Headboards are the perfect way to create a statement in a bedroom. They're often used to elevate a bare wall and can allude to the overall style or theme of the space. Constantly evolving, they represent comfort and thoughtful design, combining practicality with aesthetics.

There are so many varieties when it comes to headboard ideas. Upholstered, tufted, organic, and extended are just some terms that feature in a long list of styles. With new designs constantly being created, there are so many types available that are bound to suit any style of interior.

We reached out to designers to gather their thoughts on the key headboard trends for the year ahead. The experts have spoken, stating they'll be using these seven key looks within their designs for the foreseeable future. We've put together a list of their go-to choices that are predicted to dominate bedroom schemes in 2025.

1. Tufted headboards

Tufting is an instantly recognizable technique that you'll usually find featured on upholstered furniture. It's long been featured on headboards likely due to its sophisticated, timeless look that evokes quality and comfort.

We don't doubt that tufted headboards will continue to be popular this year, they're classic and thus unlikely to ever go out of style. Tufting is often featured on all types of headboard styles, emphasizing its versatility and long-established status. From luxurious velour to smooth leather, tufting is universally loved and a go-to style chosen by designers across the globe.

Kathy Kuo has a homeware line that features a variety of on-trend headboard styles, but she says her all-time favorite is a bed finished with tufting. 'I always love the look of a classic upholstered headboard with tufting. It's a look that is timeless and elegant, and an upholstered headboard also adds an additional element of comfort and plushness to a bed.'

Designer Alexandra Kaehler agrees, saying, 'I love a tufted, upholstered headboard. It offers warmth through the introduction of textile, but also texture and interest with the tufting. Functionally, it is also really lovely to rest your head against when in bed.'

2. Boucle headboards

Although modern minimalist is predicted to take a back seat this year in terms of design trends, there's still a much-loved attitude towards low-key, neutral headboards. You can't go wrong with a subtle yet textured headboard that allows the bedding to do all the talking.

Minimalist interiors often favor texture as it brings variety to a space where the color and decor are paired back. One of these materials is boucle, which is known for its plushy nature and ability to soften a space. When it comes to headboards, it's the perfect fit as it's cozy and inviting, ideal in a room made for sleeping and relaxing.

Lara Apelian, founder of Lara Apelian Studio says, 'We love a custom upholstered headboard and bed. The bed is the main stage of the bedroom, so you want it to be memorable and have some character. Our recent project in New York City called for a soft bed for family story time and lounging on weekends, so we opted for a boucle performance fabric.'

3. Mixed material headboards

Headboards come in all shapes and sizes and it's becoming increasingly popular to mix fabrics and materials to create bespoke, thought-out designs that differ depending on the desired feel of a space.

A trendy headboard style that's growing in popularity combines contrasting materials, creating a dramatic statement that allows the bed to be at the center of the bedroom. There are so many variations of this style, but a great example is the mixture of leather and wood. It's an industrial style that still feels homely through the use of smooth, textural leather.

Nina Lichtenstein says that her favorite headboard styles 'embrace organic materials, timeless craftsmanship, and often a thoughtful mix of textures. I find myself drawn to modern designs that incorporate mixed materials – wood paired with rattan, leather, or even metal – for a headboard that feels dynamic and layered,' she says.

4. Extended headboards

The extended headboard is an unconventional yet long-established headboard style loved by designers. The clue's in the name with the 'extended' style. They come in various forms but usually span across the width of the wall or stretch up to the ceiling.

There are many extended headboard styles, from entirely upholstered walls to fluted wood paneling they're all a form of the classic bed type.

Nina loves the versatility of the style, acknowledging their ability to create drama as they often become the main feature in a bedroom. 'Extended headboards in slatted or paneled wood, sometimes paired with rattan insets or leather upholstery, create a dramatic and cohesive backdrop. The effect is clean and architectural, giving the bedroom structure while celebrating the textures and tones of natural materials.'

5. Boutique-style headboards

This is one that often goes unnoticed. While they're popular in homes across the globe, you'll usually find this headboard style in vacation rentals and hotel suites. Typically a statement, these large padded pieces are synonymous with comfort and luxury and ensure you're comfortable all night long.

'Dramatic boutique-hotel style headboards are set to be big this year with more and more people looking to add a touch of luxury to their every day.' says John Rastall, Head of Home at DFS. 'To lean into boutique hotel styling, accessorize this headboard with vintage-inspired bedside tables, eye-catching art, and plenty of jewel tone accent décor in the form of lamps and throws.'

Touching upon the extended headboard trend, John says, 'Depending on the size of the room, multiples of this headboard can also be stacked vertically or horizontally to create a luxurious feature wall and make the bed the undeniable star of the show.'

6. Natural and organic headboards

Natural, organic-style interiors will always be popular. This style instantly calms as it mimics nature through texture, color, and material. You'll often see natural-style furniture in modern organic homes, but they're becoming increasingly popular in interiors of all styles.

John Rastall says that 'Natural textures like rattan are trending, bringing a rustic, farmhouse feel to bedroom design. Bringing colors and textures from the outdoors in is a surefire way to create a tranquil bedroom atmosphere. Embrace the best of the natural world when styling this look and accessorize with textured linen and cotton bedding, throws, and cushions in soft pastel colors seen in nature.'

7. Vintage-inspired headboards

You can't go wrong with vintage-style fabric on a headboard, it's timeless and almost always brings a cozy feel to a bedroom. Traditional upholstery techniques have long been used on headboards likely due to their softness and ability to elevate an otherwise plain bed.

Palmer Weiss says she 'gravitates toward headboards that are rooted in classical styles, but feel more fresh and fun, much like the one used in this project (pictured above).' This headboard shape is classic, harking back to antique-style furniture yet is covered in a more contemporary fabric.

Palmer selected a vintage-inspired fabric with a classic repeat pattern which makes the headboard a standout feature. 'The choice of fabric also plays a significant role in shaping the style options. For example, heavier fabrics may not lend themselves well to tufting, while fabrics with a distinct pattern could be complemented by a fun piped border.' says Palmer.

From traditional upholstery to boutique-style frames, there are a range of favorite headboard trends this year that designers are loving. Many draw upon tradition and incorporate classic shapes and fabrics, showing us that long-established styles are still a go-to. But if you're not ready to commit, options like the viral ruffle headboard pillow scratch the itch for all of the above.

I'm in the middle of a big living room makeover. We're talking new paint, new floor, new fireplace, and of course: new furniture.

And while I managed to nail the new couch brief pretty early on with a Facebook Marketplace bargain (honestly, my best to date), I've been yearning for a beautiful ottoman or two to really pull my new living room look together.

With my heart set on something with a fun shape and an even more fun print, I've put in some serious hours on the World Wide Web to find myself an ottoman that ticks all those boxes and remains in budget. And boy, did I hit the jackpot.

No one was more surprised than me to find the perfect piece on Target. Sure I'm familiar with their work, but I really thought I was heading down a custom route for this one.

Until the Shea McGee x Target Spring collection dropped. Shea's design house, Studio McGee, already has quite the inventory of sell-out Threshold designed with Studio McGee collections but the Spring 2025 drop might just be her best yet.

Full of Spring-inspired, cottagecore designs and playful meets classic prints, this season Shea has reimagined the Bellfield Ottoman in a supersized gingham check that feels super luxe and perfect for my living space.

Previously available in both olive green and light brown velvet, this best-selling footstool comes with a solid 74 4.4* ratings and raring reviews, so I know I'm in good hands with this purchase. Plus, there's absolutely no assembly required at all.

Speaking on the collection, Shea describes how the 'thoughtfully designed details, like the pleated armchairs and gingham ottomans, introduce depth and pattern while maintaining a sense of calm.' Which is exactly the feeling I want to conjure up in my cozy living room.

The soft neutral tones mean this will sit happily among heavier prints in the room, like a vintage rug, and at just $90, I'm going to be snapping up a pair.

Perfect for extra seating, a place to rest your feet, or even to perch a tray and a drink on top (if there are no clumsy folk around); I know this is going to be a versatile and stylish purchase to start my new year decorating on a good foot.

Shop More Shea McGee x Target Ottomans

It's that time of year when I look to interior designers and homeware brands for decor inspiration more than ever. January can feel a little flat once the holiday decorations come down, so my home (and my mood) is often in need of a little boost. I find rethinking my scheme is almost always guaranteed to make me feel energized for the new year ahead.

Plus, so many brands are bringing our beautiful spring collections, I can't help but feel excited for spring decor. So you imagine how thrilled I was when I heard Pottery Barn has teamed up with renowned textile brand, Kravet to create a beautiful, vintage-inspired collection of home furnishings inspired by the brand's historic patterns. Known for its vast archive of textiles, Kravet has been producing beautiful fabrics for over a century and its collaboration with Pottery Barn has made these beautiful designs even more accessible.

'We’re so proud of the one-of-a-kind pieces from the new Kravet and Pottery Barn collection,” says Pottery Barn President Monica Bhargava. 'This collection reinterprets their heirloom decorator prints in a way that feels fresh, timeless, and beautifully suited for our customer’s home.' Kravet's classic prints have been recolored and reimagined with the Pottery Barn customer in mind. There is something here for any style of home or room, ranging from ditsy florals to bold stripes.

I've scrolled through all the pieces in the newly launched line and selected my favorites which are assured to give any home a luxurious, classic feel at an affordable price point.

Shop the Pottery Barn x Kravet collection

From country-style tableware to striking upholstery fabric, the Kravet x Pottery Barn collection is filled with versatile pieces that will bring a touch of historic grandeur to any scheme.

Decorating with vintage fabrics is a wonderful way to inject color, pattern and warmth into interiors. Antique textiles and vintage fabrics often display exquisite artistry and handcraftsmanship which make them perfect for creating bespoke pieces and bringing unique personality – they also evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia.

Vintage fabrics and vintage-inspired prints are a go-to for interior designers looking to create timeless schemes, but they also work well alongside modern design elements to create characterful, layered spaces.

From curtains and seating to lampshades and cushions, there are lots of ways to incorporate vintage fabrics into your scheme and even the smallest of pieces can really add depth and interest to interior design. To find out more about the appeal of decorating with vintage fabrics and how best to use them we spoke to the interior design experts to get their tips and insights.

Why decorate with vintage fabrics?

From tapestries to ticking and Indiennes to Ikats, vintage fabrics are a continual source of inspiration for interior designs and can be used in all sorts of ways from lampshades and bedspreads to wallhangings and framed artwork. Not only is there a rich archive of historic designs available, authentic antique and vintage fabrics display a level of craftsmanship inimitable by modern designs, thus allowing you to create something completely unique imbued with the stories and markings of age.

‘They create a richness of color and pattern and add an extra layer of texture. Using a one-off vintage piece allows you to create something entirely bespoke for a particular space,’ says interior designer Penny Morrison. ‘It is also good from a sustainability perspective.’

When decorating with antique textiles, mixing antique fabrics with modern pieces helps achieve a ‘lived in’ feeling to interiors as if they have organically evolved over time.

‘Nothing should feel too contrived, rather it should be playful, captivating our interest wherever we look. To create this, consider architectural salvage and antique fabrics, says Henriette von Stockhausen, founder of VSP Interiors . 'They can add that sense of connection and lived-in feel that we all crave without looking too staid. At the same time, they can also be easily mixed into a more contemporary interior if you are unsure about antique furniture.’

Alongside their decorative appeal, vintage fabrics are a brilliant way to create a feeling of comfort and nostalgia in our homes, something that many of us crave in this fast-paced digital world. In fact, they're just one of the many vintage trends making a comeback.

‘People seek timelessness and nostalgia in their homes. Harking back to designs of the past is a great way to create a timeless interior, reconnect with memories, and create an intimate, comfortable space, says Rebecca Craig, lead designer at Sanderson.

Authentic vintage fabrics can easily picked up from flea markets and antiques fairs. Online marketplaces such as 1stDibs, Panamo and eBay are great places to source antique furniture and vintage textiles.

What are the drawbacks of decorating with vintage fabrics?

Authentic vintage fabrics are hugely desirable for their bespoke and aged charm, but they can be problematic when it comes to decorating. Vintage fabrics are often available only in small quantities or in irregular lengths and sizes which can make it tricky to use them for long drapes and large upholstery projects.

Their quality and condition can be variable, too. They often come with signs of age and their colors can become faded over the years due to exposure to sunlight. ‘The downside of course is that while they were beautiful they are also often not very strong,’ says Caroline Inchyra, founder of fabric brand Inchyra. It was partly this that led Caroline to develop her own range of vintage-inspired linens with aged finishes.

Can you use vintage fabrics for upholstery?

Having furniture upholstered in antique and vintage fabrics is a fabulous way to create a unique statement in a room. Large quantities of vintage fabrics can be hard to source, so smaller pieces are often a better option.

‘I would probably use the vintage piece for cushions or a small chair – preferably an occasional chair that isn’t often used for actually sitting in! Even small pieces like these can set the tone for a room scheme and provide a platform from which the rest of the scheme develops,’ says Caroline Inchyra.

If you’re thinking of getting seating covered in vintage fabrics then the upholsterer will need to know the composition of the fabric to check that it is suitable. 'Customers can have any antique fabric on their upholstery as long as they are able to tell us what the composition of their textile is. We have to have this information for fire regulation reasons,’ explains Andrew Cussens, CEO and Design Director of Sofas & Stuff.

You'll also need to take into account the strength and durability of the fabric. In order to be suitable for use over upholstery fabrics need to have a Martindale or rub count of at least 15,000.

From cozy cottage decor ideas to head-turning maximalist looks, these ideas and expert tips for decorating with vintage fabrics are guaranteed to inspire.

1. Layer vintage fabrics with modern prints

When decorating with vintage fabrics layering is the key say the experts, especially in rooms that you want to feel relaxing and welcoming such as living rooms and bedrooms. They also work wonderfully in kitchens and bathrooms to help soften hard surfaces.

'We love to mix prints. We always start with the hero print such as a large-scale floral that has all the colors that we have in the room. Then we build on top of that mixing in geometrics, squiggles or small-scale fabrics in complementary colors,' explains interior designer Sean Symington.

'As a general rule designers will often choose quite a strong design as a starting point,' adds Caroline Inchyra. 'One of the issues with vintage and antique fabrics is that often there is not very much of it so a good idea is to use it for smaller items that can make a scheme pop.'

While mixing up vintage-inspired prints can be extremely effective, it's important pay attention to the base cloth of the designs say designers. ‘Always make sure the base cloth colors are similar. I think that's important. Sometimes, if the design is printed on to a base cloth that is too white and the rest of the fabrics are more yellow, it doesn't really work. The base material matters,’ says Sean Symington.

2. Use vintage fabrics over lampshades

Vintage fabrics often come in small quantities, but if you love a fabric don’t despair, as it can easily be made up into a beautiful statement cushion or lampshade. ‘Lampshades are a great way to showcase vintage textiles because you don't need that many meters,’ says Sean Symington. ‘For a recent project, I had some Samarkand fabric made into a beautiful lampshade.’

Interior designer, fabric and homeware designer Sarah Vanrenen creates lampshades made from vintage saris which are perfect for layering with other prints as part of a maximalist living room scheme or try them on table lamps in a neutral bedroom scheme for a welcome pop of color.

'Years ago, when I used to create more neutral interiors, I was always looking for ways to incorporate an unexpected burst of color and would add texture and bold-colored accessories in cushions, artwork and rugs. This is where our new lamp collection was born. Another way to punctuate a room and a way of bringing in shape and color.'

3. Go for a new fabric in an archive print

Authentic vintage fabrics can be difficult to source and come in limited lengths but luckily there are a wide array of new fabrics in archive designs available which capture the spirit of a look or era whilst offering all the practical benefits of modern fabrics.

Over the past decade, many companies have launched refreshed versions of archive and vintage designs to complement contemporary schemes. Taking inspiration from originals, fabric designers are reviving designs in new colorways, materials and scales perfect for integrating into 21st-century homes.

Fabric House Sanderson, originally founded in 1860, offers a large array of its original fabric prints which are synonymous with the classic English country look. Alternatively, try one of their reworked designs if you're looking for a fun twist on tradition.

'My favorite designs have to be Abbeville, Lakeland Paradis, or Caverley. Perhaps this is because they are all drawn from the archive, deriving from 19th-century hand-block prints,' says Sanderson's lead designer, Rebecca Craig. 'I love the charming and classically English look that these designs convey, where the making is part of the creative process and the design itself.'

The nature-inspired designs of William Morris and other designers associated with the Arts & Crafts movement have enjoyed timeless appeal over the years and are still available today. Since they were first designed for fabrics in the late 1800s, the prints from Morris & Co. have continued to endure as the brand has continually evolved and revived the designs over the years, combining heritage inspirations with contemporary colorways and design. These prints from the Emery Walker's House collection look lovely layered as part of a timeless kitchen diner.

4. Choose a fabric inspired by vintage textiles

A sofa covered in a beautiful heritage print can make a wonderful focal point in a neutral living room. While antique fabrics look beautiful, they are not always in the best condition, and quantities are limited, instead, why not go for a modern fabric which draws on the textile traditions?

'Antique textile designs have stood the test of time and for generations, they have been loved and cherished, which is a testament to their undying appeal,' says Andrew Cussens, CEO of Sofas & Stuff. 'We often play around with designs, changing scale and color, or even taking a tiny section of a textile and turning it into a whole design. But my favorite design comes straight from the archives, and the best colorway in my opinion, is the original – Paisley Splendour in Rouge.'

Pictured is a classic sofa covered in the Tree of Life velvet which takes inspiration from an 18th-century bed hanging. A popular motif in Indian textile traditions, the flowering tree of life design is reminiscent of the beautiful chintz fabrics from the Coromandel Coast of southeastern India. To add an extra decorative flourish and create real wow factor why not add some vintage-style fringing?

5. Add color and texture with vintage fabric cushions

Simple scatter cushions in vintage fabrics bring a welcome dose of color and pattern to otherwise muted schemes. 'We love to hoard off-cuts from eBay or Haines they’re often perfect sizes for blinds without spending a fortune,' says Charlie Tilbury, co-founder of Penrose Tilbury. 'Less than 1m of fabric is enough for a nice big lumbar cushion - they make a real statement on the bed and often pull a whole scheme together,' adds co-founder, Rose Hanson. 'Don't worry too much about it all matching, often if the fabric has just a hint of a color used in the overall scheme, it works.'

6. Hang vintage fabrics as wall art

Whether mounted and framed on the wall or hung as a wall hanging behind a bed, vintage textiles make a fabulous alternative to traditional artwork as they add beautiful depth and texture to a room. Suzani textiles are particularly loved by interior designers for their vibrant colors, folksy patterns, and exquisite craftsmanship, plus they have a fascinating history and each is unique.

'Suzani textiles, are incredible hand-embroidered textile panels originating from nomadic tribes in Central Asian countries including Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan which were crafted by brides and their mothers as part of a dowry, presenting them to the groom on their wedding day,' says interior designer Kit Kemp. 'Produced in vibrant color schemes of red, blue and green, these vivid creations traditionally feature vines, the sun and moon, flowers, leaves and pomegranates alongside geometric patterns to symbolize luck, protection, and prosperity.'

'I often incorporate Suzani patterns into schemes, their craft and brilliance bringing a human touch to an interior, infusing it with a sense of handcrafted beauty bringing historical significance to contemporary spaces,' adds Kit Kemp. 'At our Design Studio, we have long celebrated craft, and in particular, Suzani textiles within our work, collecting a variety of original Suzani textiles while on our travels which we have given the status they deserve, framing and displaying them as integral elements within our interior schemes.'

7. Go for a vintage suzani bedspread

The interior, fabric and homeware designer, Sarah Vanrenen, is also a collector of Suzanis and loves to use them as bedspreads layered alongside smaller-scale prints.

‘I am constantly drawn to the rich and textured patterns of suzanis which can instantly be used to make sense of any scheme as there are so many different colors. They can suddenly bring together the room whether used as a bedspread, hanging from a pole on the wall, or to cover an ottoman or bedhead and, of course, cushions,' says Sarah.

8. Create a rustic look with vintage linens

Many antique and vintage fabrics are highly decorative such as chintz, Indiennes and Toile de Jouy which is wonderful if you love the romantic look. However, if you're a fan of the more laid-lack style then why not go for some plain European linens? Boasting a rustic, slubby texture, vintage linens from France and Hungary are a stalwart of French country decor as well as the modern rustic look. British home brand Domestic Science offers an array of table linen and cushions made from authentic linen grain sacks.

'Everything about our grain sack linen collection represents exactly what we love at Domestic Science. Aesthetically, they’re typically pared back and in muted, faded colorways that feel relaxed, informal and easy to live with. But they also hold decades of stories. They are often from humble beginnings and were used by farmers to carry their grain to market,' says Libs Lewis, founder of Domestic Science.

'Early European grain sacks were handmade from flax right on the farms in which the fiber was grown. Most sacks were monogrammed with the owner’s initials or personalized with a unique design of stripes. These fabrics in particular would have been woven on little home looms with a specific household use in mind. Finding the beauty in functionality is what we’re all about.'

Decorating with vintage fabrics is an easy way to add some instant character and interest to your home. And they can be incorporated into pretty much any room too. Just be aware when hunting to look for pieces that aren't overly worn or distressed and will actually last once you get them home.

Shea McGee has long been creating country-inspired interiors with comfort and sophistication in mind. It can be a tricky balance designing elevated and sophisticated yet cozy and rustic interiors like Shea's, but with the launch of the new collection from Threshold designed w/Studio McGee – the designer's collaboration with Target, it's never been simpler.

Inspired by rural cottages and spring, the newest range in the collection is majorly inspiring us and providing us with lots of spring decor ideas. Filled with country-style pieces that are timeless and fun, a lasting, luxury look can now be achieved on a Target budget in time to give your home a spring refresh.

The line is filled with classic and trendy pieces that make designing a modern, cottage-style space both easy and enjoyable. Here's everything we are shopping from the Spring 2025 collection.

Shop our favorite pieces the Threshold designed with Studio McGee collection

From inviting hallways to plush and cozy living rooms, there's something here for any space in every home. Let's take a look at some of our favorite pieces from the country-inspired spring collection.

Shea McGee and Target have provided some much-needed home inspiration ahead of the new year. There are sophisticated and fun pieces for every room, so get creative and give your home a refreshing dose of spring.

I am obsessed with watching videos where people deep clean their couches, rugs and carpets and release bucket-loads of dirt from otherwise fresh-looking upholstery.

That’s why I was drawn in when I saw this bestselling upholstery cleaner get discounted the Black Friday sales. The BISSELL Cordless Carpet and Upholster Cleaner remains a number one for shopper wishlists and has a 28% discount right, which I'm taking full advantage of to upgrade my cleaning tools.

Even when your upholstery looks fine, appearances can be deceiving and a deep clean is actually recommended every six months to make sure your furniture is bacteria free. This is where a handy cordless carpet and upholster cleaner like the Bissell comes in very handy.

The BISSELL Cordless Upholster Cleaner is the bestseller

This Amazon bestseller is a bit of an investment, but this is the best deal I’ve seen for a while for a very well rated and reviewed product. Learning how to clean your upholstery is a life skill everyone should adopt to avoid bacteria, mold and pests issues.

If you have kids, pets or suffer with allergies then you’ll find you might need to clean your home more often, and this compact cleaner will help reach all the nooks and crannies of your furniture to leave no cushion or fabric nook untouched.

Dirty couches are one of the things professional cleaners always notice in dirty homes and can be a constant pain-point in busy households, especially those never-ending crumbs behind the cushions. I am determined to get them sparkling clean and back to their former glory with an upholstery cleaner.

I’ll be upgrading my home cleaning tools this Black Friday with this Bissell option that even removes difficult stains and pots, such as pen marks and coffee spillages.

It's not the only one on offer so I've trawled hundreds of listing to find these other appliances brilliant for upholstery cleaning to suit all budgets and keep your home fresh.

Benefits of cleaning your upholstery yourself are:

• Regular brightening and odor-removal
• They will last longer
• Less bacteria, mold spores and pet hair/dander
• Cheaper than hiring a professional

Next, learn more about how often you should deep clean your home and how to whether you should deep clean before or after christmas.

If you're looking to revamp or refresh your home, one of the easiest and affordable options you can try is reupholstering your furniture to switch up the décor and breathe new life into your space.

You might find, also, that your sofas or accent chairs look sad, worn and weathered and in need of some TLC beyond what cleaning can achieve. In either case, knowing where to start when it comes to reupholstering can be bewildering.

So, I spoke to DIY experts and interior designers for their top tips on starting a reupholstering DIY project, and to find out how to do it like the pros do.

Why you might reupholster a chair

'Reupholstering a chair is not only a great way to update the look of a room, but it’s also a sustainable approach to keeping quality furniture pieces for longer,' says Vincent Larson, lead interior designer for CopperSmith, a custom designer of sustainable products. 'Many people choose to reupholster because they have a sentimental attachment to the chair, or it’s just too well-built to throw out.'

This might be the case if you opt to source sustainable furniture by thrifting, as you can find a good quality piece that you love, and refresh and customize it with upholstery ideas to fit your home.

'For example, an antique or heirloom chair often has a solid frame but might need new fabric or foam,' adds Larson. 'Reupholstering can bring it back to life while maintaining its original charm. Plus, reupholstering allows you to completely customize the look – choosing the fabric, color, and design to fit perfectly with your current decor.'

How long will reupholstering a chair take?

