ‘Emergency chemical ice packs are also great to quickly cool down when overheated, and as mentioned before, towels when soaked in water and placed on your body can help bring body temperatures down.

5. Thermal blankets

This might sound strange when the goal is to stay cool. However, Uma shares, ‘If you lose power, it’s critical to block out heat as much as possible. Close curtains and blinds to keep the sun out, avoid using heat-producing appliances, and move to the lowest level of your home where it tends to be cooler.

'People usually hesitate when I ask them to include emergency thermal blankets [available from Walmart] in their summer kits, but they are great to put on a window to keep heat out and block out sunlight.’

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden used travel blackout blinds from Amazon made for traveling with children, which suction onto windows without any need for installation and found them to be immensely effective.

6. Loose-fitting clothes

In very high temperatures, your body needs to breathe to allow sweat to evaporate. Uma suggests, ‘always wear loose-fitting clothes during these situations.’

When organizing a dresser and picking out your most suitable hot-weather clothing, opt for natural, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen for the best chance of staying cool.

Avoid materials such as polyester, which can trap heat against the body and make you feel hotter.

The same applies to your bedding. Using the best cooling bedding will help you sleep better at night during a heat dome event or prolonged heatwave.

7. A back-up power unit and mini-AC

There are several reasons why a backup battery can be vital in a power outage, and in a heatwave, it can keep your AC, freezer, or fans going to keep you at a comfortable and safe temperature.

If you do not have time to hook up a generator to your home, Jeremy shares, ‘In the way of a backup power unit, we have a Jackery power unit, from Walmart, and GoalZero portable batteries, from Amazon, to charge smaller items.

‘With that, we have a standby mini-AC Unit – the Toshiba 8000 BTU portable, available at The Home Depot – that will quickly cool a large room if needed.’

FAQs

What is a heat dome?

A heat dome, also known as a heat wave, is a weather phenomenon where heat lingers over a region for several days or weeks at a time. It is the result of high atmospheric pressure that causes warm air to be pushed to the surface, trapping it there. The result is very high temperatures, high humidity, droughts, and wildfires.

Meet the experts

Uma concludes, ‘In a heat emergency, prevention is key. Stay hydrated, check on vulnerable neighbors, and know the signs of heat exhaustion early, such as dizziness, nausea, or heavy sweating.’

With these severe weather events happening more frequently throughout all seasons of the year, it is also worth brushing up on ways to future-proof your home against extreme weather, too.

My home is an extension of who I am, how I want to live, and what I take great joy from, so a $50 Amazon gift voucher last week was a welcome birthday delight in my drive to make my chaotic kitchen cabinets more streamlined and functional.

Even though Amazon Prime Day is coming on the 8th July, these are the four kitchen cabinet organizers on offer right now that I am using my voucher on without delay.

4 kitchen cabinet organizers I’m spending my Amazon gift voucher on

To declutter my kitchen cabinets, I've earmarked these four essential organizers to help instantly tidy things up with minimal effort. They're all currently discounted, but check out quickly to avoid these deals expiring or going out of stock.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

There are lots of brilliant ways you can use hooks around the home to expand your storage spots, as well as how you can use storage baskets to corral items and keep clutter from building on surfaces.

But, with the Joseph Joseph Shoe Rack Organizer available at Amazon, messy, untidy shoes are a thing of the past.

Here's why we recommend it, and exactly why we think it's one of the best storage ideas for small spaces.

This shoe organizer triples your storage space

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you've been struggling to organize shoes or hide shoe clutter in small spaces, look no further.

This handy, innovative shoe organizer holds up to three pairs of shoes while taking up virtually no extra space, allowing you to store multiple types of footwear in one small storage solution.

It also features a ridged surface to prevent shoes from slipping, making it perfect for organizing shoes in a small closet, particularly if you prefer to rotate your shoe collection seasonally.

Additionally, it's super easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. Satisfied shoppers have rated it five stars, commenting that it's 'Smart and makes the hall look so much tidier,' a 'Simply amazing space saving design!' and 'An ingenious idea for housing shoes when space is at a premium.'

Plus, if you need something even more compact, or an option with a little more space, it's available in both a smaller and a larger size, too.

You can shop the Joseph Joseph Shoe-In Shoe Slots Organizer and whilst the larger Joseph Joseph Shoe-In 2-Tier Space-saving Shoe Rack Organiser at Amazon is out of stock at the time of writing, the Oalirro 3-Tier Small Shoe Rack available at Walmart can be used similarly.

So, if you're looking to overhaul your boot room storage ideas or organize shoes in a small space, what are you waiting for? There's no time like the present to kick your shoe hoarding habit and get organized for good.

What to shop

Interested in more minimalist storage solutions? Opt for modular storage with space-saving designs.

Luckily, professional cleaners have found four tricks that really force you to stay on top of the mess, from tricks to bring dirt into sharp focus, to physically blocking yourself from creating clutter.

Here, they have shared their top cleaning tips to ensure a home is always clean and that you stick to your habits like glue.

4 tricks to make sure your home is always clean

Breaking bad home habits to ensure a house stays clean is tricky, but these four habits of highly organized homeowners can help trick you into staying clean and tidy for good.

1. Use clutter barricades

The easiest way to tackle mess is to stop clutter before it starts. While you can commit to short-term buying bans or promise yourself that this really is the last time you will put something down rather than putting it away – it usually always ends up with piles of mess again.

To tackle this, Scott Schrader, professional cleaner at CottageCare, suggests using a physical barricade. He says, ‘Prevent clutter before it can build up. Use something decorative, such as a tall vase, sculpture, framed photo, etc., in areas of your home where clutter typically builds up, such as entry tables or kitchen islands.

'These decorative items act as physical and visual deterrents and subconsciously condition everyone in the house to keep those spots clear.’

2. Strategically use lighting to highlight dirt

It is generally a good idea to increase natural light in your home to help you stay energized and motivated; however, it can also prove to be the best motivation to clean, highlighting every crumb and speck of dust so that you physically cannot ignore it any longer, forcing you into an achievable cleaning routine.

Samantha Shpeen, controller and chief home officer at Cleancult, shares, ‘Let lighting do the dirty work. I like to open blinds wide during the day and turn on bright task lighting in the evening when cleaning. Natural light shows dust you might otherwise miss, and under-cabinet lights in the kitchen are surprisingly helpful for spotting spills and crumbs.’

3. Conceal cleaning tools everywhere

The clean-as-you-go method is nothing new and can certainly help to keep your home clean all the time. However, it can fall apart pretty quickly if you have to traipse across your home to find the right tools.

To counteract this and make cleaning feel more intuitive, Scott suggests doing away with the traditional cleaning cabinet and instead concealing your essential cleaning tools all over your home.

And Scott really means all over, adding, ‘Tuck microfiber cloths or cleaning wipes in bathrooms, kitchens, and yes, bedside drawers. In those moments when you wash your hands or wait for your coffee, you wipe down one small surface.

‘These 30-second habits don't let dirt pile up, and when you do a deep clean, it's modular, less daunting, and sometimes informal.’

