It's a common misconception in the design industry that interior designers only shop at expensive luxury brands for home decor. From my conversations with designers, I know that many are just as keen as we are to score discounts on top-quality furniture and decor. Which is why Wayfair is a designer-favorite.

Just last summer, I spoke to several interior designers who shop at Wayfair, including Sarah Kaplan, who mentioned her appreciation for Wayfair's vast assortment of Loloi rugs. These rugs are some of the best quality styles on the market, and many of them are made in collaboration with our favorite designers like Amber Lewis, Joanna Gaines, and duo Chris Loves Julia.

These premium designer-collab rugs from Loloi are very fairly priced already, but put them on sale (as Wayfair so frequently does), and they are a steal. The Way Day sale is happening this weekend (April 25th -26th), and some of the chicest Loloi styles are already discounted. Consider it a little insider secret that in order to secure the best price on a top-quality Loloi rug, all you need to do is shop at Wayfair.

Since there are hundreds of Loloi rugs on sale at Wayfair right now, I've selected nine styles that I think are most versatile for any room in your home. So don't wait, this sale won't last forever. Get your hands on a quality Loloi rug from Wayfair, now.

Shop Designer Collab Loloi Rugs at Wayfair

These designer-collab Loloi rugs are certainly a highlight from Wayfair's Way Day sale, but if you're interested in scoring deals on other decor and furniture for your home, check out our comprehensive Wayfair sale guide – packed with 18 Style Editor-approved products that you just need for your home this spring.

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A mini greenhouse makes a great addition to the garden at both the start and end of the season. They can warm the soil in spring so you can start sowing and planting earlier, then in the fall they come to the fore to protect plants from cold and extend the season further into the colder months.

Such mini greenhouses are placed on the ground to create a protected space to insulate plants from frost and cold. They also make a warmer, secure environment, perfect for any last sowings of vegetables and flowers for the year. I have used such mini greenhouses before to protect later vegetable sowings, and, if you want to do the same this fall, I saw this portable mini greenhouse at Wayfair with 51% off, down to $34.59.

It is perfect if you are looking for ways to protect plants from frost or extend your sowing and harvesting season further into the fall. Versatile, easy-to-assemble, and reusable for many years to come, a Wayfair portable mini greenhouse offers a durable solution for many different situations.

Why we love the Wayfair portable mini greenhouse

One of the main things you want from such a product is for it to be sturdy and practical, and the Wayfair portable mini greenhouse ticks both of those boxes for sure.

When it comes to durability, it has a steel frame with a polythene cover to shield your plants from cold temperatures, heavy rain, and strong winds. Its size (measuring in at 46.75" x 23.5" x 23.5") means it is versatile and can be used on flower beds, vegetable gardens, or raised garden beds to cover all manner of plants.

The transparency of the cover means it keeps weather and pests out but allows light to penetrate so your plants continue to grow. However, the material is not permeable and prevents water and air from passing through.

What combats this potential issue is two semi-circular front windows as part of the design, which can be rolled up for access to water plants. These windows allow for essential air circulation, keeping the plants inside healthy and at reduced risk of fungal and bacterial diseases.

Such a portable greenhouse or cold frame offers benefits to gardeners throughout different seasons.

It makes a great, practical way to protect plants from frost. By trapping heat inside, it keeps the temperatures 5-10°F above the outside. It means it is suitable for protecting borderline hardy plants through the coldest months. However, it cannot be relied upon to protect tender plants through winter; these are better brought indoors.

If you use a Wayfair portable mini greenhouse in the fall in a productive garden, you can plant vegetables in November for quick winter harvests. Such a protective cover also extends the harvesting season for many crops, including crops that are ideally harvested before frost, such as lettuce, carrots, and turnips.

A mini greenhouse not only extends the season further into the fall, but also offers a useful way to warm up soil earlier in the spring. This means you can sow seeds outdoors in the spring earlier.

Cornflowers, snapdragons, calendula, penstemon, or more can be sown in February or March outdoors for earlier blooms. While crops, including salad leaves, carrots, and radishes, can be started earlier under protection.

A bonus is that the protection from a mini greenhouse reduces the risk of slugs or snails nibbling young seedlings when they emerge. To keep such pests out of the greenhouse, it features extended edges. It is best to bury them in the soil to prevent pests from sneaking underneath to munch on plants.

What shoppers say about the Wayfair portable mini greenhouse

Reviews for the Wayfair portable mini greenhouse tend to praise the robustness of the cold frame and how it protects their plants from cold weather. It was proclaimed to be 'easy to assemble' and for its sturdiness among the reviews.

'It's great for protecting perennials through the winter,' says one shopper.

In fact, 'great' is a frequently used term, with another buyer describing it as 'great' at protecting their kale plants and another illustrating: '[It is a] great portable greenhouse. Love the versatility and durability.'

When it comes to portability, another shopper said it was 'convenient to move' and did a great job at protecting their plants from being nibbled by rabbits.

'I love my little mini greenhouse,' says a purchaser. 'It fits perfectly over my vegetable boxes for starting seedlings in the spring. I had great success in my garden this year.'

The only niggles mentioned by shoppers regarded the cover. There were a couple of mentions of struggles fitting the cover over the frame, with one saying the polythene cover ripped while attempting to install it.

However, one shopper who did struggle with the cover admitted: 'Wayfair customer support was very professional and promised to send replacement covers.'

No matter the size of your greenhouse or cold frame, keeping it clean is an important maintenance task. It ensures the most light penetrates through the glass or plastic cover, and the mini greenhouse is free from harmful fungi or bacteria that can strike plants.

It is simple to clean a greenhouse, especially a mini one. Empty all plants out, remove any debris, and use a soft brush or sponge soaked in warm soapy water to scrub the glass or plastic cover clean.

Shop mini greenhouses

I live near a woodland, and one of the biggest issues I have with my bird feeder is trying to keep squirrels off it. These cheeky creatures will often dominate my bird feeder, stealing resources away from birds. That's why my best find in the Way Day sale couldn't have come at a better time: a squirrel-proof caged bird feeder.

Anyone who makes an effort to feed garden birds will likely struggle with trying to keep squirrels away from bird feeders at some point or another. It can be tricky, as squirrels are stealthy and jump at any opportunity to grab food. But, this Wayfair caged bird feeder is designed to deter squirrels by making it near-impossible for them to reach the bird food inside. Meanwhile, smaller birds have no problem feeding from it.

It's rated 4.8 stars with over 100 reviews from satisfied customers who say it's 'a truly squirrel-proof feeder' that can be cleaned easily, and it's popular with a range of garden birds. What's even better, it's currently 28% off, but the sale doesn't last for much longer, so it's going straight in my basket.

How Do Caged Bird Feeders Stop Squirrels?

If you struggle with getting rid of squirrels in your yard, then it might just be that they're finding food sources in your outdoor space, like from a bird feeder.

Standard bird feeders without any squirrel protection can easily be accessed by them, making your yard more attractive to them and encouraging them to make repeat visits.

In turn, this can result in other squirrel damage, such as squirrels digging up bulbs.

Of course, squirrels using bird feeders will also discourage garden birds from using them. Squirrels are bird predators, and their presence is likely to reduce the bird population in your yard.

It's less than ideal if you're trying to establish a wildlife garden, especially as we head into the coldest months and you want to help feed birds in winter where natural food sources are more scarce.

A squirrel-proof bird feeder, however, stops all of this from happening. A cage encompassing the feeder makes it hard for squirrels to access the food.

This deters them from using it and makes your yard less attractive to them, all while encouraging birds to use it as a safe place to feed from.

It's a simple design that fixes a big problem, which is why shoppers of the Wayfair caged bird feeder are so pleased with it:

Why Shoppers Love the Wayfair Bird Feeder

The product description of the Wayfair caged bird feeder advertises the fact that it protects birds from predators. Those who have bought it verify this is true:

'Perfect for keeping squirrels and other critters from eating the bird food,' one person says. 'One of the only [bird feeders] that deters the larger critters from getting in,' another five-star reviewer says.

In fact, not only is it a squirrel-proof bird feeder, it also seems to stop large birds from dominating the bird feeder, making it more accessible to smaller bird species.

'It does keep out the larger birds that were quickly consuming all the seed from the previous open feeder,' one shopper explains.

Of course, this does mean it isn't fit for feeding all birds, which is one downside.

'Squirrels can't get in, but neither could my cardinals,' a shopper writes. Though the reviews note the likes of finches and other smaller birds enjoy this safe feeding station.

As for keeping this bird feeder clean, customers haven't experienced any struggle with it. All you have to do is remove the cage from the tube for access.

'Very well made with easy access for cleaning. I have other feeders similar to this one and because they are so difficult to clean I have stopped using them,' one review reads.

Although another shopper notes it would be beneficial if it had a 'solid tray on the bottom to catch falling seed'. Without this, some bird seed goes to waste.

With an attached hook to hang on a bird feeding pole or tree branch, it seems this bird feeder is easy to use, loved by birds, and keeps squirrels away.

It's a little expensive at the full price of $73.99, but its ability to support birds without disruption makes it well worth it, alongside the fact that it's durable and is designed to last for years to come. Plus, it's currently on sale at $52.99, offering a huge saving.

There's no doubt this Wayfair caged bird feeder would solve my bird feeding problem. You can also use baffles to deter squirrels from your garden, as well as other bird feeding accessories in the Way Day sale:

A plant caddy offers year-round functionality, but come the fall, it will become vital in helping you protect container plants from the damaging winter cold. This is because plant caddies with wheels allow you to relocate even heavy pots without placing lots of stress on your back.

If you live in colder climates, late fall becomes a time to focus on protecting container plants from winter weather. As plants in pots are more vulnerable to frosts, moving them indoors to a protected position is critical. To help make life easier, I noticed this set of two wooden plant caddies in the Wayfair sale, currently marked down 48% to $33.99.

Rather than manually lifting and carrying all the plants in your container garden one by one, these plant caddies help you relocate them with ease. But they aren’t just useful in the fall, as the Wayfair wooden plant caddies offer benefits throughout the year, too.

Benefits of the Wayfair Wooden Plant Caddies

Let's start with the construction. These Wayfair wooden plant caddies are constructed of acacia hardwood on top of a strong iron frame. It means they are sturdy and can withstand weight, capable of being loaded with up to 264 pounds.

That makes them capable of moving compact trees growing in pots, or being loaded with multiple small containers when bringing plants indoors in November ahead of the frosts.

Plant caddies aren't solely for moving plants in winter, though. Any container plants can be shifted to follow the sunlight, ensuring they get the best light conditions indoors or outdoors throughout the year.

This will be particularly beneficial if you grow fruit trees in pots, for example, and want to provide them with adequate sunlight to fruit successfully. Though any sun-loving container plants will perform best when moved into the sunniest spot in your backyard.

These Wayfair wooden plant caddies are versatile for use indoors or outdoors. Their polyurethane wheels will roll smoothly over any surface, from lawn to carpet, and can be locked into place to prevent unwanted movement.

The wooden design also fits many design aesthetics, and raising container plants off the floor prevents moisture or dirt from damaging hardwood, tile, or laminate floors.

But these Wayfair wooden plant caddies will come into their own if you want to overwinter plants indoors. They allow gardeners to move plants without lifting and carrying them. Plants that live on them year-round can be rolled into position, while other pots can be put onto a spare caddy to move, taking away the need to lug containers across the yard.

It means less bending and carrying, which reduces the potential risk of back strain, and also prevents scratches from dragging heavy pots around while trying to protect plants from frost. If you do move your containers around during the year, a plant caddy will certainly help make things easier.

'A back saver' – What Shoppers Say About the Wayfair Wooden Plant Caddies

A frequent phrase used to describe Wayfair wooden plant caddies is 'very sturdy', as shoppers praise the products for making it easier to move heavy plants.

One shopper proclaimed the caddies as 'true back savers' as it meant they don't need to 'bend awkwardly while carrying a heavy planter'.

'We live in a hurricane-prone area and must move all of our plants indoors during tropical weather,' says another purchaser. 'I highly recommend them if you know you're going to have to move your heavy plants.'

'[I] needed some plant caddies for a couple of plants since the sun conditions change a lot on my patio,' notes another shopper. 'Being able to wheel the larger plants is so helpful for ensuring the full sun plants get all of the sun they need.'

And one shopper claims: 'I love my new rolling planter caddies. I bought two new ceramic pots - one is 50 pounds and the other is 85 pounds. Both are a perfect size.'

Shoppers mentioned using the Wayfair wooden plant caddies to move potted lemon trees, a lime tree in a pot, and a fir tree in a container ahead of cold weather. They praised the caddies for their 'super solid construction' and mentioned that the wheels 'roll smoothly' during use.

A plant caddy may be handy if you are growing shrubs in containers and need to relocate them at different times of year. You can grow shrubs in lots of sizes, shapes, and colors in pots, from topiary plants to flowering shrubs that attract pollinators to a space.

However, any shrubs in containers will not be as hardy as when planted in the ground. Always bear that in mind to avoid making any container gardening mistakes that risk killing your plants in winter.

If you don't have space to overwinter tender plants indoors, you may consider protecting containers with winter pot covers. For example, these frost protection covers at Amazon can be used on pots up to 20 inches deep and 17 inches wide.

Shop Plant Caddies

For as long as I can remember, I've preferred real Christmas trees over artificial alternatives. With their fresh scent, rich color, and dense foliage, how could an artificial tree compare?

That was my opinion before I moved into my own place and had to undergo the immense hassle, constant maintenance, and expense that comes along with choosing a real Christmas tree. I quickly realized that maybe artificial trees aren't so bad after all. However, there was one thing stopping me from buying one of my own – the overly fake look. But that's where Wayfair comes in.

On a search for the perfect tree, I stumbled upon Wayfair's collection of artificial trees. Not only are these trees large, robust, and as good-looking as real trees, but lots are highly rated by previous buyers. Plus, many of these artificial trees are significantly discounted for Wayfair's Way Day sale.

Shop the Best Artificial Trees from Wayfair

These trees from Wayfair have all the appeal of a real Christmas tree without the added hassle and constant maintenance. Although they might not deliver that fresh, woodsy smell of a real-life Christmas tree, they look just as good and will last for years to come. And trust me, there are tons of ways to make your home smell nice for Christmas that are much easier than hauling a 50lb fir tree through your front door.

To give you a head start on finding the right artificial Christmas tree for your home, I sorted through all of the artificial trees on sale at Wayfair, and I found six top contenders. These trees look just like the real thing, but they're much more practical for your home. Plus, they come highly rated by Wayfair buyers.

Your dream artificial Christmas tree awaits you, below.

Now that you've found your artificial Christmas tree, it's time to make it come to life with ornaments and other decorations. We can help with that, too. Find our list of exactly what Christmas decorations to buy from Wayfair in our dedicated round-up.

My mom always says to buy something special when life shifts – a move, a new job, a relationship. I’d add a new season to that list. Now that fall has fully settled in – the days shorter, the air cooler, and those long, 70-degree sunset walks gone till next year – my seasonal malaise has returned on cue. It’s high time for that ‘something new.’

I think it might take the form of a striped table lamp by Modway, now 38% off for Way Day. It’s punchy enough to wake a room from hibernation, but rendered in a hand-woven cotton thread, tactile enough to calm it right back down.

It sounds strange to compare the two patterns (let alone the two categories), but this lamp reminds me of the Mackenzie-Childs Courtly Check Tea Kettle on my stovetop. It’s not fazed by the cherry-red microwave or the toaster beside it – the black-and-white pattern anchors them, somehow. That’s the mark of a hero piece.

‘A table lamp that makes a statement speaks volumes,’ says Homes & Gardens Style Editor Devin Toolen of this Way Day gem. ‘Decorating with stripes has the potential to instantly enhance any spot in your home – from your bedroom’s bedside table to your living room’s reading corner,' she explains.

Clearly, a bold table lamp like this doesn’t need much company. Set it solo on a tiny table in oxblood and call it a day. But if you’re in the mood to play, stripes – technically speaking – are a neutral. Mix them with autumnal florals, Deco metallics, or clean mid-century lines for a little seasonal lift.

Sometimes, that’s all a space needs – a little contrast, a little light, a little something new. Ahead, a few more tenacious table lamps ready to flip the switch.

Curing another cozy-season conundrum – and doing it with serious savings – is this space-saving vintage-style bench that transforms awkward entrances into full-fledged foyers. It’s 70 percent off for Way Day, but not for long.

There's nothing more chic that a cozy dining space in a kitchen. I'm not talking about a huge table that seats ten people with a decadent centerpiece, but rather a small, intimate nook.

These charming eat-in areas are a huge kitchen trend for 2026, and one that I am eagerly introducing to my own home. But if there's one element I've been struggling to find, it's lighting.

That was until I came across this vintage-inspired Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse® 1-light pendant on Wayfair. It's small in size yet huge in style – and it's the finishing touch my eat-in area is missing. With a saving of over $65 in the Wayfair sale, I'm snapping it up before it sells out. And you should too.

It's not always easy to create a sense of coziness in your kitchen, especially around a small eating area. Kitchen lighting plays a significant role in creating a charming eat-in area, so I turned to my favorite interior designers for some inspiration.

And one thing all of their eat-in area designs have in common is pendant lighting – a single fixture hung above the table for focused lighting, a cozier ambiance, and to create a more defined zone within a larger kitchen.

And this vintage-style design really hits the mark.

Made from metal with a pretty scalloped finish, it's the perfect balance of timeless and playful. I also really love the blend of black and brass – it adds a moody drama to an eat-in area without leaning too industrial.

But what appeals most is its size – there is a time and a place to hang an oversized pendant, but the petite scale of this one is perfect for a small dining space, bringing a cozy ambiance without making a small space feel unbalanced.

It's always a welcome bonus when a light fixture comes with a bulb, and this one does. The LED vintage filament bulb has a 420lm brightness rating and a color temperature of 2,700 Kelvin, perfect for a kitchen eat-in area.

And it's currently on sale in the Wayfair sale, so now is the perfect opportunity to get your hands on a stylish light at a fraction of the price – over 50% off, to be precise.

Whether you're creating a cozy eat-in area or want to refresh your existing kitchen pendant lights above an island or countertops, this pendant light is the perfect balance of timeless style, playful design, and functional lighting.

And it's not the only chic pendant light on sale. Here are a few other designs that are slightly different but just as stylish.

Affordable, vintage-inspired, and a chic finishing touch to a cozy eat-in area, I'm totally obsessed with this pendant light. It's the perfect balance of classic and playful, so it's a great example of buy once, buy well.

Everyone technically has an entryway – that brief liminal space between the chaos of outside and the calm of home – but few have what could truly be called a foyer: a designed, deliberate moment. One that asks you to pause – whether for a freshly picked bouquet on a pedestal table, or a perfectly placed perch that begs you to sit a second before stepping inside.

Enter this diamond I've just spotted discounted at Wayfair: a vintage-style bench now ready to make your debut dreams come true. Its half-moon silhouette hugs the wall without crowding it, while button-tufted upholstery gives it an air of invitation. It’s a piece that says you’ve arrived – ideal for making an entryway cozy, or using as last-minute holiday seating when guests inevitably outnumber chairs.

Five turned, intentionally distressed wooden legs give it that patina of age, offering the imperfect character you hope for in an antique-store find, minus the rickety uncertainty. And unlike the real deal (cushions weren’t exactly cloudlike back then), this one’s generously foam-filled, making it a seat you’ll actually want to linger on.

‘My dining room table is called a "reunion table" and seats 18; however, regular-size chairs on the ends just don’t work,’ one reviewer writes. ‘So I thought these benches on each end would not only look great but be roomy enough for two adults. I was right. The quality was much better than I expected... I’m delighted with my purchase.’

While this bench is made for a grand entryway moment – or the foot of a long, candlelit table – people are getting inventive: slipping it under window sills for an impromptu reading nook, tucking it in dressing rooms for a place to debate shoes, or situating it at the end of a bed.

This vintage-style bench already gives Paris hotel lobby meets countryside manor, so lean in. Hang a verdure tapestry on the wall it hugs, and layer a hand-knotted rug beneath for a real vignette.

Wherever it lands, consider this your cue to turn your entryway into an entrance before the deal disappears on Wednesday, October 29.

And if this one’s not the one, we’ve rounded up three more benches with similar old-world appeal (and equally magnificent markdowns).

Shop the look

If you like the look of the chic Moneta Upholstered Bench, I've included some more beautiful options from Wayfair below.

Finish turning your transitional space into a full-on foyer – and keep up the illusion that you have enviable antique luck – with this $40 Amazon coat rack. It’ll save your sanity and finally let you retire the ‘chairdrobe’ for good.

Christmas, for the aesthetically self-aware, is treacherous terrain. We want festive, not feral. As an editor, I live in that tension, craving a little extra sparkle without surrendering to kitsch or those aggressively bright shades of red flocking. And when the season starts to set in, I don’t head to the usual glossy suspects my houseguests might assume. I go to Wayfair.

Here’s why: it's where the best Christmas decor deals hide. If I’m after one showstopping, heirloom-quality piece – the hero ornament, the mohair throw – I’ll splurge elsewhere. But the bulk of my festive decor lives under the $50 mark, usually marked down, always chicer than anticipated.

This year, my holiday wishlist follows three threads: 'Ralph Lauren Christmas' (blame TikTok and my weakness for anything heritage-coded); glamour – tassels, marble, and a little unabashed shine (it’s the season for ostentation, after all); and cool factor – those offbeat finds (a fawn print here, a sculptural votive there) that manage to make ‘holiday’ feel editorial.

And Christmas decor trends aside, the goal – always – is timelessness. The last thing I want is to retire a perfectly good set of ornaments next year because they suddenly feel passé. It’s a tall order, and yes, it takes some trawling. But editing for elegance is my job – and this year, these 15 Wayfair finds passed the taste test.

If I had to distill my holiday moodboard into a single phrase, it’d be luxury meets heritage – fittingly, also the throughline of Shea McGee’s latest Target collection. Think basket-weave tree collars, figural marble pears, and the most charming bow-shaped toppers.

Wayfair is currently having a massive WayDay Sale, and I've spotted plenty of chic Christmas decor on offer – now's the time to shop before the Holiday season officially hits!

As much as I hate to admit it, the staircase in my home has seemingly become a continuation of my junk drawer. Despite my efforts to keep it clean, each step always ends up filled with all sorts of clutter that I know I have to take upstairs but I constantly push to the side.

I thought a clean, clutter-free staircase was a lost cause until I came across the most perfect solution while shopping at Wayfair: this stylish staircase storage basket. It's the storage idea that I didn't know I needed, the ultimate solution to cleaning up one of the most cluttered spots of my home. This staircase basket is the perfect place to deposit anything that needs to go upstairs – it keeps everything together, and looks good while doing so.

This basket is designed to fit flush against a staircase, and with its two top handles, it can help you carry everything with ease. But the best part? It's less than $40. This staircase storage basket isn't a want, it's a need.

I'd consider this staircase basket a household necessity for many reasons. First of all, this basket seemingly stops clutter before it even starts as it provides a singular spot for staircase clutter, ensuring convenient home organization. Plus, it eliminates trip hazards on each step. This staircase basket guarantees efficiency, too. Rather than having to take multiple trips up and down the stairs, just put everything in this basket, carry it up, and you're good to go.

Practicality aside, this staircase basket just looks so good. Since it's made from woven seagrass, it has a natural look that can complement most interior design styles. It's bound to add some textural appeal to your steps.

As if this basket couldn't get any better, it has a 4.6 out of 5 star rating on Wayfair, with over 300 5-star reviews. 'What a great clutter clearer to consolidate things that need to go upstairs!' one reviewer wrote. 'Beautiful and functional,' another said. 'I just hope it encourages others in my household to take the items inside of it upstairs when they pass it on their way up!'

Although this staircase basket can't remind you to bring it upstairs every so often, it'll become a stylish step accessory that will definitely keep clutter at bay. Below, shop three more models that are equally as practical, functional, and stylish.