How long a reupholstering project will take depends largely on two factors – how advanced you are at DIY, and what kind of chair you are reupholstering.

'The time it takes to reupholster a chair will vary depending on the complexity of the design and your level of experience,' says Logan Taylor, interior designer and cleaning expert at the Dazzle Cleaning Company. 'But, on average, it can take anywhere from 2-6 hours to complete this DIY project.'

If you're more adept at DIY, ' you can easily complete this project within an afternoon with some practice and patience,' says Jonathan Faccone, interior designer and founder of Halo Homebuyers.

To be on the safe side, it's best to set aside time over a weekend so your DIY project doesn't become overwhelming. It will also mean you can dip in and out of it. As a DIY project that will elevate your home, it's worth taking your time, particularly if you struggle to finish your projects.

What you will need to reupholster a chair

Once you've identified a chair you would like to reupholster, here's what you will need, according to experts:

• Fabric: Two to four yards, depending on your chair. Jennifer Krosche-Moreno, editor in chief of Boho Blue Magazine, and DIY expert @BluStoneCoastalCottage, says, 'I go to Joann's as they have a nice selection. Some Walmart stores also have a fabric section and they have some nice choices.'
• Batting/ foam: Such as the Upholstery Batting available at Amazon, recommended by Krosche-Moreno. If you need to replace the foam cushioning, it's available at Amazon.
• Staple gun and staples: Such as the Arrow JT21CM Light Duty Staple Gun Kit available at Amazon.
• Fabric scissors/rotary cutter: I recommend the Fiskars Original Orange-Handled Scissors available at Amazon.
• Measuring tape: Available at Walmart.
• Screwdriver: 'To remove the cushion from the chair,' says Krosche-Moreno. 'Check your screws to see what type.'
• Upholstery tacks/nail heads (optional): 'For those finishing touches that give your chair a decorative edge, tacks or nail heads can be added around the edges,' says Larson.

How to reupholster a chair in 5 simple steps

Once you're ready to reupholster, here's our expert-approved step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Remove the cushion from the chair with a screwdriver

'First you will want to remove the cushion from the chair with a screwdriver,' says Krosche-Moreno. 'There will be four screws on the underside of the cushion that hold the cushion on. Once you remove the screws put them in a safe place.'

You can use a cup, bowl, or Ziploc bag, available at Walmart.

Step 2: Remove the old fabric

'Next, remove the current upholstery, especially if it is heavy material or the cushioning needs to be replaced,' says Krosche-Moreno. 'If the chair has a thinner material and good cushioning you can upholster over the current fabric.'

Larson warns that this step requires patience, as it can be quite fiddly. 'Carefully remove the old fabric by prying out the staples with pliers or a staple remover,' he says. 'It’s a good idea to keep the fabric in one piece so you can use it as a template for cutting the new fabric.'

Step 3: Refresh or replace the cushioning

As one of the main reasons you might be reupholstering a chair is that it's uncomfortable, replacing the cushioning is often necessary. Upholstered and reupholstered chairs add a gorgeous touch to any bedroom corner or cozy living room, but you want them to be functional too.

'If you want to add more cushion or replace the cushion you will need to cut the foam to the size of the cushion leaving an inch or two extra on each side, depending on how thick the seat is,' says Krosche-Moreno. 'You want to make sure your foam, batting and fabric can comfortably wrap around the chair with room to staple in place underneath,' and Larson recommends matching the shape to the seat of the chair.

Once you have cut your foam and batting to size, turn your cushion over and lay it on top of the layered foam and batting, in the center. With batting first, foam on top, and the cushion on top of that.

'Lay batting over the foam, making sure it covers the edges for a smooth look,' says Larson. 'This helps keep the fabric from bunching or looking uneven.' Wrap the batting around both the cushion and the foam and make sure you can comfortably attach it on each side, without having too much excess, which will look bulky.

'Do not cover the screw holes with the batting or fabric,' warns Krosche-Moreno. 'It will make it more difficult to reattach the cushion. Start with one side and place a staple in the center of the first side to hold it in place. Next you will want to staple the entire side up to the corner. Then go to the opposite side, pull tightly and staple in the middle, then the rest of the side. Then repeat on the other two sides.'

Make sure you pull each corner tightly, folding it in like wrapping a gift. Place one staple in the middle of the corner, and then use your scissors to snip off the excess material before adding additional staples to secure it in place, repeating on all corners.

If you are not adding new batting or foam to your chair, you can, of course skip this step, but replacing the fabric uses the exact same procedure.

Step 4: Measure fabric and staple in place

Make sure to measure your fabric first, using the old fabric as a guide, and leave a little extra for folding underneath the cushion. Learn how to read a tape measure for project success.

'Depending on the thickness of the batting, you may need to leave a little more room on all sides to wrap the fabric around comfortably,' advises Krosche-Moreno.

Then, starting in the middle of one side, pull the fabric taut and staple it to the underside of the cushion.

'Then do the opposite side, making sure to keep the fabric smooth,' says Larson. 'Repeat for the remaining sides. For the corners, I think it’s best to fold them neatly, like wrapping a present, and staple them down securely.' Trim any excess, and double-check that none of the fabric is covering your screw holes. If it is, use your scissors to create new holes.

Step 5: Reattach the newly reupholstered cushion to your chair

Flip the cushion upside down, with the underside facing up, and flip your chair on top of it, to line up with the holes in the cushion.

'Reattach tightly with screws,' says Krosche-Moreno, which are essential DIY tools ever home improver should have in their toolbox. 'For more complex upholster pieces, the procedure is pretty much the same.'

And, if you want to add a decorative touch, 'hammer in upholstery tacks or nail heads around the edge,' says Larson. Shop upholstery tacks by style on Amazon.

And voilà! You have a gorgeous new, totally unique chair. It's a brilliant home makeover idea to transform your space.

FAQs

When should old fabric definitely be removed?

While you can reupholster over old fabric, always remove it if it smells, is stained, soiled or moldy. Look out for indicators similar to the early signs of mold on your mattress, including visible marks and damp smelling stains. It's best to also remove any bulky fabric that will affect the look of any layered over the top.

Is it cheaper to reupholster or buy new?

While we always recommend ways to be sustainable at home, sometimes it does just make more sense to buy new

Consider what you are planning to reupholster and ask yourself: is it in good condition? Will it last? Do I like it? Is it worth reupholstering?

If any of the answers are a no, buy new, but shop sustainably.

'The key to upholstery is to make sure you are pulling the fabric tightly and folding in the corners so you don't have an bunching of the fabric,' says Krosche-Moreno. 'You want to be as tight as possible.'

If you're feeling inspired, try these DIY old money upgrades to give your bedroom a luxe look.

I love the cozy look of bouclé furniture, but with this fabric trend enduring, the question now is how to clean it properly.

While bouclé fabric is available in a host of colors, it tends to be white, particularly when it comes to furniture items and its looped, dense fabric makes is a dirt magnet.

I spoke to professional cleaners for their bouclé fabric cleaning tips to get your item refreshed now, and help ensure it's longevity, too.

What is bouclé fabric?

Bouclé fabric is instantly recognizable for it's soft, furry texture, but what actually is it?

'Bouclé fabric is heavily textured and made from looped yarn that creates a curled effect,' says Ken Doty, COO at The Maids. 'It derives it's origins from the French word "boucler" which means "to curl/loop". It's a very thick and dense material that is often compared to a blanket.'

Therefore, due to it's texture, bouclé fabric has a reputation of being difficult to keep spotless and clean.

'It has a cozy, inviting look that works well in both homes and offices,' says Evie Graham, ex-professional cleaner founder of Waste Direct. 'However, because of its texture, dirt can settle into those loops, and that’s where cleaning becomes more of a task. In my experience as a cleaner, I wouldn’t say it’s the easiest fabric to care for but with the right approach, it’s totally doable,' and should be a step you always take when you clean your living room or bedroom.

Why it is important to clean bouclé fabric?

Like cleaning all upholstery, bouclé fabric needs regular maintenance to keep it looking it's best, removing dirt, dust and spills.

'Properly maintaining bouclé furniture is key to prolonging the lifespan,' says Doty. 'While bouclé furniture is known to be very durable, it's still important to adhere to best cleaning practices as the tightly-looped fabric can be a magnet for dirt and grime.

'When it comes to stains, bouclé fabric is generally easier to clean than most fabrics as it's often more durable, and less prone to absorption. Instead, most stains stay on the surface and are much easier to approach.'

How to clean bouclé fabric in 4 simple steps

Luckily, tackling bouclé fabric is nowhere near as difficult as I thought. Here's Doty's expert method to make your fabric look fabulous:

Step 1: Vacuum

First remove all the dust and debris that may have build up on your bouclé fabric.

'The first step is to start with vacuuming the surface to knock out any dust or dirt that is covering the surface,' says Doty. 'Ensure you're using an attachment that is safe for upholstery and to reach in-between and behind any cushions or pillows.'

Our roundup of the best vacuums is a great place to start if you need a new vacuum for the job, and if you're contending with pet hair, we recommend the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum available at Amazon, which cleverly converts to a handheld vacuum.

Step 2: Brush

To remove any remaining debris, 'take a soft-bristled brush to get out any stubborn dirt or grime that may remain,' says Doty. 'Don't use any other type of brush, as it could easily damage the fabric.'

Step 3. Remove stains

Once your bouclé is free of any dust or debris, you can set to work on tackling stains.

'Stains should be attacked by creating a bleach-free cleaning solution of fabric detergent and warm water,' advises Doty. 'Spray on the stains and gently blot with a clean microfiber towel (such as the MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths available at Walmart). Be sure that you're using a gentle technique, as aggressive motion can cause problems with the loop and texture of the fabric.'

Step 4: Dry

Finally, ensure your bouclé fabric is thoroughly dry before using it again, particularly if you have a couch or chair.

'Once the stain has been treated, use a dry towel to gently absorb as much of the moisture as possible,' says Doty. 'Heat should be avoided as it can shrink the fabric,' so leave to air-dry.

A dehumidifier can decrease drying time of wet items such as laundry and wet upholstery.

How to deep clean bouclé fabric

If your bouclé is in need of some deep-cleaning, Salvador Villareal, expert dry cleaner at VIP cleaners, recommends steam cleaning.

'For deeper cleans, professional steam cleaning using a specialized upholstery wand and extractor is best,' he says. 'Professional cleaning once or twice a year is important for health, comfort and appearance.'

If you would rather not call in the professionals, Villareal uses mild, eco-friendly detergents and cleaning solutions for the best results without damage.

We recommend the Hoover Oxy Spot and Stain Remover for Carpet and Upholstery available at Walmart, which is a fast acting stain remover that works effectively on old and new stains.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of bouclé fabric?

The main disadvantage of bouclé fabric is that it is prone to snagging, particularly if you have pets, which will also leave you needing to remove odors from your upholstery. It also captures dust in its looped yarn.

'Preventive maintenance is key,' says Villareal. 'With routine care and cleaning, bouclé fabrics will stay fresh for years.'

Inspired to shop beautiful bouclé? These are our favorite bouclé pillows.

Your couch is probably one of the most used and loved pieces of furniture in your whole home – perfect for relaxing, watching movies and snuggling on. Because of this, your couch needs regular cleaning to keep it looking it's best.

When it comes to couch care, there are several ways to revamp and refresh yours but also some couch cleaning mistakes you really want to avoid. Our pros said these six mistakes will lead to 'serious upholstery heartbreak' and we have to say, we agree.

Our pro cleaners share their cleaning tips and insight on which couch-cleaning mistakes you might be making, and how to sidestep them in the future.

6 couch cleaning mistakes you might be making

'We see these blunders all the time, and they can lead to some serious upholstery heartbreak,' says Rocky Vuong, founder of Neatbrite.

1. Disregarding manufacturer care instructions

When it comes to cleaning your couch, the first place you should be looking for advice is the manufacturer's guide, specifically the one for your model.

Daniel Anderson, professional cleaner and CEO of GoRubbishGo says, 'Many homeowners have a poor habit of neglecting the instructions provided by the manufacturer for cleaning, which in turn causes inappropriate methods or materials to be used that can spoil the fabric.

'Never forget to look at the care label of your sofa. It gives a brief overview of what should and what should not be done when cleaning. For example, if the label is marked “W”, it means, “water-based” cleaners are allowed. If it is marked “S” then use solvent-based cleaners.'

We recommend the Resolve Liquid Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon, as it is safe to use on most household and couch fabrics, such as nylon, polyester and cotton blends.

2. Not spot-testing cleaning products

'I can't tell you how many times I've seen a beautiful couch ruined because someone didn't test their cleaner on a hidden spot first,' says Rinea Blanchard, owner of Superior Contract Cleaning.

Some products can lead to upholstery discoloration and damage, so always find a hidden part of your couch to test the cleaning product on first before getting stuck in.

For example, if you want to wash your couch cushion covers, remove them and test your cleaning product on a small spot which is hidden from view when the cushions are on the couch. On the couch itself, try it low down at the back if your usual placement is against a wall, or look underneath for a spot totally out of sight.

Blanchard recommends #1 bestselling Folex Carpet Spot Remover available at Amazon. 'This stuff is magic on fabric sofas,' she says.

3. Putting off tackling stains

We're all guilty of it, but if you spill a drink on your couch or notice a pet stain, it's important to deal with it there and then – it's one of the golden rules of stain removal.

'I've seen firsthand how a clean sofa can transform a living space, especially when staging homes for We Buy Houses in Metro Detroit,' says Harpreet Saini. 'Once, we almost lost a buyer because of a stubborn pet stain on a sofa that wasn't cleaned promptly.

'I always recommend to tackle stains immediately using products like the Bissell Pet Stain Eraser (available at Walmart) or a good microfiber cloth from Amazon,' such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloths.

'Whenever there are pet stains in a fabric, they should be cleaned as soon as possible using an enzymatic cleaner,' warns Anderson.

4. Using too much water

'Another mistake people make is using too much water when cleaning,' says Anderson. 'Although it might appear reasonable to drench the fabric and get rid of the stains, doing so can create dampness in the furniture and encourage the growth of mold and mildew, especially in upholstered furniture.'

Instead, do not drench the fabric when cleaning a velvet, cotton or leather couch. Press a damp cloth onto the stained area and treat the stain like that, advises Anderson. Dabbing, rather than rubbing is preferred to avoid pushing a wet stain or cleaning solutions into the fabric, or spongey layers below.

'If you are looking for something deeper, try a suction steam cleaner, such as the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat Portable Spot Cleaner (available at Amazon) which uses less water and removes stains very well.'

5. Scrubbing too hard

While it might seem necessary to really scrub at your couch to clean it, this could be doing more harm than good.

'Gentle circular motions is what you should do,' advises Blanchard. 'Scrubbing like you're trying to start a fire will just push the stain deeper into the fabric.'

For cleaning leather couches, Blanchard recommends the #1 bestselling Leather Honey Leather Cleaner available at Amazon. 'It does wonders without damaging the leather,' she says. It's also non-toxic, and can be used on faux leather, car seats, purses, bags and shoes.

6. Neglecting regular maintenance

'Many home owners overlook that maintenance on a regular is the best way to enhance the lifespan of their couches,' says Anderson. 'Dirt, dust and pet hair can build up so quickly.'

Anderson advises using an upholstery attachment to vacuum the couch over once every week to get rid of dirt and deposits remaining. 'Also, you may apply a fabric protector such as Scotchgard Fabric & Upholstery Protector (available at Walmart) to help resist staining or spilling,' he adds.

FAQs

How often should you professionally clean your couch?

While cleaning your couch should be part of your achievable cleaning routine, it's advised to call in the professionals every 12-18 months to give it a really deep clean.

This will extend the lifespan of your couch, banish bacteria and make it look good as new. If you have pets, consider doing this every 6 months, to remove pet hair from the fabric.

Learn how to clean a couch without a vacuum and you'll never be caught short again.

Upholstered headboards can add a touch of luxurious character and tactile texture to a bedroom, helping to bring an element of cozy softness to the space. However, headboards are a common feature that many of us forget to regularly clean.

Even though we do not sleep on our headboards, and likely rarely touch them, upholstered headboards can get incredibly dirty, collecting dust, grease, and bacteria that can all come to impact our sleep hygiene and quality.

As such, it is important to learn how to clean upholstery when exploring how to clean a bedroom to keep our headboards in top condition and combat allergens.

How to clean an upholstered headboard

‘I highly recommend deep cleaning an upholstered headboard at least once a month to prevent buildup of dirt and dust mites,’ begins Eliana Coca, professional house cleaner and owner of E.C House Cleaning. ‘An upholstered headboard attracts dust, odors, and even bed bugs over time if not properly cleaned. It's important to maintain because the headboard is in close proximity to where you sleep, and you want to ensure the area is hygienic and allergen-free.'

1. Vacuum first

The quickest and easiest way to refresh an upholstered headboard is to vacuum away dust and loose debris such as hair, says Chris Willatt, cleaning expert and owner of Alpine Maids. However, it is important to use the right technique to vacuum furniture without damaging upholstery, he adds:

‘Using a vacuum with a soft brush attachment or using a soft brush attachment is the best way to clean an upholstered headboard,’ he suggests. ‘Lightly use the soft brush to loosen some of the dirt and grime stuck in the tufts of the upholstery and use the vacuum to suck it up.’

2. Check the care tag

Just as the care tag on a garment has laundry symbols to detail how to wash it, your upholstered headboard will have a care tag detailing which cleaning tips work best for the fabric points out Ken Doty, cleaning expert and COO at The Maids:

‘Check the manufacturer's instructions that come with your bed. The tag will have a one-letter cleaning code that will inform you as to the right way to clean the upholstery,’ he explains. ‘The cleaning codes are:

• S: Dry cleaning only, don't use any water. It's probably best to use a professional service for beds that have this closed.
• W: This type of fabric is safe to clean with water-based solutions. You could also find foam upholstery cleaner to effectively clean the fabric.
• W/S: A combination of the two codes, means that both water-based cleaning solutions and dry-cleaning solvents are safe.
• X: This code signifies that you may only clean your bed with a vacuum and brush. No liquid solvents should be used or you risk damaging the fabric.

If your upholstered headboard is not dry clean or vacuumed only, you can move on to using liquid cleansers to refresh the fabric at home.

3. Dust with a damp microfiber cloth

So long as the headboard is safe to clean with water, you can give it a wipe over with a microfiber cloth dampened with water (and optionally some mild detergent to give your headboard a fresh scent), suggests Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert and owner of Tidy Casa:

‘This wipe-down should be slow and gentle, moving in the same direction to prevent lines and streaks. The dampness of the microfiber will help pick up pet hair, dust, and debris. It’s a simple trick that works wonders on most upholstery (and can be great to help clean a sofa without a vacuum)– especially for a home with a lot of pet hair.’

4. Spot clean stains

The golden rules of stain removal dictate that any stain or mark should be spot-cleaned as soon as the stain happens. This is the best way to ensure that the stain doesn't take hold – especially on items that you cannot put in the washing machine.

Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert, recommends using a dedicated stain remover, such as Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner Upholstery Stain Remover, at Walmart.

‘Always test on a small, hidden area like the back of the headboard before going all in,’ he reminds us. ‘Some upholstery is better than others at taking different cleaning chemicals.’

5. Deodorize with vinegar

If you need to get rid of musty smells in a bedroom, consider cleaning your upholstered headboard with vinegar, suggests Chris Willatt, a cleaning expert. Simply add a cup of vinegar to your cleaning solution, or lightly spritz the headboard with a mix of equal parts water and vinegar to help remove odors caused by a build-up of bacteria.

‘Cleaning your headboard with vinegar also prevents mold and mildew from growing on it,’ he adds – ideal if you have accidentally spilled food or drink on your headboard when enjoying a late-night snack.

If you are not a fan of the vinegar scent (and who can blame you), allow the vinegar to air out and dry with the windows open before masking the scent with a quality linen spray – opting for the best scents for sleep to promote better rest.

6. Steam clean sparingly

More often than not, it is fine to steam clean an upholstered headboard to help kill bacteria and refresh the fabric. That being said, it is important to check the care tag and materials first to avoid damaging or melting cheaper or synthetic fibers, warns Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert.

If your headboard is safe for steam, ‘a steam cleaner like the BISSELL Little Green ProHeat, at Walmart, is great at getting into the fibers, lifting dirt, and removing the bacteria that cause odors. Once again, test in a non-conspicuous area. Cheaper fabrics can melt with enough heat which wouldn’t be fun.

‘Especially after a steam cleaning it’s important to help the headboard dry quickly to avoid that mildew smell,’ Ryan adds. ‘Airflow is your friend here. Get fans going and open the windows to help speed things up.’

FAQs

Why is it important to clean an upholstered headboard?

‘Upholstered headboards gather dust, allergens, and all sorts of nasties over time. Regular cleaning keeps that sleeping environment healthy, and zen, especially for people with allergies,’ explains Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert and owner of Tidy Casa.

Are upholstered headboards hard to keep clean?

Upholstered headboards are certainly more difficult to keep clean than other types of headboards. This is because the upholstery is able to absorb oils, products, and odors while also collecting dust and dirt. They are also a little more tedious to clean than, say, a metal or wooden headboard, which you only need to wipe down with a damp cloth. That being said, with regular weekly maintenance, they shouldn’t add too much extra time to your weekly chore list.

Cleaning an upholstered headboard does more than help you sleep better. It also helps to keep it looking its best and, perhaps most importantly, it ensures the headboard lasts, so you don’t have to splash out on a replacement any time soon.

As we endeavor to introduce personality into our homes, decorating with antique textiles has become all the more popular. But there is much to consider when introducing these pieces to your space, both aesthetically and practically.

Decorating with antiques is nothing new, but there is certainly a renewed appreciation. Adding a sense of old meets new and offering unique appeal in a scheme, these age-old pieces are finding a new lease of life in interior design.

Antique furniture and ceramics have long been sought, but antique textiles are beginning to make their mark as more people realize how much of an impact they can have in a scheme.

Here, we turn to experts to learn everything you need to know about decorating with antique textiles, from their favorite styles to what you need to consider.

Should you decorate with antique textiles?

Decorating with antique textiles can add so much to your interiors – offering unique appeal and interesting texture, they perfectly encompass the idea of lived-in style and infuse homes with character and personality.

'One of the best things about using antique textiles is that it makes a scheme unique to you. A scheme that reflects your taste, rather than everyone else's, will also have far more longevity as you won’t date, but a trend might,' says interior design consultant Lucinda Griffith.

Decorating with a mix of old and new has been a preferred way to design a scheme for a while now, and antique textiles inject that sense of old into any space, especially if you choose a fabric that adds something unexpected.

'If you want to add a layer of comfortability and sophistication to your space, you can't go wrong with an older bolt of fabric. If you find something with multiple yards, snag it because you likely won't see it again,' says Samantha Stathis-Lynch, of Samantha Ware Designs.

It's the individuality that antique textiles bring to schemes that make them all the more appealing, whether they're used as a wall hanging or to upholster soft furnishings.

'When we frequently see the same prints and wallpapers used, decorating with an antique textile can make a room feel more fresh and unique. Antique textiles bring depth and patina to any scheme,' says Jessica Lev, of Jessica Lev Antiques.

If you're keen to decorate with antique textiles, Lucinda adds that they can 'inspire a scheme you might not have considered if you were using something you have already seen done a hundred times, as the risk is that you will copy what you have already seen done before.'

What should people consider when decorating with antique textiles?

There are, however, a few practical considerations when decorating with antique textiles. 'They are fragile and will be harder to clean, so it is better to use them in lower-traveled areas,' says Jessica. As well as their fragility, Lucinda adds that you should check for stains and moth damage.

'Use them more like statement pieces to create interest in a space. They are more artistic than practical, so their placement should be strategic considering the maintenance and care required. They should also be kept from direct sunlight and away from high humidity,' adds Miami-based designer Ania Agárdy.

If you do come across a beautiful fabric that looks as though it's seen better days, you might be able to (almost) bring it back to its former glory. 'Take it to your local dry cleaner to see what they say. If they're unable or not confident that they can properly clean the fabric without damaging it, it could be worth your while to reach out to someone who specializes in restoring such textiles,' suggests Samantha.

Once these less glamorous necessities have been considered, it's all about how you will introduce antique textiles into your space. 'It then comes down to whether your piece is the focal point of your scheme or an accent to an existing one,' says Lucinda.

It's also important to consider scale – antique textiles are often one of a kind, so the quantity you find is what you have to work with. 'If they are small pieces, then cushions can be an obvious choice. You can back the cushions with a contrasting fabric to get more out of it,' Lucinda suggests.

'Don’t be afraid to cut the fabric up either. If you don’t have enough to cover a chair or make curtains, is there enough to form a border with it?'

How to decorate with antique textiles

There are so many beautiful and stylish ways to decorate with antique textiles. Of course, how you use your fabrics will depend on their condition and how they need to be cared for, but there's an idea here for every taste, style, and fabric condition.

1. Hang antique textiles on the wall

Once a go-to wall decor idea, using antique textiles to decorate a room in place of artwork makes a beautiful statement and adds an abundance of texture to the space. 'Wall tapestries or hangings are easy ways to bring in antique textiles. You can put particularly ornate or decorative textiles in a frame,' says Jessica.

She's not the only one who loves an antique textile tapestry – Jess Petino, owner of Crewel, an online antique textiles and collectibles store, says that an antique tapestry can look particularly striking above a bed to add extra coziness. 'I have my textile collection carefully displayed on shelves, and I think that has a great look too,' she adds.