The non-toxic Cleancult All Purpose Cleaners, available at Walmart, come in beautiful aluminum refillable bottles, making them easier to conceal in spots across your home. Pair with a pack of microfiber cloths, also from Walmart, to make cleaning quick, easy and effective.

4. Allow a clutter corner

‘Keeping a home clean all the time’ and ‘allowing a clutter corner’ don’t sound like they belong in the same article; however, giving yourself some leeway and following practices such as the desire-path decluttering method can give you a little space to rebel in an otherwise pristine home.

Samantha continues, ‘Designate a clutter corner and decorate it intentionally. We all have that one spot where clutter loves to pile up, so instead of fighting it, embrace it, but with boundaries.

‘I recommend keeping a decorative tray or a small bowl [such as the Target braided seagrass folio bin, which is deep enough to hide clutter but not so big as to stick out on a side table] in the usual drop zones, and even placing a plant or a tall vase in spots where things tend to accumulate. It gently blocks clutter from taking over and reminds everyone that this is a temporary holding space, not a dumping ground.’

FAQs

Why do I struggle to keep my house clean?

Keeping a house clean is a constant uphill battle, and can take a significant amount of time and energy (made worse by busy work or school schedules, or ill health). Trying to do little and often, rather than tackling everything in one go, can make the task feel more manageable and keep areas ticking over week by week, rather than becoming one big mess that takes longer to fix.

Try using adaptive pacing for cleaning if health barriers are getting in your way.

Does decluttering help with cleaning?

Decluttering your house regularly and keeping surfaces and floors tidy can help with cleaning, making it easier to see the mess, prevent dust, and clean around items, making your overall cleaning routine less overwhelming.

Decluttering can also help prevent pests by reducing their possible hiding areas and hot spots for harborage, resulting in a cleaner, safer home.

Meet the experts

These quick tips certainly help to keep a house clean all the time, but you still need to dedicate some time to deep cleaning your house every so often. It’s annoying, we know, but it’s a must to keep your home free from dangerous contaminants and mold.

That’s why I am excited to see the Ring Battery Doorbell with Ring Indoor Cam on sale at Amazon for its lowest price ever, pre-Amazon Prime Day 2025.

Having grown up in a home not too dissimilar to Fort Knox, this security combo is a certified must for me to feel comfortable in my home, and it’s currently 50% off for a limited time, offering peace of mind at a fraction of the price.

But what makes a doorbell one of the best home security tips? Here, I break down the benefits.

Why the Ring Doorbell and Camera combo is a must-have

In our round-up of the best wireless doorbells, the Ring doorbell came out on top, garnering 4.5/5 stars, with quick replies allowing you to leave pre-programmed messages for guests if you are out of the home, wireless installation (making it one of the best security measures for a house for renters like myself), and Alexa compatibility.

As an Alexa-integrated household, I love that I can stream both the doorbell and the camera’s point of view straight to any of my Alexa Show home assistants, also available from Best Buy, as well as to my phone, giving me instant access to my home no matter where I am in the world.

I was first introduced to the Ring systems as one of my Military dad’s top security picks, and while they annoyed me as a kid at first (I would often look bananas talking to my front door when leaving the house for school in the morning when my dad checked in on me as I locked up the house), I now couldn’t live without them.

Mounted to the front door, with an internal camera surveilling my yard, the combination helps to dissuade and prevent porch pirates from venturing too close to my property – this is especially useful as more and more delivery drivers have taken the approach of playing ‘ding-dong ditch’ and leaving parcels on my doorstep before I have the chance to get up from my chair.

Perhaps the best use for the interactive doorbell is catching deliveries when I am not able to get to the door. Now, I can ask the driver to put the parcel in a safe place, rather than miss delivery or have them leave it in full view of passersby in the first place.

My dad and I are not the only fans, either.

Verified Amazon-shopper J. Banks shared, ‘I couldn’t be happier with the Ring Doorbell and Outdoor Camera combo. The setup was incredibly simple, everything synced up with the app in minutes, and the instructions were super easy to follow. The video quality is excellent, both day and night.

'The doorbell gives a clear view of anyone at the door, and the outdoor camera covers a wide area with sharp resolution. I get real-time notifications, and the motion detection is customizable, so I’m not bombarded with alerts from passing cars.

‘What I love most is the peace of mind it brings. Whether I’m home or away, I can see what’s going on and even talk to visitors through the app. The battery life is solid too—I only need to recharge every few weeks.’

It's now at its lowest price ever, making it a great deal to snap up, even before Amazon Prime's first four-day sale event, coming on July 8.

What to shop now

FAQs

Do you need a neighbor's permission for a Ring doorbell?

You will not need permission from your neighbours to install a ring doorbell so long as it does not overlook any areas of their property, such as their yard or windows.

Whether or not a neighbor can point CCTV at your house is a complex legal issue, and is best discussed with your neighbors first to avoid any complicated conversations later down the line.

Use the digital privacy blocks available on the app to block recordings of areas your neighbors can reasonably expect privacy, for instance, a bathroom or bedroom window.

Do Ring doorbells work without a subscription?

The only downside to Amazon Ring Security systems is that they often require a monthly subscription to access all features. However, the doorbell still works without the subscription, albeit without the camera storing video clips of activity. You will still receive notifications for movement and button presses, however, maintaining the primary function of the video doorbell.

Fancy something with a little less financial upkeep? We compared the eufy vs Ring doorbells for you to find the right setup for your home, and the eufy comes out on top for ditching your monthly subscription while still having access to features, including storage.

According to our cleaning pros, there is and it's inside your drawers and cabinets.

Here, they share their thoughts on the things you do not need to clean regularly, and why.

This is the 1 hidden spot you should neglect cleaning

Alessandro Gazzo, professional cleaner at Emily's Maids, shares, 'I usually get asked what's the hidden spot you should clean, but not the one you should neglect!'

His answer? 'If I had to choose one, I'd probably say the inside of drawers and cabinets. There's no real risk if you neglect it for months, unless something liquid spills. Otherwise, if there's any dust or dry food spilled once every now and then, it's not a big deal.'

It may be on your list of places you definitely aren't cleaning, but our pros give you permission to skip it for months at a time.

When it's time to spruce it up here's what to do.

How to clean inside drawers and cabinets when the time comes

When the time comes to clean your kitchen drawers and cabinets, the good news is that they're usually things you can clean in five minutes or less.

Alessandro advises, 'I suggest getting a handheld or portable vacuum cleaner.' Our top pick from the best handheld vacuums category is the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean+ Cordless Handheld Vacuum available at Amazon. The BLACK+DECKER Cordless Handheld Power Vacuum, also available at Amazon, is a good affordable option, too.

'Run your vacuum with a brush attachment or a crevice nozzle, like the Celik Vacuum Cleaner Nozzle Head available at Amazon, and then wipe with a microfiber cloth.

'Also, you can use a microfiber cloth and just a spritz of multipurpose cleaner [such as the Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner available at Walmart] to absorb any lint or stubborn grime inside your cabinet.

'If this is a kitchen cabinet or drawer, you might want to add a drop of dish soap just for extra degreasing power,' adds Alessandro. We recommend the Dawn Ultra Liquid Dish Soap available at Walmart for this.