In my opinion, these stylish staircase storage baskets are the best way to declutter your staircase. But what about the rest of the home? Read on to discover our expert approved decluttering tips for every spot you can think of.

Maximizing every square foot of your home will help you sensibly make the most of what you have, but experts have warned there are some items you should never put on your porch.

From electricals to rugs, there are seven key items that can pose safety, security, mold and pest risks and are best avoided, say our furniture experts. The unique challenges posed by weather exposure, opportunistic pests and and limited space mean these items are better left elsewhere.

A poorly planned porch can also diminish your home’s appeal, interfere with its functionality, and impact your home security. Here's what to avoid placing on your porch, and what to use instead.

1. Indoor furniture

While it might be tempting to re-purpose that old sofa or coffee table on your porch, indoor furniture is rarely built to withstand outdoor conditions and will likely not be made from the best outdoor materials, such as aluminum and waterproof fabrics.

'Rain, humidity, and sun can wreak havoc on materials like fabric, wood, and metal that aren’t designed for exposure,' says home furniture expert Beena Shaikh. 'Fabrics will fade and mold, wooden furniture can warp, and metal parts may rust.'

Instead, invest in outdoor-rated furniture designed to endure the elements and leave any indoor furniture inside your home.

2. Fragile or valuable items

'Delicate ceramics, intricate sculptures, or sentimental items may seem like a lovely touch or a way to make your porch look more expensive, but placing them there incorrectly can make them susceptible to damage,' continues Benna. 'Weather fluctuations, accidental bumps, or even theft are common risks if you leave fragile decorations on your porch.'

To keep your fragile or valuable items safe, display them indoors or in a more secure area such as your back yard.

3. Excessive clutter

Porches are often small spaces meant to welcome guests and enhance curb appeal. Overloading the area with too many pieces of furniture is a common porch decorating mistake and can instead make it feel cramped and disorganized.

A cluttered pathway can make it difficult for visitors to move around safely, and may become more of a trip hazard in rainy, snowy or icy weather conditions. Winterizing your house will help you identify any clutter danger-spots.

4. Unsecured rugs

‘Rugs can add warmth and style to a porch, but if they’re not designed for outdoor use or properly secured, they can quickly become a safety hazard,’ says Kate Anne Gross, of Kate Anne Designs. ‘Windy conditions can cause lightweight rugs to shift, bunch up, or blow away entirely, creating tripping hazards or leaving your porch looking disheveled.’

Wet weather introduces further complications, as water can make indoor rugs slippery underfoot and promote mold or mildew growth, both of which can compromise your porch's safety and aesthetics.

To avoid these pitfalls, opt for weatherproof, slip-resistant outdoor rugs crafted from durable materials such as the ​​SAFAVIEH Area Rug from Amazon, specifically designed to stay put and endure the elements while maintaining their appearance.

Weaver Green carries a beautiful collection of versatile indoor and outdoor rugs, many of which are machine washable. Use them indoors during winter, then wash and use outside when the weather warms up.

5. Unsuitable lighting

Porch lighting is essential for both safety and ambiance, but not all light fixtures should be used there. Indoor lighting fixtures or bulbs not rated for outdoor use can corrode, short-circuit, or even become a fire risk when exposed to rain and humid weather.

Always choose lighting that’s explicitly designed for outdoor use such as the Topeka Wall Lights from Wayfair, ensuring durability and proper illumination. Using bollard-style lights on your garden path will also enhance safety and security.

6. Items prone to infestation

Untreated wood and some fabric item can attract pests like termites, ants, and rodents, posing a risk of infestation.

‘Storing pet food, birdseed, or other food items on the porch is also a no-go, as it invites unwelcome critters,’ adds designer Kate Anne Gross. ‘To avoid these issues, stick to materials and storage solutions that deter pests, such as metal containers or sealed plastic bins.’

All prices correct at time of publication.

7. Exposed electrical equipment

Power strips, chargers, or any other electrical devices that aren’t designed for outdoor use should never be left on the porch. Moisture and electricity are a dangerous combination, and even items under a covered porch, are a risk during heavy rain or other bad weather.

If you need electricity outside, use weatherproof enclosures, available on Amazon, on professionally installed outlets and devices specifically made for outdoor conditions.

When in doubt, prioritize safety, and simplicity in your front front porch furnishings. A well-thought-out porch doesn’t just enhance your home’s curb appeal, it also creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for your guests.

With a little care, your porch can become the perfect extension of your living space. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re well on your way to creating an outdoor haven you can be proud of.

Next, learn how to winterize your garage for safety and comfort during colder snaps and the home maintenance mistakes to never make in winter.

When it comes to designing the perfect living room, aside from flooring and wall color, the living room furniture plays a pivotal role in shaping the room's success. The conundrum is where and how to start.

Even if you are decorating on a budget, there is no reason for your space to look cheap, unusable, or unattractive. In many cases, the things that make your furniture look cheap aren't even a reflection of wealth.

In the sitting room, comfort is essential. Your chosen living room furniture ideas should feel timeless but inviting, like an oversized plush sofa with a lived-in fabric. There is nothing worse than sitting on a sofa that is too firm and it makes a house feel sterile. Vintage furniture often nails that balance, offering craftsmanship and character that bring soul to a room.

There are many other affordable ways you can make a home look expensive. Below we share what makes living room furniture look cheap – and expert advice on how to avoid it.

1. Swap matching furniture sets and mass-produced pieces for lived-in luxury

Cookie-cutter, mass-produced living room furniture did a roaring trade in the early 1990s but has more recently fallen out of favor with homeowners and decorators in favor of custom-made carpentry and vintage finds.

The whole purpose of a home is to answer the needs of the individuals living in it while reflecting their personalities through good design, space, and functionality. This is why overproduced, impersonal purchases are making our homes look dated and undesirable.

Thankfully, recent living room furniture trends have shown a shift towards curating more sustainable, soulful living rooms. 'If unsure, always be bold,' advises Tiffany Duggan, founder and director of Studio Duggan. 'Clients hardly ever regret investing in one-of-a-kind vintage pieces. Think of your space as a carefully curated Aladdin’s cave of treasures, with each item on display even more fascinating than the last.'

Undeniably, individualism is in, as more and more people turn their backs on over-consumption and mass production and towards vintage, bespoke, made-to-measure goods and services.

Style mavens such as hotelier Kit Kemp are masters in the fine art of embracing individual design. But if you're new to this trend, you’d be wise to exercise caution, otherwise, your experimentation could end up one hot mess. So prefix maximalism and individualism with an adjective such as ‘considered’, ‘elegant’, or ‘curated’ and you can make it work.

The trick to creating a unique aesthetic is finding a common hook from which everything else hangs. Leave the matchy-matchy look to staunch minimalists, and always go with whatever you love first and foremost.

2. Do away with themed furniture and curate a space all your own

It wasn't so long ago when themed spaces adorned homes up and down the country, but these days, any sensible designer will resign the hokey signage, and steamer trunks to the history books.

Instead, if you want to give your living or family room character and personality, use tried-and-tested furniture combinations that add texture and warmth, and stay away from anything that can appear like a product of its time. For example, I would avoid going too coastal or nautical, unless you live by the seaside. It would feel inauthentic to do so.

Classic furniture pieces are like the little black dress of interior design – they never go out of style and always look sophisticated. Age-old furniture styles, such as mid-century modern living room ideas, traditional living rooms, and charming country living rooms will stand the test of time due to their craftsmanship, enduring materials, and versatile aesthetics.

A living room is the heart and soul of your home and should reflect you as an individual, says Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors. 'It is a room of its own and should be treated as such with a bold design that will wow. As the living room is where guests are often stationed for most of the night, it should say something about you and set the mood for the rest of the house.'

Mix and match furniture from across decades and styles, but find one red thread to tie it all together; it could be a certain type of timber, a color pulled from a favorite piece of art, or even a rug. The final look should be cohesive, but not cookie-cutter.

3. Hide the TV with a bespoke built-in and art

An unsightly TV stand idea is one of the biggest faux pas I see when designing a living room. The TV is a ubiquitous presence but its black reflective screen is regarded as an eyesore by decorators. The most common solution is to house it in a specially designed cabinet, but it’s not the only one.

At first glance, this room looks colorful and bold using Studio Ashby’s signature mix of antiques, bespoke pieces, and contemporary design. The surprise is that the art can slide aside revealing the TV behind.

‘The TV must never be on show; that’s one of our rules at Studio Ashby,’ says founder and creative director Sophie Ashby. ‘In every project, we’ll commission joinery to conceal it like in this project in London’s Mayfair, where we’ve used this beautiful Jack Penny artwork to hide the TV.’

4. Switch out jarring colors for a failsafe quiet luxury palette

Color can be transformative in interior design, so choosing the right hue for your living room furniture can present endless choices and subtle nuances to understand and overcome. However, if you've been religiously following certain living room color ideas, you could be doing more harm than good.

As a general rule of thumb, many of the world's best interior designers will say that you should never decorate your entire home in one singular color for fear it will fall flat. That isn’t to say that you can’t use the same color palette throughout your entire home. For example, if you love decorating with neutrals, then use different variations of this one color palette for your furniture to create harmony from room to room.

The color of your chosen furniture is just as important as your wall color. If in doubt, I always advise people to stick to a palette of 'quiet luxury colors'. Decorating with beige, taupe, greige, sand, and warm-toned green, inspired by colors from the natural world, adds a gentle and soothing touch to interiors that can be layered with textures and tones to ebb and flow with the seasons.

'Choosing a living room furniture color scheme in harmony with the rest of your home is crucial to not only your home's aesthetic but also your mood and well-being,' says Becca Casey of Becca Interiors.

5. Don't overcrowd small rooms – decorate with the 'rule of three' instead

Decorating a small living room is one of the most tricky tasks to master. However, small rooms are often my favorite spaces to design and plan. A well-designed scheme can feel just as comfortable as a larger space, with all the coziness and comfort associated with family living. It is a common misconception that the smaller the room, the smaller the furniture and furnishing should be – the opposite is true.

‘Furnishings play an essential role in how a space is received,' says James Thurstan, founder, of Thurstan. 'When working with less spacious living room layouts, we recommend a considered curation of essential pieces – spreading a large rug as an anchor for the scheme and then building out from there, picking out tones from the rug and embellishing these throughout the room. A central table can create a focal point in a smaller room, best framed by inward-facing armchairs which help create depth and volume.’

It is also crucial not to opt for furniture that is too small. Ensure your table and chairs are large enough that they don't look 'silly', but not too oversized that they don't allow enough space to freely move around the room without bumping into the furniture.

When it comes to living room seating ideas, my advice is to include a two or three-seater sofa, and two armchairs if you can. A pyramidal arrangement leads the eye around the group of three – and it’s a shape that’s frequently employed by designers exploiting the power and rule of three. Many designers agree that an odd number has a winning edge over the classical, symmetrical layout.

6. Invest in bespoke storage instead of freestanding designs

Finding the right living room furniture often has to do with scale and putting the perfect pieces in the right spot. If you need to maximize space, it’s worth having something made bespoke or going the extra mile to find an antique with the right proportions.

'Built-in furniture gives people precisely what they require,' agrees Charlotte Crosland, founder of Charlotte Crossland Interiors. 'It works particularly well in boxy or long living rooms, and those areas that are awkwardly shaped.'

In the room shown above, this beautiful wall of bespoke joinery painted in a moody hue is hugely characterful and provides plenty of open and closed storage.

Like a tailored Savile Row suit, a bespoke piece of furniture should fit perfectly, function beautifully and look fantastic: some go as far as to dub it ‘interior couture’. Like their catwalk counterparts, artisan-designed solutions are an investment, but they offer standout and esoteric results. They also function much better than an off-the-peg storage idea, which can often make a living room look cheap.

‘We used a deep smoky color on the walls and joinery of this north-facing space’ says Emma Sims-Hilditch, founder and creative director for Sims Hilditch. ‘The aim was to embrace the darkness of this space, transforming it into a moody and cozy haven. Soft wall and overhead living room lighting add to the ambiance – and should be considered at the same time as your furniture.'

Best places to buy living room furniture

• Anthropologie
• Amazon
• Bloomingdale's
• CB2
• Crate & Barrel
• Lulu and Georgia
• McGee & Co.
• Nordstrom
• Serena & Lily
• Target
• The White Company
• Wayfair

Professional organizers are experts at turning chaos into order, but certain cluttered areas in your home can make even the most seasoned organizer cringe.

From overflowing entryways to chaotic pantries, these problem zones aren’t just unsightly; they also hinder productivity and create unnecessary stress.

Fortunately – whatever the reason clutter keeps creeping back into your home – every disorganized mess comes with a simple, effective solution to restore calm and functionality back to your space.

1. Overstuffed drawers

Drawers crammed with mismatched items make it hard to find anything and instantly make a room look really messy. Instead, organizers love neatly arranged dividers that categorize everything by purpose.

Professional organizer Amélie Saint-Jacques, founder of Amelie Organizes, says, 'Top of the things that stress me out as a home organizer are messy junk drawers – looking at them gives you a headache, plus you can never find anything in there! Drawer divider inserts are a must to corral items and keep like with like. That way, it becomes a utility drawer that is actually functional!'

For more tips, check out these things people with organized drawers always have.

2. Piles of paperwork

Stacks of unsorted mail and old bills can quickly become overwhelming. Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Whether it’s bills, junk mail, or kid’s artwork, stacks of paper can quickly overwhelm counters and workspaces. The simple solution is to implement a paper sorting system with labeled trays or folders for incoming, outgoing, and long-term storage. Digitizing important documents also helps minimize physical paper.'

A streamlined filing system with labeled folders brings relief and order. Toner recommends the SimpleHouseware 6-Tier Document Organizer from Amazon. She says, 'This handy tiered organizer keeps paperwork categorized and tidy, making it easier to manage the clutter.'

Saint-Jacques adds, 'Hanging organizers like this EASEPRES 5 Pocket Mesh Hanging Wall File Organizer from Amazon can also be a great way to stay organized while saving on space. Separate items into categories, like “Bills to pay” or “Papers to archive” and make sure to recycle or shred everything you don’t need!'

For shredding, Toner likes the Amazon Basics 6-Sheet Cross Cut Paper Shredder, which has a 'manual reverse' feature to clear any paper jams. If you don't have a shredder, head of Solved Punteha van Terheyden tried a security stamp roller and says it's the easiest and quickest way to hide sensitive data on paperwork before recycling.

3. Cluttered coffee tables

Toner says, 'Coffee tables piled with books, remotes, and knick-knacks can make the living room feel overcrowded.

'The alternative is to use a tray to contain remotes and small items, and minimize décor to a few key pieces. Regularly clear unnecessary items to maintain a clean look.'

The Everly Quinn Norvan Narrow Coffee Table Tray from Wayfair looks great and comes in multiple color options, including navy blue.

4. Tangled cords

Messy cords not only look untidy but can also pose a safety hazard. Cable organizers or neatly-routed cords create a cleaner, more functional setup.

Toner says, 'Cables from electronics or chargers left tangled on desks and floors create visual clutter and make cleaning more difficult. Cable organizers or boxes can keep cords neatly bundled and out of sight, reducing stress and keeping spaces sleek.

Toner recommends using adhesive cord clips like these XHF Adhesive Cord Clips from Amazon to secure wires along baseboards or behind furniture, keeping them off the floor, then placing power strips and cables inside a cord management box like the he site's D-Line Cable Management Box from Amazon to keep them out of sight.

She adds, 'Label each cord near its plug to make future adjustments or troubleshooting easier.'

Our dedicated guide on how to organize cables has more handy tips and tricks.

5. Overflowing entryways

Toner says, 'Shoes, bags, and jackets scattered around the entryway create a messy first impression and make it hard to move through the space efficiently. Use a storage bench with cubbies for shoes and hooks for bags and jackets. Designating spaces for each item keeps the entryway tidy and welcoming.

Toner recommends the VASAGLE Entryway Bench with Storage from Amazon, adding, 'This multifunctional piece combines seating and storage, perfect for keeping entryway clutter under control.'

Find more tips in our guide on what not to store in your entryway.

6. Busy fridge doors

Toner says, 'A fridge door covered with magnets, papers, and old schedules can look chaotic and contribute to visual clutter. Magnetic or wall-mounted organizers for frequently used items, paired with a digital calendar for schedules, can significantly reduce clutter while keeping everything accessible.'

Toner recommends this Magnetic Dry Erase Board for Fridge from Amazon, adding, 'This board keeps reminders, schedules, and grocery lists organized without adding clutter to the fridge door.'

7. Stacks of cookware

Pots and pans piled haphazardly in cabinets waste time and space. Organizers favor vertical racks or nested arrangements for easy access.

Saint-Jacques says, 'Stacks of cutting boards, pans, and cookware are a stressful sight. There’s no way to access what’s on the bottom of the pile without everything toppling over! Get a rack like this Stock Your Home Chrome Steel Baking Pan Organizer Rack from Amazon to organize them vertically and thank me later.'

Our guide on kitchen storage ideas contains plenty more organizational tips and tricks. Our content editor Chiana Dickson tried a peg board organizer for her messy pots and pans and absolutely loved it.

8. Sharp knives stored loosely

Knives thrown into drawers are both dangerous and disorganized.

Saint-Jacques says, 'There are few things more stressful than knives stored loosely in a drawer. People get hurt all the time because they can’t see the blade when they grab something! Plus, the blade gets dull much more quickly if it’s not protected. Use a knife block like this KNIFEdock Plastic Knife Drawer Organizer from Amazon to make sure the blades are secured and you can reach into your drawer safely!'

9. Chaotic pantry shelves

Pantries full of unorganized food items frustrate anyone trying to cook. Clear containers and labeled bins are among the many small pantry ideas that make it easy to find and use ingredients.

Toner says, 'Pantries with mismatched containers, half-empty boxes, and scattered snacks make it hard to find what you need and waste food. Instead, use clear, stackable containers for dry goods and label them for easy identification. Add tiered shelves or a lazy Susan for better access to canned goods.'

Toner recommends this OXO Good Grips POP Container Set from Amazon, adding, 'These airtight containers keep food fresh and make pantries look visually organized and functional.'

10. Empty boxes everywhere

Toner says, 'Empty Amazon or delivery boxes pile up quickly, taking up valuable space and creating a cluttered look. Break down boxes immediately after unpacking and recycle them promptly. For future organization, invest in collapsible storage bins that serve a purpose.'

Toner recommends Amazon Basics Collapsible Fabric Storage Cubes, adding, 'These bins are perfect for stashing items while being easy to collapse when not in use.'

So there you have it – 10 things in your home that instantly stress out home organizers, and what they love instead.

By addressing these stress-inducing areas, you can transform your home into a space that fosters calm and efficiency. A little effort goes a long way in creating a more organized, enjoyable environment.

Next, learn how to organize any space in six steps for easy decluttering and streamlining with minimal stress.

When I first moved into my own home, I got myself a nice set of plastic chopping boards that were color coded to avoid any risk of cross contamination. Then I noticed the slash marks my knife was making in the surface and it gave me a massive ick.

The thought of bacteria embedding itself into those grooves was not paranoia, it was a valid worry. Recent studies show plastic chopping boards harbor more bacteria than non permeable glass, which is why I switched mine to glass and haven’t looked back.

It’s a cleaning tip I will stand by and our cleaning professionals urge you to do the same.

Why non toxic chopping boards are the way forward

I not only worried about bacteria build up and the difficulty of truly cleaning a chopping board, but I worried that when my knife sliced into the plastic, toxic microplastics would get into my food. I wasn’t willing to run that risk for my family’s health at all so I switched to a tempered glass chopping board from Amazon.

Plastic chopping boards are one of the secretly toxic things to get rid of from your home, because even if it’s PFA and BPA free, you’re going to end up with tiny shards of it in your food as it will not withstand the chopping of your sharp knives.

Chiana Dickson, content editor at Homes & Gardens and our resident queen of non-toxic living, says, ‘Ever since I read a study that found that plastic cutting boards were a "potentially significant source of microplastics in human food", I knew I had to make a change, especially as my partner has OCD and one of his triggers is plastic contamination.

'After picking a non-toxic cutting board, we switched to a stone cutting board, such as the natural black Galaxy granite one from Wayfair, a few months back, and we would never go back to plastic. The smooth surface not only doesn't scratch or chip, meaning that it looks nicer on my kitchen counter than the old plastic one did, but it is ten times easier to clean as everything slides right off, even if the board itself is a little heavier to move around.

‘The only downside I have found is that it dulls my kitchen knives more quickly, meaning I had to brush up on how to sharpen knives properly, but I believe it is more than worth the effort if it means protecting our health. The best bit is my partner no longer has to worry about potential triggers when prepping dinner, giving us both peace of mind.'

I have found the same thing with glass, though it’s not an alarmingly fast decline in sharpness. My stainless steel knives go blunt faster than when I was chopping things on a plastic chopping board. However, it's been an easy fix with a great value rolling knife sharpener from Amazon, a sharpener style loved by Bobby Beck.

Glass vs wood vs stone chopping boards

Lydia Hayman, Kitchens Editor here at Homes & Gardens, and professionally trained chef prefers wood to glass or stone, and recommends the John Boos Block, available on Amazon.

She says, 'I think most chefs would advise against using glass cutting boards, mainly because they are really harsh on your knives and can dull them pretty quickly. Cooks are very precious about their knives! I also find glass boards very slippery, which can be dangerous when carving meat or dicing onions.'

Luckily, I've not had any issues with slipping on my glass chopping board, but the surface of mine is textured, and there are rubber non slip dots underneath to avoid movement of the board itself whilst chopping. You can easily add or replace them with anti-slip adhesive rubber dots on Amazon.

Lydia prefers wooden cutting boards. She says, 'These are one of the best alternatives to plastic. Boos Block chopping boards, available on Amazon are a cult-favorite among chefs. They have a lovely, smooth surface which allows knives to glide effortlessly through ingredients, making prep work a breeze. The downside is, they can stain easily and require maintenance such as wood oiling.'

Another alternative to consider are rubber cutting boards, a firm favorite of Japanese chefs. Lydia explains, 'They offer a really soft, knife-friendly surface. Rubber chopping mats are also non-porous, known for their antimicrobial properties, and very easy to clean and maintain. For this reason, they’re usually used by sushi chefs. They should be non-toxic, if you choose BPA and phthalate-free options.'

What to shop

There are a multitude of options when it comes to replacing your chopping boards. These are our top picks.

Now I’ve got a glass chopping board, I will never go back. I’ve swerved stone as the sensation of a knife touching stone makes my hair stand on end but if you don’t have that visceral reaction, a beautiful stone chopping block may be the one for you.

If you opt for a beautiful wooden one, learning how to care for a wooden chopping board properly will extend its life and keep it in great condition for longer.

Accessorizing a kitchen requires a careful balance of choosing beautiful designs and ensuring the pieces you choose don't impede the day-to-day function of your space.

As such, it's not always easy to find the right decor that ticks all of these boxes. But there's a simple approach that never fails – introducing a mix of visually aesthetic designs and functional kitchen pieces that can double up as decor.

And where better to find everything you need (and want) than Wayfair? Offering a vast selection of brands and decor with prices to suit every budget, it's a one-stop shop to elevate your kitchen design.

And to save you from having to scroll through everything they have to offer, we've done the hard work for you and found the best kitchen decor Wayfair has to offer. Happy shopping!

12 must-have Wayfair kitchen decor buys

There are a few things to never put on your kitchen countertops, but there's no reason you can't spruce up your scheme with a few stylish yet practical pieces.

And as kitchen trends this year are all about layered, unique, personality-filled spaces, these pieces are the perfect additions to infuse a healthy dose of character to your design.

Wayfair offers some truly stylish kitchen decor – from rugs and kitchen towels to vases, oil cruets, and scented candles, there's something here to elevate any kitchen this year.

Visual clutter in the living room can make even the most spacious home feel chaotic.

But fear not! Our home organization pros reveal their eight top tips to curb the chaos and create some calm including using stylish baskets to stash throws and choosing a coffee table with storage.