If you do decide to display your antique textiles on the wall, the way you hang them is so important. 'Be sure it is hung safely, and not in a way that can damage the piece over time. This means that if you're using something like pins or clips, they are providing enough support and not leaving one area to support more of the weight,' says Jess.

'Mounting a textile (sewing onto a canvas) is a great way to ensure your piece will withstand the test of time, which we offer at Crewel!'

2. Make antique textiles the base of your design

One common conundrum people experience when introducing antique textiles into a scheme is making them feel harmonious with the existing design. However, if you are decorating a room in its entirety, your antique fabrics might be the perfect reference point.

'If you want the fabric to be the inspiration for your scheme then look at the colors it might have and see if you can pull some of those into your scheme with paint or upholstery fabrics,' suggests Lucinda.

Antique textiles usually come in beautiful colors and eye-catching designs and patterns, so they might spark a wonderfully unique design idea. It's also just an easy but effective way to choose a cohesive color palette – after all, the fabrics caught your eye for a reason.

3. Opt for decorative pillows

If you've never tried decorating with textiles before, or if you're looking for something more subtle, opting for a smaller room detail is a good place to start. It's also a lot more affordable to buy small antique textiles than large ones.

'If you're looking to add antique textiles to your home but don't want to break the bank on upholstery, consider something like a pillow,' suggests Samantha. In this living room, a sofa has been filled with beautiful cushions upholstered in antique textiles, adding color and contrast to the space.

You don't have to add lots, though. One or two statement cushions can have just as much impact on a scheme. 'There's something about a beautiful faded floral print or a hand-embroidered pillow that adds a layer of warmth to any design and creates the sort of lived-in feel that's so popular today,' Samantha adds.

4. Mix antique textiles with modern furnishings

To embrace the idea of decorating with old and new, pairing antique textiles with more contemporary furniture adds a lovely contrast and character to a room, like in this bedroom. A modern lamp and side table have been mixed with a more traditional style bed and a framed antique textile sample on the wall.

'I love using antique textiles with modern furnishings to highlight and contrast, making them the focal point in a room. One of my favorite things to do is to use them as wall art. You can choose to frame them or not, but they immediately bring a cozy and artistic feel to a room,' says Ania.

'They bring so much history and nostalgia to a space, especially when they are family heirlooms or have been used by someone famous. There is something forever stylish about them transcending changing trends,' she adds.

5. Reupholster furniture

If you want to take it one step further than small cushion covers, hardier antique textiles can be used to upholster larger pieces of furniture. This not only creates a unique piece for your home, but it's a great way to upcycle an old piece of furniture.

'I love creating ottomans, upholstered headboards, and upholstered pieces in general with antique textiles, whether it's rugs, fabric remnants, and sometimes even clothing! With the smallest of fragments, we have created appliques for a centerpiece on a bed, chair, and pillows that add a unique and unforgettable detail,' says interior designer Kishani Perera.

Decorating with antique textiles in this way can be really fun – from a small vanity stool to a larger ottoman or chair, creating a one-of-a-kind furniture item will add so much personality to your space.

There's no denying the appeal that antique textiles can add to a design, and there are so many beautiful ways to decorate with them. Whether you keep things simple with a tapestry and throw pillows, or opt for a larger project with upholstered furniture, they're sure to add a unique feature to your space.

In interior design, it isn't easy to achieve anything completely original. Thousands of years of history inform the design choices we make today – often without us even realizing it. But for Jouffre, the specialist atelier known for high-end upholstered furniture, interior design's past deserves to be celebrated.

With L'écho, a showroom displayed at New York Design Week, Jouffre has curated something truly original. Combining the influences and signposts of design's past with an optimistic view of design's future, the upholstery house has painted a gorgeous vision of design's present – and every detail is immaculate.

To hear more about L'écho and sustainable interior design, Homes & Gardens sat down with Taylor Scott Ross, Jouffre's design director. Here's what he had to say, plus a room-by-room tour of the stunning space.

A look inside 'L'écho'

'At Jouffre, history influences our daily work, drawing from French upholstery traditions,' Taylor tells H&G. 'We innovate by learning from the past, aiming to keep craft traditions thriving against industrial efficiency. Suddenly, the echoes that are bouncing through our exhibition are so much more than relationships between objects – they are exchanges between historic materials, iconic design vernaculars, and neo-traditional methods.'

Taylor describes the metaphor of an echo as a 'Wayfinder to explore space and time,' and each individual piece within the showroom embodies this idea. The visual depiction of an echo appears throughout the display as well, taking on multiple forms. In this corner of the space, a 'Cybele Dance' Rome Chair – designed by Combray Design and featuring textiles by Rogers & Goffigon – takes inspiration from art history, incorporating intricate hand embroidery.

As much as Jouffre's work is grounded in the past, it's forward-thinking too, particularly when it comes to making sustainable decisions. Taylor shares that 'recognizing cyclical design trends' makes this decision-making easier – by noting what has made an impression and resurfaced years later, Jouffre can lean into the design ideas that have true staying power.

In this case, the atelier was 'specifically inspired by the aesthetics that occupied the design zeitgeist during the mainstreaming of PU foams and which form languages were unlocked as a result of working with foam,' says Taylor.

'Partnering with Enkev, we use their eco-friendly materials to create modern silhouettes that show sustainability can be chic, sophisticated, and whimsical. Design is always referential; being transparent about our roots and intentional in our direction allows us to push the envelope,' he continues.

Nature was also a significant point of reference for Jouffre, and the design house's partnership with Enkev is just one outdoors-inspired touch to be found throughout. With 'a rich palette of wooden structures and organic textiles, complemented by moments of greenery,' natural materials define the showroom's aesthetic, even across contrasting rooms.

'For instance, the "Sybele Dance" armchair, embroidered by Combray Design, is nestled beneath an Anita cane tree. Inspired by the gardens of Pompeii, Aurélie and Laure of Combray Design merged their love for art history and poetic sensibility to create embroidery depicting dynamic figures dancing among Mediterranean foliage,' says Taylor.

'Using renewable materials is crucial for us and the interior design industry in 2024 because it aligns with our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices,' says Taylor. 'For our interior designer clients, providing bespoke, high-end work with tailored comfort is essential. We believe in adding value by investing in the future of our global community.'

The Echo Bed, designed by Nikki Bregman for Jouffre and pictured above, exudes textured character, adding depth and visual interest to the room. Doing far more than your average headboard, its plush design is made from Musica fabric from Sedallo, oak, Cocolok, Taillok, and wool from Enkev. Its nature-inspired color palette pairs beautifully with a deep and moody shade grounding the walls.

'As a leader in the upholstery industry, we have a significant platform to define standards and raise the bar for environmental responsibility. In a world already filled with excess, our goal is to create beauty and joy with conscientiousness,' he continues.

In some ways, hand-crafted furniture and decor are things of the past, making way for mass-produced, store-bought items. But Jouffre proves that intricate, artisan-made pieces still hold a place in the design world.

'The heart and soul of Jouffre lies in the artisans on our team and our close-knit community of skilled craftsmen. Guided by the belief that "everything is possible," we strive to achieve the sublime and the impossible, keeping our designs fresh and innovative,' says Taylor.

Each item featured in the showroom was made with the utmost attention to detail. The Cage Sofa, pictured above, was designed by Studio Giancarlo Valle, and its 'woven oak structure' was 'meticulously fabricated by Souchet's woodworkers,' says Taylor. Made with alpaca fur, white oak, teak, and Enkev wool, the aesthetics are just the beginning of the collaboration's craftsmanship. Sat just beside the sofa and clad in white and yellow fabric is the Echo Chair – a detail designed by Taylor himself.

'I designed this statement piece using the bold "Sophia Rose" handwoven textile from rruka, and it was brought to life through the collaboration of dedicated artisans who prototyped and fabricated its complex frame, hand-wove the fabric, integrated innovative materials from Enkev and stitched-by-hand,' he says.

Each section of the Jouffre showroom takes on its own unique color palette – each neutral, yet still quite bold. While the bedroom feels moody and characterful, a small alcove around the corner incorporates a lively warm hue and floral arrangements. Taylor shares that 'serenity and timelessness led the way' when the team was developing the showroom's color scheme. 'Earth tones and dusty hues' create the illusion of 'strolling through sand dunes and spotting radiant prairie sunflowers punctuating the landscape,' he continues.

'In our showroom, we use complementary materials and shapes to draw the eye. For instance, the warm walnut and quartzite of the Pina Coffee Table, the energetic "Sophia Rose" textile and natural wenge on the Echo Chair, and the subtle metallic accents of the Dormus Sconces create a harmonious, engaging environment,' says Taylor. 'Balancing color and texture with thoughtful accents ensures a dynamic yet cohesive space where color enhances rather than overwhelms the design.'

'The curation of our showroom and the design of the new pieces radiate a sense of elevated whimsy,' says Taylor. 'Our goal is to create future-minded work that people can envision living with, embracing speculative design to inspire contemplation and projection into the future. This approach allows us to blend the past and the future, resulting in aesthetics that have a space-age undertone rooted in postmodernism, solar punk, arts and crafts, and French Americana.'

Walking through the Jouffre showroom is meant to feel like a journey, with 'complementary material duos and sweeping, curved shapes' guiding guests throughout. Taylor notes that the Dormus Sconces by Studio Luddite, placed on the main showroom's wall, the Pina Coffee Table by Gregory Beson, combining natural wood and stone, and the Kansas Lamp by Luke Malaney, crafted with ask and copper tones, 'all showcase nontraditional shapes that add intrigue and depth to the vignettes.'

'These elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also invite visitors to engage with each piece on a deeper level, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity,' Taylor concludes.

Jouffre's showroom proves that the most successful designs reference the past while keeping a careful eye on the future. Hand-crafted, sustainable pieces are Jouffre's bread and butter, and will play a key role in keeping interior design thriving through 2024 and beyond.

If you clean your bedroom at least once a week, then you probably presume that is relatively hygienic. However, there are some items that not only contribute to clutter but make a bedroom dirtier too, cleaning experts are warning us.

Whether they hinder our efforts to keep a bedroom clean or are simply magnets for dust and dirt, these six items could be affecting our sleep by worsening allergies and introducing nasty smells.

This is how the experts recommend cleaning a bedroom and tackling these six bedroom items for a more hygienic sleep space, and why these offenders can be so bad for our health.

Items in your bedroom making it dirtier

It might seem silly that some simple, inanimate objects can have such an impact on our sleep, but anything from an accumulation of dust to clutter can have a negative effect on our rest.

1. Excessive nightstand clutter

There are generally two types of people – those who love to have a clear, empty nightstand, and those who love to collect all their essentials next to the bed (I, for one, am the latter). While having everything within arms reach can be useful, it turns out it is making our bedroom dirtier and could be affecting our sleep, warns Diana Ciechorska, general manager at Park Slope Cleaning:

‘Decorative items on nightstands and dressers can collect dust quickly. When surfaces are cluttered, they are harder to clean, and dust can accumulate more easily,’ she explains. ‘Declutter a nightstand and minimize decor to a few essential or meaningful pieces. Regularly dust surfaces and consider using closed storage options such as a nightstand with drawers to reduce dust collection.'

2. Wet laundry

We need to put our used laundry somewhere before we trudge it down to the washing machine, but the bedroom might not be the best spot, Diana Ciechorska, cleaning expert continues:

‘Leaving wet laundry, such as towels or workout clothes, in the bedroom can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health and difficult to clean,’ she warns. Instead, she recommends immediately hanging wet laundry to dry in a well-ventilated area or placing it in a laundry basket in the bathroom or laundry room where it can dry off more easily. This also helps organize laundry for a more streamlined laundry routine.

3. Clothes on the floor

After a long day, it can be easier to just leave the clothes on the floor where we drop them. However, we have clothes storage for a reason, reminds Barbara Brock, professional home organizer, and stager, founder of Barbara Brock Inc.:

‘Clothes thrown on the bedroom floor immediately make a room look smaller, unkempt, out of control and disorganized. Try using a clothes chair instead of the floor to pile clothes. This is an attempt to control the chaos. Piles of dirty clothes left around the house are not only unpleasant to look at, but they give off odors and give in to an unhealthy lifestyle.’

What’s more, clothes left in piles on the floor can trap dust and dirt while making vacuuming and dusting harder and therefore exacerbating allergies and reducing sleep quality over time.

4. Home gym equipment

It can be great to have a home gym, but it is best left out of the bedroom, suggests Jennifer Bell, professional organizer and owner of Bell Home Organizing. Not only is it a germ magnet, but it provides a place to dump clutter, encouraging bacteria growth, she warns:

‘Bedroom furniture and gym equipment can become clutter collectors. If you find yourself placing dirty or clean laundry, luggage, and other items on your bedroom furniture or gym equipment for storage, get rid of it or relocate it to another area of your home!

‘The furniture or gym has become a crutch, and it is hindering you from completing the task of putting your items away in their rightful place. Remove the roadblock and once you no longer have it as an option, you are more likely to put your items away to their correct location and keep your room clean.’

5. Carpets and upholstery

Carpets are very popular in bedrooms, as is soft, upholstered furniture, to help make a bedroom feel cozy. However, cleaning carpets and cleaning upholstery is infamously tricky unless you have a shampooing machine or steam cleaner – and regularly commit to deep cleans, says Eliana Coca, professional cleaner and owner of E.C. House Cleaning.

‘Unlike hardwood or tile, carpets trap dust, allergens, and pet hair. Similarly, fabric headboards can harbor dust mites,’ she explains. ‘Regular vacuuming and using protective covers can mitigate some of these issues, but choosing low-maintenance materials is a more straightforward solution.’

6. Shoes

Whether you wear shoes in the house or not, you should never keep your shoe storage in your bedroom, Kathy Cohoon, professional cleaner and owner of Two Maids Cleaning, recommends. Your shoes are one of the dirtiest items to keep in a bedroom, introducing germs and bacteria, as well as musty smells, that can impact your sleep health and quality, she explains.

‘Shoes pick up the worst of where you’ve been – think dirt, bacteria, grime, waste, and more – and can bring them into your home. In addition to these nearly invisible things, shoes can also smudge floors and cause wear and tear.’

Instead, keep shoes in the entryway to minimize their impact on your clean home.

Although it might not seem as important as picking the best mattress or the best bed sheets, tackling these dirtiest places in a bedroom is one of the best ways to sleep better by removing allergens, germs, and irritants that can impact our health and, therefore, negatively affect our rest.

We are all looking for ways to cut corners and make cleaning a house quicker – it is one of our biggest energy drains, after all.

However, skipping or procrastinating certain cleaning tasks can be detrimental both to your home and your health, professional cleaners warn. They instead suggest trialing some smarter cleaning tips to cut some of the workload.

These are the five household chores you should be doing weekly and why it is so important not to miss them.

Household chores you should be doing weekly

When creating a weekly cleaning schedule, these five tasks should be at the top of the list. You can then spread out other tasks that can be left for a little longer (cleaning baseboards, for instance), throughout the month. Pop them on a Wheel of Chores if you're a serial procrastinator.

1. Vacuuming upholstery

‘We usually vacuum the floors but overlook that sofas, armchairs, and other upholstered furniture can accumulate dust, allergens, and pet hairs,’ begins Danny Leung, cleaning expert and owner of Detoorp, a modern, eco-friendly cleaning marketplace. This means cleaning upholstery is one of the many additional cleaning tasks you should be doing weekly.

‘Weekly vacuuming helps to maintain indoor air quality and prolongs the life of your furniture. It also keeps your living space fresh and free of allergens that can trigger respiratory issues,’ he adds.

While cleaning the furniture, consider also checking beneath it, adds Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert and owner of Tidy Casa: ‘Dust and debris accumulate under the furniture. Regular vacuuming prevents allergens and keeps your home cleaner and fresher.’

2. Kitchen appliances

We should all be cleaning a kitchen at least once a week already, but we might try to save time by skipping some of our appliances. However, these are some of the most important spots to be tackling on the regular, suggests Danny Leung, cleaning expert:

‘Kitchen appliances like microwaves, hob tops, and refrigerators usually are left with food residues and spills that attract pests and cause odors. Cleaning these appliances weekly ensures that your kitchen remains clean and prevents the spread of bacteria,’ he says.

If you have time, and use it regularly, it can also help to add cleaning an oven into your weekly cleaning rotation. Cleaning an oven using a steam cleaner is quick and easy and doesn't require any chemicals, allowing you to stay on top of grease before it builds up and becomes impossible (and disgusting) to try to remove.

3. Door handles and light switches

Target hygiene is a must if you want to ward off illness in your home – this means making a show of cleaning the high touch points to stop the spread of bacteria and germs, explains cleaning expert Ryan Knoll. For most, this means cleaning door handles, remote controls, light switches, and other frequently used electronics, he says.

4. Dusting light fixtures

We might rarely look up there, but our light fittings are some of the dirtiest spots in our homes, reminds Eliana Coca, professional house cleaner and owner of E.C. House Cleaning:

‘These areas are often ignored due to their height and inconvenience. However, dust and allergens accumulate quickly on light fixtures and ceiling fans, affecting air quality and potentially triggering allergies. Regular weekly dusting helps keep indoor air cleaner.’

When cleaning ceiling fans, consider using an old pillowcase to wrap around each blade and pull the dust off, allowing it to accumulate in the case for easy disposal, rather than having it float and settle elsewhere around your room.

5. Bathroom fixtures

Another task you should be tackling weekly anyway is cleaning a bathroom, however, you might be skipping small areas that will only make your life harder, warns cleaning expert Danny Leung:

‘Bathrooms can quickly become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and bacteria. Regular weekly cleaning of fixtures such as sinks, faucets, and shower heads helps to prevent the buildup of grime and limescale, keeping the bathroom hygienic and reducing the risk of illness.’

Cleaning with vinegar is the best way to tackle these mold-prone spots. Not only is vinegar more effective against mold than bleach, but it helps to break down limescale and hard water stains too. Not to mention it is a lot healthier to opt for green cleaning methods over harsh chemicals.

FAQs

What is a good weekly cleaning schedule?

Creating a weekly cleaning schedule is personal, and will differ depending on your work day, the size of your home, and any other weekly commitments you have. Some people like to work on a ‘different-day-different-room’ schedule, that allows them to tackle each area of their home gradually and keep cleaning times short. Others like to dedicate one day a week to cleaning their whole home and completing it in a marathon to leave other days chore-free.

These weekly chores are far from cleaning tasks that are a waste of time. They might add more items to your to-do list, but with the right cleaning approach, staying on top of these spots will start to feel easier every week.

Soda stains are among the most annoying to clean. Whether it's an accidental spill on your sofa or your favorite T-shirt, it's important to tackle these stains as soon as they occur.

For stains that have been left for a while, the job becomes tremendously harder as the stain sticks on the fibers of the fabric, requiring more effort and more inventive ways of removing it.

Soda stains can be tricky, but with the right approach and following the golden rules of stain removal, you can restore your fabric and clothes to their original state. 

How to remove soda stains from upholstery and clothes 

As soon as a soda spill occurs, grab a clean white cloth or paper towel and start blotting the affected area to soak up as much of the liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can only spread it further and cause it to settle deeper into the fabric.

Before using any cleaning solution on your upholstery or clothes, Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners, suggests that you spot test in an inconspicuous area to ensure it won't cause damage or discoloration. ‘Choose a small, hidden area of the fabric and apply a small amount of the cleaning solution,’ Daniel says. ‘Wait for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth to check for any adverse reactions.’ 

Method 1: Vinegar Solution

When removing soda stains from upholstery and clothes, cleaning with vinegar is always a safe choice. Vinegar's acidity is so high that it dissolves mineral deposits as well as dirt and grease. In fact, vinegar is powerful enough to kill bacteria.

In order to create a vinegar solution, you first need to mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. White distilled vinegar from Amazon is the best type of vinegar to use, as it does not contain a coloring agent and will not stain the surface you are trying to clean.

Spray the solution onto the soda stain and let it sit to penetrate the fabric. After a few minutes, blot the stained area with a clean cloth until the stain lifts. Dampen a cloth with the vinegar solution and blot the stain. Vinegar helps to break down the stain and deodorize the fabric. Blot with clean water to remove vinegar residue, then dry with a clean towel.

Method 2: Dish Soap Solution

One alternative to vinegar-based cleaning solutions is one with dish soap. Whilst less acidic than vinegar, dish soap such as Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap from Amazon is still effective at cutting through stains, including soda stains.

‘For clothes, gently rub the dish soap into the garments with your fingers or a soft brush. Soak the garment in cold water for 15-30 minutes. This will help loosen the stain,’ says cleaning expert Karina Toner from Spekless Cleaning. ‘Once soaked, wash the clothes according to the care label instructions, using the hottest water safe for the fabric. Check the stain before drying. If it’s still visible, repeat the treatment. Drying can set the stain, making it harder to remove.’

With upholstery, mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water to make a sudsy solution. Once you have created the solution, dip a clean cloth or sponge in the solution and gently blot the soda stain. Continue blotting until the stain is gone; rinse the area with water and blot dry.

Method 3: Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda is one of the most reliable and versatile household cleaning agents. In addition to removing soda stains, it can also be used to remove stains from kitchen countertops and clothes without bleaching them.

Mix baking soda, such as ARM & HAMMER Pure Baking Soda from Walmart, with a small amount of water to form a paste. Once the paste has been formed, apply it to the soda stain and lightly rub it into the fabric with a soft-bristle brush or cloth.

Wait for the paste to rest for 15-20 minutes, then blot the stained area with a damp cloth to remove the paste and lift the stain. Rinse the area with water and blot dry.

Method 4: Commercial Stain Removers

You could also try using an enzyme-based stain remover or detergent to remove soda stains from furniture or garments. As most stains are made of a combination of proteins and other compounds, enzyme-based cleaners dissolve those proteins and compounds so that the stain can be removed from the fabric.

Make your own enzyme spray with a 1:1 ratio of water and Method Laundry Detergent from Amazon in a spray bottle. Method Laundry Detergent contains a proprietary blend of enzymes that target various stain components, including the specific proteins and sugars found in soda stains). Thoroughly soak the stain with the spray; let sit an hour before washing.

Remember, enzyme-based stain removers are not made for protein-based fabrics like silk, wool, and cashmere, as they can degrade the quality of the fabric over time.

For white or colorfast fabrics, a mix of hydrogen peroxide from Amazon and baking soda can work wonders on stubborn stains. But if all else fails, you could hire a professional upholstery cleaner or consider taking your clothes to a dry cleaner for stubborn or set-in soda stains that just won't come out.

A couch is a significant investment, and while you may have fallen in love with yours for its comfort, aesthetic appeal, or even price tag, discovering that the cushions don't seem to stay in place can quickly undermine its appeal.

There's nothing less relaxing than constantly having to readjust couch cushions during a movie night or when hosting guests. So, why put up with the hassle when there are simple, low-cost solutions to fix this problem? 

Before you start browsing the best places to buy a new couch, consider these four easy techniques. 

How to stop couch cushions from sliding

The best option for you will depend on the material of your couch base (fabric, wood, plastic, and metal) and whether you prefer a permanent or temporary solution.

Whether you're dealing with cushions on your best outdoor furniture, window seats, sectionals, couches, chairs, entryway benches, or even beds, these tips will help you keep your furniture neat, comfortable, and looking great.

1. Hook and loop fasteners

To stop couch cushions from sliding, consider using hook-and-loop fasteners. These fasteners provide a strong adhesive grip that will allow you to easily attach and detach cushions while preventing them from shifting out of place. 

Hook-and-loop strips, commonly known as Velcro strips, are affordable and available at Amazon for indoor and outdoor use.

How to install: Trim these to fit the size of your cushions. Attach the hook-and-loop fasteners to the bottom of the cushions and the base of the couch, ensuring that both sides align properly for a secure hold. You can do this by sewing or finding fasteners with adhesive backings. If you opt for those with adhesive backing, ensure they are designed for the type of material you are attaching them to. 

2. Non-slip fabric

If you prefer a temporary solution that doesn't involve adhesives or fasteners, consider using non-slip grippers specifically designed for furniture. These grippers come in various shapes and sizes and are typically made from rubber or silicone, which provide traction between the cushion and couch frame to prevent any movement. Alternatively, rubber shelf liners or silicone mats can be just as effective. They can easily be cut to size. 

While this method may not be as secure as the others, it's a quick and easy way to prevent sliding without making any permanent changes to your couch, making it perfect for a rental. 

How to install: These are easy to install – simply place them underneath each cushion.

3. Upholstery tacks

Upholstery tacks or pins can be used as a more permanent solution to secure cushions to couches. These may create holes in certain materials and won't work for plastic or metal frames; however, on suitable surfaces, this solution will effectively secure the materials together.

How to install: Simply attach the tacks or pins to the undersides of the cushions and press or twist them into the couch base. This EEEkit pack of 50 is only $6.98 at Walmart.

4. Fabric ties

As a chic DIY approach to this project, you can sew fabric ties onto your cushions and the couch frame and tie these together. This method is a great way to attach the cushions while offering an easy way to detach them where needed (say, for cleaning purposes) and add a decorative touch to your furniture. 

How to install: Simply sew one end of the fabric tie to the cushion and attach the other end to the couch frame. You can use an upholstery pin to attach the fabric straps. You can make your own ties with fabric cuttings, use ribbons, or find some in local craft stores.

Often used to keep bedsheets in place, adjustable straps or clips are a versatile way to prevent fabrics from sliding. If a blanket or throw is draped over your couch, these can be wrapped around the cushions or couch and secured into place. You can use these Korlon clips, from Amazon; they are easy to install and can be adjusted to fit various cushion sizes, providing a secure hold.