Other spots you can neglect cleaning

The inside of your drawers and cabinets isn't the only hidden spot you can neglect cleaning.

Jade Piper, cleaning professional and operations manager at BetterCleans, adds that you can also skip cleaning behind appliances and under furniture, so long as you don't neglect them forever.

'Even if you skip cleaning them for months, nobody is going to check them!' she assures. 'Dust will naturally build up, but because it’s not too exposed, it will happen slowly. Of course, don’t ignore them forever.

'You can include cleaning them in your quarterly deep cleans or do it immediately if you spot a cockroach or some ants.'

This is super important to avoid any kitchen cleaning mistakes, as you certainly don't want to attract any common indoor pests to your space. The same goes for cleaning under furniture, which can be the hardest household cleaning task to tackle.

'If you love to experiment and love shifting things around for a new look, take the chance to vacuum or mop underneath before putting everything back,' adds Jade. This is a quick and easy way to update your space without spending any money.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

What is the most neglected part of a house?

The most commonly neglected is cleaning windows. While only doing so once or twice a year might not seem like a lot, it's crucial to keep your windows clean to allow natural light into your space and keep your home looking fresh and bright.

Meet our expert

There are also likely more than a few overlooked spots you're forgetting to dust in your home, like the top of the fridge.

But while La Bella Figura deeply influences personal style and social graces, its spirit reaches into every part of Italian life, including how homes are kept and presented.

Professional organizers reveal how La Bella Figura can work in tandem with the best decluttering tips to transform your home into a welcoming, harmonious, and beautiful sanctuary.

How 'La Bella Figura' applies to the home

Embracing La Bella Figura in the home is about presentation and respect. It means your living space is always ready to welcome a guest, even if they drop by unannounced.

The idea is that you're more deliberate about what you own, so there's no clutter or excess, making spaces feel light and beautiful, leaving you physically and mentally freer to be your best self.

Francesca Verri, owner of Verri Organized, explains, 'As a first generation Italian, I grew up hearing about La Bella Figura, and experiencing, though every trip to Italy to visit my family, the careful and specific way they prepare both a meal and their home for guests – minimally, yet filled with “enough" to feel welcomed and comfortable.

'The phrase La Bella Figura literally translates to “the beautiful figure”, and people usually think of it in terms of how a person dresses and presents themselves. While this is true in part, I think of it more as a way of living life with your best foot forward.

'It's about being beautiful inside and out, and having all aspects of your life reflect that beauty. And it's about living with enough, not too much, so you can more easily manage your space and life.'

La Bella Figura at home isn't about showing off, but about keeping a standard of neatness, warmth, and subtle beauty. It involves smart decluttering, ensuring every item has its place, and making cleanliness a priority.

It can be applied across many key spaces in the home:

1. 'La Bella Figura' in the kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the Italian home, and La Bella Figura here means a space that's both practical and perfectly clean. Countertops are clear of extra clutter, letting the beauty of fresh ingredients or a simple espresso maker stand out.

Verri explains, 'In the Italian culture, the kitchen is the place where you gather, connect, and share stories over meals. But if you can’t find the counter to cook a meal or a space at the table to sit and enjoy it, you make it harder to do so. That's why you'll rarely see an Italian kitchen with crowded counters or tables. Everything is in its space – and there's always room to cook!'

To embrace La Bella Figura in your kitchen, Verri says, 'you want it to be more welcoming and functional. One at a time, focus on the two key areas – the countertop and the table. Set a timer for 25 minutes, then sort everything into four piles: keep, move, trash and recycle.'

This is known as the four-box decluttering method.

'At the end of the 25 minutes, take five to clear the decks,' Verri advises. 'Move the trash and recycling to their appropriate spots, and move anything that belongs elsewhere to its respective place. You should be left with just what adds beauty and practicality.'

Verri recommends using the 'Pomodoro Technique' – which our writer tried to great success. 'It's perfect as the Pomodoro time management method was developed by an Italian man: Francesco Cirillo,' explains Verri. 'The goal is to break work into intervals – usually 25 minutes – with a short five-minute break in between. This helps split large tasks into more manageable chunks.'

Much like the ODT method, this simple approach helps bring order to a task that can seem so daunting that it puts people off starting. Don't forget, also, to clear out the areas not so visible.

Maxed-out kitchen drawers and cabinets are likely the reason clutter keeps creeping back into your home.

2. 'La Bella Figura' in the living room

As a place for relaxing and entertaining, your living room shows La Bella Figura through comfort and quiet elegance.

Think neatly fluffed cushions, blankets draped artfully, and maybe a carefully chosen book or two on a coffee table, instead of a pile of old magazines. Remote controls are put away, and surfaces are free of dust. It’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels effortlessly comfortable yet refined.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, explains, 'Applying La Bella Figura to decluttering means focusing on quality over quantity. The goal isn’t sterility or perfection, but charm, intentionality, and pride in your surroundings. Living room bookshelves are perfect candidates for this approach, as they can either elevate or clutter a space.

'To declutter books with grace, first take everything down, dust the shelves and wipe down each item. Group similar items – books, frames, candles, decorative pieces – and remove anything damaged, dusty, or that no longer brings joy.

'Next, limit what goes back up. Choose pieces that align with your taste and create visual balance. Think symmetry, soft edges, and natural tones or materials. Finally, make sure to leave negative space. La Bella Figura appreciates breathing room.'

3. 'La Bella Figura' in the entryway

Your entryway is the first impression of your home, and La Bella Figura means it should be tidy and inviting.

Though there are many stylish entryway ideas, it will likely be clean, elegant, and minimalistic, showing the care you put into your home, making sure visitors step into an organized and welcoming space right away.

Toner says, 'The entryway is your home’s handshake – it should feel both welcoming and composed. Clear the space of shoes, bags, and mail. Wipe down surfaces and sweep the floor.

'Use concealed storage like a basket or drawer to tuck away items that disrupt visual harmony, and keep only what you use daily – one pair of shoes per person, a streamlined key bowl or tray, and a mirror or artwork to elevate the feel.'

Toner recommends Yamazaki's Home Tower 2-Tier Entryway Organizer from Amazon for its slick, white, minimalist design.

She adds, 'Finally, add a scented element – perhaps a reed diffuser or sprig of eucalyptus – to bring in beauty and aroma. Ask yourself: Does this entry make me feel proud to walk in?'

Having a seat for guests to put their shoes on easily will be a functional and vital addition.

4. 'La Bella Figura' in the bedroom

Even in this private space, La Bella Figura promotes a feeling of peace and order. The bed is made every day, surfaces are largely clear, and there is a feeling of calm.

Verri says, 'Similar to the kitchen, bedrooms in Italy only have things in them that are specific to that space. You won’t often walk into a bedroom and find clothes strewn around. All flat surfaces – such as the bed, the floor, and the tops of dressers – are clear.

'To begin enacting La Bella Figura in your bedroom, I suggest a quick tidy of anything that's out and visible but shouldn't be. Where clutter still lingers – perhaps at the bedside table or on top of a dresser, I would again apply the Pomodoro technique to sort and discard what you like and will use from what no longer serves a purpose.'