So whatever the reason clutter keeps creeping back into your home, by implementing these simple strategies, you'll soon have a serene living space to enjoy every day.

1. Choose a coffee table with storage

As the centerpiece of a living room, it's easy to think only aesthetically when selecting your coffee table. But opting for one with built-in storage compartments or shelves can be transformative in keeping those books, coasters and remotes from piling up in view.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Selecting the right coffee table can make all the difference. Round or oval coffee tables look great, plus they save your shins from turning black and blue! Of course, you want some compartments, but beware coffee table storage in which you have to lift up the top – anything that goes inside is never going to be seen again.'

If your coffee table does not have built-in storage, Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, recommends a decorative tray. She says, 'Placing a nice tray on the table groups those smaller items like remotes or coasters while creating a tidy appearance.'

This slick Everly Quinn Norvan Narrow Coffee Table Tray from Wayfair looks great and comes in multiple color options, including our favourite – navy blue.

Toner adds, 'Most importantly, make sure to regularly clean it thoroughly, removing dust and fingerprints. Method Daily Wood Cleaner from Amazon protects and cleans wooden coffee tables, leaving them streak-free and fresh.'

2. Stash throws in a stylish basket

Toner says, 'Blankets draped over furniture can quickly make a room look messy and unkempt, especially if they’re not folded neatly. By storing throws in a basket, you keep blankets organized yet accessible plus add a cozy touch to the room.

'Choose a stylish woven or fabric basket that complements your room’s decor while being large enough to hold all your throws. Fold or roll the blankets neatly before placing them in the basket to maximize space and maintain a tidy appearance.

'Position the basket near the couch or in a corner for both convenience and aesthetic appeal.'

3. Let your shelves breathe

Overloaded shelves can look messy, even when organized. Limit each shelf to a few items, such as books, plants, or décor pieces, to create an airy, curated look.

Eryn Donaldson, professional organizer and founder of The Model Home, says, 'When every inch of a shelf is filled, the space lacks breathing room, causing visual overload and making it hard to appreciate individual pieces. Aim to leave some negative space around objects, ideally leaving 25-30% of the shelf free. This will give the eye a place to rest, making the shelf look curated and balanced.'

Toner says, 'Empty the shelves completely and decide what items you truly want to keep based on their value or style. Group similar items, such as books by size or color, and use decorative elements like book ends or vases to break up monotony.'

Our guide on things that always make your shelves look cluttered is packed with tips on what to avoid when it comes to your living room shelves, and what to do instead.

4. Conceal cords cleverly

Toner says, 'Tangled cords and wires always leave a cluttered look, making even a well-decorated living room feel unorganized. They can also pose tripping hazards and accumulate dust, which just makes cleaning more difficult. By concealing cords, the room instantly feels tidier and more intentional, directing attention to the decor and design rather than distracting tech clutter.'

Toner recommends using adhesive cord clips, available at Walmart to secure wires along baseboards or behind furniture, keeping them off the floor, then placing power strips and cables inside a cord management box to keep them out of sight.

She adds, 'Label each cord near its plug to make future adjustments or troubleshooting easier.'

Many cable management products are available on Amazon and Toner recommends the site's D-Line Cable Management Box and the XHF Adhesive Cord Clips.

Our dedicated guide on how to organize cables has more handy tips and tricks to keep those wires out of sight.

5. Keep surfaces clear

Resist the urge to cover every surface with knick-knacks or living room decor ideas. Keep tabletops clear, reserving space for only a few intentional items.

Toner says, 'When side tables and consoles are cluttered with random items, it creates a sense of disorganization that detracts from the living room’s decor. Clear surfaces, on the other hand, make the space feel larger, more inviting, and thoughtfully designed. Highlighting a few decorative accents instead of many random objects brings attention to the beauty of your living room.'

To achieve this, completely clear off tables and consoles to assess what belongs and what doesn’t. Select three to five decorative items, such as a vase, candle, or a tray, to create a curated look.

Small trays or baskets can bring the dual benefit of helping to clear surfaces while adding to the overall decor.

6. Tidy kids' toys

Toner says, 'Toys scattered across the living room can make the space feel chaotic and hard to relax in. This can also make cleaning and organizing more time-consuming.

'Using designated storage like bins or ottomans helps maintain a clean and polished look while keeping toys accessible for playtime. The room transforms into a shared space that works for both adults and kids.'

Toner recommends these Amazon Basics Collapsible Fabric Storage Cubes, adding, 'Lightweight and easy to store when not in use, these bins offer a practical solution for organizing toys and keeping your living room floor Lego-free!'

For more tips, check out our guide on how to organize kids' toys in a small living room.

7. Pare down furniture

Too much furniture can crowd the room and add stressful visual clutter and 'noise'. Remove unnecessary pieces to improve flow and create a more spacious feel.

Soreff says, 'One of the main goals for our living rooms is to create an open and bright feeling with flow. But if you've lived in your space for a long time, you've probably accumulated furniture from relatives or blending families – not to mention the furniture you brought with you from your first apartment, plus that piece you found free on the street (you know who you are!).

'Since donating, selling or getting rid of furniture can present a logistical and economic challenge, most people just let this extra furniture sit there blocking the flow for years. However, it's really worth addressing.

'If the piece does not have sentimental value and was inexpensive, there are services that will pick up and donate to charity. Occasionally, you may need to hire a hauling service for a fee. But it's worth it – removing bulky furniture that you don't need will breathe new life into your space.'

8. Manage mail and magazines

Toner says, 'Mail, magazines and paperwork can quickly pile up, turning living room countertops and tables into clutter areas. This not only makes the space look more disorganized but also makes it harder to find important documents when needed. A simple system for sorting and storing mail keeps surfaces clear and the space organized regularly.

'Designate an 'inbox' tray or basket for all incoming mail, placing it in a convenient spot like near the door. Recycle junk mail immediately to reduce clutter and sort important papers into categories like bills or invitations. Store categorized papers in a file organizer for quick access and long-term organization.'

Toner recommends this Simple Houseware Mesh Desk Organizer from Amazon. She says, 'It offers multiple compartments for sorting and storing mail, keeping it tidy and accessible.'

Toner also recommends the Amazon Basics 6-Sheet Cross Cut Paper Shredder, adding, 'It helps dispose of sensitive documents securely, reducing clutter and protecting privacy.'

So there you have it – eight ways to banish visual clutter from the living room. By following these tips, you can transform your living space into a serene haven that feels both organized and inviting.

Next, check out the items you should get rid of in your living room, and tips on creating a peaceful sleep space by getting rid of visual clutter in the bedroom.

Noticed the telltale signs of cats visiting your yard – scratched-up flowerbeds, unpleasant odors, and trampled plants? If stray or neighborhood cats are trespassing on your property, damaging your beloved garden, and leaving behind an unwelcome mess, it’s time to explore effective and humane solutions.

Cats have a powerful sense of smell, so anything with a strong scent will deter them from approaching your yard. For a natural, eco-friendly, humane solution, consider planting cat-repellent plants. These pest-repellent plants not only add beauty to your garden but also deter stray cats with scents and textures they dislike.

We spoke to experts who shared the best cat-repellent plants, along with tips on how to care for and position them effectively, protecting your yard and maintaining a cat-free outdoor space.

1. Lavender

While lavender's scent is delightful to us, cats can't stand it. Caleb Young, at Rare Indoor Plants explains: 'Lavender contains a chemical called linalool, which gives it a strong scent that irritates cats' sensitive noses. That’s why it’s a great choice for keeping them away from areas like vegetable gardens.'

Best placement: Lavender loves sunlight, so choose a spot with plenty of natural light, like a sunny plant bed or a bright windowsill.

Lavender is also a great plant for pollinators, so consider placing it where it can double as a cat repellent and a magnet for bees and butterflies in your garden.

Care tips: 'Lavender grows best in well-drained soil and full sunlight,' says Nikki Bruner, the plant expert at Perfect Plants Nursery. 'It is drought-tolerant once established, so be cautious not to overwater.' Before watering lavender, check the soil has dried out fully by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry to the touch at this depth, it's time to water. If it still feels moist, wait a few more days before checking again.

Regular trimming is essential to keep the best lavender varieties compact and maintain its fragrant aroma. Nikki adds: 'Pruning after blooming can help maintain the plant's shape and health.'

2. Scaredy Cat

Coleus canina, commonly known as the scaredy-cat plant, faithful to its name, is primarily used to keep cats and other animals away from gardens. Its strong, pungent scent acts as a natural pest control for your yard.

Best placement: They require full sun to thrive, so choose a bright, sunny location for optimal growth.

Tammy Sons, an experienced horticulturist and founder of TN Nursery recommends; 'It should be placed in borders or in pots near where cats tend to frequent,' such as vegetable beds or flower patches you want to protect. Keep in mind that the plant's strong odor can be unpleasant for people as well, so it's best to avoid planting it near seating areas.

Care tips: Coleus canina prefers well-drained soil and consistent warmth. It’s a hardy, low-maintenance plant, but you should be careful not to overwater it – allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

Consider using a moisture meter, such as this BN-LINK soil meter from Walmart, to check the soil's moisture levels, ensuring it's dry enough before watering again.

3. Rosemary

Rosemary is an excellent deterrent for cats, as not only do they loathe the strong piney scent, but the sharp, intense herbal aroma keeps them away.

Best placement: 'Rosemary needs plenty of sun, so make sure it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day,' says Caleb Young. 'A sunny windowsill or patio is perfect for it.'

Care tips: Rosemary is a drought-tolerant plant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. To keep it healthy, allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Planting rosemary in well-draining soil, such as sandy or loamy soil, will help prevent excess moisture from accumulating around the roots. We recommend this Miracle-Gro potting mix from Amazon. If you're growing it in a pot, make sure the container has drainage holes, such as this pot planter from Wayfair.

Pruning rosemary regularly will encourage bushy, compact growth and keep the plant from becoming leggy.

4. Curry Plant

'The curry plant emits a strong, spicy scent that cats find unbearable,' says Caleb Young. 'Its aroma closely resembles curry powder, which is particularly intense for their sensitive noses. That powerful fragrance is more than enough to keep them at bay, no matter where you place it.' Also, the curry plant has a coarse texture that cats tend to dislike.

Best placement: Curry plants thrive in full sun, so be sure to place them in a bright, sunny spot – whether in a raised bed or a well-lit garden corner. Since the curry herb plant releases a strong odor when brushed against, consider planting it near entry points – such as holes in your fence or near gateways to your yard – or areas to discourage cats from venturing.

However, be cautious with this plant. Since it’s technically considered a weed it should be planted sparingly in your garden to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.

Care tips: The curry plant is relatively low-maintenance once established. Water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. 'Once settled in, it's drought-tolerant and doesn’t require much care, making it an easy plant to maintain while keeping your garden cat-free,' explains Caleb Young.

5. Lemon trees

Cats aren’t fans of citrus, and lemon trees are full of oils like limonene and citral that they find unpleasant. The intense lemon scent is enough to make them keep their distance, discouraging cats from jumping down or climbing up to areas where they’re not welcome.

Best placement: One of the best fragrant trees, lemon trees need plenty of sunlight, so where they can receive direct sun for at least 8 hours a day.

Consider planting the lemon tree in a raised bed or a larger pot. This allows it to be higher than other plants, making it an excellent guard for elevated areas that cats might use to get into your garden, such as fences or raised platforms.

Care tips: To keep your lemon tree healthy, ensure the soil drains well to prevent overwatering. They prefer slightly acidic, well-draining soil, such as this organic lemon tree soil from Amazon. You can also use a citrus fertilizer from Amazon to promote healthy growth and fruit production, which in turn enhances the strong scent that cats find repellent.

Lemon trees also enjoy a bit of humidity, so occasionally misting it using a spray bottle with water can help, especially in dry conditions.

6. Rue

Rue, or Ruta graveolens, has a very strong, spicy scent that cats can’t stand. Not only does this potent fragrance keep cats at a distance, but it also serves as a natural pest repellent.

Best placement: Rue thrives in full sun, so make sure to place it in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight each day.

Tammy Sons suggests: 'This plant should be placed along edges or mixed into flower beds, where its scent can act as a boundary to keep cats away from your more vulnerable plants.' The bitterness of the plant also makes it an excellent choice for deterring cats from chewing on it, encouraging them to stay away from the area altogether.

However, be mindful that rue is toxic if ingested, so it’s crucial to avoid planting it in spaces where pets or young children may come into contact with it.

Care tips: Rue is fairly low-maintenance but does have some specific needs. Avoid overwatering. Rue prefers to dry out between waterings. Rue also prefers well-draining soil, and it’s a good idea to plant it in a spot that ensures excess water can escape easily.

Remember to regularly check the plant for pests, as its strong scent may also attract unwanted insects.

7. Lemongrass

Just as cats hate lemon trees because of their citrusy scent, they will also be deterred by lemongrass.

Best placement: Plant your lemongrass in a sunny spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure healthy growth.

By positioning lemongrass strategically, such as along garden borders or near entry points, its strong scent can create an effective barrier, keeping cats at bay and protecting more delicate plants and vulnerable spots in your garden, making it a useful and fragrant companion plant.

Care tips: Gardening expert Nikki Bruner says: 'Lemongrass thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Since it is native to tropical regions, it prefers warm temperatures and consistent moisture, but be sure not to overwater it.' It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the hotter months, but avoid letting it become waterlogged.

'Regular pruning can help promote new growth and keep the plant healthy,' adds Nikki. This will also help maintain its compact shape and prevent it from becoming too unruly.

FAQs

What other scents do cats hate?

Other common scents that cats find repellent include:

• Lemon thyme
• Pennyroyal
• Catnip
• Coffee
• Oregano
• Eucalyptus
• Peppermint
• Cinnamon
• Garlic and onion
• Cedarwood

Using these scents in combination with plants that naturally release them or essential oils can help keep cats out of your yard. Note, too, which plants are toxic to cats, because while you may want to discourage neighbors' cats, you won't want to harm them.

When using plants to repel cats, the strength of their scent is key to their success as a deterrent. If the plant isn't healthy and thriving, the fragrance may not be potent enough to keep cats away. Regular care and maintenance of these plants will help maintain their effectiveness.

As Tammy Sons advises: 'Some extra tips would be to keep these plants healthy because if their scent is not robust, cats will not be easily deterred. If the problem continues, add more of these plants.'

January is as good a time as any to revamp and refresh your home. But whether you tackle home projects yourself, prefer to hire professionals, or are a DIY beginner, keeping costs down can be tough.

After all, home improvements and renovations are usually anything but cheap. That's where our home construction pros' seven money-saving tips for renovations will come in handy, including knowing where to splurge, and where to save.

From reducing labor costs, and how to save on materials and project managers, our experts reveal their home renovation budgeting advice.

Money-saving tips to know before renovating your home

1. Determine your criteria first

It might seem obvious, but the top of your pre-renovation checklist should be deciding exactly what you want to achieve when undertaking the project.

Todd Miller, president of Isaiah Industries and home improvement expert at Ask Todd Miller, says, 'Determine your criteria first – what do you want to accomplish with the project?'

This will not only give you direction when renovating a house, but also give you a chance to consider your all-important budget before getting started and be clear on whether the spend will get you what you want.

If you're unsure how much you should budget for home renovations, our designers share the details in our expert-lead guide.

2. Research beforehand

Next, research is crucial, particularly if you're considering renovation projects that will add value to your home.

Jeff Thacker, owner of Jeff Thacker Master Tiler LLC, advises, 'Before renovating your home, do some online research to determine what kinds of materials you want. Don't just go for aesthetics – look at the durability, and appropriateness for where you're going to put the materials.

'For example, travertine tiles are not good for backsplashes because they're porous and absorb water like a sponge. Also, consider what you're spending based on the value you're adding to your home. You don't want to have the most expensive reno in your neighborhood if you're unlikely to recoup your money when you sell,'

This will help avoid expensive home renovation mistakes you will come to regret.

3. Speak to contractors ahead of time

So, you've decided where you want to go with your project, and which home remodel trends you want to employ. What's next?

Timothy Wood, founder and CEO of Fix It Today, says, 'What I always tell people is that the day you decide to renovate your home is the day you start to look for a contractor. You can actually get better deals if you speak with a renovator way ahead of time, because they tend to charge extra for rush jobs, especially during peak renovation season.

'It can also save you a lot of money the sooner you speak with them because they can recommend materials and techniques that might help you save money on home renovations without necessarily cutting corners.'

This will also give you a more informed idea of what everything will cost earlier on in the process, giving you more time to be flexible and contemplate any tips to consider before a remodel.

'This also lessens the chance of getting remorseful about renovations because it gives you a lot of time to think, plan, and consult with the people who will work on the project,' adds Wood.

4. Figure out what demo you can do yourself

While, of course, there are some home demolitions you should never undertake, there are some that you can, like removing an internal wall or removing wall tiles, says home renovation and tiling expert Thacker.

'Figure out what demo you can do yourself,' he says. 'Demo of old materials can be a significant part of your reno cost, so doing some projects yourself can save you money. You may need a pry bar or a hammer drill for projects like removing old tile,' such as the STEELHEAD 15" Heavy-Duty Flat Pry Bar available at Amazon.

All prices correct at time of publication.

5. Make use of recycled materials

Whether you're upcycling leftover decorating materials from previous projects, or hunting for furniture to always thrift according to designers, make sure you consider recycled materials, says Carr Lanphier, CEO at Improovy.

'People might not be aware of the availability of secondhand or recycled materials,' he advises. 'You can always find lots of lightly used or even brand new and surplus materials for your home projects with a little research, and of course depending on availability in your area. Using recycled materials can really help you cut down on costs while still getting quality materials for your renovation projects,' which is why it is a smart way to source building materials for less.

'I’ve used everything from timber leftover from other renovations, to surplus or slightly damaged tiles,' continues Lanphier. 'Depending on what’s available you may even be able to find things like secondhand cabinetry that’s still in good condition. Since this can vary based on location, I’d recommend just googling around for secondhand material vendors.'

6. Know where to invest and where to save

As Sherry Schmidt, owner and principal designer at Form & Function LLC, simply advises, 'I tell our clients, if you sit on it, or stand on it, spend on it.'

For that reason, make sure you know where to spend and save in a home renovation. For example, the hard surfaces and furniture in your home should consist of the majority of your budget, to avoid buckling or a poor appearance once installed. 'Purchasing a tile for flooring or your shower from a reputable distributor and spending on a great installer will make all the difference in your project,' continues Schmidt.

On the other hand, 'We often help clients' save money on the finishing touches by shopping online stores, such as Wayfair, for filler items such as decorative accessories, lighting, entryway benches and art,' she says. 'Spending a little less on the finishing touches will allow you to purchase more and give your overall look a more magazine quality!'

7. Factor in a contingency fund in your budget

Whether you're undertaking an affordable reno project to add value to your home or are able to spend more, having a contingency fund is usually necessary.

As home renovation and tile expert Thacker says, 'Leave a cushion in your budget for unknowns. When walls get torn out, you'll inevitably find something unexpected that will add cost.'

Being prepared will make the project less stressful and may turn out to be an eye opener as to when you'll be realistically ready to go.

Hebe Hatton head of Solved at H&G says, 'It's sensible to allocate at least 10% extra for your unknowns. If you are the kind of person who gets excited by new ideas or know you'll be tempted by different directions as your project develops, give yourself some budget for those changes in plans too.

'If this means you have to spend a bit longer saving for your project or reconsidering how much to borrow, it's worth doing now. Not having a slush find for things that go wrong or end up costing extra may work out more expensive in the long run if you have to put a last-minute spend on a credit card with a high interest on it.'

FAQs

What is the most expensive home renovation?

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most expensive home renovation areas are the bathroom and kitchen, as well as exterior projects such as new room costs and intricate landscaping.

If you're curious about how much it costs to remodel a bathroom or what costs the most in a kitchen remodel, our dedicated guides break down the costs to help you make informed decisions.

As much as home renovations and remodels should help you achieve your ideal home for years to come, these are the dream kitchen upgrades homeowners regret, so you will know what to avoid.

It sounds dreamy to have a streamlined closet with a beautiful display of perfectly neat clothes – and it's not impossible to achieve this. The most organized people have a few staples in theirs to keep things neat tidy year-round.

Whether your closest is a large walk-in design or tiny and awkwardly shaped, our professional organizers have seven transformative items (and tasks) to help whip yours into shape.

Learn to organize your closet like a pro with these smart methods and storage heroes.

1. Start by decluttering

The first port of call is to declutter your closet. Go through your clothes, footwear and accessories and if you haven't worn them in the last 6-12 months, it's time to say goodbye.

If you've been hanging on to items for years, hoping for an opportunity to wear them again, it time to declutter the items your fantasy self holds onto. Be realistic about whether these items are really ever going to see the light of day again.

It might be that you find pieces you haven't worn for months tucked away in the back of your closet and if you didn't know you had them, or had forgotten about them altogether, consider donating, selling or recycling them.

Check your accessories too – if things don't match up, are no longer to your taste or were an unwanted gift, be ruthless and get rid of these.

2. Choose the right hangers

Using the right hangers can bring an instant functional and visual impact. Tina Priestly, founder of Ready, Set, Refresh explains, 'Uniform, slimline hangers not only save space but create a visually streamlined look, which can make your closet feel organized instantly.' You can also use children's hangers for small grown up closets, just be sure to avoid wire hangers as these can damage your clothing.

Melissa Park, founder of With Arla shares, 'Hanging as many pieces of clothing as possible is key to maintaining an organized closet – plus, it’s easier to see what you own. My go-to tools include slim velvet hangers [such as sturdy velvet hangers from Walmart] to save space and shelf dividers to keep items tidy and upright.'

It's a perfect start for small closets with lots of clothes and can help dial down the visual noise in large walk ins. And, if you're short on hanging space, why not try the coffee mug hanger closet trick to see whether it works in your space.

3. Use tiered shoe racks

According to Tina, the most valuable space-saving option for footwear is tiered shelving (available at Walmart).

'Tiered racks for shoes are fabulous for utilizing floor space, while over-the-door organizers work well in smaller closets. They can carry anything from shoes to scarves.'

You can have them incorporated into your closet design, or buy them separately. Check the dimensions before purchasing to make sure they do not obstruct doors or snag on long clothing.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden tried the stackable premium Joseph Joseph shoe storage boxes which slide out, available at Amazon, and found them to be sturdy. She says, 'You can configure them in a single column, two at a time or whichever format suits your space best. My husband wears a size 14 (US) and there is plenty of room for his footwear, which can be a snag for other enclosed shoe organizers that come up too short in length for bigger feet.'

4. Draw dividers are essential

Once you've got your closet more streamlined and working efficiently, it's time to look at the smaller details that can make all the difference to how well it all functions.

Tina Priestly, founder of Ready, Set, Refresh explains, 'Dividers in drawers and shelves can help keep small things like socks, ties, or belts nicely separated. That allows you to find what you need more quickly.'

Crucially, it's smaller details such as drawer dividers, available at Amazon, that will make it easier to keep your newfound closet storage ideas streamlined moving forward.

Brunson agrees, 'Drawer dividers are a godsend, look for adjustable fabric or bamboo options to make it easy to customize your drawers, so every piece has its place. You’ll never have to dig through a pile of mismatched socks again.'

We love Amazon's Criusia 3-pack sock underwear organizer dividers as you get 64 fabric cells to keep your socks, underwear, belts and tidy.

Head of Solved, Punteha, tried the Nate Berkus sock drawer organizing hack and found it to be effective and easy to maintain ever since.

5. Make sure you remove seasonal items

Keeping a closet organized when you don't have seasonal storage can be really challenging. Professional organizers always remove out of season items and store them elsewhere until the season rolls around again.

Brunson Sayes, cleaning expert and founder of Breathe Maids says, 'Organized closets aren’t static. Seasonal rotation is a hallmark of tidy spaces. Twice a year, swap out summer clothes for winter ones and vice versa. Use labeled bins for the off-season and keep them on the highest shelves or under the bed.