This charming old farmhouse – think mellow, honey-toned stone and pale grey shutters – is just a short drive from both Nice and Cannes, two of the south of France’s most glamorous spots, but it could be half a world away. Here the pace is altogether slower, with the scent of lavender wafting gently into rooms dappled with Mediterranean sunlight.

The owners, who have four children - ages ranging from teenagers to young adults, wanted the house design to meet the highest standards of 21st-century family living while preserving the authentic rustic character of the building. They called on the talents of Studio Indigo for the task.

‘This is an unpretentious French farmhouse and the owners were really keen to reflect that, with robust materials and durable pieces that would cope beautifully with the demands of a large family,’ says Mike Fisher, founder and creative director of the luxury interior design practice.

Mike’s first step was to make sense of the main open-plan room, which includes an island kitchen. Although the farmhouse had been reworked by an architect, this huge area, spanning much of the ground floor, came across as an echoey expanse of tiled flooring and beamed ceiling.

By clearly zoning the space into separate functions – including sitting and dining areas – and using custom-made sofas and chairs that sit slightly low in the space, Studio Indigo has created a series of ‘rooms within a room’, while boosting the sense of height.

‘The furniture was designed with lounging teenagers in mind. We wanted big, bold pieces to create comfort and to properly fill and define what felt like a vast empty space,’ Mike says.

As this is a house the family likes to visit throughout the seasons, it was important to be light and cozy throughout. ‘For many of the rooms, the starting point was a striking collection of abaca and jute rugs, all with a raw, tactile feel bringing warmth to the cool stone floors,’ says Mike.

For the color palette, cues were taken from the south of France: warm, earthy oranges that are the perfect foil for vibrant Mediterranean blues against a backdrop of soft white. ‘We selected a mix of fabrics that would work beautifully when saturated in the Côte d’Azur sunlight.’

Equally careful attention was paid to the furniture, with bespoke furniture commissioned and artisan-made pieces incorporated– such as the table and sideboard in the dining area – bringing unique character to each room. ‘Inspired by the location, the limed oak of the sideboard features a sculptural finish that reflects the patterns the waves make in the sand,’ says Mike.

In the sitting room, the coffee table base is formed from a vast piece of a sculptural tree root, bringing a simple rustic element to the scheme while nodding to the tree-clad hillside setting. ‘Through the use of colorful textiles alongside organic materials we’ve celebrated the relaxed French farmhouse feel.’

The children’s bedrooms all have a seating area and bathroom, giving each family member their own space. The main suite – with its high ceilings, exposed timber beams, and muted oak floorboards – goes one better, with his and hers bathrooms and dressing rooms, and a generous lounge area that serves as a private retreat.

Here the bespoke seating is gently raised and wraps around the curving corner window, allowing the couple to drink in the magnificent views. With every space so carefully considered and curated, the farmhouse now has a feel of relaxed elegance that the whole family can come together and enjoy.

Meet the designer

Mike Fisher shares his style inspiration

What part of the home was the biggest indulgence?

Handcrafted bespoke design, because it is personal to the client.

What small change had the biggest impact?

Color is really important to me. It gives a space personality and identity, bringing vibrancy and a sense of joy.

Do you have a go-to color?

A bit of orange is always inspiring and really warms up shades of blue.

Which details are key to your style?

I like a surface, such as a sideboard - somewhere to put a lamp, some flowers, and knickknack type of things that make a space one’s own.

Describe your style in three words.

Inventive, timeless, joyful.

Who are your design heroes?

Charles Cameron, Edwin Lutyens, John Vanbrugh.

Where do you find inspiration?

More than anything, the building that I’m working on and responding to its particular challenges to create a unique solution.

Do you have a favorite building?

Castle Howard in Yorkshire – it’s so theatrical against the landscape.

Can you tell us a secret address for our books?

L’Atelier Blanc, a charming interiors shop in Valbonne, France.

A good sofa is an investment piece, and one that should be chosen for both beauty and comfort. It's possibly the biggest furniture purchase you'll make, so choosing the right living sofa is vital. After figuring out the style, size, and materials, there is the most fun part of all: picking a color. You'll want to love your living room sofa for a long time – reupholstering while less wasteful than buying new, can still be costly – and therefore the decision is an entirely personal one. Interestingly, however, many experts have seen a shift away from beige.

Interior designer Joanna Gaines is one step ahead of the sofa trends. The Fixer Upper co-host and owner of Magnolia has an undisputed eye for style, so it was a surprise to see a once outdated sofa trend has made its way back into the zeitgeist.

Where once a black sofa was the staple in a '90s bachelor pad, these days it is much easier to find beautiful versions of this once popular color. Done right, with the introduction of a sofa, it can add just the right amount of drama. Yes, the black sofa is back and more luxe than ever before. 

'It's very exciting to see customers enjoying midnight tones,' says Nicky Lane, chief product officer at Loaf. 'These deeper colors can be both playful and sophisticated and surprisingly easy to layer onto neutral tones.'

Black in the living room needs to tread a fine line. Overdo it and you're in danger of creating an austere room that drains energy rather than restores it. Do it well and discover a calming, contemplative oasis you'll always look forward to spending time in. This is a trend that indulges your urbane side rather than your inner goth. So, make do like Joanna Gaines and temper black with white or warm materials to keep the area from feeling gloomy. 

Far from binary, the aesthetic associations of black and white are rich and varied. Symbolizing balance and equilibrium, the pairing can also be used to isolate, capture attention and confuse; they are artists’ fundamental tools for capturing volume and form, and for architects to create rhythm and order. For a dramatic look, go high contrast with pure black and white; alternatively, for a softer take on monochrome, layer up a myriad of taupes and greiges. Whatever your temperament, both options make a great base for other furniture and collectibles.

Shop the trend

You may well be alert to signs you have moths in your closet, especially if you've noticed new holes appearing in your clothes, but you should be looking for signs of moths in your whole home. 

Unfortunately, there is more than one species of moth, and they like to munch on a variety of different materials, from carpet to carbs, in a variety of different spaces.

Below, with the help of pest experts, we list the clues that your home has moths, including where to look and the materials to protect in particular. We also offer the most effective solutions for getting rid of moths in each case.

7 signs of a moth infestation

First things first, these are the moths you need to worry about invading your home: clothes and carpet moths, which will put holes in everything from clothing to upholstery, and pantry moths, which enjoy snacking on bread and dry foods. It's the moth larvae that do the damage, spending around six weeks fattening themselves up on your belongings before becoming pupae and then adult moths who will start the cycle of egg-laying all over again. 

This is how to spot a moth infestation, which is usually counted as six moths or more.

1. Adult moths

'Moths aren't the most subtle pests, so chances are if you have them in your house, you will see them flying around and crawling on your walls, out of your closet, or around your light fixtures at night,' says Brett Bennett, director of operations, PURCOR Pest Solutions.

Full-grown moths look pretty harmless: they're usually around one-fifth of an inch long and are a light golden or silvery brown with pale-colored wings. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, drawers, or storage boxes.

The bad news? If you've spotted adult moths, the moth larvae will already have eaten holes into your belongings.  So, it's important to ensure you prevent moths in a closet and beyond so that the eggs don't hatch to become larvae in the first place. 

There are various ways to do so, from hanging cedar wood rings in closets to lavender sachets to moth-repellent sachets. You can discourage pantry moths, who have a great sense of smell, by sealing opened dry goods in lidded containers, like these stackable ones from Amazon.

You will need to repeat treatments and be thorough in your approach. Serious infestations that you can't manage alone might require the help of a professional pest control company.

2. Sticky residue from larvae casings and cocoons

If you've spotted sticky casings and cocoons, it's likely the moth larvae have already done damage since they are the culprits. That said, following the same process as above, emptying and cleaning an affected area thoroughly will be key to ensuring the pupae (larvae becoming adults) don't become another generation of moths who will lay their own eggs, starting the process again.

3. Moth larvae and eggs

These look like small maggots, usually white or pink with brown heads. You might spot them crawling around areas where their food source is, such as wool sweaters or open boxes of cereal.

Adult moths will lay their tiny, and therefore difficult to see, eggs in dark corners, cracks, and crevices. If you spot a single larva, then tackle your closet or pantry quickly by emptying it, washing or laundering the contents, vacuuming thoroughly, steam cleaning, and ventilating it. You might be lucky enough to destroy all the remaining eggs and larvae before they start to feast. Be aware that moth eggs may be hidden in air ducts, behind loose baseboards, and in the high corners of a closet, cabinet, or pantry, so be thorough to get the job done properly.

4. Holes in clothes

Holes in clothes can be caused by something as mundane as a door key left in a washer or dryer. But suppose you've noticed that clean clothes that went into your closet in perfect condition are suddenly riddled with holes. In that case, it's very likely that the cause is moth larvae, especially if the clothing is made from natural materials, such as wool, fur, silk, and even feathers. That said, other insects cause holes in clothes, so you may need to investigate further to check.

Removing all your clothes from your closet or drawers, washing them on a hot cycle, steam cleaning them, or even putting delicate items in the freezer, then cleaning the closet or drawers thoroughly, and using the moth deterrents above may do the trick. You will need to be vigilant to ensure you have dealt with the problem properly.

5. Silver webs on upholstery

If you've noticed the finest, silkiest-looking webs on your couch or headboard, you should look harder for larvae since these are the remains of the larvae casings. They may not have moved far if there are food sources nearby, but look first in dark, safe corners, including the crevices of seating, and under and behind furniture pushed up against a wall.

6. Patches in carpets and area rugs

These won't appear dramatically overnight; instead, the progress the larvae make will be slow and steady, and almost undetectable. However, they will continue to do damage unchecked, so regular vacuuming is a must, and heat treating carpets with a steam cleaner is another step that can help kill any hidden pests. Clothes moth traps, such as these highly-rated buys from Amazon will trap adults to help stop the cycle.

7. Mini tunnels

'Clothes moths will furrow through clothing and pantry moths through food, so look out for small, irregular holes that are difficult to explain away,' advises Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and owner of E.C. House Cleaning. 'Check for silky tunnels or furrows in clothing, which are created by larvae. These tunnels often contain moth larvae, and you might also find moth eggs, which are tiny, pinhead-sized, and white.'

Bear in mind that pantry moths need different traps for clothes and carpet moths since they are attracted to different pheromones. This pantry moth trap is a bestseller on Amazon and can be a great technique to pest-proof your pantry.

FAQs

What are the signs of moths in carpets?

The first sign of moths in a carpet or area rug that you might see is damage to the carpet, which looks like something has carved a tiny, winding threadbare trail in the pile. Other signs to look for include adult moths fluttering about the room, tiny larvae (these can grow up to around one third of an inch but are almost indiscernible to begin with), sticky larvae shells, and tiny black dots, which are moth eggs, and incredibly hard to see.

What are signs of moths in closets?

Other than an adult moth crawling or flying out of your closet, it's likely that the first sign you'll see of moths in your closet is your once pristine clothing suddenly displaying holes. Bear in mind that moths tend not to eat cotton T-shirts (though it's not unheard of) but will target your luxury, natural materials, such as cashmere sweaters, silk shirts, and vintage furs.

Why do I have moths in my home?

Like all pests, moths are attracted to food sources, with clothes and carpet moths drawn to natural materials and pantry moths attracted to dry goods. It's worth noting that clothes/carpet moths are also enticed by our sweat and dead skin, so ensuring only clean clothes go into your closet and that dirty laundry is kept in a securely sealed basket will make your bedroom less attractive to them. 

Moths can come into your home in a variety of ways: via secondhand clothes (hot wash or dry clean straight after purchase advised), in secondhand furniture and furnishings (steam clean or at least vacuum thoroughly), and in unsealed dry food, perhaps containers of birdseed or flour. And, of course, moths can come into your home through open doors and windows, so keeping screens shut is a good move.

To deal with moth infestations, Chris Parker, the founder of Parker Eco Pest Control has a few tips: 'Oust existing moths with traps and thorough cleaning. Wash or throw away infested clothes or food and scour all surfaces to eliminate eggs.

'Brush off wool or fur clothing after you wear it and store it in airtight bags or cool, ventilated, cedar closets to keep moths out of your clothes. Store food in airtight containers or the freezer to prevent kitchen moths. Look for and seal any cracks and crevices in your pantry, walls, or cabinets.'

French country houses have become a source of inspiration for rustic-meets-elegant interiors, and for good reason. These often old spaces are full of character and carry a wonderful balance of old and new, something trends have been embracing this year.

From the beautiful architecture to charming French country decor, this style of home offers an abundance of inspiration for decorating homes of every age and style. Advocating the lived-in aesthetic and personal touch that recent trends haven't showcased, there are plenty of design cues to take from French country houses.

And where better to gather ideas and decor insights than real French country houses around the country? We've spoken to the owners and designers of these spaces to find out how they created their charming, characterful schemes.

5 french country houses that showcase this classic rustic style 

From rustic countryside abodes to interiors embracing understated elegance, these French country homes are full of character, personality, and historic charm. So, whether you live in a French home or simply want to introduce French country style to your interiors, there's plenty here to inspire.

1. Maison Noe in Dax

There are different styles of French country houses, but a feature many of them have is the natural stone used for brickwork and the almost symmetrical facade that gives these spaces enduring appeal.

'Built in 1806, my French house, called Maison Noe, had never left the ownership of the family who originally built it. It’s built in the classically elegant maison de maitre style, with a square façade, a central front-to-back hallway that allows daylight to flood through the building, with two rooms off to each side and barns attached at each end,' explains owner and interior designer Benji Lewis.

'I’m sensitive to the idea that you can over-renovate an old French property so my approach has been to retain what makes sense with the authenticity of the original structure and otherwise reinstate materials that would have been in the house when it was built,' he adds.

When it came to furnishing and decorating, Benji was careful to maintain the character and sense of history that was core to his French country home. 'For the furnishings I did as I would with any client, I drew furniture layout plans on scale drawings so that when I shopped I knew exactly what would fit. I trawled the brocantes and antique shops in the area for almost everything – it’d have taken less time if I had bought everything new but somehow second-hand furniture works fantastically well in an old French home,' he says.

While his home is filled with beautiful antique furniture, he has introduced some elements of new. 'I did spend money on getting upholstered goods re-conditioned, restored, and re-covered. As much as I love preloved I don’t like upholstery when it’s too far gone and I wanted my soft seating to be comfortable,' he explains.

He explains that introducing old and collected pieces is core to authentic French country style: 'I think the brocante factor can’t be overstated when it comes to achieving a successful French Country look. There’s a massive difference between curated and chaotic and I knew I needed to not fall into the chaotic bearpit.'

'I think to successfully achieve the French country look you need to strike a fine balance between controlling your thoughts on what you buy but bouncing plenty of interest into the mix and then curating it all carefully when you get home,' he adds.

2. Manoir Mouret in South West France

This classic French country home is as idyllic as it gets – surrounded by picturesque countryside, it's exactly what you would imagine a historic home in South West France to look like.

'Manoir Mouret was built in the 1850s as a "maison de maître", the home for the master winemaker. We are surrounded by our neighbours' vines and their work in the fields marks the passing of the seasons here in rural France. The wine was originally made in the barns surrounding the main house, but they have now been sensitively converted into accommodation which respects the heritage of the buildings,' explains owner Margaret Reckitt.

Inside this French country house, Margaret has created a classic, elegant space that feels understated and classy. 'We created a unifying color palette and "flow" across all the buildings that today make up Manoir Mouret so that whichever of the 13 bedrooms you are in you have a sense of place and calm (with a few pops of color too)' she explains.

Alongside the muted color palette, fabric and upholstery have been used to lift the space and introduce references to the surrounding landscapes. 'Many fabrics and wall coverings we have used have nature as their theme so that you are constantly reminded of the beautiful nature surrounding us here,' Margaret says.

While the interiors here are more refined and elegant, she notes the importance of antiques to create an authentic French country feel. 'We have added extra layers of interest with objects from local antique fairs, again often speaking to the agricultural history of the house and area,' Margaret adds.

3. A petit chateau in the Béarn region

French country homes often have the old-meets-new aesthetic that truly endures, and Sarah Silm, owner of this home and author of How to French Country, has embraced traditional French country style while adding her own personality to the design.

'I live in the magnificent foothills of the Pyrenees in the Béarn region of SW France. We purchased our petit chateau nearly 10 years ago and have gradually restored it ever since. Dating back to the 1850’s, the chateau was built by a French general and was later purchased by the sister-in-law of King Leopold III of Belgium, who’s descendant we bought it from,' Sara explains.

When decorating her home, Sara was keen to keep as much of the original charm as possible. 'The chateau had been empty for decades so I kept everything I could save and started to add my touch from there. I developed a color palette by color matching old patina from local shutters and doors, as well as being inspired by the beautiful landscape of the Béarnaise countryside and the Pyrenees,' she says.

In each room, Sara has introduced elements that celebrate the architectural details, but she has also taken a layered approach to pattern and texture, creating a warm, homey feel. 'It’s always good to layer textures, so I often start with the floor and work my way up from there. I tend to center spaces with rugs, often vintage Persian rugs with muted color palettes, or natural sisal, that contrast with old floorboards or the tumbled travertine flagstones that are throughout many of the rooms downstairs,' Sara explains.

A careful balance of curated style and unfussy design is core to French country house style. 'It's important to keep it relaxed and not to have anything too precious or formal. I love patterns and many of the designs from Le Village, my French wallpaper collaboration with Sandberg Wallpaper feature throughout the house. The feeling wallpaper brings, not only speaks to the intimacy and warmth of a French country style, but it also allows you to express your personality,' she adds.

4. A Maison de Maître in the South of France

A grand entry awaits at this French country house in the South of France. A slightly different style of country house, this home's exterior has been finished in a neutral hue rather than natural stone, offering a more elegant facade. 'Our home, a Maison de Maître built in the mid-1800s, is in the center of an old bastide village,' says owner Jane Grainger.

The exterior is a wonderful preview to the interiors – the classic elegance runs through this French country home, with a blend of traditional French country style working in harmony with more contemporary additions. 'I’ve always loved creating a home, so my main priority was for the house to feel like a family home, whilst being influenced by the period and style of the house,' says Jane.

When she moved to France, she was upsizing from her UK home, so she needed to introduce more 'new' furniture that suited the property 'Luckily I have a love for brocantes and vide greniers so all our furniture has been preloved purchases that we’ve been able to buy at some great prices,' she says.

The architectural details give this home true French country style, and there are plenty of them. 'The layout and symmetrical details of a Maison de Maître symbolize a traditional French country home, together with the well-proportioned rooms and large windows, which flood the house with light. There are also the pretty Juliet balconies to all the windows on the first and second floors, which together with the wooden shutters make the house feel steeped in French history and living,' Jane points out.

If there's anything to take away from these French country houses, it's a careful mix of old and new paired with laid-back, comfortable living is key to adding country charm and character to your home. Whether you create an authentically collected space like Benji or lean into understated elegance like Jane, it's really no surprise French country houses are becoming a pillar of inspiration in the design world.

We are all probably tired of hearing that we need to clean more, more often, and with more intensity. It can leave us feeling like our chores will never be done. 

However, there are a few spots that even the professionals skip most of the time when cleaning their homes with very little consequence to our properties or our health. 

These are the eight cleaning tasks that are a waste of time in the eyes of professional cleaners, and how skipping them can save you time and energy. 

Cleaning tasks that are a waste of time

It is rare that cleaning tips tell you not to clean something, but we are certainly not going to complain if it means we can spend more time relaxing and even enjoy a chore-free weekend.  

1. Dusting every surface every time

It is certainly important to remove dust in your home – especially if you have allergies, but there are some spots that are just not worth the time and effort every single week, begins Tina Priestly, home organizer and owner of Ready, Set, REFRESH:

‘While it's important to dust regularly, areas like the tops of kitchen cabinets or shelves that aren't touched often can be dusted less frequently. Focus on frequently used surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops instead for a truly hygienic home.’ 

2. Vacuuming upholstery

Similarly, removing the dust from your furniture and upholstery is another task you can probably cut back on, making it a monthly task rather than weekly to save time, adds Courtney Walsh, expert cleaner at Homeaglow. 

‘Vacuuming upholstery is often done constantly on short-form social media. While aesthetically appealing, it is probably a monthly task unless you have a particular mess to clean up. Similarly, vacuuming mattresses is overdone on socials - it needs to be done once or twice a year. If you use a mattress case like for dust mites, then you probably don’t need to vacuum your mattress at all.’ 

3. Washing your windows

Unless you have recently had a dust or sand storm, cleaning windows every month is probably a little overkill, suggests Tina Priestly, home organizer. While it can help to increase natural light in your home, the effect is usually minimal, she says.

‘Unless windows are visibly dirty or in high-traffic areas, they typically don't need to be cleaned inside and out every week. Prioritize indoor surfaces and save full window cleanings for seasonal maintenance.’

4. Cleaning baseboards

‘While clean baseboards can contribute to an overall tidy appearance, they don't typically accumulate significant dirt or grime on a daily basis. Unless visibly soiled, wiping them down monthly or even bi-monthly should suffice,’ recommends Emily Adams of NW Maids. Not only will it save you time, but your knees and back as well. 

If you want to quickly freshen them up, a nozzle attachment on the best vacuum will likely collect most of the dust and debris for you more quickly and efficiently than with a cloth.  

5. Vacuuming every room regularly

Speaking of vacuuming, Tina Priestly, home organizer, suggests we are also doing this too often for certain spots. 

‘While vacuuming is key, not every room needs daily attention. Focus on high-traffic spots like living rooms and hallways, and adjust based on use. Bedrooms and guest rooms can be vacuumed less often,’ she says. Working out how often you should vacuum for every space to prevent visible dirt and dust mites will save you lots of time, and will also extend the life of your vacuum cleaner.  

6. Washing walls

You definitely need to clean walls before painting, but on a weekly basis they are best left as is, assures Emily Adams of NW Maids. 

‘Unless there are noticeable stains or marks, washing walls frequently might be excessive and could damage your paint or wallpaper with time – no matter which gentle methods you use. Spot cleaning as needed is usually adequate, with a more thorough wall washing reserved for occasional deep cleans.’ 

7. Cleaning light fixtures

Our lighting ideas are magnets for dust, but that doesn't mean we have to spend precious time cleaning them every single week, Emily Adams of NW Maids continues. ‘As long as they're not visibly dirty or affecting light output, a quarterly wipe down should suffice,’ she assures. 

When you do need to clean them, a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth or a rollover with a lint roller for fabric shades will quickly tackle build-up with very little effort. 

8. Cleaning behind appliances

Cleaning behind large appliances and underneath larger furniture pieces are some of the hardest household cleaning tasks – so don't break your back trying to tackle them every month, advises Yessica Bello, cleaning expert at Bello’s Cleaning:

‘Cleaning behind appliances like refrigerators or washing machines every week is overkill for most households. What’s more, our experience has shown that excessive moving of these appliances can also lead to wear and tear both on your floor and the appliances' moving parts.

Unless you are dealing with pest infestations or similar urgent situations, moving these heavy appliances to clean behind them quarterly or bi-annually is ample.’

FAQs

Is it okay to not clean your house?

Although there are some small cleaning tasks you can usually skip with little consequence, it is not a good idea to stop cleaning your house entirely. Keeping a clean house is vital to protecting your health and wellbeing. Not cleaning will lead to a build-up of bacteria, mold, and even pests that will make every day life not only disgusting, but more difficult too. 

This is not to say that these areas of your home should be completely abandoned and never cleaned again. Dusting high cabinet tops and light fixtures can help to make a home smell nice when done infrequently, for example, while washing windows can boost your curb appeal. It is more about relaxing on some tasks and completing them as part of infrequent maintenance than stressing about getting everything done every month – helping you to rest and reset each week.  

We all know that Robert Pattinson has skills. The most known is acting, but his furniture design aptitude might be just as impressive.

Working together with designer Nicole Gordon, the actor created an architectural white sofa that's shaped a bit like an ear. According to Architectural Digest, the gorgeous living room sofa idea came from Pattinson's interest in creating a playful and informal piece of furniture that prioritized socialization. The piece is artfully engineered so that each arm can support up to 350 lbs of weight, raising the number of people who can sit on the sofa in a stylish way.

The couch taps into sofa trends with its white linen velvet upholstery. Pattinson gave it an extra pop with a slab of pink onyx on the bottom of the sofa, and if you look closely you can see the embedded pink onyx drink trays on either arm. The organic white and pink piece would bring warm, cozy, structural comfort to any space.

As intended, the Pattinson-designed sofa certainly sparks conversation. First, why is every celebrity a furniture designer now? From Kelly Clarkson's Wayfair Collection to Drew Barrymore's Beautiful Line with Walmart the celebrity-led furniture brand seems to be more and more of a trend.

Megan Slack, design expert and head of celebrity style at Homes & Gardens says: 'As interior design is increasingly respected as an art form, more actors and musicians are pushing to add this skill to their portfolio. It can be an interesting extension of their personal brands. As "lifestyle influencing" is seen as a legitimate career choice, it's a prudent and artistic thing to incorporate.'

Second, Pattinson's sofa sparks conversation around the purpose of design. Design experts love the way that the white sofa prioritizes both function and beauty. 'I love the way that Pattinson has built this piece of furniture to encourage socialization and fun, but it's also design-led,' says Jennifer Ebert, design expert. She continues, 'Even though it's such a sculptural piece, the natural, organic curves of the sofa are welcoming and invite viewers to have a seat.'