Verri recommends two key tools for keeping a bedroom tidy and clearing visual clutter from bedroom surfaces.

She says, 'The first is a basic laundry basket to provide an instant “home” for clothes at the end of the day. Having it in your closet makes you less likely to store dirty clothes on the floor! I like the Rubbermaid Large Hip-Hugger from Amazon.'

You can also add a secondary function with Joseph Joseph's handy laundry bin organizer, which comes with two or three sections and is available on Amazon.

'The second tool is more of a process,' Karina says. 'If you ever feel overwhelmed by clutter and don't know where to start, you really must make your bed. You'll start your day with your room feeling tidy, and feel welcomed when you return later.

'Remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect – La Bella Figura isn’t about perfection, just about keeping a tidy, practical space that allows you to more easily put your best foot forward.'

Meet the experts

So there you have it – how to apply Italy's La Bella Figura concept to your home for a tidier, more mindful space.

By focusing on cleanliness, smart organizing, and subtle beauty, you don't just create a good-looking home; you build an atmosphere of calm and harmony that makes daily life better, reflecting the very best of Italian elegance.

Next, learn how to organize any space in six steps for maximum functionality and delve into the benefits of a tidy home.

Luckily, if you are not sold on harsh chemicals for cleaning kitchen countertops and you're exploring how to clean a kitchen naturally, there is a far less toxic and more gentle alternative, Sal Suds soap.

But what makes this non-toxic cleaning product so effective when cleaning a kitchen? Here, pro cleaners break it down.

Sal Suds for cleaning kitchen counters

We love Sal Suds magic soap, and for good reason. As Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare shares, it is one of the best alternatives for cleaning and removing stains from countertops as it is non-toxic, non-corrosive (meaning it safe for use on natural stone when used correctly), and does not compromise food safety; perfect if you're looking to make a home less toxic.

Scott says, ‘I like that I can mix such a small amount of Sal Suds with plain water to make a non-toxic, all-purpose cleaner for almost every task. I use this for cleaning countertops, floors, and even bathrooms as it works amazingly to remove grease, grime and dirt, but does not leave harmful filler residues behind.’

How to use Sal Suds for kitchen countertops

Making this DIY cleaning solution is simple. In her non-toxic bible Soap & Soal, available at Amazon, Lisa Bronner breaks it down into four easy steps:

1. Fill a glass spray bottle, available in packs of two from Walmart with one quart (one liter) of water (Sal Suds can be mixed with soft and hard water without affecting the results, meaning tap water is fine for this step), then add one tablespoon of Sal Suds.
2. If you want to add a custom fragrance, you can also add up to 20 drops of an essential oil of your choice – Lisa recommends tea tree oil, available at Target, as it adds ‘a convincingly clean scent’ to make the transition from commercial cleaners easier.
3. Swirl gently to combine before spraying on surfaces such as kitchen counters, around your home.
4. Wipe the solution away with a damp, soft microfiber cloth, available at Walmart. Lisa writes, ‘the dampness of the cloth is important because it is this water that the soap will latch on to for rinsing. If you spray and wipe with a dry cloth, you’ll leave soap behind.’

Cleaning stone counters with Sal Suds

Sal Suds is a safer alternative to cleaning with vinegar when caring for natural stone in your home, but there are some considerations to make before saturating your whole kitchen worktop with this concentrated cleaner.

When cleaning natural stone, avoid using any abrasives – no rough sponges or clothes, and no powder cleaners either, as they can etch the surface. Be sure to properly dilute the Sal Suds, too, as it is very concentrated and could cause damage over repeated exposure.

In her book, Lisa also reminds us to follow the manufacturer’s advice on sealing natural stone, adding, ‘I ignored that part because I thought nothing could hurt granite. After a crack encircled my kitchen sink, I now have a new countertop and an emptier bank account.’

What to shop

FAQs

Is Sal Suds antibacterial?

According to Lisa Bronner, Sal Suds and Castile soap do not kill microbes. Rather, they remove germs and bacteria from the surface, lifting them away to leave a safe surface behind. That is why you should always wash your clothes after each use, or use disposable cloths or paper towels.

Can I mix Sal Suds with vinegar?

It is not recommended to mix Sal Suds with vinegar, as it can make Sal Suds less effective at cleaning. Instead, combine Sal Suds with plain water, at a ratio of one tablespoon to every liter of water.

Meet the experts

Sal Suds is not the only non-toxic cleaning solution we love from Dr. Bronner's. There are several ways to clean with castile soap at home, too, offering a more gentle clean for delicate surfaces, including pets and skin. Note, however, that Castile soap does not mix as well with hard water, and distilled water is best.

Experts in cleaning reveal that many of the ingredients in laundry detergent, such as surfactants, enzymes, and softening agents, are just as effective in other areas of the home. With the right dilution, it can tackle tough messes, freshen up unexpected items, and even restore things you thought were beyond saving.

From tackling grime in unexpected places to restoring the condition of beloved items, we explore five clever ways to use laundry detergent outside of the laundry room essentials. You may never look at the detergent on your laundry shelf the same way again.

5 alternative ways to use laundry detergent for cleaning

1. Detangle and clean doll hair

If you have children or a collection of nostalgic toys, you’ve likely dealt with frizzy, tangled doll hair at some point. Surprisingly, liquid laundry detergent that includes fabric softener can work wonders on synthetic doll hair, mimicking the effects of a leave-in conditioner.

‘Mix a teaspoon of detergent-fabric softener combo with a cup of warm water, then use a small spray bottle or gently submerge the doll’s hair,’ advises Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning.

‘Let it sit for five to 10 minutes before using a wide-tooth comb from Target to detangle. The softeners in the mix make the strands more pliable and easier to manage.’

Once combed through, rinse the doll’s hair thoroughly in lukewarm water and let it air dry. You’ll be amazed at the silky finish, and your kids (or inner child) will thank you.

2. Clean greasy kitchen cabinets

Grease can silently accumulate on kitchen cabinet doors, especially those above the stove. Where previously you may have tried to clean with vinegar or use degreasers, liquid laundry detergent is a gentle but effective alternative that won’t strip paint or finishes.

‘Laundry detergent cuts through grease because it contains surfactants designed to break down oils on clothing—and it works the same way on kitchen grime,’ continues Karina. She suggests mixing one tablespoon of detergent with two cups of warm water. Use a microfiber cloth from Walmart to wipe down the surfaces, then follow with a damp cloth to rinse.

Bonus: If your detergent is scented, you’ll be left with subtly fresh-smelling kitchen cabinetry, no harsh chemical aroma required.

3. Mop and shine tile floors

You don’t need a closet full of specialized floor cleaners to get sparkling tile. Laundry detergent, particularly the low-suds, HE (high-efficiency) kind, is excellent for mopping hard floors and cleaning tile floors.

'In my professional cleaning toolkit, laundry detergent is one of the safest, most economical ways to clean floors,' says Will Cotter, COO of FreshSpace Cleaning. 'It lifts dirt while leaving behind a gentle scent, without the buildup some floor-specific products cause.'