'Ziploc vacuum-sealed bags (check out Walmart's vacuum storage bags with electric pump) or storage boxes are great for out-of-season items and give you extra room for the pieces you’re wearing,' suggests Tina Priestly.

If you have an ottoman bed, use the space underneath to store out of season clothing. This way it's still in a climate controlled space and you won't risk mold or mildew for the months they're not in use.

6. Look after your jewelry

We often forget about organizing jewelry, but it's very much a part of a bespoke closet and can be stored within it.

Tina says, 'For your jewelry and accessories, think velvet trays or hooks inside the closet door. These keep things untangled and within reach.'

Having dedicated storage for jewelry will stop it from tarnishing, breaking, or getting lost.

Brunson adds, 'A slim rolling cart tucked into a corner or under a hanging rod can hold anything from workout gear to extra toiletries and jewelry. Look for one with mesh baskets so you can easily see the contents. The best part? It’s portable, so you can roll it out when you need it and tuck it away when you don’t.'

7. Invest in good lighting

Closet lighting is a real essential and something we often forget to consider. It's an integral part of the overall closet, and invaluable when the mornings are dark. If you don't have electrical outlets in or nearby, learn how to light a closet without wiring.

There are several types of lighting option to consider, Tina explains, 'Good lighting can make your closet. LED strip lights or motion-sensor options make sure you can illuminate everything, even the darkest corners.'

Track lighting is a great option as you can adjust the heads to illuminate particular sections. It tends to be flat so takes up less space and is quick to install.

Try Wayfair's Shura 2-light integrated LED track light with rotatable heads which combines track lighting and LED for optimal functionality.

Meet our experts

There you have it – these are the fabulous things the most organized people have in their closets closet to ensure the space works efficiently and is clutter free.

'The secret to a brilliantly organized closet isn’t about having the largest space or the fanciest tools; it’s about creating a system that works for you,' says Brunson.

Next, learn the best ways to organize deep drawers so you can make use of the full height.

Over-the-door organizers are great for saving space and keeping your home tidy – but not everything belongs in them. Some items are simply too heavy, dangerous, or temperature-sensitive to store in these convenient pockets.

Our home and organization experts reveal 10 things you should avoid storing in an over-the-door organizer – and where to put them instead.

Armed with the best home organizing ideas, you'll have your storage streamlined in no time.

1. Makeup

Makeup products are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, which can cause them to degrade faster. They also come in small and varied sizes, so can be easy to lose.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Because many over-the-door organizers live in the bathroom, people tend to put a lot of health and beauty products in them.

'But loose makeup does not go well in there because they can be sensitive to temperature, plus – in reality – you are never going to find it again. While we recommend tall or big items like shampoo and lotion bottles, for most makeup and smaller products we recommend storing them in skinny, clear containers.'

Soreff recommends these Design BPA-Free Plastic Pantry and Kitchen Storage Organizer Bins, available from Amazon. Though intended for fridge or freezer, they work just as well within bedroom dresser drawers to neatly compartmentalize your cosmetics.

2. Tools

Heavy tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and wrenches are too bulky and weighty for the pockets of an over-the-door organizer.

Elissa Hall, lead designer at Awning.com, says, 'Over-the-door organizers aren’t designed to bear significant weight, so storing heavy tools like hammers or hardware kits can compromise the integrity of both the door and the organizer itself, leading to potential safety hazards.

'A better alternative would be a wall-mounted pegboard system. The Elfa Utility Board from The Container Store is a fantastic option – it keeps heavier items secure, accessible, and off the door, while adding a sleek, organized look to any workspace.'

For more tips and product recommendations, check out our guide on how to store DIY tools.

3. Electronics

Storing electronics, chargers, or tangled wires in an over-the-door organizer can lead to damage, especially if they’re constantly being moved or jostled.

Hall says, 'Placing electronics like tablets, chargers, or headphones in an over-the-door organizer exposes them to humidity, especially if the organizer is used on a bathroom door. This can shorten the lifespan of the devices or create a risk of water damage.

'For safer storage, consider a small desktop organizer like a cable management box, which keeps cords tidy and gadgets protected from moisture, while also offering easy access.'

4. Cleaning supplies

Cleaning products often contain chemicals that can leak or spill, creating a potential mess or hazard in an over-the-door organizer. Plus, they may be too heavy for the fabric to support.

Hall says, 'Storing cleaning supplies in an over-the-door organizer can be a mistake due to potential leaks and spills. Many cleaning products contain chemicals that, if tipped or spilled, can damage surfaces or pose safety risks, especially in areas with frequent movement.

'Instead, opt for a sturdy utility caddy with a handle, which keeps items upright and is easy to move around the house as needed. A great product here is the Rubbermaid Deluxe Carry Caddy from Amazon – it’s stable, portable, and prevents accidental spillage, making cleaning more efficient and safe.'

Check out our guide on how to organize cleaning supplies for more top tips.

5. Sharp objects

Knives, scissors, and other sharp objects pose a danger when stored in flimsy pockets that may rip or allow them to fall out.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Storing sharp objects like scissors or knives in an over-the-door organizer is a safety hazard, especially in households with children. If the organizer shifts or if a pocket rips, it could cause an unnecessary injury.

'Instead, store them safely in a drawer with proper dividers. This keeps them secure and out of reach of children, reducing accidents and ensuring they are easy to locate. As an added precaution, you can store them with protective blade covers to minimize the risk of injury.'

Toner recommends this Joseph Joseph Store Drawer Knife Organizer from Amazon, which can store up to nine knives with its space-efficient two-tier design.

6. Wine

Bottles of wine or alcohol are too heavy for over-the-door storage and could cause serious damage if they fall.

Toner says, 'Over-the-door organizers aren’t designed to support the weight of heavy wine bottles. The weight can cause the organizer to sag or even rip, leading to damage to your door and wasted product if something spills.

'Opt instead for a sturdy bar cart or wall-mounted wine rack instead. I personally love this Sorbus Wall Mount Wine Rack, available from Amazon, which combines safety and style.'

7. Hair styling tools

Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons get hot and shouldn’t be stored in places that don’t allow for adequate cooling.

Toner says, 'These items are bulky, heavy, and may still be warm after use, which is a hazard in fabric over-the-door organizers. The cords can also get tangled or caught.

'Instead, store hair tools in a heat-resistant basket or drawer. This not only keeps them organized but also prevents any fire risk if they're still warm after use.'

Toner recommends this Polder Style Station Hair Tool Organizer from Amazon, which comes in five different color options including black, white and blush.

8. Medications

Medications should not be stored in places exposed to temperature swings, like an over-the-door organizer in a bathroom or kitchen.

Toner says, 'Medications should not be stored in an over-the-door organizer because they are exposed to fluctuating temperatures, light and humidity. This can affect the effectiveness and shelf-life of the medications.

'Instead, store medications in a cool, dry place like a bathroom cabinet or a drawer. Make sure they’re clearly marked – this helps to maintain the stability of the medications and keeps them safely stored out of children’s reach.'

For more organizational tips, check out these nine things to get rid of from your medicine cupboard now.

9. Jewelry

Jewelry can get tangled or damaged when placed in an over-the-door organizer. It’s better to use a jewelry box with separate compartments or a hanging organizer specifically designed for jewelry to avoid tangling and scratching.

This Biamonte Freestanding Jewelry Armoire from Wayfair features a full-length mirror, as well as 360-degree rotating base, allowing you neat storage and easy access to your jewelry.

10. Important documents

Storing important papers in an over-the-door organizer exposes them to potential damage from humidity, bending, or tearing. Use a fireproof and waterproof filing cabinet or a secure document box to keep these documents safe.

This Dorys 4-Drawer Filing Cabinet from Wayfair is lockable and comes in five color options including black, white, gray and gray wash.

So there you have it – 10 things never to store in an over-the-door organizer, and where to put them instead. While over-the-door organizers are great for certain items like shoes, scarves, and small accessories, many things are better stored elsewhere to avoid damage or safety risks.

Next, check out these five questions to ask yourself when organizing your home.

The trailing jade plant (Peperomia rotundifolia) is a low-maintenance gem, making it perfect for both busy plant enthusiasts and beginners alike. Its vibrant, round, succulent leaves grow on cascading vines that can reach up to 12 inches long, adding instant charm to any indoor space.

Native to Central and South America, this radiator plant can thrive indoors in cooler climates, and with just a few simple care steps, you can create the perfect environment for healthy growth, ensuring yours flourishes year-round.

Similar to caring for a jade plant, its close relative, the trailing jade has specific needs that can be easily met with the right steps. We spoke to experts who recommend a few key tips to maintain its health and beauty, helping it thrive in your home.

1. Provide bright but indirect light

Trailing jade plants are best positioned near an east or north-facing window.

'Trailing jade plants grow best in bright but indirect lighting,' says horticulturist and owner of Splendid Landscape, Kaushikan Ganesan. 'Direct intense sun rays can be damaging to the delicate leaves but low levels of light can also result in legginess.'

While this hardy succulent can tolerate short periods of direct sun, excessive sunlight may cause the leaves to fade, signalling that its placement needs adjusting. Additionally, while it can survive low light levels, it will grow longer stems and appear less colorful.

During the winter months, when natural light is limited, you can use grow lights on the plant to help maintain its vibrancy. This SANSI grow light, equipped with a convenient automatic timer, has over 2,200 reviews on Amazon and an impressive 4.6-star average rating.

2. Adopt a soak-and-dry approach

This semi-succulent plant thrives with a ‘soak-and-dry’ watering approach, meaning it should only be watered when the top inch of soil has completely dried out.

Overwatering is the most common mistake made with a trailing jade plant. Its semi-succulent nature allows it to store moisture in its leaves, but excessive watering can result in root rot, which can quickly lead the plant to become unhealthy and even die.

In terms of watering frequency, you will generally need to water the plant every seven to 10 days during the growing season (spring and summer) – but again, this will depend on how quickly the soil dries out. Adjust the watering frequency accordingly, as factors such as humidity, soil type, temperature, and the plant's growth rate can influence drying times. For example, during winter, when growth slows, reduce watering – to around once every two to three weeks – to accommodate the plant’s lower needs.

To check if it’s time to water, insert your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle – if it feels dry, it’s time to give your plant a drink.

3. Maintain moderate humidity

Trailing jades come from tropical climates which means they have a preference for moderate humidity, around 40%–60%. ‘Though they cope very well in the typical humidity levels found indoors, they do prefer slightly increased levels,' explains John Haryasz, horticulture writer, and landscape designer at Privacy Shrubs.

You can use a hygrometer, such as these two mini hygrometers, from Amazon to monitor humidity levels, allowing you to adjust them accordingly.

To increase humidity for indoor plants, John recommends: 'Occasionally mist them or place a pebble tray to raise humidity levels, especially during dry periods.’ Alternatively, you can use a humidifier set to maintain a consistent humidity level within their preferred range.

4. Keep the temperature within 65°F to 75°F

Temperature also plays a crucial role in the health of trailing jade. This succulent thrives in warm conditions. ‘The best temperature range for this radiator plant is 65°F-75°F,' says Kaushikan Ganesan.

'These plants should not be placed in drafts, near heaters or air conditioners as those conditions would be stressful for the plants.’

The best spot for trailing jade plants is typically near a warm, stable area of the house, such as a living room or hallway, where temperatures remain consistent within this range.

5. Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes

The choice of soil is important for ensuring healthy growth, and avoiding issues such as root rot. Trailing jade prefers sandy, well-draining soil that closely mimics their natural environment.

It's best to use potting mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents, as these mixes are formulated to allow proper drainage. We recommend this Harris succulent and cactus potting mix from Walmart.

In addition to the right soil, John Haryasz emphasizes the importance of proper drainage. ‘Drainage holes at the bottom side of the pot are also necessary as well to prevent the moisture from being trapped,’ he says. We love this Hendrikka ceramic pot with drainage holes from Wayfair. Additionally, pots made from materials such as terracotta or clay are ideal, as they are naturally absorbent and help draw excess moisture away from the roots and allow for better airflow to the roots, promoting overall plant health.

Without adequate drainage, water can accumulate at the bottom of the pot, leading to root rot and other complications. Ensuring that both the soil and the pot provide optimal drainage is key keeping your trailing jade plant healthy.

6. Fertilize sparingly during the growing season

During the growing season in spring and summer, feed your trailing jade with a diluted, half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer once a month to encourage healthy growth. This Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food is a best seller on Walmart.

A good choice is a water-soluble fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, as it provides the right balance of nutrients for these plants.

However, in fall and winter, when the plant enters its dormant phase, stop fertilizing as the plant's growth slows.

7. Prune before the growing season

For the lush, trailing effect that makes the jade plant so appealing, prune it consistently, regularly trimming back any elongating growth.

Prune in early to late spring before the active growing season to stimulate new growth, encourage a fuller shape and the plant branch out. Trim any dead or damaged stems, including leggy growth to keep the plant looking its best.

Don’t hesitate to propagate the cuttings, as trailing jade roots easily and can create a stunning cascading display.

8. Inspect for pests regularly

Although trailing jade plants are generally pest-resistant, mealybugs can occasionally appear when the plant is stressed. They leave behind a cotton-like residue where the leaves meet the stems, so an infestation should be relatively easy to spot.

Inspect the leaves periodically, and if you notice pests, use neem oil on the plant or rubbing alcohol to get rid of mealybugs. This Bonide Captain Jack's neem oil from Amazon comes in a ready-to-use spray bottle for convenience.

9. Repot every few years

It's important to repot your trailing jade into a larger container every couple of years to refresh the soil and prevent it from becoming root-bound.

Spring is the ideal time for repotting, as it aligns with the plant's natural growth cycle.

Not only are jade plants resilient and beautiful, but they also purify the air, making them a valuable addition to your home. Keep this in mind as you choose spots in your home for both aesthetic and health benefits.

If you want to expand your collection, Kaushikan Ganesan suggests propagating them: 'Trailing jade plants are easy to propagate by cuttings. Simply cut a portion of stem with a few leaves, place it in a shaded spot for a day, and then plant it in humid soil to take root.'

A drooping dragon tree (Dracaena marginata) is your plant's way of saying, something's not right. While this hardy plant can tolerate a bit of neglect, a drooping tree is a sign that it’s experiencing stress and needs attention.

Despite their reputation as low-maintenance plants, dragon trees still require the right conditions to thrive. Proper care for a dragon tree plant involves more than just the occasional watering; they need adequate light, the right soil and pot, and a stable environment to stay healthy.

Drooping, whether due to a watering imbalance, inadequate light, pests, or other environmental factors, needs addressing soon as you notice it. We spoke to experts who talked us through the common reasons a dragon tree will droop, along with practical steps you can take to restore your plant's health and ensure it stands tall once again.

1. Over or underwatering

'Dragon trees are very sensitive to their watering conditions. So, if the plant is drooping, this could be an effect of inconsistency in watering – either overwatering or underwatering – which stresses the plant and causes its leaves to droop,' explains Mathew Wilson, horticulturist and CEO of Handy Gardeners. 'Achieving the right balance is key to keeping your dragon tree healthy and thriving.'

Being drought-tolerant by nature, dragon trees are particularly vulnerable to overwatering. 'Overwatering dragon trees can lead to soggy soil, which will cause the leaves to droop and the plant to struggle,' warns Tammy Sons, horticulturist and CEO of TN Nurseries. 'Ideally, you want the top inch of the soil to feel dry before watering again.'

Excess moisture can result in root rot, which damages the plant’s root structure, leading to drooping. If you suspect root rot, inspect the roots for signs of damage, such as browning or decay. Trim off the affected roots with sterilized pruning shears, such as these Fiskars Bypass shears from Amazon.

Additionally, if the container doesn't provide adequate drainage, excess water can build up, causing the roots to become waterlogged, leading to drooping. To prevent this, ensure this indoor tree is housed in a pot with proper drainage. Opt for a container made of porous, absorbent materials like terracotta or unglazed ceramic (such as this Shimla ceramic pot planter from Wayfair), which allows for airflow, or choose one with drainage holes and a saucer. Porous pots naturally wick away excess moisture, while those with drainage holes collect excess water in the saucer, which should then be emptied to keep the roots healthy and dry.

Arborist, Scott Seargeant adds, 'Place some pea gravel or small decorative rocks on the plant saucer to separate the drain water from the container. This will keep the soil from drawing water back into the container. It will also keep salts from wicking back into the soil container. The high salt content can cause wilting and marginal leaf tip burn.'

Conversely, if the soil feels bone dry and the leaves appear wilted, you might be underwatering the plant. Dragon trees can tolerate some dryness, but they're not cacti, so they still require consistent moisture to thrive. To prevent underwatering your dragon tree, water it deeply until water drains from the bottom of the pot, ensuring that the root system is fully hydrated.

This Kamer ceramic pot planter with drainage and a saucer from Wayfair is perfect for maintaining proper moisture levels, preventing both root rot and dehydration.

2. Exposure to too much or too little sunlight

'Like many plants, dragon trees grow best in strong sunlight. Their leaves will be thicker and more upright,' explains Tammy Sons. 'If, however, they are placed in an area without a lot of natural light, the plant will adapt, growing thinner, softer, arching leaves.'

This will make the plant appear droopy, as insufficient light can weaken the plant, causing it to lose its upright vigor.

However, balance is key again, since at the other end of the light spectrum, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, causing stress that may result in drooping.

Dragon trees thrive in bright, indirect light, making filtered sunlight ideal. If your plant is in a dark corner or exposed to direct sun, relocate it to a better spot. Place it near an east- or west-facing window where it will receive indirect sunlight, or use a light-filtering screen, available at Amazon, or curtains, like this light-filtering curtain from Target, to soften strong rays.

3. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity

'Swings in temperature and humidity can also be a major factor in why your dragon tree is drooping,' explains plant expert Matthew Wilson. Dragon trees prefer stable, moderate conditions and are not fans of extreme temperature fluctuations or drafts. Cold air from windows or the dry heat from nearby heaters can stress the plant, causing its leaves to droop and the overall health to decline.

'Dragon trees thrive in a temperature range of 65–75°F,' explains Tammy Sons. If the temperature regularly fluctuates outside of this range, this is likely to result in drooping or leaf damage.

And while dragon trees are relatively tolerant to varying humidity, they do prefer moderate moisture levels of around 40-60%.

If the air in your home is very dry, especially during winter, you should increase humidity for indoor plants by occasionally misting the leaves or using a humidifier to create a more humid micro-climate around the plant. This Dreo 6-liter humidifier is Amazon's top choice and can be controlled remotely via phone, Google Home, or Alexa to create a more favorable environment for the plant.

4. The wrong container size

'Having either a pot that’s too small or too big negatively influences the health of the roots, leading to drooping,' warns Matthew Wilson.

'When the pot is too large, the excess space can cause the soil to retain too much moisture, leading to waterlogging and root rot, which weakens the plant and results in wilting or dropping leaves. On the other hand, a pot that’s too small restricts the growth of the roots, limiting their access to nutrients and water, which can also cause the plant to become stressed, leading to drooping leaves.'

It's important to choose a pot that provides sufficient room for the roots to grow, while still allowing for proper drainage. Ideally, the pot should be just slightly larger than the root ball – about one to two inches wider in diameter – offering space for growth but not so much that excess moisture becomes an issue.

Make sure to repot your dragon tree every couple of years to give its roots ample space to grow.

5. Poor soil quality

'Dropping leaves can be a sign of poor quality soil,' explains Tammy Sons. This is because poor soil quality, or just the wrong type of soil for this particular plant, can limit proper drainage and nutrient absorption, stressing the plant and ultimately causing its leaves to droop and then drop.

Tammy advises: 'Be sure to provide a well-draining, slightly acidic, nutrient-rich mix that will keep your plant standing tall.’ We recommend this Premium Dracaena potting soil mix from Walmart.

6. Relocation stress

If you've recently relocated your dragon tree, this could be a cause of its drooping. Matthew Wilson explains: 'Transplanting dragon trees is tricky because they are not very quick to adjust to their surroundings. Hence, they may droop a little while trying to settle in.'

If this is the case, give your tree some time to acclimate to its new location. In a few weeks, the tree should begin to perk up once it has settled into its new environment.

However, be careful to avoid overwatering the plant during this period, as stressed plants are more susceptible to root rot.

7. Pest infestations

Unsurprisingly, the presence of pests on your dragon tree can stress the plant and cause it to droop.

'Dragon trees are susceptible to insects including scale bugs, mealybugs, spider mites, and others,' says Scott Seargent. 'These types of insects can weaken the plant by feeding on its sap and damaging the leaves, causing dragon trees to lose vigor and have symptoms of yellowing, dead, or drooping leaves.'

Regularly inspect your dragon tree for pests, especially under the leaves and along the stems, where they often hide. Look for small webbing (in the case of spider mites) or tiny, raised bumps (for scale insects).

If you spot any unwelcome visitors, treat them with insecticidal soap, available at Amazon. This should eliminate the pests, allowing your plant to recover.

In order to prevent asymmetrical growth and drooping, remember to turn your dragon tree regularly, too. This will ensure that all sides of this low maintenance houseplant receive equal exposure to light, promoting balanced growth, and reducing the risk of one side becoming too weak or stressed from lack of light, helping the leaves stay firm and upright.

Entryways are notoriously tricky to furnish and decorate. They are the first thing you and your guests see when you walk through the front door, setting the tone for the rest of your home. They're also the place that you speedily rush out of, so they need to be neat and orderly with no obstacles blocking your exit.

Entryways are also often a transitional space between the other rooms in your home, so you want your decor to either blend in with or contrast against its adjoining areas.

There's a lot to think about here, so we're making it easy for you. We've chatted to interior designers to find out what they avoid using in an entryway. We must admit, some of their ideas surprised us, but they do make complete sense. Here is what to avoid...

1. A rug that's either chunky or slippery

Entryways are very often used for racing out the door, and you don't want anything to get in the way and slow you down. Many of the designers we spoke to state that different kinds of rugs are a no-go for entryways, and we can see why.

'I would never put a chunky rug in an entryway. They can be a trip hazard,' says Shani Core of Shani Core Interiors. 'If I use a less chunky rug in an entryway, I always use a rug pad to ensure it doesn't slip around. They're an absolute must for any high-traffic area.'

Lauren Gilberthorpe of Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors, however, says that jute and sisal rugs should never be used in an entryway. 'These natural fibers may be popular, but they’re prone to staining, especially in an area where muddy shoes are common. Instead, choose a durable fabric rug that can withstand wear and tear. Look for options that are easy to clean and come in darker colors or patterns to disguise any marks,' she says.

2. Open shelving

Open shelving is great for displaying treasured objects, but can quickly make entryways look cluttered, so closed entryway storage is best.

'Open entryway shelves can quickly become cluttered with shoes, bags, and other items, detracting from the entryway’s appeal,' says Lauren. 'Instead, consider closed storage solutions that keep everything out of sight while still providing easy access. This helps maintain a clean and organized look.'

Shani has one storage ingredient that she loves using in most entryways. 'If the space allows, I like to use a console table with drawers and tuck away baskets underneath for storage,' she says. 'Isn’t it more welcoming to greet visitors with a pretty color, a designated place for purses and gifts, and a spot for keys and mail?!'

3. A display of coats and shoes

It may seem like a good idea to install wall hooks by your front door to keep your coats within easy reach. But, chances are, this will end up looking more like a mountain of jackets than the stylized one-or-two coats you'd pictured.

'While practicality is important, certain elements can work against the overall aesthetic. For instance, an abundance of coat hooks, though functional, tends to create unnecessary clutter,' says Lucy Derbyshire, a founder at Studio QD. 'If space allows, concealed coat storage is a much better option, keeping the area tidy and giving the entryway a clean, spacious feel – perfect for a positive first impression.'

An entryway wardrobe is perfect for storing the whole family's coats and shoes. Once you've bought one of these you soon won't know how you ever lived without it.

4. Umbrella stands

In a similar vein to the wall hooks, designers would advise against including an umbrella stand in your entryway design.