Shop The Edit

While you can't shop the exact sofa Robert Pattinson designed, the curved shape, softness, and style can be easily recreated with another rounded sofa. These boucle and linen pieces bring the same conversational warmth.

Though we couldn't have predicted Robert Pattinson designing an expertly engineered sofa, we're so glad he did. If we're lucky, this won't be the last design we see from him.

Baking soda is a miraculous thing. Used for much more than baking, the fine powder can be used to clean and deodorize things all over the home.

Of all the things you can clean with baking soda, a common hack is to spread it across carpets or furniture to then vacuum up, removing any smells and offering a deeper (and more convenient) clean than otherwise.

But is vacuuming baking powder actually safe for the vacuum? Our best cordless vacuums and upright vacuums are precious machines, and they're often not cheap, so we wouldn't want to potentially damage them in the name of easier cleaning.

Can you vacuum baking soda?

Elizabeth Shields, Operations Manager at Super Cleaning Service, illuminates her experience using baking soda, and the impact it's had on her (many) vacuum cleaners.

'Being in the business for so long, I am guilty of using baking soda in my cleaning routine. It’s super cheap and really effective in deodorizing things! And in those years, I’ve never experienced having a vacuum cleaner get damaged because of this,' says Elizabeth.

Of course, there are things you should never clean with baking soda, because of its main component sodium bicarbonate being able to harm some surfaces. But vacuum cleaners are highly durable appliances, so it's not completely surprising that many vacs haven't suffered damage from them.

Regardless, it's not uncommon to hear of baking soda damaging a vacuum cleaner's internal parts. Sodium bicarbonate is a salt and salt is a natural oxidizer, so there's the chance that baking soda can damage a vacuum's metal components if left for too long.

It's often been reported that vacuum cleaner filters can clog up because of baking soda. On online forum sites like Vacuumland and Reddit, users have reported baking soda embedding into vacuum filters, lessening suction power in the process. But this problem is the same across many dusts and powders that are so fine they can get into the pores of a vacuum filter.

It's worth noting that many of these posts were from many years ago, dating all the way back to 2015. Vacuum cleaners have become a lot more powerful since then, and in our many tests, the best vacuum cleaners are the ones that can capture these fine particles effectively.

Vacuums with HEPA filters are designed to suck up minuscule particles, like the countless different forms of debris that build up on our floors. Elizabeth elaborates on why she has never found any damage to her vacuums:

'Maybe it’s also because my own are equipped with HEPA filters that capture small particles, including baking soda dust. This filter is built with layers of fine fibers that make a maze for these microscopic particles.'

HEPA filters can capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Many HEPA vacuums, like the Shark Stratos Cordless, have washable HEPA filters to avoid any build-up from these super-fine particles.

Even vacuums without washable filters can be cleared of particle build-ups. Knowing how to clean a vacuum filter, regardless of type, will avoid baking soda settling into the pores, or potentially damaging any metal components over time.

So, using baking soda in moderation and cleaning the filter regularly is the best way to avoid any damage. Many people use baking soda often and discover no problems from it, but at the same time, many users have reported damage from doing so.

If you're worried your vacuum isn't strong enough, it's probably best to be safe and avoid using baking soda entirely. Instead, consult your manufacturer's recommendations for home cleaning products.

Baking soda can be a great way to clean and de-odorize carpets, but how often should you vacuum carpet? It's best to do it regularly to avoid dirt and dust building up. Or, the best robot vacuums can do a big chunk of the work for you, giving you more time away from chores.

As the seasons shift and we transition our homes from winter to spring and summer, it is the perfect time to swap out our home fragrance for something more seasonal.

While we can light the candles and set out diffusers, freshening up and cleaning upholstery is one of the best ways to layer seasonal scents around your home for long-lasting fragrance.

These five simple cleaning and fragrance tips will help to make your upholstery smell nice for spring and summer to help shake away those musty winter blues.

How to make upholstery smell nice for spring and summer

When making a home smell good for spring and summer, you want to opt for fresh seasonal scents, such as bright florals and comforting laundry, suggests Vanessa Terra Bossart, cleaning expert and owner of Green Terra Cleaning:

‘Selecting the perfect fragrance sets the tone for a seasonal transition. Floral and citrus notes embody the essence of spring and summer, so I suggest looking for scents with hints of jasmine, lavender, lemon, or grapefruit to breathe life into your living space with freshness and vitality.’

With your scents picked out to scentscape for spring, you can start fragrance layering.

1. Use linen sprays

Of course, the most obvious way to add a personalized scent to upholstery is to use a linen spray, begins Eliana Coca, cleaning expert and owner of E.C. House Cleaning.

‘To make your own DIY linen spray, simply mix distilled water with a few drops of your chosen essential oils in a spray bottle and lightly mist the upholstery. Be sure to check the spray on an inconspicuous area first to check it doesn't stain or cause damage.’

Of course, if you don’t fancy making your own, there are plenty of luxury options on the market.

2. Wash covers in strong-smelling detergent

One thing people with clean upholstery always do is use removable laundry covers which you can take off when doing laundry, says Gabriella Dyson, Solved section editor for Homes & Gardens. Check the laundry symbols to ensure it is compatible with wet cleaning, then add in a good dousing of your nicest smelling, mild laundry detergent or upholstery detergent to freshen up your upholstery for the spring and summer months.

Line dry for a longer-lasting fragrance, she adds.

3. Remove lingering odors

Your fresh spring fragrances won’t stick around for long unless you clean old, musty odors away first, notes Eliana Coca, cleaning expert:

‘To deodorize, try cleaning with baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda over the upholstery, and allow it to sit for about an hour before vacuuming away. This not only helps to deodorize the fabric but also lifts minor stains and refreshes the material,’ she explains. ‘Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum cleaner further assists in removing allergens and dust that can trap odors.’

If you have one, you can also use a steam cleaner to deep clean upholstery cushions and kill odor-causing bacteria. Be sure to let them dry fully either outside, or using a dehumidifier, to prevent musty smells from returning.

4. Use dryer sheets in pillowcases

Putting fresh, strong-smelling dryer sheets inside your cushion covers and upholstery covers is a simple hidden fragrance hack that subtly scents any room in your home. Dryer sheets, such as Bounce, from Walmart, slowly release their scent, especially when you sit back on a sofa or snuggle into throw pillows on your bed, making it the perfect long-lasting solution.

Remember to replace these as needed to keep the hidden scent fresh.

5. Freshen upholstery up outdoors

If you have the space and the weather is nice enough, you can move your upholstery outside into the sun and fresh air to help air it out and remove lingering odors, suggests Vanessa Terra Bossart, cleaning expert:

‘Make the most of sunny days by taking your upholstery outdoors for a breath of fresh air. Allowing your cushions and pillows to soak up the sun's rays helps naturally disinfect and deodorize them, infusing them with a delightful, sun-kissed aroma – giving you similar benefits to air-drying laundry.’

Note that this method may not be the best idea if you struggle with hay fever, however.

Pair these upholstery scent hacks with the best candles and best oil diffusers, and you have a personalized home spring/summer scent that any guest will be jealous of. Remember to pick scents that complement one another, rather than fight against each other to prevent the room from smelling overwhelming.

Finding furniture that blends European-influenced glamour with a traditional country aesthetic is no easy feat, but Kelly Clarkson is making things easier for us. 

Since the American Idol alum first launched her furniture line with Wayfair in 2020, she has simplified the decorating process in every style of home – but this Way Day, her stand-out pieces are more accessible than ever. 

From French country decor statement furnishings (including one of the most beautiful chandeliers we've ever seen) to her luxury bedding picks, all pieces curated by Clarkson have one thing in common: they're as functional as they are good-looking.

'I love Wayfair because they have super functional pieces that help me stay on top of things, but still feel like me. Their products make it all easier, whether I'm hosting or picking up after the kids,' Clarkson says via Instagram. After spending lots of time browsing her picks, we can confirm there's something for every type of design enthusiast. However, we do have our favorites.

Kelly Clarkson's Wayfair decor – our top picks

From floor coverings to light fixtures to adorn our ceilings, we can cover every inch of our space with some Clarkson-approved style. They're at notably low prices this Way Day, so if there's ever a time to invest, it's today.

Taking over fashion trends for the best part of the past year, the 'quiet luxury' trend is one with real legs. It has a timeless appeal and is defined by real, quality materials that will stand the test of time. 

That mentality makes shopping for the quiet luxury trend so rewarding: essentially you're investing in pieces that will go the long haul, avoiding re-buying or shopping fads that will no doubt date your home. So a budget-friendly, quiet luxury edit should tick even more boxes, right? I certainly think so.

Wayfair has a whole host of serene and sophisticated pieces that I'm coveting to help deck out my home for less. Here, I run through my favorite pieces and how to shop at Wayfair like a style editor.

How To Shop The Quiet Luxury Trend At Wayfair

Shopping on Wayfair can be quite overwhelming, there are so many products to choose from, so the safest strategy (for your wallet and your mind) is to look at shopping with tunnel vision. You can filter every category on Wayfair by interior design style, making it much easier to weed out the more maximalist pieces and land in a more curated edit.

Speaking of which, here are my 12 favorite items on Wayfair right now that will help you achieve a quiet luxury aesthetic with pieces that exude opulence through subtlety, focusing on quality materials, craftsmanship, and thoughtful detailing.

Whether you're looking for super soft, swivel boucle chairs or decorative pieces like faux plants, large area rugs or lighting, these Wayfair picks might look expensive, but they're certainly easier on the purse strings. 

If comfort at the dining table is a priority, then upholstered dining chairs are the way to go. However, in a room so prone to spills, splatters, and stains, keeping them clean and smelling their best is a nightmare – especially if children are involved. 

From removing red wine stains to dealing with crumbs, cleaning upholstery in a dining room can sometimes seem like an uphill battle after every big meal or fun family occasion. 

Luckily for us, professional cleaners have perfected the art of cleaning these chairs and keeping them spotless – all without too much manual scrubbing. This is what they suggest. 

How to clean upholstered dining chairs

The first thing to do when cleaning upholstered dining chairs is to check the care label, usually on the base of the chair, to see if the material is ‘wet-cleanable’ or dry clean only, begins Jennie Holmes, cleaning expert and branch manager of ServiceMaster Clean. This will help direct the method and the products you use to clean the chairs.

If in doubt, always spot-test any cleaning products in an inconspicuous place before committing to a full clean. 

1. Remove debris

The first step is to remove any loose debris – both before deep cleaning upholstered dining chairs, and when cleaning up after a dinner party. 

Jennie Holmes, cleaning expert, recommends using a microfiber cloth to remove any loose debris, and then using your vacuum to remove smaller bits. ‘Especially around buttons or seams etc.'

2. Use mild detergent or upholstery cleaner

Much like washing couch cushions without damaging them, it is best to use a dedicated upholstery cleaner, or a mild detergent at most, to remove any stains or discoloration without risking further damage, says Erin Zanelli, co-owner and Founder of Tranquil Home:

‘For stains or soiled areas, prepare a solution of mild detergent or upholstery cleaner diluted with water, following the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the solution sparingly to a clean cloth or sponge, then dab at the stain in a gentle, blotting motion. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this may damage the fabric fibers.

‘Once the stains are lifted, dampen another clean cloth with plain water and blot the treated areas to remove any residual cleaning solution.’

3. Use an enzyme-based cleaner for food stains

In the case of truly stubborn stains, you can try enzyme-based cleaners, adds Jennie Holmes, cleaning expert. ‘These will “eat” into the stain and remove it,’ she explains. 

‘As always, test this on an inconspicuous area first and always blot and never rub as this can damage the face of the fabric.’

4. Try steam cleaning

Just as you would steam clean a couch, you can steam clean upholstered dining chairs to break down surface dirt and sanitize the chair after meals. 

Before steam cleaning, check the care label to ensure both the upholstery and the chair stuffing are safe for high temperatures (some foams and velvets, for instance, may melt or misshapen). 

When picking the best steam cleaner, opt for one with an upholstery attachment to make this process easier and safer.  

5. Avoid color transfer and watermarks

A good cleaning tip to keep in mind is using plain colored cleaning cloths to avoid color transfer from the cloth to the upholstery – especially in the case of white or cream dining chairs, warns Jade Piper, cleaning expert and operations manager at BetterCleans:

‘Don't use colored cloths or sponges as the dye might transfer onto the upholstery and cause more stains. And be careful not to oversaturate the fabric, watermarks are an eyesore caused by too much moisture.’

6. Dry naturally

With the chairs cleaned and returned to their former glory, it is time to let them dry. Air drying is the best way to do this, allowing them to sit in a well-ventilated space to air out, says Erin Zanelli, eco-cleaning expert. ‘You can also use a fan to expedite the drying process,’ she adds. 

If you need to speed the process up, using a dehumidifier near the chairs will pull moisture out of the surrounding air and encourage faster drying, reducing the chance of musty odors being left behind. If the weather is on your side, you can also put the chairs out in the sun to dry and further deodorize. Leaving them out for a short amount of time shouldn’t cause any sun bleaching, but this is something to consider with darker-colored fabrics and woods.  

FAQs

Will baking soda remove stains from upholstery?

Baking soda, when mixed with distilled water into a paste, can be a good stain remover for light, fresh stains on upholstery. When applying the paste, blot the stain gently, rather than rubbing it in, and allow it to sit for up to an hour. Then, remove with a damp (not soaking wet) cloth.  

How long do upholstered dining chairs last?  

Well-made upholstered dining chairs that are cleaned and cared for properly can last anywhere between seven to 15 years. This is because upholstery generally wears out far more quickly than leather or plain wood, especially if they are used regularly or not cleaned correctly. Designs made from solid wood with thicker cushions typically last longer.  

With the chairs clean, it is good to look for some maintenance tactics to prevent them from becoming dangerously stained again in the future, recommends cleaning expert Jade Piper. She suggests applying some fabric-protecting finish to keep the stains out. 

‘You can also buy washable seat covers. They come in different colors and patterns so it’s easy to match your home’s aesthetic. It would also help to clean it once every six to 12 months, but if you want to be sure it still looks as good as new, maybe vacuum it once a week.’

There is nothing like sinking into a cozy sofa at the end of a long day – but when a musty odor rises to meet us, it can put a damper on the whole day. 

Whether it is the smell of age, the lingering odor from our pets, or the accumulation of a few splashed drinks and cookie crumbs, a dank smell is one of the main signs you need to clean your upholstery with something more than a vacuum. 

We asked professional cleaners for the best cleaning tips for removing odors from upholstery to revitalize your furniture and make your home smell like home again. 

How to remove odors from upholstery

As with any cleaning method, it is always a good idea to test your chosen solutions on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure there are no marks or stains. The last thing you want is a smelly sofa with watermarks all over it. 

With the method tried on the back or underside of your piece, then you can work on making your home smell nice again. 

1. Sprinkle with baking soda

This wouldn’t be a piece about deodorizing without mentioning cleaning with baking soda. It is safe to say that this pantry staple is now used more as a cleaning agent than anything else. 

To help remove odors from upholstery, Erin Zanelli, co-owner and founder of Tranquil Home, recommends sprinkling a good layer of this all over the surface of the fabric and allowing it to sit:

‘Allow it to sit for several hours or overnight to absorb odors. Then, using the brush attachment, gently vacuum the entire surface of each chair to remove the baking soda, loose dirt, dust, and debris,’ she recommends. ‘Pay special attention to seams and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate.’ 

2. Try a linen spray

If your upholstery only needs a quick freshen-up, then a commercial upholstery spray or DIY linen spray is by far the quickest option, says Jennie Holmes, cleaning expert and branch manager of ServiceMaster Clean. 

‘You can get some sanitizing and deodorizing sprays from supermarkets, which could work for you and will certainly freshen the upholstery up. Before you do anything, however, remember to try the product in an inconspicuous area – I  can’t stress this enough,’ she adds. 

Remember that when using a linen spray it will only mask the cause of the smell, rather than clear it away. This is great if your upholstery is just old, but might not be the best solution if the smell is coming from a spill or stain. 

3. Shake up a DIY deodorizer

Another common deodorizer professional cleaners can’t live without is cleaning with vinegar. 

‘You can make a DIY spray by mixing water with white vinegar or a few drops of an essential oil like lavender or eucalyptus,’ suggests Barbara Stern, editor-in-chief at Ottoman Textiles. ‘Spray lightly over the fabric and let it air dry.’ 

4. Try a pet deodorizer

Whether or not the musty smells in your sofa are caused by pets, using a pet deodorizer can help to break down organic causes of smells and refresh any upholstery, suggests Jade Piper, cleaning expert and operations manager at BetterCleans. ‘If you don’t want to DIY, use the Rocco & Roxie Pet Odor Eliminator, available at Walmart,’ she recommends. 

5. Get a professional clean

If you want to deodorize and wash couch cushions without damaging them but aren’t sure of your skills, you can consider getting them professionally cleaned, Jennie Holmes, a cleaning expert, recommends. 

‘A deep clean will remove a lot of smells,’ she says. This is best done by a professional.’

FAQs

How long does it take for vinegar to remove odors?  

Vinegar usually takes a few hours to help remove smells, which is why it is best to spray it directly onto an area and let it dry naturally or place a container of vinegar in an area to soak up odors in the air over time.  

Why does my new sofa smell bad?  

A new sofa or upholstered furniture piece may smell bad upon delivery due to the treatments it goes through to ensure it is safe when it leaves the factory. Upholstery and stuffing made from natural materials such as down stuffing may have been treated to kill bacteria, or they may have been sprayed down with a flame retardant. You can often use vinegar sprays to help remove these odors, as well as letting them air out in a room with the windows open.  

Upholstery is often one of many things you can clean with a steam cleaner (depending on the fabric and stuffing used), meaning you can often prevent odors with regular steaming. Using the upholstery attachment on the best steam cleaners will penetrate deep into the stuffing and break down dirt and odor particles, keeping your furniture fresher for longer. Just be sure to allow the furniture to dry thoroughly to prevent musty smells from lingering.  

When it comes to trends, I pride myself on not jumping on them as soon as they appear. I like a trend to settle first, check it has some longevity before I commit. There are of course some looks I embrace pretty quickly, like the wavy mirror I bought last summer and the gingham bedding I have just pulled out again for spring. But these were small investments, if a few months down the line they fall out of fashion no major harm done. 

However, there's been a 'trendy' piece on my wishlist for the best part of a year that's a big investment – a curved couch. These have been on trend for a while I know, but I wasn't sure if in 2024 the love was dropping off. Would I regret this large purchase? Would it look dated in a years time?

Luckily, I have the expertise of interior designers to guide my shopping choices, so I asked some of my favorites for their thoughts. Is a curved couch still on trend? Is it worth the investment, and will it last through all the ever-changing interior design trends?

Spoiler, all the designers I spoke with convinced me a curved couch was a good idea and worth the investment. New York-based designer Allison Garcy told me 'A resounding Yes! Ever since 2021 when we saw the rise of vintage curved modular sofas all over social media, curved furniture and specifically upholstery pieces are not going anywhere.'

And she made a very good point that swayed me too. My apartment isn't huge and this curved couch will actually be the second couch in my living room, since I want to add more seating but not make the space feel crowded. She explained, 'Curved couches offer resourcefulness in making spaces seem larger than they appear as well as creating more cozy seating arrangements, and offer an intentional asymmetry to a room.'

'In recent months, we've witnessed a profound cultural shift from the pursuit of perfection (read static, minimal or overly curated interiors) to the celebration of authenticity of space and those who dwell in it. Design is moving away from curated images of flawlessness and embracing the beauty of imperfection. I think we will now see curved furniture not as it has been, solely upholstered in white bouclé and velvety neutrals, but now in warmer peach and jewel tones, and deco patterns that stand out more in the room than blend in, reflecting the unique personality of the homeowner and vibes of the space.'

So it's perhaps more about the fabric choice than the shape that will ensure my curved couch has longevity. I decided a while ago that bouclé was a no-go since I do believe that couch trend will date eventually.

My other concern with a curved couch was that it would feel too modern. My interior design style is quite transitional, but I tend to lean more soft and cozy than modern and sleek. However, designer Kathy Kuo assured me that curved sofas can work with both cozy spaces and uber-modern ones. 

'A curved sofa is a great way to make a strong visual statement with what is arguably the most important piece of furniture in your living room. I love that a curved sofa has the potential to feel very modern and upscale, but also very organically inspired and soft and cozy,' she explains. 'If you select a beautifully made curved sofa in a versatile color and with high-quality upholstery, there's no reason to think it wouldn't have the same level of staying power as any other style. It's all about trusting your aesthetic instincts!'

Founder of Folding Chair Design, Jennifer Walter also makes the point that while the curved couch is on trend now, the design has always existed in some form and has been adapted over the eras. 

'The curved sofa has been around since the Egyptians, and in the 50s and 60s Italian designers as well as the likes of Vladimir Kagan in the 70s have been embracing it,' she explains. 'A staple of mid-century design, the curved back and subtler lines of this style appeal to modernists at heart.'

'However, in recent years, the curved sofa has branched outside of its customary frame and outside of its niche. From the likes of retailers like CB2 and West Elm to traditional trade favorites like Hickory Chair and Vanguard, everyone seems to offer a version of curve!'

'No one can dispute the impact of a large, semi-circular seating arrangement in a large room, or the sexiness of a settee situated in the corner of a room where a linear framed chair or chest could have easily fit. There’s a boldness and confidence a curved piece infuses into a room, and it can surely provide a bit more circulation when space planning. The evolution of it will continue even as the hot trend dims but it’s likely here to stay.'

This 'circulation' appeals to me, as curved couches do appear more... fluid than most sofa designs with solid square silhouettes. The way I intend my living room layout to work with this sofa is to float it, which curved couches do lend themselves well to.

Designer Bethany Adams told me, 'Curved sofas have been around for decades and they're not going anywhere, anytime soon. But they're not correct for every space, so make sure you have the proper amount of circulation around your sofa, as these behemoths are usually not designed to fit up against a wall on all sides like their rectilinear counterparts.  Similarly, be careful when pairing a curved sofa with a coffee table and chairs – everything needs to look good from every angle.'

'We love a good curved sofa even if it is just ever so slightly curved, especially when it comes to balancing out the rigid lines of a square room and other furnishings. The contrast between the soft, flowing curves of the sofa and the hard angles of the room creates a harmonious balance that is visually pleasing,' says designer Jennifer Davis. 

'We also love to create spaces that tend to lean more masculine and a curved sofa introduces a soft, feminine touch with its gentle, flowing lines and instantly creates balance. Curved sofas often stand out in the sea of boxy, neutral sofa frames found in big box retailers. The lack of mainstream availability also means they're less likely to be seen in every other living room, adding to their allure and giving a space a distinct, upscale feel.'

I did have one valid word of caution. When investing in any large piece of furniture, you should always consider will you love it in years to come? And there are always risks when bringing 'on trend' pieces into your home. 

'In the whirlwind of ever-changing trends, the allure of curved couches has captivated many for months. Yet, when it comes to investing in furniture, wisdom whispers a different tune. I would advise against purchasing curved couches; they've already peaked and are on the decline. Instead, prioritize quality timeless pieces that endure the test of time, or explore fresh, innovative designs that promise the 'wow' factor without the looming expiration date of trends. Remember, once something becomes a 'trend,' it's already 'over,'' says designer Julie Anne Burch.

So the main takeaway? A curved couch might be an investment, but it sounds like one that will be worth it. It will work in my smaller, open-plan layout and there's longevity in the style too. The key is to find a piece I really love and will work in my space. And that's true of any trend-led pieces really, if you love them and they work in your space then whether it's 'on trend' or not really doesn't matter all that much. 

Los Angeles-based interior designer, Amber Lewis, is renowned for her California-inspired, eclectic designs, with these irresistibly cozy and timeless spaces beautifully blending relaxing comfort, modern luxury, and everyday elegance. 

As well as having a successful interior design practice, Amber Lewis Interior Design, Amber has designed multiple homeware collections, available at the Amber Interior's Shop and with retailers such as Anthropologie and Etsy.

Her latest collection sees her join forces with furniture designers and wholesalers, Four Hands. Seamlessly blending modern and classical design details, the new range includes everything from sculptural vases to dining chairs, sideboards and bedroom furniture. Featuring relaxed, neutral color palettes, rustic natural materials and tactile textures, the new collection celebrates, 'practical comfort and attainable luxury.'

'I wanted this to be a collection that could fit in any home. It's full of classic designs that feel timeless, not specific to a particular era. It's fresh and new and can stand the test of time' says Amber.

We round up our top, stand-out designs from the chic new Amber Lewis x Four Hands range below.

Shop our favorite pieces from the new collection

Amber Lewis's new collection with Four Hands is a stunning example of how to create a California modern design style in the home. Relaxing, cozy and sophisticated, California modern emphasizes a casual, indoor-outdoor look with a luxurious contemporary edge. We love how this collection elegantly marries together traditional and modern design influences, helping to create that timeless feel.

In a post shared to her Instagram, Amber says of the new range, 'Every piece in my collection with @fourhandsfurniture is meant for laid-back living. I’m talking heirloom-quality furniture and timeless pieces you can incorporate for years and years.'

She continues in another post, 'It’s a mix of styles that work together to create something distinct, yet a little unexpected. And the best part?! Each piece can easily be mixed with other pieces from the collection, or with pieces you already own and love.'

For more California-cool design inspiration, we explore a beautiful kitchen before and after by Amber Lewis, as well as Amber Lewis's kitchen shelving styling tips.