To make a floor-safe solution, combine a quarter cup of liquid laundry detergent with a gallon of warm water. Mop as usual, ensuring your mop is well-wrung to avoid excessive moisture. Always follow with a clean water rinse if your floor has a matte or unsealed finish.

Molly's Suds unscented detergent from Amazon, is one such cleaner.

4. Pre-treat upholstery stains

Accidents happen, especially on sofas and chairs. Whether it's spilled wine, muddy paws, or marker mishaps, laundry detergent can act as a safe and effective way to clean upholstery.

Dilute one teaspoon of detergent in a cup of lukewarm water, then apply to the stain with a sponge, blotting (not rubbing) gently. Let it sit for a few minutes before blotting again with a clean, damp cloth to rinse out the residue.

Because laundry detergent is formulated to remove stains from a wide range of materials, it’s actually gentler on upholstery than some harsher chemical sprays. Test first on an inconspicuous area, of course, but this trick can breathe new life into tired armchairs and family room couches.

It's a good idea to add some to your stain station.

5. Wash outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture takes a beating from the elements, especially after a long winter or a dusty, pollen-filled spring.

Whether it’s patio chairs, loungers, or outdoor dining sets, these pieces often emerge from storage looking grimy, faded, or covered in sticky debris.

Rather than reaching for multiple specialty products or pressure-washing every surface, a simple solution of laundry detergent and water can clean outdoor furniture effectively and safely.

Laundry detergent is particularly useful for cleaning materials like plastic, resin, powder-coated metal, and even all-weather wicker. Mix a quarter cup of liquid laundry detergent into a gallon of warm water. Stir gently to combine, then dip in a soft-bristle brush from Amazon, a microfiber cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge.

‘Scrub the furniture thoroughly, paying close attention to areas with textured surfaces or crevices where grime accumulates,’ continues Will. ‘For heavily soiled pieces, allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. Once cleaned, rinse the furniture with a hose or a bucket of clean water and let it air dry in the sun.’

For cleaning outdoor cushions or fabric elements, spot-test a diluted detergent solution on a hidden area before applying broadly. In many cases, laundry detergent can also be used to clean removable outdoor cushion covers, just check the care label first.

Avoid using this technique on unsealed wood, natural rattan, or fabrics not labeled as outdoor-safe, as the moisture and detergent can cause warping or discoloration.

What to shop

FAQs

Can you use laundry detergent to clean concrete?

In short, yes, you can use laundry detergent to clean concrete. To use, mix ¼ to ½ cup of liquid laundry detergent into a gallon of warm water. Pour the solution over the stained or dirty area, then scrub with a stiff-bristle outdoor broom or brush. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down grime, and then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.

For oil or grease spots (such as on a driveway), sprinkling powdered laundry detergent directly on the stain, adding a little warm water to make a paste, and scrubbing with a stiff brush can also be effective. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes before rinsing.

While laundry detergent is safe for sealed and unsealed concrete, avoid overuse on painted or stained finishes, as repeated scrubbing could cause dulling over time. Always test a small area first if you're unsure.

Laundry detergent might seem like a one-trick pony, but a closer look reveals just how multifunctional this humble product can be. With the right dilution and a bit of know-how, you can tap into its hidden cleaning powers all around the home.

As with any cleaner, always spot test on delicate surfaces and avoid overuse, as concentrated detergent can be too strong for some materials.

But overall, these unexpected uses might just inspire you to rethink how you stock and set up your laundry room.

Both purifiers and ionizers sound similar, but experts warn that the differences between them are important when deciding to invest in your health.

After spending more than 100 hours testing the best air purifiers in my own home, here I compare the two technologies side by side to help you decide which option is safest and most effective for your space.

Air purifiers vs. air ionizers

I caught up with HVAC and air purifier industry experts, for the full low-down on air purifiers and air ionizers.

What's the difference?

Kelly Russum, owner of KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing & Air Conditioning, begins, ‘Air purifiers act like vacuums, ionizers act like magnets. Purifiers physically trap pollutants such as dust, dander, and pollen using HEPA or carbon filters. Ionizers, on the other hand, release charged ions into the air that bind to airborne particles, causing them to fall or stick to surfaces.’

It's an important distinction. What air purifiers do is physically remove pollutants from your home by trapping them in replaceable filters, almost like a vacuum cleaner for the air. Many models include activated carbon filters to target odors and gases like VOCs – a method also used in professional-grade systems, and are often confused when comparing air scrubbers vs air purifiers.

In contrast, ionizers don’t remove particles – they displace them. Negative ions attach to pollutants, making them heavy enough to fall from the air. As Lane Martin, co-founder of Modern PURAIR, explains, ‘You’re not really removing the particles, just getting them out of the air temporarily.’

It’s also worth noting that particles dislodged by ionizers tend to settle on floors, shelves, and other surfaces, meaning you’ll still need to clean them up manually. This is important to remember, alongside other air quality mistakes at home, such as ignoring dust buildup or failing to vacuum soft furnishings. The Black+Decker dustbuster furbuster at Amazon is perfect for vacuuming sofas and upholstery thanks to its powerful, handheld design that we awarded 4.5 stars on test.

Dr. Jaspreet Dhau, vice president of research development at Molekule, adds a further note of caution, ‘Ionizers work to remove pollutants by electrically charging airborne particles. However, ozone is a very gangrenous and toxic compound and a lung irritant even at low concentrations.’ It’s a side effect of many ionizing processes – and one that shouldn’t be overlooked when deciding on an air ionizer.

Which is best for me?

Choosing between an air purifier and an ionizer largely depends on your health and your home's priorities.

If you suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, experts overwhelmingly recommend air purifiers. Kelly Russum says, ‘Air purifiers give tangible and visible results. You see the filters fill up, and they’re excellent at capturing allergens, mold spores, and even bad smells.’

Air purifiers are also highly effective when paired with other lifestyle changes, such as removing household items that pollute your air and improving ventilation. For urban homes, they’re especially helpful in efforts to improve air quality when living in a city.

On the other hand, ionizers offer low-maintenance convenience. With no filters to change, they’re quieter and cheaper to run. They can also help with ultra-fine particles, such as smoke.

But as Dr. Dhau warns, ‘Ozone is a toxic lung irritant,’ and ionizers that emit it are best avoided in homes with children, pets, or anyone with respiratory sensitivities. Having an indoor air quality monitor, available at Walmart, can help you stay on top of indoor irritants.

‘If you want an ionizer,’ advises Kelly Russum, ‘you need to choose models that meet California’s CARB ozone emission limits.’ These are certified to release little or no ozone – a vital consideration, especially in small or poorly ventilated rooms. This Lasko Tower Fan and Ionizer at Walmart is officially certified to meet these standards.

Some people consider using both devices or purchasing models that combine the two. However, Russum argues this is often unnecessary: ‘There’s no need to knock down pollution and push it to surfaces, if you can just get rid of it with a purifier.’

What to shop

You can find air ionizers ranging from $40 to $200+ at Walmart and Amazon to suit different homes. Here are our top three air purifiers from the 17 we've tested. All prices correct at time of publication.