'For me, umbrella stands are a big no. They can easily become cluttered and unsightly,' says Lauren. 'Instead, consider a stylish wall-mounted solution for hanging umbrellas, or a designated spot near the door that keeps them out of sight yet accessible, such as a decorative hook.'

Plus, your umbrella stand would very likely soon become an umbrella, hat, scarf, gloves and dog lead stand, and no one wants to see a mound of 'stuff' as soon as you walk through the front door.

5. A loose door mat

Designers suggest that an instant way to give your home a less high-end and less chic look, is to use a loose doormat in your entryway.

'Always avoid using a loose door mat that shifts around. Instead, choose an integrated mat that sits flush with your flooring,' says Lucy. 'This approach not only offers a more polished appearance, but also covers a larger surface area, making it more practical for everyday use while maintaining a seamless integration.'

Head of solved, Punteha van Terheyden has a built-in jute doormat in her small entryway. She says, 'This covers half the floor space in the area and has proven to be extremely durable and much more convenient than a loose one that slides around. Jute is easy to clean, too and I recommend using a brush with soft natural bristles, available at Amazon, to loosen dried dirt before vacuuming and cleaning.'

6. Excessive decor

Try not to overload your entryway to keep a clear and clutter-free gangway. 'While it’s tempting to fill the entryway with decorative items, too many can make the space feel cramped,' says Lauren. 'Keep it simple with one or two statement pieces, like a striking piece of artwork or a unique sculpture, to create visual interest without overwhelming the space.'

That said, your entryway needn't be boring. We love a statement wallpaper or one look-at-me piece of artwork in an entryway – a design that brings you joy is the best thing to come home to every day.

Your entryway needs to be the perfect balance of working hard and looking good, and knowing what to keep out of this (often small) space can be as useful as it is to know what to have in it. You want to keep it to the essentials and ensure whatever you do bring into your entryways has it's purpose.

If floor space is a sticking point in yours, learn more about organizing a small entryway.

We all have moments when we feel overwhelmed with our daily lives – food shopping lists, trips to book, dry cleaner pick-ups and not forgetting keeping on top of clutter in the home and the day-to-day running of it.

Introducing new daily habits that involve getting your life and home in order can make all the difference. And the best bit is that they don't need to take up hours of your day, they can be a quick five minutes here and there that you can start implementing today, according to our pros.

We've asked industry experts including professional organizers for 10 daily habits that help them to be more organized and how to declutter successfully.

Introduce these 10 daily habits to be more organized at home

Start today with these tips on the tiny tweaks to organize a home from the pros – from keeping checklists and calendars, to timed clutter-busting and leaving your clothes out for the next day, we've got you covered.

1. Have a tray on your entryway console

Place a tray or a small shallow basket on your entryway console table for those essential items like keys and sunglasses to help keep this vital space organized.

Brandi Simon, founder of TX Home Buying Pros agrees having a console table with a tray definitely helps. 'A clean console table or tray in the entryway designated for mail is ideal – don’t let mail pile up,' Brandi explains. 'As soon as it comes through the door, quickly sort it into categories: bills to pay, invitations to respond to, and junk to toss.'

If you don't have a console table to use then consider a shelf, Wayfair's Rudloff 3 piece accent shelf has handy hooks and three compartments for mail, gloves and sunglasses.

Whatever item you settle on, Cynthia Murray, co-owner of Sorted Sparrow, adds, 'Clear the entryway daily. I spend a minute tidying up my console table – it keeps things neat and prevents clutter from piling up.'

Learn more about organizing an entryway.

2. Pick up and re-place

Introduce this clever decluttering tip and mess will become a thing of the past. 'Every time you move from one room to another, bring one thing with you that belongs in the room you are going to,' advises lifestyle and cleaning guru Sabrina Fierman, director of New York's Little Elves.

'For example, a water glass from the night before, take it with you in the morning when you walk to the kitchen to make coffee, or the handbag left near the front door upon arriving home, bring it to the closet or bedroom when you’re headed that way,' explains Sabrina.

It's about changing your thinking a little to maximize productivity throughout the day. Look out for pieces that help collate clutter practically.

3. Plan and plan again

Although some of us love apps that help to organize our days, others still prefer the 'analogue' way of life and having something we can write on.

There's some fabulous planners around these days that help you to plan your day the night before, a simple five-minute sit down with a cup of coffee at the end of your day to jot down those key tasks will help you to feel more on top of the next day. The Two Tumbleweeds Daily Planner notepad from Amazon is perfect for this.

'Balancing home, friends, life and hobbies can be a lot so I need to write things down to remember – when we asked our Instagram audience, 91% of people agreed that they needed to put plans in a paper diary to remember them too,' says Holly Chapman, head of brand at Papier.

Alternatively, a wall calendar, such as the Worksail whiteboard monthly wall planner from Walmart, can help in the same way. Andre Kazimierski, CEO of Improovy likes to use a mixture of a digital calendar for work with a physical one at home.

'Something I do every day to be more organized is having a physical calendar hanging up in my kitchen. While I also use a digital calendar, especially for work, having a physical calendar helps me stay a lot more organized in my personal life,' he explains.

Similar to a planner (I like the Papier Spiral Daily Softcover Planner from Anthropologie), you just need to remember to keep it updated on a daily basis. Andre adds, 'I have it hanging in a spot that I am constantly walking past or seeing while sitting at my table, and that helps ensure that I never forget what I have coming up. I always know what appointments or events I have on my schedule weeks in advance, compared to getting a notification from my phone calendar the day of and panicking because I’ve forgotten.'

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, uses a magnetic one on her fridge to plan meals and keep track of school-tasks related to her daughter. 'It helps keep our household organized both from a meals perspective, but also because my husband and I share the mental load of keeping things running smoothly and this a quick way for us both to note anything we both need to know. I like this magnetic weekly whiteboard from Amazon for ease, as it allows a space to add a grocery list, too.'

4. Lay out your clothes the night before

Give yourself 10 minutes at the end of the day to consider which clothes you wish to wear the following day – believe us – when you wake up the next morning you'll be glad you don't have to think about it. It also helps if your closet space is organized.

Lay your outfit out on a chair in your bedroom the night before, so everything is easily to hand.

'Planning clothes the night before saves time in the morning and keeps my wardrobe in order,' says Cynthia Murray, co-owner of Sorted Sparrow. 'This is also a life-saver for getting my nine-year old daughter to school on time. Whenever we don't plan ahead, this almost always adds 10-15 extra minutes.'

To make this work well, it pays to keep your wardrobe organized too. We love Walmart's 6 shelf non woven hanging closet organizer, it's perfect for getting your wardrobe in shape.

5. Set a timer

It's easy to put off tidying, especially during the week as we often think we need to spend more time than we have doing it. But in fact, the key to making this work for your household is tidying in short bursts.

Rick Berres, owner of Honey-Doers explains, 'Give yourself 10 minutes, and in that time, you do as much as you can. Fold that blanket that’s just thrown on your sofa, tidy up small items, etc. That’s something small you can do every single day without it being a huge time-suck or imposition and that’s going to keep things organized and looking good and tidy.'

Jenny He, an expert in home improvement and co-founder of Ergeon, has a great timed rule too. 'The 30-second Rule is also a game-changer. If a task takes less than 30 seconds to complete, I do it immediately. Whether it’s putting away a dish or responding to a quick email, these little tasks add up if left unattended. It’s like dealing with a small fence repair right away rather than letting it turn into a bigger issue down the line.'

If these timings don't quite work for you and your day, then create a time deadline that does – it could be a five-minute sweep through of the house to re-adjust things for example. Implement these daily and you'll definitely see a difference.

6. Give yourself visual cues

Trying to remember everything can be challenging, right? Jenny He has a great idea that will help you beat forgetfulness, or clutter blindness, when it comes to daily organization.

'Another trick I’m fond of is Visual Cues. I place reminders in strategic locations to prompt actions throughout the day,' says Jenny.

'For instance, keeping a water bottle by the door reminds me to stay hydrated, or a sticky note on my laptop to encourage regular breaks. Just like how I use visual plans in project management, these cues keep me on track without overwhelming my brain with to-do lists.'

We really love this idea, and it's ideal for those of us who are more visual people. Check out these rather lovely sticky notes.

7. Use checklist apps

Love an app? Then have a look at Pocket Lists. It's essentially a 'to-do' list app that's inspired by making digital lists and checklists to help us get through daily and less frequent (but still important) things,

You can set reminders as well as creating your own checklists. There's also repeating to-dos so you can keep on top of regular tasks. Easy to set up, you simply open a relevant list, assign due date and set the priority level, you can also add a location.

Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love uses checklists on his phone, 'I actually have a checklist in my phone of the daily and weekly tasks I need to accomplish. For example, I have a ton of plants, and many of those plants have different watering needs. So, in order to stay on top of that, I have a checklist that outlines what needs to be watered each day, and that’s something I look at every morning before work. Checklists are invaluable for making sure nothing slips under the radar, forgotten.'

8. Plan your meals

As with planning out your clothing, taking time to prep food for the following evening will save you time and much needed energy when you come home from work.

Brandi Simon, founder, TX Home Buying Pros says, 'Before preparing dinner, take a moment to plan the next day’s meals. Chop veggies, wash fruits, or pre-portion snacks. This small daily habit saves you time later and keeps your kitchen organized.'

A food-storage idea to reduce food waste is keeping your prepped food in glass containers. You can also double up your prep and freeze for later use, or cook for leftovers the next day.

9. Have a place for everything

By ensuring each item in your home has a place, it will be easy to keep your home organized daily and a quick way to make your home look organized, fast.

Shelving is ideal for storing those extra pieces like a couch pillows and blankets that might not be needed all the time and can make your shelves look elevated. And perhaps one of the most useful buys for each room of the house is a selection of matching baskets – they are ideal for hiding away unsightly things like chargers and TV remotes, but also for slippers and magazines.

Choose sturdy designs that will last. Nordstrom's oval jute basket is beautifully crafted and its easy grab handles mean you can carry it room to room.

10. Have an evening 'reset'

Little but often seems to the key to daily organization according to our experts, and the end of the day is the perfect time to set your intentions for the next 24 hours.

Jenny Hu explains, 'I swear by the Five-Minute Reset. At the end of each day, I take five minutes to walk around my living space and reset anything that’s out of place. It’s amazing how a quick tidy-up can clear your mind. Think of it like rebooting your computer – it works better when everything's in order. Even in my work spaces, a quick declutter at the end of the day sets the tone for a more productive tomorrow.'

This is also a good time to update your apps, or planner for the days ahead.

Meet our experts

These are a great start to getting on top of mess in your home without feeling you have to commit to a large decluttering session.

Next, delve into the easy Didn't Know method, beloved by our editors for its ease, simplicity, and guilt-free clearing out.

There are so many benefits to hydroponic gardening: it conserves resources, is perfect for indoor gardeners, and it's a beautiful way to display plants. That's why I was excited to learn you can grow a monstera in water, as I'm always on the hunt for new ways to elevate my houseplant display.

Once you master monstera care, it's easy to grow them hydroponically. It's a common way to propagate monsteras, but keeping them in water long-term is also fairly straightforward, so long as you avoid common hydroponic gardening mistakes.

There are just a few simple steps you need to follow to grow monsteras in water and a few things to keep on top of to keep them happy and healthy when growing in water. I've compiled everything you need to know right here.

How to grow a monstera in water

If you're wondering how a monstera can get all the essential plant nutrients for growth without soil, the answer lies in their aerial roots. Like other epiphytic plants (those that grow on the bark of trees and other plants, rather than in soil), monsteras largely rely on water and air for nutrients in their natural habitat. This means you can grow a monstera in water permanently quite successfully. Here are five easy steps to follow:

1. Take a monstera cutting

Just like any of the easiest houseplants to grow from cuttings, you need to ensure you take a monstera cutting correctly for both propagating a monstera and for hydroponic growing to work well.

When taking a monstera cutting, you need to be equipped with the essential pruning tools - like these bypass pruning shears from Amazon.

You can then choose a stem with three or four leaves on it and take a cutting just below a leaf node. This is where the cutting will root in water. Make sure not to damage any aerial roots in the process.

2. Choose the right vessel for your monstera

There are plenty of pros and cons of hydroponic gardening, and one thing you need to get right is having a big enough vessel for your plant.

Monsteras come in all sizes, from the smaller Monstera adansonii to the large Monstera deliciosa. While it's true hydroponic monsteras are unlikely to reach their full potential height when grown in water, you still need to choose a container that won't become too small for them too quickly.

You can use a propagation station (like this one from Amazon) or simply a glass vase (like this one from Walmart). Whatever you choose, it's wise to opt for something transparent so you can observe the root growth and level of water.

3. Place the monstera cutting in water

This is the stage where you set your monstera up. It can be helpful to familiarize yourself with common water propagation mistakes, as many of them are relevant to hydroponic gardening.

For example, you need to remove the bottom one or two leaves of your monstera before placing it in water. This is because submerged leaves are likely to rot.

'Submerge at least one node below the water level,' advises Chuck Pavlich, plant expert and director of new product development with Terra Nova Nurseries. 'Nodes are found at the growth ring on the stem,' he explains.

Something to note: aerial roots are not required to sit in the water and will benefit from access to air flow.

4. Place in a bright spot

With your monstera all set up in its new water home, you need to put some other things in place to ensure it has the best growing environment. This includes light.

'The same conditions it needs should be met whether in water or soil,' advises Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, houseplant expert at The Houseplant Guru. 'It will only do well with the right amount of light,' she says.

In fact, if you notice your monstera leaves turning yellow, it could be due to insufficient light levels.

In their native habitat, monsteras grow in tropical rainforests beneath canopies of trees. They are exposed to dappled sunlight.

To recreate this at home, place you monstera somewhere with bright light. Take care to keep it out of direct sunlight, however, as it could cause leaf scorch. You might want to use this sheer curtain from Wayfair to block out direct sunlight for your monstera and other houseplants.

5. Regularly change out the water

If you want to keep your monstera in a healthy condition, don't leave it in the same water forever.

'Water should be changed frequently,' advises Chuck. This will ensure the monstera is growing in a clean environment and helps to remove any dirt or bacteria from your plant's water.

Failing to do so will result in the water levels depleting, as well as leaving your monstera susceptible to disease and common houseplant pests.

FAQs

How do you fertilize a hydroponic monstera?

Even if you grow a monstera in water, it's important to fertilize your monstera. It's best to use a water soluble monstera fertilizer (like this one from Amazon) and apply it when you change your monstera's water. Make sure to follow manufacturer instructions regarding how much to use and reduce fertilizing in winter when your monstera isn't actively growing.

To maintain the appearance of your monstera, don't forget to also clean your houseplant leaves. You also shouldn't need to upgrade your monstera's vase or vessel too quickly, as monsteras like being root-bound for some time.

Basements have a reputation for being dark, cold, and generally unpleasant to be in unless it is fully converted. But how can you keep a basement warm to make it more functional, be it a storage spot, utility room, or secret den?

From insulation to kitting it out with the right furnishings, there are several ways you can trap heat to make this underground space a little more habitable.

There is more to it than investing in the best way to heat a basement, however. Here’s what the experts suggest to keep it toasty.

How to keep a basement warm

If you are rarely in your basement, you might not see much point in keeping it warm. However, Nick Barber, LLC manager at Utilities Now, points out that it could damage your home. ‘Keeping a basement warm is a matter of both comfort and protection. A cold basement can lead to moisture accumulation, which invites mold and mildew to grow, presenting health risks and structural damage. A warm basement, on the other hand, reduces the overall demand for energy in your house by reducing heat loss from the upper floors. It is an investment in both your home's longevity and your daily comfort.’

With that in mind, here’s how to keep the heat in without sending your bills sky-high.

1. Add a source of heat

It should go without saying that to keep a space warm, you need something to heat it. For basements, there are a few home heating options depending on how you use the space, continues Nick Barber.

He explains, ‘The most appropriate way to heat a basement depends on its size and the purposes the basement is put to.

‘Space heaters [such as the top-rated Skonyon portable oscillating space heater, from Target] for small areas are the go-to solution for the sake of speed and saving money, but extending the central HVAC system or using radiant floor heating, particularly for long-term fixation, is advisable. Otherwise, electric baseboard heaters or ductless mini-split systems would also be fine in terms of efficiency, performance, and controllable heat.

‘If the basement is frequently used, the installment of radiant flooring (one of the best basement floors) assures unwavering warmth and comfort.’

2. Add thick soft furnishings

Heating will certainly help to keep your basement warm, but that heat will quickly dissipate if it is soaking into cold brick and concrete.

Brad Roberson, president at Aire Serv, a Neighborly company, suggests using cozy decorating ideas to kit out a basement with thick soft furnishings to add an extra layer of comfort that will keep heat in – ‘They can also use carpets to help insulate the floor. Investing in thermal curtains [available in several lengths and colors at Walmart] is a great curtain hack for a warmer home, and can also help keep the temperature comfortable.’

3. Insulate and seal drafts

As with any other area of the home, basement insulation ideas and draft-proofing will help to stop air transfer to keep warm air in and cold air out.

Nick Barber says, ‘Insulating an uninsulated basement is a great way to retain warmth. Start by sealing gaps and cracks in the foundation walls with caulk or expanding spray foam. Install rigid foam insulation boards directly onto the walls or spray foam to create a thermal barrier. For the floors, add an insulated subfloor or area rugs to reduce cold transfer.

‘Besides, insulating pipes and ducts can also stop the loss of heat from your space and keep your entire space more comfortable during a harsh winter. In the process, it'll make the basement cozier, plus it improves overall energy efficiency to cut energy bills for your home.’

4. Check door and window seals

If your basement has external access points, Max Veggeberg, HVAC expert and CEO at Tetra recommends checking them over and fixing drafty doors or sealing window gaps to stop air leaks. ‘Ensuring all exterior doors and windows are properly sealed and insulated will further enhance warmth and make heating more efficient in the basement,’ he explains.

Basements are one of the best spots to insulate in a home to keep it warm all winter. To truly eliminate hot and cold spots in your basement, consider using a thermal camera, from Amazon, to locate cold points in the space, and focus your efforts on insulating these areas. A professional contractor will be able to do this for you and advise on the best type of insulation for your space, too, to keep a poorly insulated home warm.

Swans, while undeniably beautiful and graceful, can become quite intimidating if they feel threatened. If they make their way into your yard, their presence can quickly go from majestic to troublesome, especially if they feel the need to defend their territory.

You've probably heard the saying, 'A good defense is the best offense', and when it comes to knowing how to repel swans from your yard, this certainly applies. Effectively deterring swans requires a thoughtful understanding of their natural behaviors and instincts, so you can ensure your property remains swan-free without harming or disrupting the local eco-system.

Beyond the obvious – such as avoiding common pest control mistakes like feeding them – there are several creative, non-forceful ways to encourage swans to seek a new home. With these strategies, you can gently persuade them to move along and find a more suitable spot.

1. Use landscaping to create barriers

Swans are naturally wary of areas with limited visibility, which makes them feel unsafe. To discourage swans from nesting or entering your yard, avoid dense vegetation that offers shelter. Instead, consider planting the best landscaping shrubs or bushes that provide a clear boundary. These will serve as an effective deterrent as it limits their ability to detect predators or threats.

Peter Rania, president and CEO of Waltham Pest Control Co, explains: ‘In my experience, creating a less inviting environment for swans works well. This includes planting thick shrubs or tall grasses around the perimeter of ponds or water features, which discourages swans from settling in.'

Prickly varieties, such as holly or barberry, work especially well. These pest-repellent plants not only obstruct the swans’ movement, but their thorny structures also physically discourage nesting, making the area less appealing overall. Plus, they can be a beautiful addition to your yard and won't disrupt the natural landscape.

2. Set up sound-based deterrents

Swans are highly sensitive to sudden, irregular sounds due to their natural survival instincts. In the wild, birds rely heavily on their acute hearing to detect potential threats, such as predators, before they can be seen. Sharp or unpredictable noises trigger an immediate flight response, as the birds instinctively associate these sounds with danger, and will ultimately causing them to avoid the area.

'Employing sound-based deterrents can be highly effective,' says Peter Rania. They disrupt the swans’ ability to relax and navigate their surroundings, encouraging them to leave in search of a more secure location. Devices that emit irregular sounds can make your yard uncomfortable for swans, encouraging them to leave.'

These include wind chimes – such as these beautiful moonlight waves wind chimes, from Target – or motion-activated alarms, available at Amazon, to create irregular noises.

Set these sound deterrents around areas that swans are likely to nest, such as near ponds, water features, or the edges of your yard, to make the environment feel unsafe and encourage them to find a quieter spot.

3. Employ visual deterrents

Another method to make your yard less appealing or intimidating to swans is by setting up visual deterrents. There are plenty of great options to choose from.

One of the most effective methods for deterring swans is using decoy predators. Placing lifelike plastic or resin owl figures strategically near bodies of water can be highly effective, as swans instinctively view owls as predators and will typically avoid the area.

If you want to go bigger and bolder, consider using realistic coyote or fox models, like these silhouette decoys from Amazon. In yards with water features, floating fake alligator heads can also be an effective deterrent, further creating the illusion of danger and encouraging swans to seek a safer location.

'Additionally, using visual deterrents like reflective objects or flags can successfully disrupt their visual perception and make your yard less attractive to them,' says Peter Rania.

When reflective tape or strips flutter in the wind, they create flashes of light that startle swans. Stakes with small mirrors, reflective discs, floating reflective balls in the water can also add to the effect. Additionally, colorful flags or banners that move in the wind will also unsettle the swans, encouraging them to leave.

Finally, bright lights triggered by movement can create enough disturbance to deter swans at night. Be sure to invest in motion-activated lights that can register smaller creatures, like swans, to ensure they are triggered by the birds' presence.

4. Create barriers in water ponds

Another highly effective method to deter swans is by creating barriers in the water itself. Swans prefer open, visible bodies of water, so planting tall, dominant herbs and grasses along the water's edge can effectively reduce their comfort and discourage them from swimming across. These dense plantings create a natural barrier, making the area feel more enclosed and less inviting for the swans.

This method works particularly well because it mimics natural habitat features that swans tend to avoid, such as thick, overgrown reeds or shrubs that make it difficult for them to see potential threats. Incorporating the best ornamental grasses for privacy, such as miscanthus, pennisetum, or feather reed grass reduces their visibility and movement, preventing them from swimming freely and making the area feel unsafe.

5. Design alternative habitats for swans

If you want to take it a step further, you could think about setting up a community project focused on creating swan-friendly habitats. This will provide swans with an attractive, dedicated space to settle, reducing the likelihood that they will be drawn to your yard.

To do this, you should first establish a designated swan-friendly habitat at least 1.5 km away from residential properties to ensure swans have space to nest without causing disturbances to the local communities. This could be a specially designated area within a park or nature reserve – the ideal location will should have a calm, shallow body of water for nesting and feeding.

'Ensure that the nesting area is free from flooding, steep banks and predators,' warns Peter Rania. Swan nests can be vulnerable to water levels that rise unexpectedly, so choose a location with gentle slopes or flat terrain and avoid steep banks that could be hazardous for swans. Ensure there are no foxes or racoons in the areas, as they can pose a threat to eggs or young swans.

Next, consider wildlife garden ideas to ensure the areas is desirable to swans. Just like when you keep ducks, swans need both open water and sheltered areas for nesting. Include tall grasses, reeds, and shrubs around the habitat to provide cover, while ensuring the area remains visible enough to allow swans to spot potential threats. Planting native aquatic plants can be a great way to maintain water quality, creating a balanced environment that attracts swans while keeping them in appropriate areas.

Like many different garden pest control methods, such as keeping opossums away, deterring swans is not just about keeping them off your lawn but also about landscaping in a way that fosters an environment that supports both your needs and the well-being of the wildlife that shares the space. By using barriers, strategic plantings, and creating designated swan-friendly zones away from residential areas, you can enjoy your yard while coexisting with local wildlife.