2024's most surprising decorating technique has revealed itself as the (aptly) named 'unexpected red theory' – and its power isn't lost on designers and celebrities alike. Among the most recent (yet maybe unintentional) examples of unexpected red in action is seen in none other than Zendaya's living room – an otherwise neutral space overlooking the East River, naturally. 

The unexpected red theory stems from creator Taylor Simon, who defines the trend as 'adding anything that's red, big or small, to a room where it doesn't match at all – and it automatically looks better.' This can be anything from a cushion to a vase, but in Zendaya's case, it's in the form of a footstool duo. 

In her open-plan living space, the Dune actress interrupts her neutral color palette with two dark red footstools (seen on the third and seventh slides of the photo carousel below). Whether this is an intentional nod to the trend or not, it captures the theory perfectly – and reminds us how easy it is to follow suit. 

As with every design trend, the red theory means something different in every home. In Zendaya's case, her footstools bring instant color to her neutral room and ensure the subtle palette is anything but boring. However, we aren't limited to footstools – or even soft furnishings. 

'I have a red table in my living room – it adds such a vibrancy to the space. While living rooms are often used for relaxing, the red gives me the energy I need when hosting friends and family, and a nice focal point to talk about.' comments color expert and the creative lead at Dulux Stephanie King.

'We are typically lovers of neutral interiors, but the unexpected red trend is just one way we've seen DIYers get braver with their color choices. The transformative effect of a simple pop of color is amazing- and red is one of the most stimulating of all. I'm really excited to see people getting experimental with it.'

As mentioned, in Zendaya's case, her red stools complement the cream and beige-hued living room, but red furnishings are just as impactful in rooms that experiment with earthy tones – most specifically, oranges and pinks. 

'I'm a big advocate for red in a living space, especially when it is complemented by other warm tones. The earthy palette of reds, oranges, and pinks is just like one big cozy hug and is a softer way to introduce braver hues into your home,' King explains. 

'Decorating with red is accessible through paint... or through furnishings like sofas and cushions. Whether the red used in your living spaces adds a striking contrast to the rest of your décor or blends in beautifully with it, the introduction of red instantly gives that comforting, by-the-fire feel.'

Shop H&G's unexpected red edit

Here's the dilemma: you're trying to update a historic home that's packed with original features. You respect the unique character and beauty of the house but want to introduce modern styling and comforts. 

Here's the reality: a mansion-scaled limestone townhouse in Brooklyn, NYC, built in 1898. It's all wood paneled walls, ornate ceiling moldings and polished parquet floors. Enter Jason Saft, founder of Staged to Sell Home, who recently reinvented the house design, adding contemporary, high-end furnishings to broaden its appeal to potential buyers, all the while honoring those special historic details. 

There are lessons here for anyone looking to use transitional design to update a historic home, and plenty of tips for speedy transformations, too. Jason Saft is well qualified on both counts, since he incorporated pieces by some of the best contemporary designers and artists, and updated the 5-story, 9,000 square feet property in just four days. 

1. Respect the property's history

Respecting the house's origins is always the best starting point for a successful home renovation in an older property, and this was no different. The neo-Italian Renaissance townhouse was built by architect Montrose Morris and has real presence overlooking Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Jason Saft was not about to upset that heritage. 

'When I was told the address, I was in,' says Jason. 'I’ve walked past this historic edifice for well over two decades and had always wanted to see the inside of this monumental house.

'I had just one 30-minute site visit prior to the tenant leaving the house and then installing three days later,' he recalls. 'I worked off memory and one late night final visit to prepare for the installation, which lasted for a day and a half.'

2. Preserve original features

Updating a period property is always about finding a balance. Sometimes, as in this hallway with its mirrored closets and stained glass windows, it's about preserving the original architectural features to highlight the character and history of the home. A modern painting was the only addition here. 

Elsewhere in the home, contemporary decoration and styling can be used alongside period details to make the property modern and inviting with surprising and colorful touches, showcasing transitional decorating ideas at their best. 

3. Find balance in the color palette and styles

Take inspiration from the property's surroundings when choosing room color ideas, but also think about how existing features will feed into the new look. 

As the house is located directly across the street from Prospect Park, Jason wanted to work in varying shades of green to play off the idea of the park. To lighten up the heaviness of the dark wood paneling that is consistent throughout the house, he also introduced a lot of creams, beige and white.  

'A key to incorporating contemporary pieces into a historic home is to work with the existing architecture to find balance and repetition,' says Jason. 'In the front parlor of this house, I mimicked the molding on the ceiling with the curved ivory couches. They offer the perfect symmetry and there is a natural connectivity to the pattern from top to bottom.' 

4. Opt for light-colored upholstery to modernize the space

The designer juxtaposed the weight of the wood paneling against all sorts of soft white upholstered items in his living room ideas.

'The most common feedback I've heard from people viewing historic homes is that they find the woodwork to be too dark for their lifestyle,' says Jason. 'The biggest challenge when designing the home was respecting and accentuating the original details while also modernizing, lightening the space and making it feel livable and less like a museum.'  

His solution? 'By bringing in lighter case goods and upholstered pieces, it helps to brighten up the living space and make the woodwork appear lighter.' 

And it's not just the upholstery color that's important when you're seeking to modernize the space, you need to consider shape too, and buy the right couch to add contemporary lines.  

5. Create an atmosphere that feels collected

The magnificent original staircase is central to the home, one of many historical details, which can overwhelm some and create the perception of living in a museum. To counter that connotation, Jason chose lighter profiled pieces, like this console table and upholstered stool, that have a softness and modernity to them yet when paired together, and decorating with antiques, create a harmonious home that feels collected. He wanted to play off the home's grandeur but also make it feel welcoming. 

6. Curate views within your home

The dining room ideas sum up the successful crossover of styles that Jason introduced with his quick-fire transformation. A custom dowel table from Century Furniture with Rodin dining chairs by Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel fly the contemporary flag in this transitional scheme. The ceiling beams, dark wood paneling, and even the practical serving hatch, provide the traditional side of the look. 

'Balancing traditionalism and modernism with an artful mix is essential,' explains Jason. 'I've always mixed antique pieces with more modern ones. Working with them is a bit of trial and error, but it's that testing and experimentation that leads to a well balanced home that honors the past and also caters to our current needs.'  

7. Dress the space with well-chosen pieces for an instant uplift

In a room that was dominated by its original fireplace and paneling, Jason leant into the period style for his home office ideas, but lightened the touch with a comfortable mix of midcentury furniture, and some well-chosen antiques and found objects. A Kittinger antique desk is at the center of the scheme, together with a vintage rug. Transitional design is not just about mixing old and new, but can blend a mix of different styles as well as eras. 

'I like to reference older books on traditional design and décor when approaching an older home,' explains Jason. 'Educating yourself on past design styles and aesthetics helps to inform you on how to approach traditional design. Often I take an idea or pieces rooted in traditionalism, but rework them with modern pieces or smaller modern accessories in traditional case goods to balance it all out.'

8. Choose timeless, transitional pieces that won't date

When choosing big ticket items such as beds and couches, it's a good idea to select timeless well-made designs that won't date, even in a traditional setting.  Bedroom ideas for the primary bedroom include the clean-lined Tailor Stitch bed by CB2, and Stripe Rug by Colin King for West Elm. The mirror is an antique. 

9. Find space for art in every room

Jason Saft brought in artworks and sculptures from contemporary artists including Simone Bodmer-Turner, but also mixed in traditional art and architectural prints. He suggests placing modern artworks in traditional frames to marry the two design styles. 

Similarly, the designer mixed midcentury-style furniture, such as this Marconi couch by CB2, and Ambie side chair by Jake Arnold for Crate & Barrel, with custom contemporary pieces like the Calacatta Rose Viola coffee table. 

We're still marveling at the speed of this home's transformation in Jason Saft's capable hands. With a careful blend of styles, colors, art, and furnishings, he has updated the historic townhouse and maximized its appeal. And, best of all, thanks to Jason's expert staging tips for reinventing a home we can all give it a try. 

It just might take me a lot longer than four days. 

Home Staging and styling: Jason Saft, Staged to Sell Home
Photography: Shannon Dupre / DDReps

I'm always aimlessly browsing for satisfying cleaning supplies to make my life easier. The right tools can make the task of spring cleaning more motivating and bearable (or even a guilty pleasure). With Amazon's spring sale beginning and preparing for spring cleaning on my mind, I've done my inevitable search for all the best items I recommend adding to your ultimate cleaning supplies list.

Of all the cleaning tools I've found and tested, a few stand out. These items all have features that have revolutionized my cleaning routines, significantly reducing the time it takes me to deep clean my home and making it a less strenous task. 

Below are the tools I can't live without. These are the items that can change your cleaning routines for the better, making it easier for you to maintain a beaufiul, spotless home. 

I swear by these 6 essential cleaning tools

While you may be making do with your old mop or using basic sponges for all cleaning tasks, the benefits of upgrading to cleaning supplies designed to make cleaning easier and more efficient can't be understated.

For all things cleaning supplies, Amazon's spring sale is the perfect opportunity to make some much-needed upgrades without breaking the bank.

A wet dry vacuum

Investing in a wet-dry vacuum has been a transformational buy for me. It has made deep cleaning floors significantly easier. 

For all the reasons to upgrade to a wet-dry vacuum, the benefits that stand out the most to me are the ease with which it can clean up liquid spills (which, as a clumsy person, I find extremely beneficial), and its quick drying mode which can reduce water residue and drying times after cleaning. 

The TAB T9 Pro Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner also has a self-cleaning function that automatically flushes the inner tubing and brushes, meaning minimal maintenance is needed to keep it working perfectly. All you need to do is empty the water tank after water use!

A cordless vacuum

A lightweight, cordless vacuum is the cornerstone of any good cleaning kit. With different attachments, this Bissell vacuum can transform from a stick vacuum to a handheld or high-reach vacuum, making it perfect for a range of tasks from removing stubborn debris from floors, cleaning fur off a sofa, to dusting crevices. 

A spin scrubber

When it comes to my favorite cleaning instrument, it is a no-brainer. An electric spin scrubber minimizes the time and elbow grease usually required to remove tough stains, grout, and debris stuck in crevices or to deep clean any surface. 

This product is perfect for low-effort but efficient cleaning, which can be especially beneficial for those with mobility challenges, such as arthritis.

With a wide range of functions, The Exfeeko electric spin scrubber will save you from needing a range of different tools when doing your spring cleaning (like scrubbing brushes, sponges, and polishing tools), making it the perfect one-tool cleaning method.

A deep carpet and upholstery cleaner

When it comes to deep cleaning upholstery and carpets, the suction power of regular vacuums never seems to be enough to do a thorough job. I found my carpets were looking faded and my sofas felt grimy over time, so I went on the hunt for a better option. That's when I came across a portable carpet and upholstery cleaner.

A stain remover spray

I frequently find myself saying, "This is why I don't deserve nice things," after ruining another of my treasured throws or tablecloths with a spill or stain. Thankfully, I came across this stain treater spray, which has become a saving grace for me. It allows me to quickly and safely remove stains more successfully than other methods.

A fabric defuzzer

Now, while it is not one of my 'essential' cleaning tools (purely for its niche function), if you find that your bedding, carpets, blankets, pillows, or even clothes get those annoying bobbles. This fabric shaver can be the perfect way to have them looking good as new again.

Do your future self a favor and invest in some essential spring cleaning tools to make the job easier this year. After all, what better motivation is there to get your spring cleaning off to a good start than some new gadgets that can make cleaning fun? 

It's easy to see why wet/dry vacuums are the cleaner of choice for many tradespeople and contractors. They're powerful vacuums that can clean up big messes, whether solid or liquid, and they're relatively affordable considering.

You may not have thought to opt for this more rugged type of vacuum cleaner for the home, but you'd be surprised at just how much it can accomplish. Many wet/dry vacuums can handle everything from minor spills to fireplace ash, rivaling even some of the best vacuums for the job.

With help from cleaning experts, we've listed some of the things that wet/dry vacuums can clean that regular vacuums can't quite handle.

1. Liquids

Wet/dry vacuums truly excel in their ability to clean up liquid messes. Standard vacuum cleaners can't do this (and would likely cause a lot of damage if you attempted to), but the wet/dry vacuum can be brought out any time there's a spillage.

Particularly helpful for households with kids or pets, a wet/dry vacuum can be a life-saver to quickly clean hardwood floors and carpets as soon as something is spilled, avoiding stains and scrubbing. 

You can go further than minor spills at home, too. Think: cleaning out fish tanks, emptying hot tubs, and even helping to clear flooding.

Jennie Holmes, a cleaning expert from ServiceMaster Clean, confirms this: '[They] can help in situations from a spillage to a small flood – helping to reduce damage before contacting disaster restoration professionals.' We don't advise using the vacuum while the flooding is still happening, of course, but it can be an effective way to quickly clear out some of the liquid after a minor flood has occurred.

Wet/dry vacuums will often have separate bags or buckets for dry and liquid waste, but it's important to empty the vacuum whenever you've cleaned up any liquids. 

2. Solids

Naturally, a wet/dry vacuum can also tackle dry messes, just as a regular vacuum cleaner would. But thanks to their strong suction and sturdy builds, they're capable of cleaning up much bigger messes than even the best Dyson vacuums.

This is because their high-capacity motors make them a popular choice for tradespeople and contractors. And if it's powerful enough for them, it should be able to handle pretty much any household mess you throw at them.

'You can also clean messes from larger debris that your typical vacuum might not manage. For example, DIY messes like brick dust, sawdust, plaster, and paint,' Jennie explains.

Anyone who loves a bit of DIY (but hates the endless sweeping and dusting) will see the benefit here, as well as anyone who lives in a home with frequent messy trails left by muddy, dirty shoes.

3. Indoors & outdoors

Wet/dry vacuums are incredibly robust appliances, so their cleaning power isn't restricted to inside the house. They can also clean up wet and dry messes outdoors, which can be a big help when gardening, cleaning the pool, or clearing out the gutters. 

Many wet/dry vacuums also come with a blower attachment, like the RIDGID 4 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP at Home Depot. This essentially gives you two tools in one, allowing you to blow away leaves, dirt, and light snow from walkways and patios. You can even use it to blow up inflatable objects like hot tubs and air beds.

4. Pet hair (and mess!)

Unless you have a vacuum for pet hair, you'll understand the struggle of hair wrap when it comes to cleaning up after your animals. Wet/dry vacuums avoid this problem as they don't typically use a brushroll and will come with plenty of attachments for various tasks around the house.

You may not want to, but you could even clean up any accidental pet messes into the liquid compartment. You'd have to make sure to clean it out straight away, although many wet/dry vacuums can be cleaned by sucking up soapy water.

5. Unblock drains & sinks

The most powerful models will be able to help with unblocking clogged sinks and blocked drains. It's as simple as choosing the setting with the strongest suction and attaching the right-sized nozzle to the drain.

6. Upholstery

Wet/dry vacuums are excellent at sucking any spills, liquids, and moisture out of your furniture and curtains. Wet upholstery can lead to mildew and mold, so being able to clean out the moisture regularly can make a big difference in the quality of your materials. 

And you can take it a step further with a cleaner like the StainStriker from Shark, designed to lift embedded dirt and liquids from carpets and upholstery.

7. Fireplaces

Fireplaces and fire pits are notably difficult to clean, but the strongest wet/dry vacuums can make light work of their messiness. 'Substances like coal dust and fireplace ashes, as long as they're cooled down, can be sucked up by many wet/dry vacuums,' Jennie Holmes explains. 

The Shark MessMaster is a great choice here, but if you want to tackle hot ash, the Shop-Vac 2.0 Peak HP Ash Vacuum, available at Amazon is designed to do just that (but it won't clean up wet messes).

Wet/dry vacuums might not be the most stylish cleaner to have in your home, but they can tackle a fair few tasks that regular vacuums aren't quite able to. Wet spills, DIY messes, and fireplace ashes are some of the many reasons these powerful appliances are essential cleaning tools.

It's an age-old question: can patterns be mixed and maxed without clashing? If Jessica Simpson's living room is any indication, then the answer is a strong yes.

The actor and singer recently posted a photo of her moody sitting area, featuring a suede, geometric-patterned couch, a fuzzy chair, and a brown, marbled countertop. Somehow, the patterns and textures work with rather than against each other to create a visually pleasing outcome.

Minimalists may shudder at the thought of pairing plaid with polka-dot, but mixing patterns and textures together can be seamless when done strategically.

'Layering patterns and textures is all about balance,' says Nicole Cullum, the founder of Color Caravan. 'I generally like to use textured fabrics like a boucle, a cotton-linen blend, or performance velvet on larger upholstery pieces like lounge chairs and living room sofas.'

Nicole recommends complementing a chair or sofa with a patterned accent pillow, which has a touch of the upholstery color in the pattern design. 'I love this trick because if I get tired of a pattern, or want to change the look for a different season, I can easily swap out the pillows instead of having to go through the cost and time to reupholster my chairs or sofa.' 

When it comes to layering patterns, Nicole says that playing with scale is key for ensuring nothing clashes.

'If you have a large scale pattern for your chairs, balance it out with a simple velvet colored accent pillow with a pretty trim that picks up some of the color from your larger scale chair pattern,' she says. 'The same goes in reverse. If you have a smaller scale pattern for your chairs, select a pillow that has a single large motif or medallion centered on the front and back of the pillow that compliments the smaller scale chair pattern.'

An easy way to remember scale rules is that large and large, or small and small don't give enough contrast to look sophisticated.

'Avoid putting a small scale pillow pattern on top of a small scale chair or sofa fabric. Because these two patterns are the same or similar size, they’ll blend together, or even clash in a confusing way. This also applied to larger scale patterns. Large goes with small, small goes with large.'

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A relaxed and calming interior design style, coastal decor is back in a big way. Taking inspiration from coastal landscapes, it encourages designs that infuse an essence of coastal beauty into interior schemes. And while you can't bring the ocean home with you, coastal decor is a great option to bring in some ocean-inspired design elements to your home.

Although coastal decor looks elevated and adds a sense of calm to a space when done right, it can have quite the opposite effect if it's not executed well – think cliché themes that make a scheme feel more novelty than chic. As such, it's important to understand how to create an interior design plan that feels inspired rather than a themed, dressed-up room.

 What is coastal decor?

'It's easy to confuse coastal with nautical or beachy,' says Michelle Woolley Sauter, of One Coast Design. Coastal decor can sometimes be tricky to get right due to the fusion of elements typically associated with other interior design styles. 'There is a bit of farmhouse crossing over into the coastal look due to the origins of shiplap. When boats came to this country early on, after being decommissioned, their wood was used for interior walls in homes along the coasts,' she adds.

So, you're probably wondering how to make sure your space feels sophisticated when decorating in this style. Don't worry, we've asked interior designers to explain exactly what coastal decor is, and their dos and don'ts for achieving a look that feels chic rather than cliché.

When you hear the term 'coastal decor', it probably conjures images of colors, materials, and details you'd find on coastlines, and you wouldn't be wrong. But as much as decorative details offer nods to the design style you're working with, it's just as much about creating the atmosphere coastal living creates, too. 

'Generally, when people think of coastal decor, it's reminiscent of the essence of seaside living, evoking a sense of tranquility, relaxation, and connection to nature in the colors used for the decor,' says Michelle Woolley Sauter. 

That sense of relaxation and calm is core to coastal decor, so creating a connection between inside and out is key. 'The mood and atmosphere of coastal decor are centered around peace, relaxation, and a connection to the natural world and natural light. It creates serene environments that feel open and inviting, mirroring the openness of the coast itself,' adds interior designer Janette Mallory.

Understanding the atmosphere of coastal style is crucial to be able to introduce the decorative details to create the right mood. 'The coastal look draws inspiration from the coastal environment, incorporating natural textures, soothing color palettes, and oceanic motifs,' Michelle Woolley Sauter explains. 

When it comes to the design details, lean into a more neutral-colored base, with added pops of coastal hues introduced in more subtle ways. 'The color palette often includes whites, beiges, blues, and sometimes reds and yellows. Coral motifs are commonly found in coastal decor, along with items featuring natural fibers like rope,' says Kailee Blalock & Taylor Troia, founders of House of Hive Design Co.

What are the key design elements of coastal decor?

1. A neutral color palette with coastal-inspired hues

Color is the base of any interior design scheme, and when it comes to coastal decor, start with a neutral, calming palette on the walls. 'Key design elements in coastal decor include a soft and neutral color palette inspired by the outside world. Textures play a significant role, adding depth and interest to the space, while pops of color can add vibrancy without overwhelming the serene base,' says Janette Mallory.

Coastal scenery is at the heart of this decor style, so don't be afraid to take inspiration from these surroundings. 'When it comes to coastal living, it's A-OK to lean into the surroundings. The color palette of the coast is soothing and peaceful. It would be more strange to ignore the surroundings and not play up the uniqueness of it,' says Mollie Ranize, lead interior designer and founder at Dmar Interiors.

Taking color cues from the ocean is a great way to add a serene and calming mood to your home, so don't shy away from hues that might feel obvious. 'Coastal décor draws its inspiration from nature, so you will often find a muted color palette with neutral hues, as well as shades of blues and greens,' says Cassie Scaldaferri, owner and creative director at Cass Design Co.

2. Natural textures and materials

Coastal decor embraces more weathered, rustic textures, reminiscent of those you would find along the coast. 'Essential components of coastal decor involve the use of natural materials like wood, rattan, jute, and bamboo, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a beachside or seaside setting,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia.

The key here is to be intentional and subtle about introducing these textures – you don't want to go too far and create a shabby chic-style homage to the beach. Instead, consider how you can add these textures in a more sophisticated way. 'To maintain an elevated look in a coastal style home, using natural elements subtly can help to avoid falling into any clichés,' suggests Cassie Scaldaferri. 

'For example, incorporating one or two woven materials like rattan, in your furniture or lighting is a great way to create a coastal vibe versus using more literal items like seashells. Think using materials that you might see in nature versus the items themselves. And the key is balance. Don’t go overboard, but rather repeat the elements in a way that feels intentional,' she adds.

You can expect to see lots of wood textures in coastal decor, but consider the finishes to ensure they feel right for the style. 'When selecting woods for décor and furnishings, a soft weathered appearance feels like a natural choice. That means nothing too heavy or dark,' explains Mollie Ranize.

3. Soft furnishings upholstered in coastal hues and designs

Coastal decor celebrates relaxed, casual living, so introducing lots of soft furnishings and upholstery is a must. This is a considered way to introduce some of those more colorful hues and interesting patterns to give the scheme a more layered and lived-in look.

'Leaning into natural fibers and subtle stripes and patterns on upholstery is another way to take a big step towards a relaxing and welcoming environment,' says Mollie Ranize. Introduce throw pillows with a faded stripe design or a blanket crafted in blue or green hues as a subtle nod to coastal colors.

If you don't want to bring in too much color, the fabrics themselves can create a coastal feel, too, but stripes prove to be a popular design choice amongst designers. 'We particularly appreciate the use of linen, burlap, and any fabric featuring stripes. Blue stripes, in particular, exude a distinctly coastal vibe and infuse a playful touch into a space,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia. 

'The versatility of fabrics across pillows, throws, and window treatments allows for easy interchangeability. It's remarkable how these fabric choices can significantly influence and enhance the overall ambiance of a home,' they add. Window treatments in particular can add an err of coastal decor – the main area that visually connects your interiors with outside space, a well-chosen fabric with natural materials can really bring home the essence of the style.

4. Furniture and decor that blend styles and eras

As with any interior design style, leaning fully into one aesthetic can make a space feel flat and trend-driven. To achieve a successful coastal decor scheme, introduce furniture and display pieces that transcend trends and add character.

'To ensure coastal decor remains chic and avoids clichés, it's important to prioritize uniqueness and authenticity. Selecting high-quality, artisanal pieces that evoke the coastal atmosphere through material and texture, rather than relying on stereotypical nautical themes, can maintain the style's elegance,' explains Janette Mallory. 'I enhance my clients' homes with one-of-a-kind 18th and 19th-century furniture and artwork, infusing each space with unparalleled elegance and historical depth,' she adds. 

Vintage and antique pieces really come into play here. This blend of old and new ensures a scheme feels more timeless and less trend-led. 'To elevate coastal decor and avoid falling into clichés, it's essential to blend elements from various design styles. Personally, we find that combining coastal elements with carefully curated thrifted pieces adds a touch of timelessness and a collected aesthetic to a home. The fusion of coastal and traditional elements, in our opinion, yields the most appealing overall look, creating a space that transcends trends,' explains says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia.

5. Be sure to bring in personality and charm

Blending beloved, personal items collected over time with more contemporary additions is a great way to achieve the coastal look. 'When it comes to accessorizing, books always go a long way and are perfect for layering other special and collected items,' says Mollie Ranize. 

This ethos also applies to other decorative items, including family heirlooms, artworks and collectibles. 'We love a layered look. Our clients often bring family heirlooms and artwork they have collected through the years to their new homes for us to work with. Incorporating these pieces, using furniture our team will recover in coastal-toned fabrics, will pull it together beautifully,' explains Michelle Woolley Sauter. 'We use their treasured pieces in a new way and co-mingle decidedly coastal elements with them so everything feels fresh, new, and reimagined,' she adds.

6. Blend the outside and the in

This may seem obvious, but coastal decor relies heavily on blending your interiors with the outside. This could be making the most of large windows that offer a beautiful view, adding decor pieces inspired by nature, or simply creating a scheme that feels light and airy, embracing that transitional living style.