Meet the experts

Next, learn how to choose an air purifier, and compare how they stack up against more natural solutions, such as air purifiers vs plants.

Your roof is more than just a protective shield, however. It's a significant investment that impacts your home's curb appeal, energy consumption, and overall value. Choosing the right type of roofing material requires careful consideration of your budget, local climate, architectural style, and long-term goals.

When deciding where to spend and where to save in a remodel, selecting your roofing is a key consideration. Our expert guide explores 10 of the most common types, delving into their characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and typical pricing, so you can pick the best roofing for your needs.

1. Asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material in the USA, renowned for their affordability and versatility.

Typically ranging from $3 to $6 per square foot, they are highly cost-effective and easy to install, which contributes to lower labor costs. You'll find them widely available in an array of colors and styles to match any home aesthetic.

However, the lifespan of asphalt is shorter compared to other materials, typically lasting 15-30 years, and it can be prone to algae and moss growth in humid climates.

There are two main types of asphalt shingles: three-tab and architectural. Single-layered, with a flatter, more uniform appearance, three-tab shingles are the more easily affordable and common type. Architectural shingles are made with multiple layers of laminated asphalt, resulting in a thicker, more durable, and dimensional look.

Nick Segar, of Indy Roof & Restoration, says, 'Most American homes have asphalt shingles, and there's good reason for that. They're affordable, contractors know how to install them properly, and the newer architectural styles actually look pretty decent. We've put these on thousands of homes, and when you use quality underlayment and proper installation techniques, they'll protect your house for a solid 20-30 years.

'But here's what I tell everyone – skip the basic three-tab shingles. They're yesterday's technology. The weather we get these days (seems like every storm is 'historic' now) will beat them up pretty quickly. For reliable protection without breaking the bank, architectural shingles are the sweet spot. They work great on traditional home styles and handle normal weather patterns just fine.'

These GAF Timberline HDZ Architectural Roof Shingles from Lowe's are algae-resistant and come in multiple color,s including charcoal, slate, hickory and pewter gray.

2. Metal roofing

Metal roofing is gaining popularity for its sleek appearance and outstanding longevity.

This material is extremely durable, boasting a lifespan of 40-70 years or more, and offers excellent resistance to fire, rot, mildew, and insects, so you won't have to worry about any of the most common roof pest infestations. It's also environmentally friendly and highly energy-efficient due to reflective coatings.

On the other hand, metal roofing has a higher initial cost than asphalt or composite – pricing varies significantly by metal type, ranging from $8 to $30+ per square foot installed.

Jim Marino, CEO of Pinnacle Home Improvements, says, 'Metal roofing has come a long way over the years, as it was once almost exclusively used for commercial roofing. Times have changed, and so has this material – while it’s still durable and long-lasting, it comes in many different designs, colors, and styles that don’t make it look like a metal roof.

'Though the initial installation cost can be high, metal roofing is an excellent insulator, so great for saving energy, and comes with an excellent lifespan, so you won’t have to replace it again in your lifetime. Plus, if you’re worried about wild weather, these roofs can take it like a champ too.'

Metal roofing is best suited for homeowners prioritizing longevity, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics, especially in areas prone to wildfires, heavy snow, or high winds.

Firescaping with plants can also help protect against wildfires.

3. Composite shingles

Made from recycled materials such as rubber and plastic, composite shingles are engineered to replicate the look of slate or wood shakes with superior performance.

Their key benefits include exceptional durability and resistance to impact, fire, and rot, making them highly reliable. They are also lightweight, low maintenance, and very eco-friendly due to their recycled content.

On the downside, they come at a higher initial cost than asphalt, and they may have a more limited range of colors and styles.

Brian Davis, technical support director at Brava Roof Tile, says, 'Composite roofing is an ideal choice for a wide range of property owners due to its durability, versatility, and ease of installation. Composite roofs cost a bit more – usually $7 to $12 per square foot – but they make up for it with low maintenance and an impressive lifespan of 50 years or more.

'Their performance in extreme weather makes them a smart choice for nearly any climate or roof type, including flat or low-slope applications. Add to that the potential to improve energy efficiency, and composite roofing is a long-lasting investment in both form and function.'

4. Rubber roofing (EPDM)

Often used for flat or low-slope roofs, EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber roofing membrane.

EPDM boasts excellent waterproofing properties, is very durable and long-lasting (20-50 years), lightweight, and easy to install. At just $4 to $10 per square foot, it's an economical choice, plus it's resistant to UV rays and temperature fluctuations.

The main cons are its limited aesthetic options, as it's typically black (though lighter colors are available), and it can be susceptible to punctures from sharp objects.

Segar says, 'EPDM has been protecting commercial buildings forever. This workhorse handles temperature swings really well (which matters here in the Midwest), offers solid puncture resistance, and provides cost-effective protection for flat applications.

'Though fine for garages and utility buildings, it's about as attractive as a garbage bag, so you probably don't want it on your main home unless you're going for that industrial look.'

5. Rolled roofing

Rolled roofing, also known as modified bitumen or self-adhering rolled roofing, is a cost-effective and practical solution primarily used for low-slope or flat roofs, as well as sheds, garages, and other outbuildings.

Its main advantages are a very low cost, the ease of installation (a DIY-friendly option for smaller projects), and its excellent waterproofing capabilities due to the continuous membrane it forms. It's also relatively lightweight.

However, rolled roofing has a significantly shorter lifespan, typically 5-15 years, is generally not aesthetically pleasing for visible main roofs, and can be more susceptible to tears or punctures than more robust materials. It also offers minimal insulation value, so it isn't great for preparing a house for cold weather.

Typical pricing for rolled roofing is very economical – usually $1.50 to $4 per square foot installed. This material is best suited for homeowners needing an inexpensive and straightforward roofing solution for low-slope applications like sheds, garages, carports, or small additions where aesthetics are not the primary concern.

This GAF Liberty Base Sheet from Lowe's is self-adhering, eliminating the need for any dangerous chemicals to be used above your home.

6. Slate roofing

Considered the pinnacle of roofing materials, natural slate offers unmatched beauty and longevity, capable of lasting over a century.

Slate's advantages include an unrivaled lifespan of 75-200+ years, being naturally fireproof, waterproof, and resistant to mold and fungus. It also offers excellent insulation and significantly adds to property value.

However, slate is extremely heavy, almost always requiring significant structural reinforcement, and has a very high initial cost for both materials and specialized installation.

As a luxury option, slate typically costs $15 to $40+ per square foot installed. Loose tiles is one of the things roofing pros recommend checking, and since slate is brittle, it can crack under impact, making repairs difficult and costly.

Marino says, 'Slate is one of those roofing materials that will make people look at your home and say, “Wow!” It’s beautiful, and it has the added bonus of being one of the longest-lasting natural roofing materials. It’s also fireproof and resists mold and mildew growth, making it less of a hassle to maintain.

'On the downside, slate is incredibly expensive, and you’ll need to reinforce your roof to support its added weight. While it is durable, if a tile cracks, it can be a pricey repair.'