Last week, global color authority Pantone named Mocha Mousse as Color of the Year 2025 and the Gardens team at H&G couldn't be more excited. This warm shade of brown is one that easily complements foliage and florals, thanks to its earthy tone, making it effortless to incorporate into indoor gardens.

I personally don't see the Pantone Color of the Year 2025 going out of style any time soon. It's somewhat of a staple in the neutrals color palette, so there's no doubt investing in Mocha Mousse planters and vases now will serve your home for years to come.

Whether you have a large indoor plant collection or like to grow the best cutting garden flowers, I've got you covered. I searched high and low for the best Mocha Mousse planters and compiled them right here - I promise there's something for everyone.

Mocha Mousse Planters

Mocha Mousse Vases

There are so many options for styling your houseplants with Mocha Mousse planters and vases, all of which have their own unique touch. If you love Pantone's Color of the Year just as much as we do, you might be interested in other ways to decorate with brown to embrace 2025's winning hue.

Christmas cherry plant (Solanum pseudocapsicum) is native to South America, and grows in bright conditions and warm environments.

Also known as winter cherry, it’s easy to see why this vibrant, fruiting annual – boasting striking red, yellow, or orange berries – has become a popular Christmas plant.

A standout Christmas cactus alternative, the Christmas cherry is a unique addition to any holiday decor, and with the right care, it can remain a staple of your seasonal collection year after year. We spoke to experts who shared tips on how to care for this festive favorite.

1. Position the plant in bright, indirect light

Christmas cherry plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which is essential for healthy growth and vibrant berry production.

As John Haryasz, horticulture writer and designer at Privacy Shrubs explains, 'Excessive direct light could dry out the leaves, and growth or berries will not happen in low light.'

While these plants are fond of light, too much direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves and cause the berries to shed.

Filtered or diffused light near a south-facing window is ideal. Placing them in a sunny spot with curtains or light protection film for windows, available at Amazon, shields the leaves from the harsh midday sun, preventing scorching while still providing the brightness they thrive on.

2. Water carefully and ensure good drainage

Water your Christmas cherry plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch or when you spot the signs it needs watering. These include drooping or curled leaves, crispy leaves, soil that has shrunk away from the edge of the pot.

'Generally, this means watering once a week during the growing season, but the frequency may vary based on factors like temperature, humidity, and the size of the pot,' explains Kaushikan Ganesan, horticulturist and owner of Splendid Landscape.

During the plant’s dormant period in late fall and winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks or as needed to keep the soil lightly moist.

Christmas cherry plants are prone to root rot if the soil remains soggy, so it's important to avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Choosing well-draining soil and housing the plant in a pot with proper drainage – such as this Purnell terracotta pot with drainage holes, available at Wayfair – can help to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

The ideal potting mix for a cherry tree is a well-drained, nutrient-rich loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. This provides the perfect balance of moisture retention, aeration, and essential nutrients for healthy growth. We recommend this Wonder Soil organic potting mix from Amazon.

3. Keep humidity levels high

'Christmas cherries thrive in warm, humid conditions, as they originate from subtropical regions,' explains Kaushikan Ganesan. To replicate their natural environment, it's important to maintain moderate to higher humidity levels around the plant, around 50% to 60%.

If the air is too dry, especially in winter, you should increase the humidity around the plant – misting the leaves, placing a humidity tray nearby, or using a humidifier can all increase humidity for indoor plants. This will prevent the leaves from drying out and help maintain the plant's health.

4. Maintain a temperature of 60–75°F and avoid drafts

Originating from USDA zones 8 and 9, Christmas cherry plants thrive at temperatures between 61–77°F.

Avoid placing your Christmas cherry plant in areas with drafts or sudden temperature changes, as these can stress the plant. Mathew Wilson, horticulturist and CEO of Handy Gardeners advises, 'Keep it away from cold drafts, heating vents, or radiators, as these fluctuating conditions can negatively impact its health.

'Maintaining a stable and favorable temperature will encourage optimal growth, helping your Christmas cherry thrive and produce vibrant, colorful berries, even during the winter months.’

5. Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season

Fertilizing your Christmas cherry plant is an important part of keeping it healthy and thriving. 'During the growing season, from spring to early fall, it’s beneficial to feed your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to encourage strong growth and vibrant berries,' says John Haryasz.

Choose a fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio, such as this The Andersons PGF balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer from Walmart, to ensure your plant receives the essential nutrients it needs. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer with water to half strength to avoid overfertilizing the plant, which could harm it.

John adds, 'After that, the feed should be stopped until the active growth period starts again.’ During the winter months, when the plant is dormant, it's important to refrain from fertilizing as it doesn’t actively grow during this time.

While not an essential step, regular, careful fertilizing during the active growing season will help your Christmas cherry produce beautiful, colorful berries and maintain its health year after year.

6. Prune regularly for a bushy shape

‘Christmas cherries, like many plants, are best trained to become bushier rather than allowing their stems to grow thin and tall,' explains John Haryasz.

'Frequent pinch-backs can be done depending on how full you’d like the plant to appear.’

To prune your Christmas cherry effectively, start by removing yellowing leaves and aged or damaged fruit. This will encourage healthy new growth.

Always use clean, sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts without damaging the plant. For a reliable option, consider these Fiskars Bypass pruning shears, available at Amazon.

7. Regularly inspect for pests

Pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites can be attracted to Christmas cherry plants, posing a threat to their health.

Regularly inspect the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, for any signs of infestation.

As soon as you spot any pests or signs of their presence, you can treat the plant with a gentle spray of insecticidal soap or use neem oil on plants to tackle pests.

Remember, while Christmas cherries may look harmless it's important to remember that the berries are are poisonous when ingested, so keep them away from children and pets.

If you're shopping for an alternative gift ideas for the holidays, consider pairing a Christmas cherry plant with a festive pot, such as these white Christmas planters from Wayfair, or including care essentials like a stylish watering can or neem oil for pest control, at Amazon.

Transforming your outside space is all about editing. While you might want to include lots of different ornaments, plants or furniture in your yard, there is such a thing as too much, which can cheapen the overall aesthetic.

Even a small amount of selectivity can have a big impact and help to make your yard feel considered, well-maintained and inviting. By avoiding a few common mistakes that make a yard look cheap, such as neon-colored plastic pots or one too many garden sculptures, your space will feel more cohesive and become a plot to be proud of.

So, while there are many new garden trends and design ideas that you might want to try in your outside space, remember that editing can transform the potential of any yard. Here, garden experts share six design dos and don'ts to help you elevate your space.

6 mistakes that make a yard look cheap

While there is no right or wrong way to design or landscape, there are indeed a handful of impractical garden trends and designs that make a yard look cheap. Collectively, small mishaps can have a big impact on your garden’s overall appearance.

So, if you are looking for quick and easy backyard ideas this year that will enhance your space, these are the common mistakes to put right for an instant makeover.

1. Overuse of garden figurines

'Garden gnomes or strange-looking fairies can damage the overall look of a yard, especially if you like a modern aesthetic,' says Tammy Sons, horticulturist and CEO of TN Nurseries, based in Altamont, Tennessee.

'Overuse of garden figurines is certainly one of the most common things that make a yard look cheap,' Tammy says. 'It is best to avoid using too many bright plastic figurines or decorative accents as this can appear tacky.'

Indeed, one too many garden statues or figurines can really detract from the natural beauty of your space. While this is not to say that fairy garden ideas have no place in the yard, it is best to keep any ornaments limited, and perhaps towards the back of your plot.

Instead, if you want to include a sculpture in your borders, stick with one colorful modern piece, such as this sage green Wade Logan bird bath from Wayfair. One attractive piece is far more desirable than hundreds of ornaments.

2. Too many clashing bedding plants

While fast-growing flowering annuals are useful in any outside space, too many brightly colored or clashing bedding annuals can often detract from the overall aesthetic. Think Victorian garden design, with rows of pink petunias alongside yellow marigolds and purple pansies. Perhaps a bit too much?

'Color is undoubtedly important when growing and gardening, but sometimes less is more, particularly if you want a cool, clean look,' Tammy continues. 'Poor attention to color and texture can hinder your design, and by adding too many bedding annuals that do not work together, your plot can appear cheap.'

When using annual flowers in your yard, limit your palette to a handful of complementary colors. Why not grow petunias in a pot, but stick with one shade alongside ornamental grasses? White petunias alongside blue fescue grass would be a winning and subtle combination.

3. Broken or unstable garden structures

'There are a few different flaws that can make a yard look cheap, including unkept landscapes or excessive use of artificial turf, which can lead to an inexpensive look,' says Tim Heneveld, Country Director for Pergolux in North America.

'However, for me, broken or damaged garden structures are the worst offenders,' Tim adds. 'If you are wondering how to maintain a tidy garden or looking for pergola ideas, using quality pieces and keeping them well-maintained is crucial.'

Ensure that broken pieces are repaired, and give wooden structures a lick of paint once in a while, using something like this Glidden black exterior paint from Walmart.

'To elevate your garden next year, ensure that any pergolas or furniture are well maintained and thoughtfully decorated with outdoor lights,' Tim says. 'Keep things simple but refined, and focus on timeless, durable elements that add both form and function.'

4. Colorful plastic pots

'When picking pots for your yard, it is important to think of two things: longevity and does it add to your landscape aesthetic,' continues Tim. 'Materials like clay and metal are known to last the test of time and will weather nicely, whereas, clashing or neon plastic pots might seem fun for a short time, but you will quickly tire of them.'

Indeed, as Tim says, mismatched colors can create visual discordance, appearing unnatural and cluttered. Instead, if you are looking for summer container ideas or wondering how to style with large decorative pots, opt for subtle, natural colors that blend into your yard and let the perennials, shrubs and annuals provide the color.

There are many attractive and reasonably priced pots available, such as this rustic plastic pot, available from Amazon, that has the appearance of a ceramic planter but for a fraction of the price.

5. Neglecting to plant in drifts

Meadowscaping and prairie gardens have become popular in recent years, and for good reason. Natural drifts of planting are far more aesthetically pleasing than just one singular specimen.

One lavender in a backyard might seem odd, as in the wild, very rarely would you get one specimen in a landscape. Instead, opt to repeat planting combinations, with clusters of three or five plants spaced apart creating interesting and impressive borders.

6. Unmaintained edging

'Another mistake that can make a space look cheap is uneven or poorly defined edging,' says Tammy Sons. 'When thinking about garden edging, you want to keep it clean, crisp and sharp to enhance your overall aesthetic.'

'Just think, if you see broken plastic edging alongside a lawn, or a poorly installed metal garden edging surrounding a flower bed, it looks bad.'

In my experience, it is best to avoid using plastic edging which tends to tear and can quickly look messy. Instead, opt for natural materials such as metal or even wood. While wood will eventually rot or break down, this can add a touch of cottage garden charm. Try something like this natural eucalyptus wooden edging, available from Walmart, ideal for lining borders or flower beds.

FAQs

What quick fix solutions are best when you are working on a budget?

If you have a limited budget, giving your fence a fresh coat of paint, weeding the borders and applying some mulch will give the appearance of a tidy, well-maintained plot. Also, avoid stockpiling clutter, waste and debris at the bottom of your yard, which will look unsightly and detract from your shrubs, trees and perennials.

Lighting should also be another consideration and can make or break a design. Broken or flickering lights, if not fixable, should be replaced, helping to add interest to your plot as the light fades. They are also important for showcasing different design elements, such as a pergola, archway or uplighting trees. For more inspiration, see our guide to the best festoon lights.

If there’s one person we, and millions of others around the world, wholeheartedly trust when it comes to decluttering and organizing, it is, of course, Marie Kondo, who created the famous KonMari organizing method.

And, with Christmas and festivities fast approaching, it’s time to get homes in order for incoming guests, and sort out all those areas we have been guilty of putting off for far too long. While it may seem like a time-consuming task now, you’ll surely thank yourself when you’re able to relax and show off your host with the most prowess to your friends and family.

Luckily, Marie Kondo has shared her top tips for tidying before hosting guests on Instagram, so once you’ve tackled your pre-guest cleaning checklist, streamlining your home will feel a breeze.

Marie Kondo's top tips for tidying before hosting

Do a ‘Joy Check’

This is one of the lessons I learned from Marie Kondo's book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, available at Amazon. Cleaning and decluttering is so often considered a somewhat negative chore, so we love Marie's positive perspective. After all, hosting for the holidays is a time for fun, which will only be enhanced if you don’t have to stress about mess.

On her KonMari Instagram post, Marie begins, ‘We become so accustomed to living in our space, that it is difficult to see it objectively. Start by walking through the front door as if you were a guest. Move through each room, looking at it with fresh eyes.'

Taking in your entryway ideas and living room ideas as if seeing them for the first time, focusing on areas your guests are likely to spend the most time relaxing and socializing. Don’t forget to approach your powder room ideas, with the same fresh perspective. This might be the first place guests go after a long journey.

Adding a diffuser or candle, in a fresh scent, such as the COCORRÍNA Reed Diffuser Set in Clean Linen, available at Amazon, is one of the things people with nice smelling powder rooms always do, and sets a welcoming, inviting impression, too.

‘Perhaps you’ve stuffed things in a closet or piled items you’re feeling unsure about,’ continues the KonMari post. ‘Take this opportunity to ask yourself if these things really spark joy. If they don’t, thank them and let them go.’

As Marie Kondo says in her bestselling book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, available on Amazon, ‘When you put your house in order, you put your affairs and your past in order too,’ and we couldn’t agree more.

Why not take a basket, such as the Household Essentials Wicker Basket available at Wayfair, with you as you walk round, and fill it with things to donate as you go.

Letting go of these items which no longer serve you will give your house breathing room, and make much-needed room for loved ones.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Then, decide where things belong

As with most organizing and decluttering tips, deciding where things go in your home is a vital step in curbing mess. As you walked around, did you discover anything lying around, for example, which should be put away?

'This is your opportunity to decide exactly where it belongs,' continues the KonMari post. 'Having a vague idea that something should be kept "around here" isn't sufficient.

'The remote control goes in a gold tray on the right side table (or as part of your coffee table styling ideas), pens on the counter go in the ceramic holder, and the pile of mail goes in the pending box on your desk,' in your home office ideas.

‘If you want to maintain a tidy home, you – and everyone else who lives there –must know precisely where each item belongs.’

If an item has a home and usually ends up somewhere else, consider adding a storage solution where it often ends up living, which is part of the Desire Path decluttering method.

Finally, keep a neat kitchen

Finally, keep your kitchen ideas neat and reduce visual clutter in the kitchen to create a warm and open heart of the home.

‘The kitchen in particular tends to look cluttered because it’s home to so many miscellaneous items,' continues the KonMari post. 'The key to making it look as neat as possible is to display only your favorite items on the countertop.

'Anything that can go in a drawer or a cupboard should be put away. If you keep the area around the sink clear (following the kitchen sink organizing rules), it will be easy to wipe drops of water and maintain a clean kitchen.’

We recommend using a microfiber cloth, such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Amazon to do so, as they’re super soft, absorbent, and lint-free, and leave surfaces streak-free and shiny when paired with the Method All-Purpose Cleaner available at Amazon.

Feeling inspired? Try Marie Kondo's top five tips for how to declutter, the KonMari way, and learn about the crucial tidying mistakes to avoid. There are also plenty of inspiring lessons to learn in Marie Kondo's Letter to Japan, too.

Christmas is fast approaching and now is the time to start preparing areas in your kitchen where you will store the inevitable influx of groceries.

The fridge can easily get overlooked and then cause a bottle neck of goods that either need binning, eating or preparing.

To curb the food stress in this festive period, knowing how to organize the fridge becomes a necessary practice and here, our pros reveal what you should get rid of now from this vital and hardworking space.

7 things that you should probably get rid of in your fridge before Christmas is in full effect

Looking into the depths of our refrigerator isn't often high on our to-do lists, and is usually something most of us put off until it's absolutely necessary because you've run out of space or smell something bad.

Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners says, 'In order to effectively prepare for the holiday season, you need to dedicate some time to go through what you already have in the fridge and determine how important it is on your priority list.

'Making a fridge priority list for the Christmas period is something I do every year and it helps my stress levels on the day. I simply write a list of all perishable foods, condiments and dressings I tend to use over the holidays and those that I do not, then when I organize my fridge. I prioritize the ones I will use, and either get rid of, or do not purchase the things I am less likely to use in this busy time.'

By incorporating this practice you can save yourself time and money when shopping for Christmas. Below we look at 7 things that you should evict from your fridge in the lead up to Christmas.

1. Expired condiments

'When getting rid of items in the fridge, a good place to start is to check over everything to see if it is all still in date,' continues Daniel. 'Eliminating produce that is out of date usually reduces the contents of your fridge by 10-15%, which is a large amount of space when every inch counts towards your holiday restock.'

Go shelf by shelf, checking if the food is still on date. Get rid of anything that is past its best before date. Although these foods are technically still edible, they are no longer in their prime and 90 per cent of the time, you will be able to notice the difference in taste.

This is an easy win for decluttering the fridge and holding onto foods that are optimal freshness.

2. Inedible leftovers

We are all guilty of doing it when trying to avoid wasting leftovers: you store them in the fridge in plastic containers, readily available at Walmart, then forgot all about them.

Having piles upon piles of leftovers takes up a large amount of shelf space. Using stackable refrigerator organizer bins from Amazon in the fridge will help, but only if you actually end up eating them.

To avoid wasting your food and fridge space, consider freezing leftovers instead straight after cooking.

3. Extra food that could be frozen

Head of Solved Punteha van Terheyden does this all the time.

Punteha, a serial batch cooker, says, 'Any leftover food I have cooked gets frozen that day in portion sizes relevant to individual members of my household and labeled up as such. That way, if we've run out energy or time after work, we can defrost and heat up a home cooked meal. This prevents the fridge getting cluttered up with leftovers we forget about.

If you use a thermal inkless label maker, the markings or paper may deteriorate in the freezer so use residue-free, removable freezer-safe labels, available on Amazon, instead.

If you have over-shopped, or accidentally doubled up on items in your grocery shop, freeze anything you can. Be careful though, if you start using this space as a dumping ground, you’ll soon have to spend time organizing your freezer too.

'Using my freezer effectively helps me prevent my refrigerator from having old food stored inside,' says Karina Toner from Spekless Cleaning. 'This doesn’t mean that I pile everything into the freezer, instead it simply means that I use it in conjunction with my fridge so that food is fresher and overflow is preserved.'

4. Freezer-burned foods in ice compartments

'If your fridge includes a freezer compartment, this is a great opportunity to clear it out too,' says Amy Bloomer, professional home organizer and owner of Let Your Space Bloom. 'Freezer-burned items, like mystery meat wrapped in frost or that long-forgotten bag of peas, need to go.'

According to Amy, these items take up space and won’t taste great even if cooked. Clearing out the freezer compartment of your fridge allows you more room for make-ahead holiday dishes, ice cream, or frozen cocktails.

Organize your freezer better with YouCopia FreezeUp Freezer Rack from Amazon, rated so you can see everything at a glance.

5. Outdated dairy products

Eggnog and other dairy-based products are staples of the holiday table, so you’ll need your fridge’s dairy section at peak capacity. 'Take stock of all your milk, yogurt, and cheese,' says Alice Price, professional organizer and decluttering coach, founder of Organize Long Island. 'Any items with suspicious smells, mold, or a date that’s passed should go.'

Even if an item is technically safe, anything nearing its expiration might not make it through the Christmas cooking marathon and the space will likely be more useful to you.

6. Forgotten produce

Take a close look at your fruit and vegetable drawer. Wilted greens, slimy spring onions, or forgotten grapes are all candidates for the trash. Christmas cooking often involves vibrant veggies, so make room for fresh produce like Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and cranberries.

Consider investing in OXO Good Grips GreenSaver Produce Storage Containers from Wayfair to make your produce last longer and don't forget to clean the dirtiest parts of your fridge, including your vegetable drawer before adding new produce to avoid germs and mold spores impacting your fresh items.

7. Duplicates or half-eaten products

Finally, look for duplicates or half-finished products you might have forgotten about. That half-finished jar of pesto or the nearly empty tub of salsa has probably seen better days. These items often have a short shelf life once opened, and can harbor bacteria if left too long.

If you’re not planning to use them in the next week or two, consolidate or discard as necessary, and try using Lazy Susans from Amazon to make it easier to spot these items and avoid double-buying or food waste.

FAQs

How far in advance should I go through and organize my fridge?

Experts say that you should go through your fridge at least two weeks before the lead up to Christmas. This will give you plenty of time to be able to replenish items and put things strategically away before Christmas Eve.

Why is it important to declutter my fridge before Christmas?

Decluttering and reorganizing your fridge before Christmas means that you will have more space and understanding of what is inside. Helping your meal plan for the holiday period and also allowing you to have a fresh space to put your Christmas shop away.

Meet the experts

By decluttering your fridge now, you’ll free up space for all the delicious ingredients, festive platters, and seasonal treats that Christmas demands. Plus, a clean and organized fridge makes hosting less stressful and more enjoyable.

So, grab a trash bag, set aside some time, and get ready to transform your fridge in time for the festive period.

Next, delve into our Christmas cleaning task list and what to clean in guest bedrooms before hosting Christmas.

Here at H&G, we've been scouring the internet for the best interiors and homeware deals over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend. Naturally, Wayfair is one of our go-to spots to shop, with thousands of products available to browse.

On the celeb team, we are big fans of Kelly Clarkson's collaboration with the brand, which includes a recently released New York-inspired collection.

Fortunately, much of the line is up to 80% off during this sale period, and we had a field day browsing through the discounted items of the singer and TV show host's line. The pieces we landed on all had one thing in common: texture.

With many of the pieces taking a modern, minimalist approach, texture is crucial to keeping homewares visually interesting. Neutral color schemes and sleek silhouettes are certainly appealing, but matte textures can leave spaces feeling flat.

For example, the jute rug by Clarkson comes in an adaptable beige shade, but its subtle texture keeps it engaging. Additionally, there are some noteworthy velvet pieces, such as an orange ottoman pouf (it's true, the '70s are back), along with a deep purple desk chair that is suited for royalty.

Below, we have rounded up our top textured picks from Kelly Clarkson's Wayfair collection, ranging in price from $32.99 and up. Act fact, these deals are among the best Black Friday homes deals, and consequently, they won't last long.

The Christmas cactus has earned its place as a beloved holiday decor staple, popular for its vibrant winter blooms and distinctive charm. But why stick to just this one plant when there’s a whole host of alternatives that can bring their own festive flair to your celebrations?

Whether you’re drawn to bright blossoms, like those on the Christmas cactus, to ornamental berries, or to eye-catching foliage, these Christmas plants will help make your seasonal decor exciting and memorable.

We spoke to plant experts who shared their favorite Christmas cactus alternatives that will add a touch of seasonal magic to your home.

1. Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)

For those who love incorporating flowers into their Christmas decor ideas or are looking for alternative gift ideas for the holidays, the desert rose is a truly stunning choice.

As one of the best desert plants, it stands out for its trumpet-shaped blooms in red, pink, or white, paired with a sculptural, thickened lower stem – a hallmark of desert flowers – that adds an artistic touch.

Matthew Wilson, horticulturist and CEO of Handy Gardeners shares his expert tips on how to grow a desert rose: 'Expose it to bright, direct sunlight, and water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It thrives in warm conditions above 65°F and prefers low humidity.'

2. Christmas Cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum)

Berries are undeniably synonymous with Christmas, adding a festive touch whether they’re adorning a wreath, woven into a garland, or potted to add a fun burst of color on a mantel.

Matthew Wilson highlights the charm of Christmas cherries, noting, these berries resemble miniature decorations. 'The bright red or orange berries look like little ornament balls, paired with small, glossy green leaves that make the plant appear naturally decorative.'

For extra festive flair, you can decorate your houseplant for Christmas by potting it in a holiday-themed planter with complementary colors, such as this Mija ceramic pot planter from Wayfair, or adding string lights, such as these from Amazon.

To care for your Christmas cherry, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place it in bright, indirect sunlight. Thriving in temperatures between 60 to 70°F, it’s well suited for winter.