'My favorite way to introduce coastal decor is by bringing the outdoors in, capitalizing on the beautiful views and the shimmer of natural light they bring in. This strategy enhances the airy, open characteristic of the style, while modern, sustainable elements ensure the decor remains both on-trend and timeless. This creates tranquil and inviting spaces that celebrate and create outdoor living spaces,' says Janette Mallory. 

Similar to other interior design styles, such as California casual, coastal decor is all about creating a relaxing space that embraces inside-outside living. A successful scheme takes inspiration from coastal landscapes through colors, textures and natural materials, without the gimmick of nautical themes. 

The key is to create a space that feels calming, with hints of coastal hues in the form of blues, greens, and even coral tones, and bringing in those natural wood textures and subtle striped designs. It's also important to include the decorative items and collected pieces that bring you joy – blending such items with the coastal decor is what makes these designs feel successful, timeless and lived-in.

The power of Barbie needs no introduction. The Greta Gerwig-directed phenomenon sparked 2023's most talked-about trend, Barbiecore, which, again, needs no long explanation. However, as the movie continues to top design discussions and win big at ceremonies (most recently, the People's Choice Awards), it's fair to say this look is unlikely to waver. So, how can we practice Barbiecore tastefully? Barbie's very own America Ferrera has the answer. 

America (or Gloria, as she's known in the aforementioned film) chose a powder pink couch that's elegant enough to push Barbirecore haters to recant. Unlike the brighter tone we associate with Barbie's Dream House, America's chosen hue is notably more understated and, consequently, versatile enough to work in her neutral living space. 

This toned-down twist on the classic makes decorating with pink more accessible – proving it's possible to get behind the design trend without overpowering our space.

America's couch is large (and striking) enough to act as a statement piece, but it doesn't detract from her other design elements, including her artwork and textured rug that adds further interest to her room. It's a look that hasn't gone unnoticed by design expert Tara Gilson, who encourages us to follow this more understated pink lead. 

'When embracing pink, it is always wise to choose lighter tones; brash pink (while perhaps currently on trend) can be a little too ostentatious or OTT,' she begins. 'Subtle powder pinks, when paired correctly with other furniture and [neutral] walls, can create a cozy atmosphere perfect for an elegant pink living room.'

For the best of Barbiecore, Tara recommends pairing our muted pink sofa with soft metallics for a quietly luxurious look that is fashionable enough to transcend trends. 

'Hints of brass and gold (mirror or window frames, cupboard handles, sofa legs, etc.) can also help bring out the luxury in a room vibe when partnered with a soft pink palette,' she says. 'For a more modern look, darker pinks such as raspberry on a feature wall can also really help a room achieve that eclectic new-age feel that the fashion industry is already forging ahead with.'

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Inspired? We've listed our three favorite pink couch's below.

With some newly released music and a Super Bowl Halftime show on the horizon, Usher is certainly one of the busiest artists at the moment. To relax and unwind, he takes to his living room – while the jury's out for what he's streaming currently, we know he is a fan of a punchy-yet-refined orange, as evidenced by his burnt-rust sofa.

Orange, though not as popular a color for a couch as black or neutral, is increasingly being used in homes to add vibrancy and personality to spaces.

Simultaneously modern and retro, decorating with orange is an instant mood booster, and experts say that furniture is just a starting point for incorporating the sunshine shade into home decor.

'Yellow and orange are associated with happiness; the bright sunshine tones provide a cheerful energy and optimism,' says Clara Ewart, Kitesgrove’s Head of Design. 'Desaturated shades work well on bedroom walls or create an impact in a living room on upholstered furniture, accessories, and artwork.'

Not ready to commit to a statement piece like Usher's lounger? Clare says that paint and fabric are your friends.

'Colour can be introduced in so many different ways,' Clara notes. 'Paint is an easy and affordable way to update anything from a chair to all the walls, and instead of having to reupholster an entire living room sofa or order a new pair of curtains, try updating a chair cushion with a bright fabric instead.'

Walls, in particular, can be decorated so that bright colors are not the sole focus of the room. 

'Don’t be afraid to choose bright, bold hues in rooms that are regularly used for entertaining; the joyous burst of color will add to the ambiance and enjoyment of the space,' Clara says. 'Walls of bright color can also be broken up with artworks and mirrors to soften the impact of the hue.'

Most important is finding your orange; that is, the color that speaks to you and makes you feel excited to be in the room. 

'Trusting your instinct is really important when working with colour. You should surround yourself with colours you are drawn to and make you happy – just as you do with your wardrobe.'

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There is no denying that having a pet can help to liven up a home, but they are not the most appreciative of your scented candles and efforts to banish odors.

From general pet smells to fur and dander, it can be hard to make a home smell nice when you share it with four-legged friends.

Luckily, cleaning experts have plenty of experience banishing pet odors from homes so you can live harmoniously with your animals without the house-barrassment when you invite guests around.

How to banish pet odors

When it comes to banishing pet odors, it helps to stop as many bad smells at the door as possible. This can mean using a doormat to help catch dirt and debris from their paws when they come in, hosing or brushing them down when they have been outside, and ensuring that they are bathed frequently to remove anything clinging to their fur.

Beyond that, it is about adopting clever cleaning tips to keep a clean home when you have pets, while staying on top of mess and odor.

1. Deep clean surfaces regularly

Anywhere your pet spends a lot of time is a prime area for regular deep cleaning – as often as once a week or more, depending on the size and type of pet you own, say the cleaning experts at KK Cleaners. When working in these areas, be it their favorite chair, pet bed, or corner of the living room, it is important to use products that are specifically designed for cleaning pet mess. Not only will these be formulated to help tackle odor, but they will not be dangerous for use near animals.

2. Focus efforts on cleaning upholstery

Cleaning upholstery is a must when you have pets, although it is often forgotten about outside of vacuuming up pet hair. Yvonne Keal, Product Manager and Furnishing Expert at Hillarys, recommends cleaning them regularly, starting with vacuuming upholstery and curtains to remove hair and dander and then using a steam cleaner to help kill the bacteria that cause bad smells. Be sure to check fabric labels in case the material cannot be subject to high temperatures. .

Where possible, remove covers and throw them in the washing machine with an odor-busting detergent, such as Downy Rinse and Refresh from Target, to help tackle even the strongest smells.

Finish up with a linen spray that is free from essential oils and pet-safe for lasting freshness.

3. Use an air purifier to help combat dander in the air

One of the biggest causes of pet odors is the dander from their skin that lingers in the air and lands on surfaces around your home. Cleaning this up can be as tricky as trying to completely remove dust in your home, so it helps to use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to catch it before it has the chance to settle and smell, says Sarah Cromwell, cleaning expert and founder of The Cleaning Force.

Adding one of these into your space can also help those with mild allergies, making the air more comfortable to breathe.

4. Use odor absorbers in combination with room fragrances

Some pet odors are simply unavoidable, so combining an odor absorber such as Moso air purifying bags from Amazon with fragrance layering can help mask smells that are a given when it comes to owning a pet. You can also use a bowl of vinegar to remove odors from your home, but this is more suitable for quick odor removal and can be impractical for long-term use.

When picking a scent for your space, avoid using anything with a live flame that may pose a fire risk if your pet gets too close, such as candles or flame-lit wax melters. Instead, opt for something like a reed diffuser, candle warmer, or an electric wax melter, and place it well out of reach of animals. For example, Ottilie Blackhall, news writer on Solved, has four dogs at home, and has never received so many 'your home smells amazing' compliments since using this Jo Malone diffuser in the Pomegranate Noir scent, available at Amazon.

5. Conceal litter trays

If you have indoor pets, letter trays are the worst offenders for bad odors. While cats are fastidious cleaners who always ensure their fur looks good, they are not the best at cleaning up after themselves. As a result, it can be useful to contain their trays to mask the odor.

If you have the space in your home, it can be a great idea to give your cats a whole space or small room to themselves (even something such as the space beneath the stairs) to hide their tray and keep smells locked away.

Otherwise, there has been a rise in smart furniture that contains space for a tray with an entry point to help keep your box out of sight and smells more localized. Be sure to keep a litter mat nearby to catch any litter stuck to your pet’s feet or fur so that the odor is not trodden throughout your home.

6. Tackle tough stains and accidents with an enzyme-based cleaner

Sometimes, our pets are a little messier than usual, and our standard stain stations are not quite up to the task. For tough stains and accidents, cleaning expert Sarah Cromwell suggests using an enzyme-based cleaner:

‘Utilize enzymatic cleaners specifically designed to break down and eliminate organic compounds causing pet odors. These cleaners are effective in tackling urine, feces, and other biological stains,’ she explains

When using these types of cleaners, work quickly to tackle the stain before it has the chance to dry, ensure that your pet and any young children are away from the area, and always use gloves and open windows for good ventilation to avoid irritating your skin or airways.

FAQs

When you clean your home with your pets in mind, it is important to remember that consistency is key. Pet odors are unlikely to go away forever so long as your animal lives in your home, so stick to a consistent schedule and stay on top of spills and stains to avoid overpowering odors that make your home uncomfortable to relax in.

As the holidays approach and festivities begin, it's the perfect time to make your home feel like Christmas. While diffusers and scented candles are a great way to bring festive fragrances into your living spaces, there's one element that often gets overlooked when it comes to infusing seasonal scents – your sheets and upholstery. 

With these tricks, you can add a personalized scent to upholstery and sheets, using festive fragrances to create an inviting and cozy atmosphere that captures the essence of the season.

Our experts have explained how to infuse upholstery and sheets to make your home smell good for Christmas, ideas that can become your new Christmas traditions. 

How to make sheets and upholstery smell like Christmas

When it comes to making sheets and upholstery smell like Christmas, the key is to use fragrances reminiscent of the season – safe bets include cinnamon, clove, pine, and orange. 

1. Create a Christmas spray

Instead of relying on store-bought air fresheners, why not create your own Christmas-scented spray? This way you can create a scent that is personalized to your preferences to infuse into your sheets and upholstery. 

Asad Shamim, CEO of Furniture in Fashion explains how to make fabric spray: 'Add a few drops of your favorite Christmas-scented essential oils to a spray bottle filled with water. Then, shake the bottle well and spray it on your sheets and upholstery. 

'Be sure to test the essential oil on an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't stain.'

As a general guideline, a good oil-to-water ratio would be 3 oz. of water to 20 drops of essential oils. You can experiment with combinations to find a blend that works for you. We recommend this winter essential oils set, from Walmart. 

Alternatively, you can create a homemade room spray with herb-infused water. 'This method offers a more subtle aroma,' explains Inez Stanway, founder of craft website Monday Mandala. 'These simple sprays can be made by boiling water with rosemary, cloves, or other herbs, then cooling and transferring into a spray bottle.' 

2. Scented sachets

A simple and effective way to make your sheets and upholstery smell like Christmas is by creating scented sachets using natural materials and essential oils. Place these scented sachets in your linen closet to infuse the space with a holiday aroma, or between couch cushions and within bedding to gradually release comforting scents synonymous with Christmas.

Combine a blend of fragrant materials, such as herbs like rosemary and sage, Christmas tree trimmings, cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, and cloves. Place these into a sachet. 

You can find muslin sachets at Amazon, and if you don't have the ingredients in your home, you can also purchase a pack of holiday potpourri at Amazon. If your store-bought Christmas potpourri needs an aroma boost, add a few drops of essential oils to strengthen the scent.

3. Baking soda freshener

Using baking soda combined with fragrances is always a great way to infuse scents into your fabrics, such as with baking soda lavender rug fresheners. This is because baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can be used with natural fragrances or essential oils to add a pleasant scent to your upholstery and sheets. 

'Mix baking soda with a few drops of your chosen Christmas-themed essential oils. Sprinkle it lightly over the upholstery and sheets, let it sit for an hour, and then vacuum it off,' advises Georgina Ross, interior designer, and founder of Simply Tablecloths. 'This not only adds fragrance but also helps in deodorizing the fabric.' 

4. Add festive scents to laundry

Adding a few drops of essential oils to your fabric softener can significantly impact the way your sheets and upholstery smell. Choose holiday scents every time you wash sheets, blankets or pillow cases. Be sure to only use this trick for non-delicates since the essential oil may damage these.

'Place a dryer sheet with a Christmas scent in your dryer with your sheets and pillowcases,' suggests Asad Shamim. 'This will give your sheets a fresh, festive scent.' 

You can also consider using a Christmas-scented laundry detergent for your sheets and upholstery. You can find those with seasonal scents, including berries, fir trees, or holiday spices, all of which are essentials to make your home smell like Christmas.

FAQs

Don't be afraid to mix and match scents and layer fragrances to create a personalized Christmas aroma for your home.

By incorporating these tips into your holiday preparations, you can make your sheets and upholstery smell like Christmas, evoking the warmth and nostalgia of the season, for guests and household members alike. 

Consider purchasing Christmas-themed bedding with designs that reflect the scent you have created, for example, infusing bedding with Christmas tree motifs with pine fragrances.

Your choice of furniture sets the tone of your home, giving each room a particular look and feel. But unfortunately, we can’t always afford to buy the most expensive and luxurious furniture on the market and, even if we do have some beautiful pieces, age creeps up on everything. 

So, how do we make our furniture look more expensive without breaking the bank? In this guide we’ve asked some top interior designers to give us their ideas to help perk up your furniture and add value to your existing pieces. With a few thoughtful touches, you can easily make your home look more expensive. 

How to make furniture look more expensive

Many people focus on their home décor, but giving your furniture some love is another way to spruce up your space. These simple ideas could help make your living room look more luxurious or elevate the feel of your bedroom without actually having to buy anything new. 

1.Firstly, take care of your furniture

‘It may seem obvious but the best way to make your furniture look upscale and luxurious is to invest time into taking good care of your pieces, explains designer Kathy Kuo, CEO of Kathy Kuo Home. ‘If you have furniture upholstered in any sort of specialty material, read up on the proper way to clean it; the same goes for rugs and decorative pieces like pillows and throw blankets. Especially if you've invested in furniture made from high-quality materials, proper care and cleaning is a great way to keep your pieces looking shiny and new for years to come.’ 

Cherie Lee, director of Cherie Lee Interiors agrees, also cautioning to look out for the sun, ‘Keep furniture clean and dust free and be mindful of sunlight hitting and discoloring furniture unevenly. This is true not just of fabrics but also timbers which can become bleached or yellow over time in sunlight.’

2. Fix small imperfections for maximum effect

It’s up to you as to what level of DIY you think you can handle, but learning to fix small imperfections on your furniture will instantly lift a piece and help to make it look more expensive. ‘Chipped paintwork, scratches, and stains will make furniture look cheap so a French Polish or re-paint may give your furniture a new lease of life if it's beginning to look tatty,’ explains Cherie Lee.

Pippa Jameson, creative director, author, and interiors stylist at Pippa Jameson Interiors adds that you should, ‘Begin by addressing imperfections – a fresh coat of varnish or painting your furniture can work wonders. Upgrade the handles or knobs to refined alternatives, such as brushed brass or distinctive bespoke designs that stand out as unique features. These simple changes can instantly elevate the perceived value of furniture.’

3. Elevate a piece just with accessories

An easy way to elevate your existing furniture is with some carefully chosen accessories. As interior designer Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight says, ‘A few well-chosen, high-quality decor pieces can elevate your entire look.’

Spending a little money on accessories is an easy way to lift furniture, giving it a touch of opulence and elegance without having to break the bank. Nick Cryer, founder of Berkeley Place, suggests adding cushions, ‘To elevate the look of your furniture and make it appear more expensive, invest in high-quality, luxurious cushions with intricate detailing and rich textures.’ Whereas Cherie Lee reminds us that, ‘A well-styled piece of furniture will instantly look more expensive and considered, while a poorly styled piece of expensive furniture will struggle to shine through.’

‘And don’t forget to adorn the top of the piece with high-quality accessories for display.  Accessorizing is key to finishing off your space!’ adds designer Amy Youngblood.

4. Switch out any hardware for an easy refresh

Old furniture can be instantly uplifted by adding a small detail or making little changes to a piece. As Artem Kropovinsky says, ‘Well-constructed joints and finishes speak volumes.’ From bedroom styling to living room decor, there are plenty of little tips and tricks you can use to uplift your furniture. 

As Martha Lord, interior designer, and co-founder of Boland Lord Design says, ‘Adding beautiful hardware to an old piece of furniture can refresh its appearance by providing a modern touch or complementing its existing style. It’s a cost-effective way to enhance aesthetics and bring a dated piece into a more contemporary or personalized look.’

Amy Youngblood suggests several ways to make furniture look more expensive, ‘The first is to replace any hardware with high quality, updated pulls, etc. Next, refinish it or repaint it to eliminate any noticeable scratches or nicks.’ 

5. Try reupholstering (or expose the workings)

Reupholstering furniture isn't the easiest DIY but it can make a huge difference to a piece, and if it's just the fabric you are replacing it's something you can teach yourself and have a go at. 

Or if you’re feeling particularly brave, take note from designer Sophie Roswell who elevated this old couch by exposing section of the upholstery for a very chic modern rustic look.  The founder of Côte de Folk explains, ‘Expose the inner workings - upholstery and furniture making is such an art form and true craftsmanship, don’t be afraid to expose the inner workings of a piece - the oak frame, the traditional horsehair filling, every pin and thread that goes into making a beautiful sofa.’

There are plenty of simple ways to elevate your tired-looking furniture. It just depends how hands-on you want to get with the DIY - painting a piece of worn wooden furniture is so simple anyone can do it, but if you want to have a go at reupholstering that will take more time patience, and skill. And if you want zero involvement in DIY look to have you accessorize your pieces - a lot can be said for adding some new pillows or a throw to lift a piece of furniture in seconds. 

Would you decorate your nursery in bright red and orange? Light and pastel colors have long been the standard for decorating baby rooms, but that is rapidly changing. Serena Williams and her husband Alexis Ohanian announced the birth of their second daughter, baby Adira earlier this week, and her nursery is one of the coolest we've seen. 

Serena innovatively decorated the nursery in a glamorous red and orange color scheme. The baby's room features a deep red crib with curtains over it accented by a gold crown wall hanging. Orange floral decals creep up the wall made functional by shelves holding toys and baby supplies. This is a nursery idea we'd love to replicate.

Sara Adam Slywka, co-founder at Nestig states: 'Babies are mesmerized by high contrast color combinations. Often you'll see this in black and white toys and books but you don't have to make your nursery black and white to get the effect! A neutral background with pops of color can help accomplish the same effect. Plus, the vibrant colors can help put you in a playful mood when you're spending time with your little one!' Clearly, the color combination is a winner for baby and kid rooms. 

Jennifer Ebert, Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens adds: 'I love how the white in Serena's color scheme for baby Adira grounds the entire look. If everything was orange and red, it might look too overwhelming, but the white with pops of color keeps the room calming and bold at the same time.'

Even better, this gender-neutral nursery decor is good for busy parents because of the white grounding its bright color scheme. Sara states: 'Most parents we work with want their nurseries to feel like a space where they can exhale—a peaceful sanctuary where they can spend uninterrupted quality time with their little ones. The white helps to create this calming effect, while the pops of color keep things feeling fresh and modern, bringing in a sense of childlike wonder to an otherwise very chill room.'

Though this color scheme is untraditional, it is emerging as a hugely popular interior design trend. Sara continues, 'I definitely think we're going to see more bold colors in nurseries soon. The trends for the last few years have been all about traditional, neutral colors but we've been starting to see a rise in nurseries that feature really bold, stand-out colors and design. Self-expression is so huge with Millenials and Gen Z and I think we'll see that continue to extend beyond just social media and fashion and into the home as well.'

If you've been searching for an unconventional color scheme for your nursery, Serena Williams's space just might be the inspiration you need. Decorating with orange is not for the faint of heart, but that's all the more reason to try it. 

If you have any type of carpeting in your home—whether it’s wall-to-wall carpeting or just strategically placed area rugs—a carpet cleaner is a worthwhile investment. Models like the Shark CarpetXpert Carpet Cleaner make it quick and easy to deep-clean rugs, and they’re also handy for treating stains, as well as cleaning dirty furniture.

The CarpetXpert is a full-size carpet cleaner that resembles an upright vacuum, and while it is a bit pricey, we were intrigued by several of its features. It uses an oxy-powered cleaning formula to remove tough stains, and it even comes with a special pet tool that’s designed for cleaning up accidents. We wanted to see if it could compete with the best carpet cleaners and vacuums for pet hair out there today, so I tested the unit in my multi-pet home over the course of two weeks. 

After testing the carpet cleaner on a variety of different materials and stains, I can’t recommend this product enough. It was easy to use and highly effective, tackling the worst pet messes and stains with ease.

Shark CarpetXpert Carpet Cleaner Specifications

Unboxing the Shark CarpetXpert Carpet Cleaner

The Shark CarpetXpert Carpet Cleaner arrived in a sizable box, and it was quick and easy to unpack and put together. All of the pieces inside were wrapped in plastic, so there was quite a bit of waste. The machine was basically one large piece, so I simply had to insert the handle and attach the hose to set it up. In addition to the carpet cleaner, the package contained two additional attachments and two trial-size cleaning formulas—one for washing rugs and another for stain treatment. 

Once set up, the CarpetXpert is the same size as one of the brand’s upright vacuum cleaners, such as the Shark Stratos. There are three different tanks on the front of the machine: One for clean water and cleaning solution, one for the stain-fighting solution, and a third that collects the dirty water. There’s a lever at the bottom of the machine that allows you to switch between regular operation and using a handheld tool, and I was impressed by the length of the hose, which can be wrapped around the back of the machine for easy storage.  

Who would the Shark CarpetXpert suit?

 There’s no denying that the Shark CarpetXpert is a large machine, so it’s better-suited for those with larger homes and plenty of storage space. I can see it being particularly useful for people with wall-to-wall carpeting that requires regular maintenance, as it covers a large area quickly, but it’s also a great choice for pet owners. The carpet cleaner is able to tackle everyday dirt, as well as gross pet accidents, and it even does a great job removing old, dried-on stains from furniture and rugs.  

Test 1: Area Rug

The first task I tackled with the CarpetXpert was the area rug in my living room. It has a blue and ivory pattern, and some of the lightly colored areas were looking tan because it was so dirty. To get started, I filled the machine’s clean water tank with warm water and topped it off with the Shark CarpetXpert formula, per the instructions. Considering its price, I do think it would be nice if the machine had a built-in water heater, which would prevent the water from cooling down as you work. 

I made sure the operation lever was set to carpet cleaning, then I jumped right in. The carpet cleaner is a breeze to use. When you push it forward, it washes the rug with the diluted cleaning formula, and when you pull it backwards, the machine sucks up the liquid. However, I quickly realized I had made a big mistake—I hadn’t vacuumed the rug before I started cleaning, and the machine kept depositing big clumps of dog hair all over the rug. I gave the rug a quick vacuum before continuing, but next time I’ll be sure to carefully vacuum before jumping in with the carpet cleaner. 

Even with my mistake, I was blown away by how much dirt was hiding on the 8x10-foot rug. I only went over the rug once, as I didn’t want it to be too wet, but the dirty water tank was filled with murky brown liquid. There were a few dirty streaks when I finished cleaning, but they disappeared when I went over them again. Overall, the process used a full tank of clean water, and the rug was slightly damp to the touch after. I left the doors and windows open and turned on a fan to help speed the drying process, and the rug was dry to the touch in around an hour. The rug smelled fresh and clean, and it definitely looked a lot whiter than before. 

Test 2: Outdoor furniture

The next job I had for the CarpetXpert was cleaning up stains on my favorite outdoor lounge chair. I wasn’t too optimistic that the stains would even come out, as they’re more than 6 months old and, frankly, I wasn’t sure what they were caused by. However, it never hurts to try, right? 

For this task, I filled up the smaller tank with the included stain cleaner—the Shark StainStriker formula—and attached the regular handheld tool to the machine. I love that the brush on this tool is reversible: One side has stiff bristles for scrubbing, while the other side has silicone nubs for a more gentle scrubbing action. When I first pressed the trigger to dispense the tray, the liquid came out of the handle much lower than I expected, so I totally missed the stain. However, once I figured out where the formula sprays, it was smooth sailing. 

I focused my efforts on two stained areas on the chair, and the machine did a surprisingly good job removing the marks. It took two rounds of spraying and scrubbing, but the majority of the stain was completely removed. When the upholstery dried, the chair looked as good as new, and I’m already planning to clean my other outdoor cushions with the cleaner.  

Test 3: Pet Accidents

The Shark CarpetXpert comes with a special pet tool that has a similar appearance to the normal hand attachment. However, the pet tool has a small, self-contained dirty water tank that captures everything you suck up, stopping pet waste from getting into the main body of the cleaner. I thought this was a really useful design feature, and I even got the opportunity to test it out, as one of my outdoor cats vomited on the patio rug. 

I'll spare you the images, but I found this attachment has silicone nubs for scrubbing, and while they weren’t quite as effective as the bristles, they were much easier to clean off. After just a minute or two of spraying and scrubbing, the machine has picked up the majority of the vomit and the stain it left behind. 

Once I finished with stain removal, I decided to use the floor tool to clean the rug, as it was quite dirty from being outside all summer. I put the machine on its deep cleaning mode, and I went over the circular rug several times. There were quite a few spots that had old stains or discoloration thanks to dirt, but the CarpetXpert had no problem sucking up all the gunk. I had to use a whole tank of clean water and stop to empty the dirty tank at one point, but in the end, the rug was practically spotless. I couldn’t have been more impressed with its performance.  