This material is best suited for homeowners with a substantial budget who prioritize a timeless, prestigious aesthetic and extreme longevity.

7. Clay tiles

A classic choice for its distinctive Mediterranean aesthetic, clay tiles are made from natural earthen clay fired at high temperatures. They are extremely durable and long-lasting, and are naturally fire-resistant. They also offer excellent insulation properties, helping to regulate indoor temperatures, and require low maintenance.

As a premium option, clay tiles typically cost $10 to $25 per square foot installed. They can also require additional structural support for the roof, raising the outlay further.

Marino says, 'If you have a Spanish or Mediterranean-style home, these tiles help carry on that aesthetic. They’re also tough contenders that can stand up to nasty weather while providing an elegant appearance. Roofing tiles that are made from clay or concrete can last 50 years or more, and they’re fire resistant, allowing you to have a little more peace of mind.

'However, clay tiles are heavy, so you'll need to think about structurally reinforcing your home first, adding to the installation cost.'

Marino recommends this Lurrose Tile Fasteners Clips Set from Amazon, which comes with 20 in a pack. He adds, 'Clay tile roofing can be very heavy and requires reinforcement to prevent damage. These fasteners are needed to keep the tiles in place, and having them on hand in case one comes loose is always a good idea.'

8. Wood shakes and shingles

Wood roofing – typically made from cedar, redwood, or cypress – offers a natural, rustic charm. Shakes are thicker and more irregular, while shingles are sawn for a more uniform appearance.

The pros include their beautiful, natural aesthetic, good insulation properties, and the fact they are made from a renewable resource.

On the flip side, they have a shorter lifespan (20-40 years) compared to other premium materials, require regular maintenance like cleaning, sealing, and fire-retardant treatments, and are susceptible to rot, moss, insect damage, and can be a fire risk.

Wood roofing is in the mid to high range for pricing, typically $6 to $15 per square foot installed, so it can be costly overall.

Marino says, 'It’s hard to beat the beauty of wood with its naturally rustic appeal. Cedar is a prime choice as it’s great for repelling insects. Wood is also a great natural insulator.

'However, if you’re going to choose wood, you’re going to need to be diligent about maintaining it. Moss loves to grow on it, and unless the shingles are specifically treated, you have a greater fire risk.'

Inspecting and sealing gaps is also vital for preventing drafts and deterring pests seeking warmth in the winter. Marino recommends the Red Devil Extreme Duty Caulk Gun, available from Amazon, adding, 'Caulking around the perimeter or checking weatherstripping can go a long way to winterizing your home. You’ll want to remember to insulate as needed to ensure your home is protected from winter’s icy wrath.'

9. Green roofs

Also known as 'living roofs', green roofs involve covering a roof with a layer of vegetation planted over a waterproofing membrane. They come in 'extensive' (thinner soil, low-maintenance plants) or 'intensive' (deeper soil, more diverse plantings).

The significant benefits include improved air quality, reduced stormwater runoff, insulation for lower energy bills, and mitigation of the urban heat island effect. They also extend the roof's lifespan by protecting it from UV and temperature extremes, plus offer an obvious aesthetic appeal.

However, green roofs have a high initial cost (typically $15 to $40+ per square foot) and complex installation, along with significant weight, requiring substantial structural reinforcement. They also demand ongoing maintenance, such as watering and pruning, and are not suitable for all roof structures or pitches.

This Sta-Green Weed Barrier Landscape Fabric, available at Lowe's, is a worthwhile investment. A root barrier is a fundamental component of any green roof system, preventing plant roots from damaging the underlying roof membrane. This landscaping fabric serves as an affordable and accessible root barrier for smaller DIY green roof projects.

Green roofs are best suited for eco-conscious homeowners or commercial buildings committed to sustainability, who have a robust roof structure and are prepared for the significant investment and ongoing maintenance. They're especially ideal for urban environments where green space is limited.

10. Solar tiles

These innovative roofing materials integrate photovoltaic cells directly into traditional-looking roof tiles or shingles, offering a discreet way to generate solar energy.

Their primary advantages include a highly aesthetic appeal, blending seamlessly with the roof for a clean look, the potential to increase property value, and the ability to provide renewable energy, slashing electricity bills and your carbon footprint.

On the other hand, they come with a very high initial cost ($20 to $50+ per square foot), often requiring a complete roof replacement, and are typically less efficient than traditional mounted solar panels per square foot. Their installation is also longer and more complex.

If you're going for solar tiles, this 50-pack of COOLHOOD Stainless Steel Cable Clips from Amazon is a smart purchase. While the solar tiles themselves are extremely expensive, proper cable management is crucial for the safety and longevity of any solar installation, including integrated solar tiles.

These affordable clips and ties ensure that wiring is securely fastened and protected from UV exposure and abrasion, preventing damage and maintaining system efficiency.

Solar tiles are essentially mini solar panels, and so learning how to clean solar panels safely and efficiently is a worthwhile exercise, so you opt to go this route.

Solar tiled roofing is best suited for homeowners undertaking a new build or major renovation who prioritize aesthetics and environmental responsibility and are willing to make a significant upfront investment for that integrated energy generation.

It's definitely something you can consider for an eco-friendly remodel.

Meet the experts

So there you have it – 10 types of roofing, and how to pick the best one for you. Choosing the right roofing material is a multifaceted decision that balances budget, climate, desired aesthetic, and long-term performance.

By understanding the distinct advantages and disadvantages of each option, you can confidently select a roof that not only protects your home but also enhances its beauty and contributes to its lasting value.

Next, learn about the exterior hot spots for leaks in the rainy season.

For that reason, organizational pros say it's far better to ditch them for good and get ruthless with your decluttering, before it's too late.

Here, they share their top tips on using decluttering methods to avoid delayed decisions and offer advice on how to overcome the mental block to reach a resolution.

Why it's time to ditch your 'maybe' pile

As Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized, says, it's time to ditch your 'maybe' pile because, if we are being honest, maybe usually means no, 'just dressed up as procrastination.'

She explains, 'The "maybe" pile feels like a safety net, but it's just dragging out the process and taking up mental and physical space. If something truly mattered to you, you'd know. The longer it sits in limbo, the less likely you are to ever use or love it again.'

In turn, this can also make it far more difficult to get motivated to declutter, further exacerbating the problem.

Tracy McCubbin, CEO and founder of dClutterfly agrees, warning, ‘Maybe’ piles can take on a life of their own and become a subset of your clutter problem.

She says, 'Once you start a ‘maybe’ pile, you’ve given yourself permission to not make the decision of “should it stay or should it go.” Another slippery slope with the ‘maybe’ pile is that it languishes in the corner and is now really a clutter problem.'

It can be a common sign you're losing control of clutter, or that you are facing decluttering burnout.

How 'maybe' piles make things harder

Di advises, 'It can be bad to put off making your mind up. Delaying decisions adds to the overwhelm and keeps you stuck. When you keep putting off choices, the clutter sticks around – and so does the stress that comes with it.

'That's why I always say: clutter is just postponed decisions. The sooner you decide, the lighter you'll feel.