3. Goldfish Plant (Nematanthus gregarius)

The goldfish plant might not be a conventional Christmas choice, but its vibrant red-orange blooms and lush green foliage make it a delightful fit for the festive season. As a succulent, it brings an unexpected twist to holiday decor, proving that plants don’t have to be conventional to capture the Christmas spirit.

With its whimsical, fish-shaped flowers, this playful plant remains in bloom during the festive period – making it a must-have for holiday decorators. These two goldfish plants are available at Amazon.

For healthy growth, the goldfish plant prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil, avoiding waterlogging. It thrives in bright but indirect sunlight, making it perfect for spots like kitchens or bathrooms where humidity is higher. Just be sure to let the top layer of soil dry out before watering again for the best results.

4. Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera)

A fun twist on traditional mistletoe, the mistletoe cactus is a desert-inspired holiday plant that brings a simultaneously striking and playful festive touch, making one of our absolute favorite Christmas cactus alternatives.

This plant can grow anywhere between two to six feet long. 'It has long, thin green stems, and small white flowers that later blossoms into tiny berries that somewhat resemble mistletoe,' says horticulturist and owner of Splendid Landscape, Kaushikan Ganesan. With slender, cylindrical stems that lend it an elegant, architectural look.

The mistletoe cactus can be planted in a pot for a charming tabletop display or hung in a basket within an archway or doorway where its long stems can cascade beautifully, adding an enchanting touch to your holiday decor. Consider using this Napa Home & Garden hanging planter in gray – from Target – to provide a striking backdrop to the plant's naturally lighter hues.

To care for a mistletoe cactus, provide it with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, such as this Miracle-Gro potting mix, a best seller at Walmart. Being a desert plant, it requires minimal watering – allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It thrives in moderate to low humidity, making it well-suited for homes with drier air.

5. Christmas Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)

One of the best red houseplants, the Christmas kalanchoe is subtly festive, and with clusters of bright, small flowers, shades of red, pink, or white it can beautifully complement red-themed holiday accents. Its blooming period typically occurs in early spring – around February – which makes it a great Christmas gift rather than a contender for the best indoor flowering plant for your December decor. Still, its rich color and charming flowers bring festive cheer that transitions into the New Year.

As a hardy succulent, the Christmas kalanchoe thrives with minimal care. With the right attention, a kalanchoe can re-flower year after year, making it a reliable and long-lasting addition to your home.

To care for a kalanchoe, place it in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. These plants are quite drought-tolerant, which makes them ideal for those with busy schedules or less-than-perfect green thumbs.

6. Ruby Ball Cactus (Parodia schumanniana var. albispina)

Still obsessed with the idea of having a cactus as part of your holiday decor? We've got the plant for you. Known for its vibrant, spherical shape, the Ruby Ball cactus features a stunning ruby-red ball that is beautifully contrasted by its gentle yellow blooms.

The compact size of a ruby ball cactus makes it ideal for small spaces, shelves, or as a centerpiece in festive displays. With its beautiful red hue and unique shape, it's a perfect example of how a small, unassuming plant can add an element of drama and color to your space, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an unusual alternative to traditional holiday plants.

'Native to South America, the ruby ball cactus is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in bright light and well-draining soil,' explains Kaushikan Ganesan. While it doesn’t require frequent watering, it’s best to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. During the winter months, this cactus remains dormant, making it well-suited for holiday decorations that don’t require constant attention.

Whether you are drawn to Christmas cactus alternatives because they complement your Christmas color schemes, for the fun of switching up traditional Christmas decor ideas, or you are in the market for cold-tolerant houseplants, these unique plants are sure to add charm and personality to your home throughout the festive season and beyond.

Preventing pruning shears and other garden tools from rusting is an essential fall task that helps to ensure their longevity and good performance.

Some of my most precious gardening tools were handed down from my parents (and even grandparents) and I want them to last for many more years, so I am meticulous about looking after them.

Knowing how to clean rusty tools properly before putting them away is an important part of preventing corrosion eating into the metal and moving parts, but it is easier to prevent rust in the first place. After many years as a gardener and gardening editor, here are my top tips for protecting your garden tools against those tell-tale orange marks.

1. Clean and dry tools after every use

Always clean your garden tools, because leaving them dirty after use is one of the main ways that pests and diseases are spread around the garden.

Remove soil, debris and plant residue after each use, and make sure they are dry before storing them away.

I often leave my pruners, loppers and saws open on a dry work surface for a few hours after cleaning them, making sure they are out of the reach of children and pets, so they can properly air dry.

2. Sharpen tools after use

Sharpening your pruning shears, saws and hedge trimmers regularly will also help keep them free of rust because it is less likely to form on a smooth, sharp surface.

As well as my pruning tools, I also sharpen my spade and hoe blades after every use. A sharpening stone file such as this from Amazon would be perfect for the job.

A sharp spade will slice through the soil with greater ease when digging, and will slice the most congested perennial crowns into sections when dividing plants.

A hoe with a keen edge makes it so much easier to slice off young weeds at their roots so I can leave the top growth to rot down where it falls and feed the soil.

3. Oil your tools

Once your tools are clean, sharp and properly dry, wipe over any metal and moving parts with a soft oiled cloth and squeeze a few drops of lubricant into the hinges of cutting tools such as shears, scissors and pruners.

This creates a moisture barrier, causing liquid to run off rather than pooling in one place and encouraging rust.

Oiling also lubricates the blades so they work more smoothly and are easier to use - when you've got a lot of fall pruning to do, nothing is more frustrating than a sticky pair of secateurs.

You could use motor oil or vegetable oil, or a specific lubricant such as this three-in-one multipurpose oil available at Amazon.

4. Store your tools properly

All the cleaning, sharpening and oiling in the world will go to waste if you don’t organise your potting shed so you can store your tools properly.

Keep them somewhere dry and sheltered, in a labelled box with a lid or labelled drawers. Alternatively, hang them up somewhere dry and well ventilated where they can’t be reached by children but where good airflow will reduce the risk of damp and rusting.

An added bonus of storing your tools properly is, of course, that you’ll know exactly where to find them when you next need them.

There are some great potting shed storage ideas available at Wayfair.

5. Buy quality tools

Cheap tools are a false economy, and it is always worth spending the most you can afford and buying the best possible tools as they will be better made, more robust and therefore more able to withstand rusting through the years.

Stainless steel, hand-forged steel and carbon steel are the best materials for blades, such as this pair of Fiskars bypass pruners with rust-resistant steel blades on Amazon. They are heavier than aluminum but are less likely to buckle and will last longer.

When buying pruning tools, always try them out before buying to see how they feel in your hand, how strong the hinges are and how comfortable they are to hold and use.

When buying digging tools, I favour something lightweight like this Radius pro-lite carbon steel shovel on Amazon as I’m quite small, but I like wooden handles on my trowels and hand forks because I like the feel of it as I work. I also clean and oil wooden handles so they are less likely to crack.

FAQs

How do I protect my lawnmower blade from rust?

When you come to winterize your lawn mower after the last cut of the year, clean the grass trimmings off the blade, then sharpen and oil it.

You may also wish to take it to a local lawn mower mechanic to get it serviced before it starts work again next spring.

How do I protect digging tools from rust?

Using sand and oil is a traditional way of cleaning larger tools that are used in the soil, such as spades, shovels, forks and hoes, as well as smaller hand forks and trowels.

Fill a bucket with sand and mix in some oil - motor oil or vegetable oil works well. Once you have brushed any soil and debris from your tools, plunge them into this mixture a couple of times to remove all vestiges of dirt and coat them with a protective layer of oily sand to act as a barrier against rust.

Prevention is better than cure, and knowing how to clean your garden tools from the get-go will help protect them from rust damage and save you a lot of time and money in the long term.

It doesn't matter whether you're brand new to gardening or you've been an avid grower for decades, there are just some plants everyone has a slight fear of growing. Orchids are one of them. It's understandable, too, as these fussy houseplants can be incredibly easy to kill.

But, what if I told you there are some orchids easier to grow than others? Of course, you can't get away with neglecting them entirely, but the most basic orchid care will keep them going. The best thing about the easiest orchids to grow is there are so many unique types to choose from.

You likely haven't heard of the majority of these types of orchids, either, but they all bring an exotic touch to interiors. Plus, some can even be grown outdoors. Here, I've put together a list of the easiest orchids to grow, as recommended by plant experts.

5 of the easiest orchids to grow

I've had my fair share of orchid causalities among my large houseplant collection, which is why I got so excited to discover just how many gorgeous easy orchids there are. Here are some top picks you'll also fall in love with:

1. Moth orchid

The Phalaenopsis orchid, or moth orchid, is likely the flower you think of when you first think of these indoor flowering plants. It's a classic choice and they're actually a lot easier to keep happy than the tricky reputation they've been given.

'Moth orchids are easy to care for and grow indoors,' says Virginia Hayes, orchid expert at Westerlay Orchids. 'To maintain your orchid growth, we have a few tips to ensure they stay lively,' she adds.

Among Westerlay Orchids' tips is to water orchids correctly. This is perhaps the reason so many indoor gardeners struggle with them, including myself in the past. However, there is a very easy way to understand when to water your orchid:

'If the roots are green and the bark is dark and moist, watering can wait a few more days,' says Virginia. 'If the roots look grey and the bark is dry, it's time to water,' she adds.

I also like to use this soil moisture meter from Amazon to monitor moisture levels for all of my houseplants, including orchids.

Although it's fairly easy to keep moth orchids happy once you understand their optimal growing environment, you might notice your orchid stem turning yellow or orchid flowers fall off if you need to adjust their growing conditions.

2. Reed orchid

The reed orchid (Epidendrum radicans) is a special orchid that grows in spherical clusters. It also comes in a wide range of colors, although the beautiful red-orange hue pictured above is often the most common.

'These orchids should be grown in a well-draining mix containing pumice and bark,' says Julie Bawden-Davis, indoor plant expert at Healthy Houseplants. This orchid bark from Perfect Plants Nursery would work well for reed orchids.

These vibrant blooms are considered one of the easiest orchids to grow because of their ability to adapt to different growing environments; reed orchids can grow as indoor low-light plants and outdoors in full sun (across US hardiness zone eight to zone 11).

They are also low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants once mature, so you can get away with watering every couple of weeks. Of course, you should increase your watering frequency in the warmer seasons.

3. Slipper orchid

For gardeners with a tropical garden in a warmer climate, the slipper orchid, or Paphiopedilum, is a must. Its common name comes from its unique shape, where the bottom petal is reminiscent of slippers. They also grow in many dual-tone colors, from red and yellow to pink and white.

'This orchid grows in low light, which also makes it perfect for many indoor gardens,' Julie notes. 'Grow in an eastern window or a southern window shaded by a window covering,' she advises.

These orchids are native to tropical Asian rainforests, where they experience dappled sunlight beneath the canopies of trees. This is why, as Julie notes, you may want to use sheer curtains (from Wayfair) when growing this orchid on a sunny windowsill.

'Plant in orchid bark, which should be kept moist but not overly wet,' Julie says.

Like other tropical indoor plants, it can also be useful to grow this orchid on a pebble tray (from Amazon) to increase humidity for indoor plants.

Shop orchid care essentials

4. Boat orchid

Boat orchids (Cymbidiums) are easily mistaken with moth orchids, but you can tell them apart by the pointed shape of boat orchids' petals. They also have a longer labellum, or central petal, which gives them their common name.

'Cymbidiums are very easy to grow, providing you don’t over-care for them. They thrive on a bit of neglect,' Julie says.

These low-maintenance indoor plants can be left alone much more than moth orchids can. However, you do need to ensure they receive some essential care:

'Grow boat orchid in a loamy, well-draining potting mix that should be kept moist but not soggy. Provide medium light indoors, such as from an eastern window,' Julie advises.

Boat orchids can also be grown outdoors in US hardiness zone 10+. You can also try growing these orchids in the warmer environment of a greenhouse.

5. Dendrobium orchid

I've left the best of the easiest orchids to grow for last - dendrobiums. This is a showstopper genus of orchids, growing on tall stems in nearly every color you can think of.

'They prefer to be rootbound and you want to provide bright light by growing in a southern exposure window,' advises Julie.

Dendrobium orchids are native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of Asia, many Pacific Islands and Australia. They can be grown outdoors, but only in US hardiness zone 10+. They need lots of warmth, making a south-facing garden position ideal.

Julie advises growing them in the warmest part of the home, whether that's as a kitchen plant or bedroom plant. However, it isn't wise to use dendrobiums in an orchid terrarium because of their taller height.

The spray of flowers coming from the central stem also makes these orchids a good choice for a table centerpiece or flower arrangement.

FAQs

How do you get an orchid to bloom for longer?

There are lots of things you can do to get an orchid to bloom for longer. This includes giving optimal care, such as bright light, moderate watering and a boost of fertilizer. However, be aware that each type of orchid will have slightly different growing requirements. As well as this, orchids have a flowering cycle which includes a dormant season. You won't see much growth during this time, but it doesn't mean your orchid is dying.

Even though these are some of the easiest orchids to grow, it doesn't mean you can just ignore them. Every plant, including orchids, needs to receive optimal care to thrive. However, this selection of orchids is more low-maintenance than other types. If you find your orchid is struggling, don't be too quick to give up. I was able to bring my orchid back to life after years of no blooms just by persevering with optimal care.

Poinsettias, with their iconic vibrant red leaves, have become holiday staples, embodying the festive spirit with their Christmas-themed appearance. Yet, despite looking perfectly suited for winter decor, these plants aren’t designed for cold weather.

Native to Central America, poinsettias thrive in warm, tropical climates, making them sensitive to the lower temperatures typical in many regions over winter. So, if you are wondering can poinsettias live outside in the winter, the answer largely depends on your region and the local winter climate.

In this guide, experts offer insights into the ideal temperatures and hardiness zones for poinsettias, along with essential poinsettia care tips to keep them healthy and vibrant – whether they’re outdoors in milder climates or indoors where winter temperatures drop.

Can poinsettias live outside in the winter?

Poinsettias are not cold hardy plants, and it's tricky to grow poinsettias outdoors drop below 50°F. For poinsettias to really thrive, they need temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. If your winter temperatures fall below this range, keeping poinsettias outdoors can be harmful and may lead to their demise.

'Poinsettias can only survive outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11,' explains Mathew Wilson, horticulturist and CEO of Handy Gardeners. 'In warmer regions like parts of southern California, Texas, and Florida, they can be grown outside, but with care.

'However for colder regions, poinsettia plants should be brought inside until late spring, so that they do not get damaged due to frost or snow.’

How to protect poinsettias growing outdoors during mild winters

While they can survive outdoors in milder climates with temperatures as low as 50°F, long-term outdoor care in these areas can be challenging and requires specific winterization steps to help them thrive. If your poinsettia is dropping leaves, it could be due to common stressors such as insufficient light, drafts, sudden temperature drops, or improper watering watering.

To enjoy the best poinsettias for Christmas, proper care is essential. Here's what the experts recommend:

1. Remain vigilant in monitoring outdoor temperatures

Even in warmer zones, it’s important to monitor overnight temperatures closely, since sudden drops can still pose a risk to your poinsettias. While these plants are more tolerant of mild winters, they are still sensitive to cold, especially when temperatures dip unexpectedly.

Matthew Wilson advises keeping a frost cover on hand for use during those unexpected cold snaps that can occur even in USDA zones 9 to 11. 'A frost cover (such as these handy bags from Amazon) helps shield the plant from chilling winds and frost, trapping heat around the plant and preventing damage to the delicate leaves and bracts,' explains Matthew.

Alternatively, if you have potted poinsettias, Wilson suggests relocating them indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F. 'Bringing the plants inside ensures they remain in a warm, controlled environment where they can continue to thrive.' Simply move them into a sunroom, greenhouse, or any other location that offers warmth and indirect light.

Keeping a close eye on the forecast and being prepared for temperature fluctuations, you can help protect your poinsettias from cold-related stress.

2. Ensure it receives adequate sunlight

Poinsettias require four to six hours of indirect sunlight daily, and ensuring they receive enough warmth from the sun is crucial for those planted outdoors in milder climates.

Positioning them in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal, as this provides the right balance of light and warmth. Overexposure to direct light can cause leaves to drop, so it's important to select a spot with filtered sunlight to protect the plant from stress.

3. Create a microclimate in your yard

One of the most effective ways to keep poinsettias healthy outdoors during winter is by creating a microclimate around them that shields them from wind and provides extra warmth. 'This can be achieved by placing them in sheltered areas that naturally retain heat,' says Lisa Wark, certified master gardener and Director of operations at Champion Distinctive Landscaping Design and Care.

Matthew Wilson suggests using insulated spaces with good light exposure, which help maintain delicate plants during colder months. Structures like walls, eaves, or fences can create a protective microclimate, offering additional warmth and shielding poinsettias from harsh winds.

Natural features which absorb and radiate warmth, like stones or rocks, are particularly useful in creating a warmer microclimate. Additionally, placing poinsettias near other plants that provide dappled shade and shelter will also provide warmth and wind protection.

If your outdoor poinsettias are planted in containers, be sure they are made from a material that retains heat and doesn't conduct the cold as quickly as others. Metal pots, for example, tend to get very cold and can quickly chill the roots, while ceramic containers offer slightly better insulation. However, wood, resin, and plastic pots are the best choices, as they take longer to react to temperature changes and retain heat better than metal or ceramic. We recommend this stylish Homerville wood pot planter from Wayfair.

Using mulch as a ground cover can also help insulate the soil, retaining warmth and moisture around the plant. This natural cedar mulch from Amazon has 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews. You should use fresh, high-quality potting mix – such as this PittMoss Plentiful potting mix from Walmart – as older mixes can become porous and more prone to freezing.

For even more protection, Lisa Wark suggests that greenhouse structures or cold frames can provide necessary warmth and humidity, helping poinsettias thrive in colder conditions by mimicking their tropical origins.

4. Water them appropriately

Another important thing to monitor is how often should you water a poinsettia to keep it healthy

'Simulating their native environment as much as possible by keeping their soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot,' explains Matthew Wilson. He recommends watering them only when the top inch of soil feels dry, with a principle of 'moisten, but skip soaking'.

For more efficient watering, consider installing an automated irrigation system to maintain the appropriate soil moisture levels without overwatering. In USDA hardiness zones 9-11, set the system to water about once a week during winter, ensuring the soil stays lightly moist but not saturated. This should be adjusted based on predicted rainfall – if rain is expected, pause the system to avoid excess moisture.

Use well-draining soil and a two inch thick layer at the base of the plant helps maintain consistent soil moisture levels.

5. Prune poinsettias in late winter

Pruning is another essential step in long-term care. Matthew Wilson recommends trimming poinsettias in late winter or just after blooming to encourage a bushy, compact shape and healthy bracts. This acts as a reset, supporting new growth and enhancing their resilience in outdoor settings.

For warmer climates, careful placement, temperature monitoring, and attentive care can help them thrive outdoors during the winter.

However, in colder regions, it’s best to treat poinsettias as indoor plants. If you still have time before temperatures drop significantly, consider potting your poinsettias and moving them indoors to safely enjoy their festive beauty through the season. Once winter has passed, you can move them back outside to enjoy warmer temperatures.

If bringing them indoors isn’t an option, consider propagating poinsettia as a backup, ensuring you have new plants ready for future seasons.

Shelves can be a beautiful way to display decor and create easy-access storage, but they can quickly look cluttered without a thoughtful approach.

Our home organizing experts are here to reveal exactly what's causing your shelves to look chaotic – plus how to overcome these common clutter culprits.

Armed with our top tidying tips professional organizers swear by, you'll have tidy, aesthetically-pleasing shelves in no time.

1. Overcrowding

Packing shelves to the brim can make them look chaotic. To fix this, embrace negative space by leaving gaps between items, allowing each piece to stand out.

Jon Christensen, CEO of home improvement hub Bidmii, says, 'It’s easy to keep adding items, but shelves packed with decor and books can make even the nicest room feel cramped and visually chaotic. To counteract this, embrace negative space – leaving some shelves partially empty or lightly decorated. This gives the eye room to breathe and creates a more intentional look.'

Eryn Donaldson, professional organizer and founder of The Model Home, says, 'When every inch of a shelf is filled, the space lacks breathing room, causing visual overload and making it hard to appreciate individual pieces. Aim to leave some negative space around objects, ideally leaving 25-30% of the shelf free. This will give the eye a place to rest, making the shelf look curated and balanced.'

For more tips on how to avoid overcrowding, check out our guide on how to make living room shelves look less cluttered.

2. Too many trinkets

Small items can add personality, but too many become clutter.

Donaldson says, 'Small items, especially when varied in color and shape, can overwhelm the eye. Their lack of cohesion creates a busy look, making shelves appear disorganized. Group smaller items together in a decorative tray or bin to create a unified look. This helps them read as a single visual element, bringing order and balance to the shelf.'

Donaldson recommends this Ramsey Calacatta Gold Marble Vanity Tray, available from CB2, adding, 'This marble tray is neutral, so it won’t overpower, and it’s perfect for grouping smaller items, adding elegance and cohesion.'

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, recommends this KIBAGA Decorative Wooden Tray from Amazon. She says, 'A tray like this keeps trinkets or other small decor items contained for a more curated appearance.'

Try to group trinkets in odd numbers, like threes or fives, for a balanced look.

3. Busy color schemes

A jumble of colors can overwhelm the eye. Donaldson says, 'A mix of bright, clashing colors or textures on a shelf can create visual chaos, preventing the eye from focusing on any single item. Instead, select a simple color palette, choosing two or three complementary colors. For books, try grouping by color or covering them in neutral-colored paper to create a cohesive look.'

Donaldson recommends these Floating Shelf with Led Lights from Höfina. She adds, 'These wooden shelves have a neutral finish that complements a variety of color schemes, making them ideal for showcasing a more unified color palette.'

Check out these color schemes to boost your mood.

4. Too many mementos

Shelves packed with souvenirs or keepsakes look cluttered.

Toner says, 'While a few personal items can add character, too many can overwhelm a shelf and reduce the space available for other items, making it look overly busy. Choose a few favorite items to display and store the rest in a keepsake box, like this Livememory Memory Box from Amazon.'

Rotating mementos seasonally, keeping only a few out at once, can help maintain a cleaner look on your shelves. Store valuables in plastic bins with lids, available at Walmart to protect precious items from pests or accidental water damage.

5. Open storage bins

Open bins can spill over and create a messy appearance.

Toner says, 'Open bins and baskets can quickly become catch-alls for random items. Since you can see everything inside, it gives the impression of chaos, especially if the items aren’t neatly organized within.

'Use bins with lids for a cleaner, more streamlined look that hides clutter. Opt for uniform bins in neutral colors to create a sense of cohesion. I like these Hipiwe Wicker Shelf Baskets from Amazon, which come in five different sizes, but with a consistent look.'

Check out how Homes & Gardens' Head of Solved used clear storage bins to banish household mess.

6. Mismatched organizers

Mismatched bins and boxes can disrupt a cohesive look.

Toner says, 'When organizers vary in style, color, or material, the overall look becomes fragmented. This disrupts the flow and makes the space feel cluttered even if it's organized.

'Stick to organizers in similar colors, materials, or design styles, choosing clear or neutral-colored organizers for a more cohesive, streamlined look.'

Toner recommends these Whole Housewares Premium Glass Apothecary Jars and these Qcold Store Storage Baskets. Both are available at Amazon and come in a set of three.

7. Loose papers

Loose papers make shelves look messy and disorganized.

Toner says, 'Loose papers and mail can quickly pile up and create an overwhelming look, especially when placed openly on a shelf. This type of clutter is visually distracting and often spills over.

'Instead, use a designated mail organizer to keep papers and mail in one place. Set up a regular routine to go through and file or discard papers each day or week.'

Toner recommends this wishacc Desk Mail Organizer from Amazon, which has three compartments, and these Simple Houseware Clear Wall Mount File Holders, also from Amazon.

Check out our detailed guide on how to organize mail.