Cleaning the Shark CarpetXpert

One of my biggest complaints about carpet cleaners is that they’re often quite difficult to clean after use. However, to my surprise, the CarpetXpert is actually fairly easy to wash out. The dirty water tank pops off easily, and you can remove the whole lid to dump it and then rinse out the interior. The cover on top of the brushroll hinges down, making it easy to wipe out, and the piece of the floorhead that sucks up water comes off completely for rinsing. I did have a hard time fishing some clumps of hair out of the cover, as the opening is very narrow, but this wouldn’t be much of an issue if I had remembered to vacuum the rug before use. 

The handheld attachments were equally easy to clean. The clear covers and brushrolls inside the tools are removable, so I was able to just pop them off for rinsing. The pet tool’s little tank also twists off, and it has a large opening so you can clean it out well. 

Once I rinsed/washed all the components, I let them air dry for around 24 hours before putting the machine back together. I love that all the tools have storage spots right on the body of the machine, and while it is fairly bulky to store, I appreciate that everything is all together and ready for next use. 

How does it rate online?

 The CarpetXpert is a fairly new product from Shark, but so far, it’s been met with positive reviews from users. On Amazon, it has a 4.6-star rating from more than 100 buyers, and the machine has a 4.7-star average rating on the brand’s website. Most users agree that the performance is impressive, and the most common complaint is that the machine is heavy and bulky at more than 18 pounds.  

How does it compare to other carpet cleaners?

The Shark CarpetXpert is a full-sized machine that’s well-suited for cleaning large areas, as well as spot treatments of tough stains. However, those with smaller homes may not want such a bulky machine, in which case a model like the popular Bissell Little Green may be a better choice. This compact carpet cleaner weighs just 9 pounds and can easily be stored on a shelf in your closet, and it’s perfect for cleaning up pet accidents and treating stains around the house. Not to mention, it’s notably more affordable, generally retailing for around $100.  

Should you buy the Shark CarpetXpert Carpet Cleaner?

If you’re looking for a full-size carpet cleaner, I can’t recommend the Shark CarpetXpert enough. It’s easily the best carpet cleaner I’ve ever tested—it’s easy to use, highly effective, and a breeze to clean when you’re done. It had no problem tackling everyday dirt, old upholstery stains, and even gross pet accidents, and it left my rugs (and furniture) looking better than ever and smelling fresh. The unit is a bit of a splurge, retailing for $250, but the expense is definitely worth it to keep your rugs cleaner, especially if you have pets.  

Beautiful outdoor furniture is a worthwhile investment, but falling prey to the common storage mistakes people make in winter could cost you a lot – potentially the whole set, in fact. 

If that's the case, why do so many go to the effort of sourcing the best outdoor furniture for their space and budget, only to risk its condition through the winter months? It usually comes down to a lack of awareness regarding appropriate backyard storage ideas, and in some cases, a misunderstanding around the word ‘weatherproof’.

‘It may well say it on the label, but is outdoor furniture weatherproof all year round, really? Surviving the odd rain shower is one thing, but hard frosts, high winds and snow storms… That’s a whole different ball game. You’ll need to be confident in how to store your outdoor furniture properly if you want it to survive the winter’, says Millie Hurst, Solved section editor, Homes & Gardens. 

Outdoor furniture storage mistakes people make in winter 

Why learn from your own outdoor furniture mistakes when you can take heed of those made by others? Save yourself the hassle – and the money – by getting it right the first time around. We’ve asked the experts to share the winter storage blunders they see most often.

1. Failing to appreciate the level of care required

Regardless of how ‘hardy’ you think your outdoor furniture is, it will require some form of storage to keep it in good shape over the winter. It’s important to be realistic about this when deciding what to buy. 

‘You may well love upholstered seating and powder-coated finishes, but looks aren’t everything, and if you’re not prepared to commit to the appropriate storage requirements over the winter months, they’ll fade anyway. You’re better off opting for a lower-maintenance material, such as hardwood or HDPE’, says Jennifer Ebert digital editor, Homes & Gardens.   

2. Lacking indoor storage space

Even if you appreciate the level of care required, you’ll still need to ensure you’ve got the means to carry it out. For example, depending on what material you’ve chosen, there’s a chance your outdoor furniture will need to be moved indoors over the winter. Failing to recognize that you simply don’t have the space could leave you with a whole lot of furniture – and nowhere to put it.

‘It’s essential to choose furniture that suits your requirements and needs’, says interior designer Juliette Thomas, founder and director of Juliettes Interiors. ‘From synthetic rattan that can take whatever is thrown at it to wood and upholstery which needs further care and attention, choose your furniture material wisely’.

3. Storing outdoor furniture in the wrong place – or in the wrong way

While you may think you’ve found the perfect spot, there are a few things you’ll need to check beforehand if you want to ensure your outdoor furniture comes out of storage looking as good as when it first went in. 

‘Storing furniture in an area that is prone to moisture or extreme temperature fluctuations, such as a damp basement or an unheated garage, can cause mold, mildew, and other forms of damage’, says Shlomo Cherniak, owner of Baltimore-based Handyman Services company.  

Similarly, you’ll need to pay attention to how you’re storing it. ‘Improperly stacking or piling furniture can result in scratches, dents, and other forms of damage. It is important to stack furniture in a way that minimizes contact between pieces and provides adequate support’, adds Shlomo.

4. Leaving covers on for too long

If you’re leaving your outdoor furniture frames outside over the winter, covering them up so they’re not exposed to the elements is the best thing you can do to maintain their condition. It’s common sense, right? 

And it’s not hard to do either; there are plenty of durable options, available in a variety of sizes, such as this waterproof patio furniture set from Walmart.  However, what’s not so common sense is the fact that leaving covers on too long can actually have the reverse effect. 

‘When the wintery weather has passed, furniture covers can actually do more harm than good. If the temperature outdoors is particularly high, heat can get trapped under your furniture covers, damaging the cushion fabric and filling. So, when the balmy weather returns, always be sure to remove your cover and store it away for the next rainy day!’, says Patrick Bridge, chief operations officer at Harbour Lifestyle. 

5. Assuming outdoor fabrics can be stored in the same way as the furniture itself

If you’ve been searching for outdoor living room ideas, it’s likely that outdoor fabrics feature. While you may be able to leave the frame outside with just a cover on, cushions are a different matter – they may be part of the same set, but that doesn’t mean they should be stored in the same way. 

'Plastic cushion covers are fine to use overnight throughout the summer, but there’s no way they’ll stand up to winter extremes, even if you’ve treated the fabric with an upholstery protector’, says Millie Hurst. ‘Clean your outdoor cushions and dry them thoroughly before storing in an airtight bag or container, ready for spring. The same goes for blankets, throws and cleaning outdoor rugs, too’. 

6. Not elevating it off the ground

We tend to channel our efforts into protecting the surface of our outdoor furniture while giving little thought to what’s beneath. If you’ve left it to stand in muddy, damp grass or on a puddle-prone patio, it’s going to be, quite literally, on its last legs before the winter’s out.

Move it onto a hard surface or raise it off the ground using slabs or bricks to prevent damp rising up through the legs. 

7. Failing to clean it properly

‘One of the most common mistakes I see personally is people storing furniture without properly cleaning it beforehand. This can lead to pest infections, which usually results in pretty significant damage by the time you bring it back out for spring, ’, says Dan Bailey, president of WikiLawn Tampa Lawn Care. 

‘Even if it survives the pests, leaving dirt and grime to sit on your furniture for months on end can cause permanent damage to the finish. No amount of spring cleaning will reverse it, unfortunately’.

With that in mind, you’ll really want to familiarize yourself with how to clean outdoor furniture ahead of the winter months, and be sure you factor in enough drying time, too.

8. Carrying out maintenance after the winter months, as opposed to before

‘While many wait until spring or summer to perform routine maintenance tasks like washing and re-lackering, taking the time at the end of the season protects outdoor furniture when weather damage is most common’, says Laura Rich, product developer at Furniturebox. ‘After a quick dust-off, it also means outdoor furniture is ready to use on the first day of sunshine’.

9. Forgetting to check in

However carefully you’ve tucked it away, it only takes one bout of high winds or flooding to mess with your outdoor furniture winter storage solutions. Assuming everything is a-ok is a costly mistake that’s easily avoided simply by checking in every once in a while. Make sure the covers are still fitting snugly and brush off snow, ice and debris before it builds.

FAQs

Have you been making these outdoor furniture storage mistakes over winter? Don’t panic, as you can see, they’re easy enough to solve. Invest the time now into caring for your pieces properly and you’ll reap the rewards come springtime! 

As a celebrity interiors writer, only one thing excites me more than when an A-Lister collaborates with a decor powerhouse – and that's when their collection comes on sale. 

Following Kelly Clarkson's recent collection with Wayfair, it was inevitable, therefore, that the Way Day sale was marked on my calendar, and sure enough, her deals didn't disappoint.

My team and I have already spent a sufficient amount of time shopping Kelly's fall collection online (some may say it borders on procrastination, but I'd argue it's essential to the job, naturally), and sure enough, Way Day gave me another opportunity to enjoy some online shopping, all in the name of a day's work.

My top Way Day picks from Kelly Clarkson's collection

'I've handpicked every piece, and I think you’ll love the style – French-country with a modern twist – just as much as I do,' Kelly shared on Instagram. And I can confirm I do love them. Here are my top picks from Kelly's collection, on sale for today only. 

While you can pick up Kelly Clarkson's collection any day of the year, The Way Day sales have mere hours left, so be speedy if you want to get any of these pieces at a discounted price. 

Lewis Hamilton may be known as a leader on the race track, but a glimpse inside his home shows he's a trendsetter in the design world, too. His home, or, more specifically, his living room, is a lesson in how to create the warm minimalist aesthetic that's dominating design trends.

Warm minimalism, categorized as one of 2023's most sought-after interior design trends, is admired for its soft neutral tones, textures, and harmonious organization system (meaning clutter is always out of sight). 

The aesthetic is similar to traditional minimalist living rooms; only its earthier tones make the room feel warmer – creating an inviting but stylish space epitomized by the racing star. 

From his retro rattan to his failsafe paint choices, we should all take notes on Lewis' space, and designer Stephanie Meyer agrees. 

'Warm minimalism is uncomplicated, clean, reminiscent of nature in its soft earthen tones, and approachable. The look is design-done-well: simple and effective, high-end but not overdone,' Stephanie comments.

'As the world feels like it is moving faster and maximal trends run parallel, this is the equal and opposite reaction that feels restrained but curated and composed.'

Tapping into this trend begins with a soft base (much like the off-white seen in Lewis' home). 'These warm white tones will envelop and give a serene glow to rooms looking to achieve openness and depth.' Stephanie recommends colors like Benjamin Moores's Olympic Mountains or Coastal Path, which are her go-to choices for a grounded, bright, warm glow. 

Paint ideas aside, the choice of textures is equally influential. 'Choose monochromatic warm whites and muted organic tones to create a consistent look,' she says. 'Also, opt for a more textured rug (instead of a more fitted upholstery choice). The contrast and relationship created are key.'

The last step in achieving a warm minimalist space? Organizing your living room to perfection. This includes the art of decluttering, but as Stephanie explains, it's also about choosing furnishings that prioritize form as well as function. 

'Warm minimalism reflects an alignment of form and function. Furniture choices are sculptural, and textural layering is employed to give subtle and tactile depth,' she says. 

'You can also achieve this by decluttering and finding a way to store everything in an aesthetically pleasing way or hidden behind doors. The key design principle of design here is harmony, so taking out anything that doesn't visually belong is key.'

We're tapping our way into Lewis' space with these inspired picks below.

Warm minimalism may be one of the most popular design aesthetics of the year, but with its roots in smooth neutrals and versatile furnishings, we predict this trend is going to become a classic. 

We cover a lot of trends, we see a lot of trends come and go, some hang around for minutes, and some stick for years. And while we always say to let interior design trends influence your tastes, never be too led by the fickleness of what's in style in the interior design world. Stick with timeless, stick with classic, and you'll always create spaces that feel on-trend. 

Timeless and classic is exactly how we would describe Lee Jofa, the luxury textile brand that's been around for centuries. 200 years to be exact. And reaching a bicentennial is something to be celebrated, so of course, they are doing it in style. 

The Lee Jofa 200th Anniversary Collection pays homage to the brand's long and rich history, bringing together both old and new, with classic archival patterns being reimagined in fresh colorways for a more modern twist on the timeless prints.

'We are thrilled that our brand continues to thrive and be a leader in the interior design community,' says Stephen Elrod, EVP and Creative Director for Lee Jofa and Brunschwig & Fils. 'Our goal is to keep upholding the values of craftsmanship and luxury that have gotten us to this point, and to keep inspiring generations of designers to come.'

The origins of Lee Jofa date back to 1832 and the new collection really explores the span of the brand's many generations, from the more traditional 18th-century palampore to the 1960s-era chinoiserie. There are 16 archival prints within the collection, each available in two new colorways, which have been reimaged to be slightly brighter and bolder than the original. A modern twist on a classic.

The brand's most iconic hand-block printed patterns Hollyhock and Tree of Life, have had a fresh recoloration, and for the first time, they are also available as wallcoverings. Othermuch-loved designs that have been given a fresh new colorway are Whippets, which is a beautifully finely drawn pattern, and Floral Bouquet, based on a 19th-century print recovered from the archive of a French museum.

Alongside the reimagined fabrics and wallcoverings, furniture, carpets, and a selection of accessories are part of the collection too. The furniture pieces echo the brand's rooting in traditional, timeless design, and include an English antique-inspired lyre chair, a fully upholstered English arm sofa, and wrapped cocktail and side tables. 

There's an impressive 69 new rugs launching with the 200 Collection, all inspired by the brand’s iconic wovens, velvets, and textures and each is hand-dyed to ensure that classic Lee Jofa aesthetic.

The collection is a celebration of the last 200 years of Lee Jofa. Each piece and each print is evidence of how the brand has stood the test of time, how it has adapted to changing tastes but also remained so timeless that prints from two centuries ago are still relevant and 'on trend' today. 

You can shop the Lee Jofa 200 Collection at Kravet now. 

Successful interior design is all about the detail: paying attention to textures, to tones, to the way shape and pattern interacts in a room. So it follows that decorative trim is a highly effective way to add character and interest: subtle contrasting piping on a sofa, or a nostalgic fringed detail on a lamp, might be the detail that takes a scheme to the next level. And with designers and tastemakers wanting homes that are a true reflection of their personal style, decorative trim is the perfect way to create a bespoke interior.

For Samuel & Sons, the New York-based company renowned for their finest quality luxury trimmings – from tassels and fringes to borders and braids – it’s also an opportunity to get creative. Their latest collection of artisanal passementerie, Taos, draws inspiration from the enchanting American Southwest: each of the designs is informed by the region’s distinctive patterns, motifs and rich colour combinations, as well as its grounding in art, textile and handicraft. Embroidery stitching techniques, complex weaving, velvet, and felt appliqué pay homage to the craftsmanship so integral to this part of the world.

Inspired by this dynamic new collection, we spoke to the Samuel & Sons executive creative director, Milton De Paul, and their VP of design, Marisa Gutmacher, to find out just how we can tap into the trend for decorative trim.

How to use decorative trim in your interiors

1. Introduce pattern to a plain tablecloth

While a simple cotton or linen tablecloth gives your dinnerware a chance to take centre stage, a trim is a simple addition that will elevate the space in a subtle way. You might even decide to pair it with armchairs updated in the same fabric for a cohesive look – or mix and match for a scheme that’s a little more eclectic.

Here, the tablecloth is finished in the Sedona border in Blue Sky, a pale-hued velvet appliqué border with a kilim pattern enhanced by intricate tweed embroidery – part of the new Taos collection from Samuel & Sons. A Bali cotton tassel skirt fringe with playful tassels adds texture and movement to the scheme.

2. Transform upholstery for a one-of-a-kind piece

For less than the cost of a bespoke fabric covering, you can achieve the same custom look by upgrading your existing plain upholstery with decorative trimming. Run delicately patterned stripes down the centre of an armchair (the design pictured here is the Sedona border in Horizon) or edge a stool with a ribbon of colour; the joy of trimming is in the creative freedom it gives you.

‘Historically, using trim on upholstery has a more functional purpose, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get creative,’ explains Milton De Paul. ‘I always think: why would you use a self welt when you could use a contrasting piping or brush fringe to add visual interest to a piece of furniture?’

3. Add contrast to your curtains

There are so many fabulous ways to add a twist to curtains – a flash of colour on the underside of the fabric, for example, or a pelmet in a lively candy stripe. Trims also offer playful ways to upgrade your drapes. ‘Borders and braids have the ability to introduce new patterns and contrasting colours along the leading edge of curtain panels, while tassel, bullion or beaded fringes can soften the panels edges, add a sense of refinement, infuse a new colour palette, and seamlessly bridge indoor ambiance with the outdoor vista,’ explains Marisa Gutmacher. 

Here, the Ensemble beaded border from the Metamorphosis collection, designed by Lori Weitzner, add a whimsical and unexpected edge to simple drapes, the beaded outline of the insects making them glitter like jewels. 

4. Turn off-the-shelf cushions into bespoke accessories

If you prefer to dip your toe into the world of decorative trimming before trying some of these ideas out, cushions are a great low-stakes, high-reward place to start. You can test out colour, pattern and fabric combinations before applying them to bigger pieces like upholstery – plus, of course, at the end of it you’ll have an accessory that’s beautiful and completely one-of-a-kind. 

We love the look of a retro-style brush fringe on a velvet base – try the Sophie brush fringe from Samuel & Sons – or a simple striped piping on a square-edged throw pillow. Embroidered geometric patterns are a great way to add a contemporary spin: run them down the middle of a cushion as a stripe, or around the edge as an elegant border. Or, of course, you can mix and match – amongst the trims pictured here are the Abiquiu and Mojave borders from the Taos collection. Just use a common colour thread to keep things cohesive and you’ll have a joyful collection of accessories to bring instant character to your space.

5. Upgrade dining chairs with fun finishes

Who said the fun had to stop at your tablecloth? With so few soft furnishings, the dining room can be one of the most difficult spaces into which to introduce pattern, but by embellishing furniture with decorative trimming, you can create a layered and sophisticated scheme. Plus, as Milton De Paul explains, ‘Using trimmings is also a great solution when you’re not ready to commit to permanent upholstery.’ Chair ties or slip covers on dining chairs, for example, add a decorative finish, ‘without the hassle of a full overhaul.’

In this space, the Atelier collection from Samuel & Sons – a series of geometric borders inspired by architectural and Art Nouveau influences – takes centre stage, with dining chairs finished in exquisite Alessia velvet borders. The Le Jardin chair tassel tied to the back of the seats adds a playful touch.

To find out more about their full collection of luxury trimmings, visit the Samuel & Sons website.

Elevating the scent of your upholstery is an often overlooked aspect of interior design, with many of us only thinking to use diffusers, candles or potpourri to make our homes smell nice, however, infusing furniture with subtle fragrances can have a profound impact on the overall ambiance of your home.

You can customize the fragrance you use to infuse in your upholstery, ensuring it's in keeping with the atmosphere of your home. This is one of the hidden tricks people with nice smelling homes use to make their homes more inviting and relaxing.

Our experts have recommended how to make upholstery smell great with tips for the best ways to add a personalized scent to upholstery. This method is ideal for your couches, armchairs, beds, or even fabric dining chairs.

How to add a personalized scent to upholstery to make it smell nice

'There are various ways to infuse your upholstery with your bespoke home fragrance,' says Aleks Grigoriev, interior expert and co-founder of Priority Home Buyers. 'You can mix a few drops of your scent blend with water and mist it on your upholstery, use sachets filled with dried herbs and spices, or fabric sachets tucked between cushions.'

Not only will this improve the smell of your upholstery, but will also have the added bonus of making your home smell nice.

1. Choose the right fragrance

'Before embarking on your fragrant adventure, take a moment to understand the essence of your space,' advises Aleks Grigoriev. 'Is it a cozy living room, a vibrant bedroom, or a serene reading nook? The mood you wish to convey will play a crucial role in choosing the right scent.'

'Ensure that your personalized scent harmonizes with your existing decor rather than overpowers it,' adds interior designer, furniture expert, and founder of Dream Home Making, Elizabeth Grace. 

She continues, 'Begin by selecting a fragrance base that resonates with your personal preferences and complements your home's overall ambiance. Options include essential oils, fragrance oils, and natural herbs or botanicals.' 

Aleks Grigoriev advises, 'Whenever possible, opt for natural ingredients like essential oils or dried herbs and flowers. These not only provide a more authentic scent but also contribute to a healthier living environment.'

2. Fragrance layering

Aleks Grigoriev explains how to personalize your scent with fragrance layering: 'Every scent has three layers: top, middle, and base notes. Start by choosing a base note that resonates with your space. Earthy, woody scents like sandalwood or cedar can evoke warmth, while floral notes like lavender or rose can add a touch of elegance.'

'Middle notes serve as the heart of your fragrance. They provide depth and complexity. Spices like cinnamon, or herbs like basil, can work wonders.'

'Top notes are the first impression, the initial burst of fragrance that catches your attention,' continues Aleks Grigoriev. 'Citrus notes like lemon or bergamot can be uplifting, while minty scents like eucalyptus or peppermint can invigorate the atmosphere.'

Elizabeth Grace reminds advises, 'You'll want to experiment with different fragrance notes and ratios. Consider blending top, middle, and base notes to achieve a well-balanced and long-lasting aroma.'

3. Utilize essential oils for homemade fabric spray

To infuse your upholstery with a personalized scent, essential oils can be the most effective and easy-to-use option when used as fabric spray. Not only do essential oils provide a pleasant fragrance but also offer therapeutic benefits.

Essential aromatherapy oils offer a natural and long-lasting scent that is free from harsh chemicals. Janille Mangat at VMAP Cleaning Services suggests, 'Create a DIY fabric spray by mixing water and your favorite essential oils in a spray bottle. Start with a few drops of essential oil and adjust the strength of the scent according to your preference. Mist the upholstery lightly and allow it to air dry.'

As a general guideline, a good oil-to-water ratio would be 3 oz. of water to 20 drops of essential oils. 'Experiment with different combinations to find a blend that resonates with you,' advises Angela Rubin from Hellamaid. 

For a wide range of essential oils to try out, we recommend this Wuhura Essential Oils Set of 36, from Amazon.

4. Keep it subtle

While a nice fragrance can enhance your furniture, it's important not to overpower the space with an overwhelming smell.

Angela Rubin says, 'Dilution ratios are crucial to ensure your upholstery doesn't become oversaturated with scent. A few drops of essential oil in a carrier oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil can create a subtle, balanced, and long-lasting fragrance.'

5. Scented sachets

'For those who prefer a more eco-friendly approach, experiment with dried herbs, spices, and citrus peels,' recommends Angela Rubin. 'These natural ingredients can be placed in sachets or even directly under upholstery to release a subtle, natural scent.'

If you have natural ingredients in your garden, you can select some, such as harvesting lavender, to use in your scented sachets.

'Craft scented sachets by filling small pouches with your chosen scent blend. Tuck these sachets between upholstery cushions or under furniture for a subtle and enduring fragrance,' continues Angela Rubin.

These can also be placed in cushion covers or hung over bed frames. 

You can use these Cotton Muslin Bags, from Amazon.

6. Fabric softener sheets

Janille Mangat says, 'Another option is to tuck fabric softener sheets between couch cushions, under seat covers. These sheets come in various scents and can help keep upholstery smelling fresh. Be sure to replace them periodically for a lasting effect.'

For example, you can add a lavender-infused dryer sheet, such as these Downy dryer sheets, from Amazon, in your couch cover.

5. Test small areas first

Before applying scented products to your upholstery fabric, it's important to test a small, unnoticeable area, such as the back or undercarriage of a sofa. Since some materials will be sensitive to certain products, this is to ensure the scents you are infusing into your furniture will not cause any staining or other adverse reactions. 

'Be mindful of your upholstery material,' advises Angela Rubin. 'Some materials may not react well to direct contact with oils.'

If there is no effect, go ahead and infuse your sofa with your personalized scents.

FAQs

'Don't be afraid to experiment and enjoy the process,' says Elizabeth Grace. 'Your scent should reflect your unique style and personality, making your home a true reflection of you.'

Be sure that before you scent your upholstery, make sure to first clean it. Vacuuming and spot cleaning regularly will remove any unpleasant odors and help your personalized scent last longer.

Julio Arco, interior designer and founder of Bark and Chase leaves us with one final tip: 'Consider focusing fragrances on natural textiles that are great at absorbing scents such as wool, silk, and cotton.'

As the founder of an eponymous lifestyle empire, Martha Stewart knows exactly how to curate a productive workspace that is as aesthetic as it is practical. 

'The most beautiful things are simple and functional but not always easy to find,' she shared at the launch of her World of Martha Amazon collection – and her ideology lives on through her new home office collection.

Much like her sought-after kitchen and bedroom pieces, Martha's home office collection, available via Amazon, blends form and function to elevate the working-from-home experience. From smart home office storage (to make organizing easier) to supportive furniture for long days at the desk, Martha designed every element of this collection with productivity in mind. 

'Whether you are managing a busy household or working from home, creating an attractive, dedicated space for staying organized makes any task more enjoyable,' Martha shared with People. 'When form and function occupy the same space, productivity soars.' We can shop our top picks from the collection below.