Tracy adds, 'Once you start adding a bunch of things to the ‘maybe’ pile, you’ve delayed the decision yet again. It somehow adds even more weight and importance to that item. Thinking “Well, I couldn’t decide whether to let it go or not, so that item must be extra important!” results in the clutter piles growing.'

So, our pros say, it's crucial to learn to be more ruthless when decluttering. The best place to start is putting together a decluttering checklist, starting small and focusing on progress, not perfection, says Di.

For this, she recommends working through the questions to ask yourself when decluttering, like the 'Would you buy it again?' test for decluttering, to make it easier to decide what to declutter and overcome decision fatigue.

Di continues, 'Give yourself permission to let go without guilt. Holding onto something out of obligation or "just in case" weighs you down. Once you realize that letting go makes space for what really matters, it gets easier.'

When 'maybe' piles can help

All this being said, Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says in some circumstances, a 'maybe' pile can be helpful, so long as you do not let it get out of control.

He points out, 'Making decisions about our items is about efficiency and momentum, so when an item stops that process, creating a maybe pile helps. However, the challenge comes when our maybe pile never gets dealt with.' This is especially true with tackling tough decluttering sessions, such as decluttering sentimental items.

If this is the case, you can declutter as you go if you prefer – you don't have to decide on everything at once. This is particularly helpful when you need to declutter your home when you feel overwhelmed. But the key is not to allow decisions to physically pile up.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet our experts

If you're still struggling to ditch your 'maybe' piles, keeping in mind some transformative quotes for decluttering can make a real difference.

While traditional bladed fans have long been the go-to solution for affordable cooling, bladeless fans have entered the market with sleek designs and futuristic promises. But do they actually outperform their traditional counterparts?

Here, HVAC experts explain the core differences between these two types of fans, including the pros, cons, features worth paying for, and the expert-backed best fans for cooling your home this summer.

Bladeless vs. regular fans: What’s the difference?

The transition from bladed to ultra-modern bladeless models has brought about plenty of questions from consumers. Are bladeless fans truly safer and more efficient, or is it mostly about aesthetics and brand hype? With prices often several times higher than traditional fans, it's worth knowing whether bladeless fans are truly worth the investment.

At first glance, the key difference between a bladeless fan and a traditional fan is obvious – one has visible spinning blades, and the other appears to be completely smooth and blade-free. But behind the minimalist design of bladeless fans lies a clever bit of engineering.

John Mitchell, HVAC technician and owner of Air Conditioner Lab explains, ‘Bladeless fans use hidden internal blades in the fan base to draw in air.

‘This air is then pushed up through a ring-shaped amplifier and out through a slit along the edge, creating a smooth, continuous stream of air.

'Regular fans, in contrast, use large external blades to chop the air and push it forward, creating a more pulsed airflow.’

So, while both types ultimately serve the same purpose, circulating air to cool a room and keep a home cool in a heatwave, they differ significantly in design, airflow delivery, and maintenance.

Bladeless fans: Pros and cons

When it comes to cooling a room with fans, bladeless models, such as the bestselling PELONIS Bladeless Tower Fan available at Amazon, have gained popularity for their modern design and safer, quieter cooling. But before investing in one, it's important to understand what they truly offer, and where they might fall short compared to more traditional options.

Josh shares the pros to consider:

• Aesthetic appeal: Sleek, modern, and often compact, bladeless fans fit seamlessly into your space.
• Safety: Without exposed blades, these fans are ideal for those living with pets or small children.
• Ease of cleaning: No grills or blades to disassemble makes cleaning tower fans without blades a breeze.
• Quieter operation: Most bladeless models run much quieter than traditional fans, making them ideal for keeping a bedroom cool, or cooling down an office.
• Advanced features: Many models include HEPA filters, the best air purifiers, timers, app connectivity, and remote control functions.

And the cons:

• Cost: Expect to pay a premium – bladeless fans can be three to 10 times more expensive than standard models.
• Cooling power: While the airflow is smooth and consistent, it may not feel as powerful as a high-speed traditional fan.
• Maintenance costs: Fewer replaceable parts and complex internals mean repairs can be costly if something goes wrong.

Regular fans: Pros and cons

While bladeless fans may be gaining popularity for their innovation, regular fans have stood the test of time for a reason. Their simple design, accessible price point, and powerful airflow make them a popular choice for cooling homes across the country, especially during a heatwave.

But as with any appliance, they come with trade-offs. Here’s what to know about the advantages of traditional fans, which are among the most affordable cooling products:

• Affordability and simplicity: You can find a reliable, high-performance fan for under $50, such as the bestselling Lasko Classic Box Fan available at Walmart. Fewer electronic parts also means fewer things that can break, helping you to likely save money in the long run.
• Powerful airflow: Traditional fans often produce a stronger, more forceful breeze, making them one of the fastest ways to cool down a house, and ideal for larger rooms or hotter climates.
• Variety: They're available in a wide range of styles – from desk fans, such as the Amazon Basics Air Circulator Fan available at Amazon, to large oscillating tower or pedestal models.

And the limitations:

• Safety concerns: Exposed blades can be dangerous for pets and children, even with a grill.
• Noise: The chopping action of blades can create a noticeable sound, which some people find distracting. This may make it difficult to sleep with the fan on overnight, for example.
• Cleaning: Dust collects on blades and grills, and disassembly can be time-consuming.

Features worth having, and those to skip

Whether you’re leaning more towards a bladeless or regular fan, not all features are worth prioritizing.

To help you make a smart choice, Asif Bux, owner and service manager at Comfort Union, an HVAC and plumbing company, has broken down the features that truly add value and those that might look impressive on the box but don’t offer meaningful performance or long-term benefit.

Here's what to prioritize when choosing your next fan:

• Oscillation: Ensures even distribution of air so you can choose the best fan direction to cool down the room.
• Multiple speed settings: Essential for adjusting airflow to your comfort level.
• Timer function: Saves energy by allowing the fan to turn off after a set period.
• Air filtration (for bladeless fans): Combines fan function with air purification. This is a great investment if you also suffer from hayfever and want to combat common allergies.

And what to skip:

• Built-in speakers or mood lighting: These rarely perform well and unnecessarily drive up the price.
• Touch screens: Often more impractical and harder to use in dim lighting.
• Smart features: Unless you're truly integrating your fan with your smart home must haves, many of these features go unused.

What to shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

FAQs

Do bladeless fans use more electricity?

As it turns out, the opposite is true. Bladeless fans use significantly less electricity than their traditional counterparts, typically between 30 and 35 watts as opposed to between 60 and 75 watts. Therefore, they're the better option if you're looking to cut energy bills.

Meet our experts

Ultimately, the choice between a bladeless fan and a traditional one depends on your priorities. If safety, design, and quiet operation top your list, and you’re willing to pay for it, a bladeless fan could be a worthwhile upgrade. However, if budget and raw cooling power are your main concerns, a well-made traditional fan still does the job brilliantly.

In truth, neither type is universally better. They simply meet different needs, and both provide a suitable alternative to other air conditioning types. The key is to balance function, style, and budget to find the fan that best fits your home and lifestyle. With the right model, you can keep your home cool and sleep better all summer long.