8. Too many books

While books can add warmth, too many create a crowded appearance.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'The biggest category that clutter shelves are books. But the things is: people who tend to have a lot of books really love them, and that makes letting some go challenging.

'We like to focus on the category. Books that go on the shelf are either ones you actually still need to read. Ones you have read and really loved. Ones you will never read again but just need to keep (I call this the To Kill a Mockingbird category). And books that are decor. perhaps antique or vintage books that just look cool.

'Keepsake books should be kept more remotely with your other sentimental items and not on the bookshelf. Reference books basically have no value. We focus on how hard to get and how expensive. Airport novels like the Da Vinci Code typically do not need to be kept. For children's books, many might be childhood keepsakes and should live with sentimental items.'

Soreff recommends keeping books flush with the edge of the shelf. He says, 'If not, random items tend to just accumulate.'

Arrange books horizontally and vertically to add interest, using book ends to contain them. Intersperse with decor to break up rows of spines. Soreff adds, 'A good rule of thumb is for books to take up no more than 40% of a shelf with the rest being decor, photos or plants.'

Learn more about stylishly decorating with books and how to reduce visual clutter in bedrooms by only keeping the book you're reading out on the nightstand.

9. Scattered collections

Collections look best when grouped together.

Toner says, 'Displaying an entire collection without a dedicated case can look like scattered clutter. Individual pieces can lose their impact and often create a busy look.

'Instead, invest in a display case for collectibles to keep them contained.'

This Homein Curio Display Cabinet from Wayfair is a great way to display larger collectables like trophies, while Toner recommends this Snail Store Shot Glass Display Case from Amazon.

Check out our decluttering tips for collectors and hoarders.

10. Too many plants

Plants add freshness, but too many can overwhelm.

Toner says, 'While plants are great for decor, having too many on a shelf can make it look crowded. Different shapes, sizes, and planters can also create a busy look if they don’t coordinate well.

'Limit to one or two larger plants instead of several small ones. Group plants in similar pots – like these Gepege Beaded Ceramic Planters from Amazon – or use this AUGOSTA 3-Tier Plant Stand from Amazon to add height and variety without overcrowding.

For more tips, check out our guide to the best indoor houseplants.

11. Too many photos

Family photos are lovely, but too many frames can look cluttered.

Will Cotter, owner of HappyCleans, says, 'A shelf overloaded with frames can look busy. It also makes it hard to appreciate any one photo. Plus, it’s tough to dust around each frame, too!

'Narrow down your collection to a few key photos that mean the most to you. It’s even better if you use thinner frames or a single-shelf frame for a sleeker look. If you have money to splurge or want to gift someone, get a digital picture frame. You can rotate photos (as many as you want!) without the clutter. Other family members can even add theirs, too.'

Cotter recommends these Mantello 5x7 Picture Frame Set from Amazon for slick, thin frames, and this Skylight Digital Picture Frame from Amazon, which has touch-screen technology.

12. Dirt and dust

Dust instantly detracts from even the best-arranged shelf.

Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids, says, 'Believe it or not, having dirty shelves makes them look cluttered and smaller, especially after months of not being properly cleaned.

'Once you clean and even polish them, they will look bigger and reflect more light. You can use a slightly damp cloth with 1 – 2 drops of dish soap, dry with a clean cloth, and wipe again but with a tiny bit of beeswax for extra shine.'

Evans recommends this Howard Products Feed-N-Wax Wood Polish from Amazon, adding, 'I’ve found using a tiny bit goes a long way, protecting wood as well as adding extra shine.'

Check out our guide on how to dust open shelves without damaging your belongings.

So there you have it – 12 things that always make your shelves look cluttered, plus what to do instead. By addressing these common clutter creators, you’ll transform your shelves into a clean, attractive display that enhances the room rather than detracting from it.

Next, check out these 10 things professional organizers wish we would stop doing.

In winter, finding ways to keep a house cozy can often feel like an almost impossible task.

From radiators to log-burners, solutions are often expensive and, failing that, ineffective – particularly if you live in an older, or high-ceiling home. But, what if you could increase the insulation of your space, without breaking the bank?

Here, HVAC experts explain how to use your curtain ideas to keep your home toasty, without increasing your energy bills.

Curtain hacks for a warmer winter

1. Choose heavier fabrics

Just like clothing, opting for heavier fabrics for your living room curtain ideas or bedroom curtain ideas will help keep your home warmer.

Al Fouz, owner of Abaco Air Experts in Jacksonville, explains, 'To keep your home warmer in winter, opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or wool for your curtains.

'I've seen how even clients in less frigid climates benefit from these materials. They serve as insulating barriers, much like how properly maintained HVAC united preserve indoor temperature.'

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. Use magnetic strips or wooden pelmets

While you may consider pelmets a dated window treatment to avoid, they are an effective way to keep your home cozy. And, if you are really opposed to them, Malak Bellajdel, interior designer and current consultant for Metal Plex, who was recognized as one of Interior Design Magazine's '30 Under 30 Top Designers' in 2023, suggests magnetic strips.

She says, 'On those windy days where your curtains blow slightly, and where the heat floats away, you can use magnetic strips (such as the Blackout Blind Accessory 12 Pair Magnetic Closure with Adhesive for Blackout Curtains available at Amazon) along the top edge of your curtains to stick them to metal window frames.

'For wooden frames, using a simple wooden pelmet works wonders.'

3. Add curtain reflectors

Curtain reflectors work by reflecting your indoor heat back into the room, helping to keep warm air inside, rather than letting it be lost through the window.

Francis Kaspar, HVAC technician at The Chill Brothers, explains, 'They can be a game-changer, especially for older windows that might not be doing their fair share for insulation. Just attach them to your existing curtains, and you're all set.'

For this, Kaspar recommends the Warm Window Insulated Fabric available at The Warm Company, as 'it can keep up to 95% of heat from slipping out the window.'

4. Consider window insulation

HVAC expert Fouz recommends considering window insulation to help your curtains do their job better this winter.

He says, 'For those conscious about air quality, consider window treatments that integrate eco-friendly materials.' This not only helps to cut energy bills, but is also a great way to be sustainable at home.

HVAC expert Kaspar recommends the 3M Indoor Window Insulation available at Amazon, 'A bit of a bonus tip – it goes on your windows and works wonders when paired with thick curtains. This combo will block drafts and save energy!'

5. Layer your curtains

We love layering in interior design, and layering your large window curtain ideas not only looks great, it's practical and affordable, too.

Colin Matei, owner and president of Clean Air Heating & Cooling, says, 'Layering curtains is a practical method that adds not just to the aesthetic but also improves the thermal barrier.

'I recommend a doubled-up approach where a sheer curtain is combined with a heavier thermal layer. This traps air between the layers and acts as an insulating pocket.'

6. Choose longer curtains

Wondering how long curtains should be? Well, if it's warmth you're after, opt for longer, says interior designer Bellajdel.

She says, 'Let your curtains lightly touch the floor or even puddle slightly. Go for two to three inches longer than needed and just make sure they're not so long they become a tripping hazard.'

Conquer how to measure for curtains, and purchase ones with some extra length. This can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, and trap any drafts which may come through the window.

Caulk, such as the GE Momentive Performance Materials GE286 Advanced Silicone 2 Kitchen & Bath Sealant available at Amazon, can also be used to seal gaps in windows and stop cold air leaks. Just make sure you know the places you shouldn't caulk around windows before getting started – basically any moving parts.

7. Add thermal insulated lining

If you don't want to splurge on any new modern curtain ideas, HVAC expert Kaspar suggests insulated liners, instead. He says, 'Insulated liners clip right onto the back of your current curtains. They're like a secret later that works to trap heat inside.'

Kaspar recommends the Thermalogic Ultimate Thermal Energy Saving Blackout Window Curtain Liner available at Amazon, which fits with all curtain styles, as they are, 'simple to install, add weight, and are great at keeping rooms toasty.'

FAQs

Does keeping curtains closed keep heat in during winter?

Simply keeping your curtains closed in winter is a great way to keep your house warm without turning up the heat, helping you to save money at home.

High-quality curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 40%, particularly if they are floor length. Keeping thermal curtains closed will also increase their efficacy.

Still looking for ways to keep a poorly insulated house warm? Why not try using window film or heaters to keep your home feeling comfortable and cozy.

The festive season is just around the corner and if you're anything like us, Christmas shopping has been at the forefront of your mind for some time already. It can often be tricky to find the perfect present for a loved one who has a passion you might not be so familiar with, like gardening, for example.

The keen gardener in your life might seem to already have all the essential gardening tools they could ever need, but take it from the Gardens team here at Homes & Gardens - a gardener's wish list is never truly empty.

That's why we've curated the ultimate list of Christmas gifts for gardeners to help you out. Whether you're looking for something to gift a friend with cut flower garden or know someone with something missing in their plant care kit, we've pulled together some of the prettiest (and most practical) items on the market this festive season that any plant enthusiast would be delighted to receive.

15 stylish gifts for gardeners

Indoor plant-lovers, keen vegetable garden growers and even those who are just getting started with gardening will love these stunning gardening gifts. There's something for every gardener in our Christmas gift guide, and each item is as beautiful as it is functional. Here are our 15 hand-picked gifts for gardeners:

There's no denying that any gardening enthusiast would be pleased to receive one of these gifts for gardeners, both for their aesthetic appeal and practical use. Why not pair an item from this list with one of the best home gifts to create the ultimate Christmas package this year? If you're in need of some more holiday shopping inspiration, we have plenty of Christmas content for you to explore.

If you want to keep your yard and home vibrant and bright throughout the holiday season, planting paperwhites (Narcissus papyraceus) is an elegant option. And to ensure the best blooms from this plant throughout the festive season, planting them at the right time is essential.

Popular for their chic appearance and as one of the best fragrant bulbs to plant to create a lasting scent throughout the season, paperwhites make an ideal addition to any Christmas display. Plus, they make a lovely Christmas gift for gardeners.

Whether you're growing paperwhites in a jar or planting them in your garden, this is how to get the timing right to make the most of their blooms, according to experts. I've listed tips to help you recognize when conditions are just right for planting, too.

When to plant paperwhites: the ideal time

Paperwhites are typically planted in the fall or early winter, depending on the growing zone and whether they’re being grown indoors or outdoors.

For the best results with paperwhites, it's important to plan your planting time around the desired bloom time, keeping in mind the season and environment.

Outdoor planting

'Paperwhites thrive outdoors in USDA hardiness zones eight to 11, where winters are mild,' explains landscaping expert and CEO of Handy Gardeners, Matthew Wilson. 'In these regions, you can generally plant them at any time from mid to late fall through winter.'

However, for the best results, plant paperwhites outdoors in the fall – ideally after the first frost but before the onset of extreme cold. This timing gives the bulbs a chance to establish their roots before temperatures drop too low.

Once planted outdoors, paperwhite bulbs typically take about four to six weeks to bloom, although this can vary depending on environmental factors such as temperature and light conditions.

Indoor planting

Since they take four to six weeks to bloom indoors, planting paperwhites indoors at the beginning of November ensures they’ll be flowering beautifully right around Christmas.

As one of the best varieties of narcissi bulbs, not only are they easy to plant and grow, but can be forced indoors during colder months.

Unlike other flowering bulbs (such as tulips or daffodils) that need a period of cold temperatures to trigger their growth cycle, paperwhite bulbs will thrive without this chilling period. Because of this, it's easy to force bulbs indoors for Christmas, meaning they can be coaxed to grow and bloom inside in pots or containers without needing a specific temperature drop. This makes them a convenient choice for indoor gardening in fall and winter, even if the environment is warm.

If you want flowering paperwhites indoors throughout the holiday season and beyond, plant new bulbs every two to three weeks from October to January to enjoy staggered blooming all winter.

Indicators that it’s time to plant

While the time of year can guide planting, environmental cues are also useful indicators that can help you determine the best time to plant paperwhites.

Soil temperature: The best indicator for planting paperwhites is the temperature of the soil. For indoor plants, you can plant them any time during the winter months when you’re ready for them to bloom, but for outdoor planting, it’s best to wait until soil temperatures drop to around 60°F, which is ideal for root development without triggering early flowering.

To monitor soil temperature, we recommend using this soil meter from Amazon, which can also measure soil PH, moisture levels, and light scale.

Seasonal frost and dew: The first frost or an increase in morning dew can signal the ideal time to plant paperwhites outdoors.

According to Matthew Wilson, the first frost indicates that temperatures are right for root development and less likely to trigger premature flowering.

Additionally, the increase in humidity from seasonal dew helps paperwhite bulbs root more quickly, promoting stronger, fuller blooms.

Natural light quality: ‘Paperwhites are light-sensitive bloomers, responding to specific wavelengths in natural light,' explains Nathan Thorne, horticulturist and CEO of Handy Flowers. 'It's not just the temperature that matters; the quality of low-angle, late-afternoon sunlight signals to the bulbs that it’s time to grow and bloom.’

So, paperwhites can be planted when the low-angle late afternoon begins to shift, which will typically happen in the fall, when the days shorten and the angle of the sun changes, triggering the bulbs to start growing.

Seasonal plant transitions: 'As summer-blooming perennials – like daylilies – die back, nutrients in the soil rebalance,' explains Nathan Thorne. 'This nutrient shift creates a fertile environment ideal for establishing paperwhites, enhancing root growth and bloom quality.'

By observing these timing cues and planting accordingly, you can enjoy vibrant paperwhite blooms indoors or outdoors throughout the holiday season.

Matthew Wilson leaves one final tip: 'To perfect your paperwhite blooms, consider using temperature zones in your home to control their blooming schedule. The 'temperature tweak' method allows you to adjust the temperature to manage the timing and extend the flowering period.

'For the first week, place your bulbs in a cool spot (55-60°F) to help them root slowly. After they establish roots, move them to a warmer area (65-70°F) to encourage blooms. Once they start flowering, shift them back to a cooler location to slow the process and extend their bloom time, ensuring fresh flowers last longer.'

Last winter, I looked around the living room one day and thought, it looks like an explosion in a toy factory in here. That overwhelm crept up on me multiple times in the colder months as my family naturally spent more time indoors.

After one too many days of utter chaos, I made some changes to our daily habits and it thankfully brought the mess under control, and this winter, things are much more organized. It's especially important as I am a busy mom in chronic pain and need my house to work for me, without a pain flare daily.

Here are five of my top tidying tips that keep my home organized all winter long, and how you can use them to great effect in your home, too, whether you have pain or not!

1. Use drop zones

In a dream world with all home organizing golden rules followed 24/7, we'd put everything away immediately. But that's not reality, is it? Certainly not in my busy little house, anyway. And sometimes, I am just in too much physical pain from my health conditions to move an inch.

That's why drop zones are vital in our home. These are strategically placed baskets to hold a bunch of items that need moving from one place to the next, or dedicated organizers to keep a little corner of chaos at bay.

Karina Toner, operations manager and professional cleaner at Spekless says, 'For anyone dealing with chronic pain, the last thing you want is to make multiple trips up and down stairs. Drop zones consolidate items so they stay contained, until you’re ready to put them away.

This works even better if you set a regular schedule for clearing out the drop zone be it daily or weekly, depending on how much clutter typically gets collected, to avoid these areas becoming cluttered 'catch-all' spots in the home.

In my home, one drop zone is on our stairs to keep the items we need to take upstairs looking neat and tidy until one of us goes upstairs and is cleared multiple times a day.

Professional organizer Ashley Hines of Thee Tailored Life calls this an 'elevator basket. She explains, 'It’s our catch-all for items that need to go up or down from the main floor, making organization a breeze! It’s typically filled with kids’ clothing shed throughout the day or paperwork headed to the upstairs office. This simple system has made a big difference!

The other is a tray, such as a small acacia tray on Amazon, in my office to gather up my many coffee cups and plates in one spot till I'm ready to take them downstairs to the kitchen at the end of my work day.

I also have a mail organizer, such as a wall-mounted wall organizer on Wayfair, for incoming mail that has been read, but not yet been sorted away or anonymized and recycled. We do this once a month, when it gets full.

I use a bestselling stamp anonymizer from Amazon to avoid identify thieves using my discarded paperwork causing havoc and fraud on my credit file.

2. Everybody does their bit

Once upon a time, I carried the mental load of our entire household. That meant thinking, worrying and sorting out the majority of our decluttering, cleaning, organizing and anything to do with our daughter's clothes, bedroom and toys. In our house, that meant organizing high-traffic areas, tidying up daily, and deciding when it was time to declutter, sell or donate things I decluttered from the kitchen and bathroom.

But last year, at the start of my daughter's school year, I had a long chat with my husband and we agreed to split that mental load.

Karina says, 'I love this idea and always personally recommend it to others as well. This truly relieves the mental load and makes it easier to keep up with daily tidying, so the house stays more organized without all the responsibility falling on just one person.'

When it came to our daughter, she is only eight, but has some age appropriate responsibilities, as excluding her is something people with tidy homes never do.

We now use a chore chart with five things she does or organizes when she comes home from school, which is stuck on our fridge, including reading, math games, putting her uniform in our laundry organizer (a great way to keep laundry organized), and putting her coat, shoes and school bag away. If she ever feels overwhelms, she knows to ask for help and we give it.

Karina adds, 'This simplifies the 'coming home' routine by giving kids one clear spot to stow their essentials. Setting them up for success with this simple organization system helps them take on these tasks confidently and builds a solid foundation for more responsibilities down the road. I recommend this freestanding shoe and coat rack from Amazon.'

I also have a magnetic shopping list and white board on our fridge to keep track of items for our weekly grocery shop, to help us avoid food waste. It's something every fridge needs to stay organized if you ask me.

Everyone has their part to play and it's helped immensely. It's especially important in our house as I have a number of chronic health issues that leave me seriously injured with dislocation, suffering burning nerve pain and extreme fatigue.

Ashley adds it's important for everyone in the household to have appropriate responsibilities. She says, 'This builds a healthy sense of contribution, not only to your family but eventually to a broader community. I often remind my kids that while I’m here to support our home and manage what they can’t, I’m not here to clean up after them. For couples, tools like the Fair Play Game, available on Amazon, are invaluable for initiating conversations about sharing the mental load of household tasks.'

3. Tidy away before next activity

As part of my daughter's good habit building, we implemented a tidying rule for her that is non-negotiable. She has to clear away her activity before starting a new one.

Ashley says consistency is critical for chilren's activities, adding, 'Everything has a designated spot, so kids know where to return items after use. We emphasize cleaning up before transitioning to another activity to prevent being overwhelmed and frustrated. This system helps them manage their space and keeps games and puzzles intact for continued enjoyment.'

We have boxes of Lego, crafts, and puzzles, under our sofas in the living room in clear storage bins she can easily pull in and out and that's part of our household's daily routine – a good way to organize board games.

Karina adds, 'This habit is great to build. It helps keeps clutter under control by making tidying simply part of the routine. For families, it’s especially effective because toys, crafts, and work items can add up fast and easily become overwhelming.'

Karina also recommends budget-friendly under-bed storage bags from Amazon, which you can also use under sofas like I do. She says, 'These storage bags are typically slim and designed to slide easily under most beds, making them easily accessible but also tucked away and out of sight.'

I couldn't agree more! Doing this helps us avoid clutter overwhelm and clutter blindness.

4. Pick up and place rule

This one is easy peasy. If you can pick up and place an object back in it's home now, don't delay. Just do it. Grab that cup from the table and put it in the dishwasher, take that laundry upstairs, or pop that jar back in the pantry. If you can't quite manage to get it to its proper home, getting it in front of the right cabinet, or room is good enough.

The idea is even getting an object picked up and placed near its home is better than leaving it where it is right now, and further from where it eventually needs to go.

Karina adds, 'This rule is deceptively simple but very effective, especially if chronic pain makes larger cleaning sessions tough. Even small actions like moving an item closer to its destination as you pass by can really make a big difference.

'I personally keep a rolling cart from Amazon by our hallway closet, whenever I see something that’s out of place, I can just toss it in the cart instead of making a separate trip right away. It’s like a mobile 'drop zone'. I just roll the cart room to room, putting items back in their places in one efficient trip.

'You can also use this for tip #1 about using drop zones: simply gather up items throughout the day, whether it’s books, toys, or mail that needs sorting and you can easily move it from one room to another by the end of the day or week.'

I'm definitely stealing the rolling cart idea.

The shift in mindset from perfection to good enough can also be a game-changer for busy households. Ashley explains, 'Embracing things being “good enough” is essential. The goal of living organized is not perfection but the ability to locate what you need when you need it. I stand by the saying: Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. Striving for functional and practical systems is far more achievable and stress-free than pursuing flawlessness.

5. The 30-second rule

I think this is my favorite one and really transformed how I deal with organizing things in my home. If you can complete a household chore or task in less than 30 seconds, don't delay, just do it.

I tried the 30-second rule for chores and it was like magic.

Karina explains, 'Setting a mental time limit is one of the best ways to get started on organizing because it makes the task feel more manageable. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a seemingly endless to-do list, you’re committing to just a small chunk of time – 30 seconds – which is easy to tackle.

'By doing quick, regular sessions, you’re gradually chipping away at clutter, and each session can often times yield visible results, which is incredibly motivating.'

There you have it! None of my tips are time-consuming and they're low energy, low effort and totally impactful during the winter months when we're all stuck inside. Best of all, none of them trigger a pain flare that'll knock me for six. Hurrah!

Ashley Hines, pro organizer agrees, adding, 'Living organized doesn’t have to be stressful. It should naturally integrate into your routine. When you create systems that align with your family’s natural flow, organization becomes part of your lifestyle, not an additional task. It simplifies life and complements the habits you already have.'

Next, delve into our in-depth guides on home organizing ideas and the tidying rules professional organizers want us to ignore. I've also dug deep for the tidying tips I know at nearly 40, that I wish I'd known in my 20s.

A bedroom should feel like a sanctuary, but clutter can make it stressful instead of soothing.

Our home organizing experts have revealed exactly what's causing your bedroom to feel chaotic – plus how to tackle these common clutter culprits such as piles of clothes, excessive bedding and visible cords, for a more serene space.

Armed with our top tidying tips professional organizers swear by, you'll soon have a clutter-free bedroom you'll love to return to each evening.

1. Overflowing nightstands

Nightstands packed with books, electronics, or miscellaneous items create visual clutter in the bedroom.

Organization expert Amanda Scott, founder of Amanda Scott Home, says, 'If you’re like most people, your nightstand is a collection of books and magazines you mean to read. Add loose change, crumpled bills, old receipts, prescription pills and a cup or two – before you know it, your most restful space is a chaos of clutter.

'Instead of letting your nightstand be a catchall, make it intentional. Keep only essential items at hand, such as one book or magazine, a small tray for everyday accessories, hand lotion and lip balm, plus restrict yourself to just one personal item: a candle, a photo or a flower in a vase. A bedside table with a drawer is advisable for its concealed storage.'

This Crichlow Clear & Gold Glass Table Vase from Wayfair looks great and – at less than 10 inches tall and 5 inches wide – does not take up too much space.

Professional organizer Francesca Verri says, 'The nightstand tends to collect a lot of visual clutter. I recommend making it a goal to leave only the book you are currently reading out on the surface. Adding more to the mix not only clutters the space, but having stacks of books you hope to read can psychologically leave you feeling pressured, stressed and unworthy. Your bedroom is not place for feeling stressed.'

For other items, Verri recommends these Poeland Drawer Organizer Trays from Amazon. If you don't have a drawer, Verri suggests this SANZIE Luxury Leather Tray Catchall Organizer from Amazon. She adds, 'Doing this leaves the space feeling tidy, even if the items inside the basket or tray fit different categories.'

2. Piles of clothes

Whether draped over chairs or piled on the floor, clothes can make a bedroom feel chaotic.

Scott says, 'At the end of the day, when all you want to do is get in bed, throwing clothes on the floor seems like the quickest way to achieve your goal. But this habit creates a sea of visual clutter, and is a tripping hazard to wake up to in the morning.

'To tackle this, utilize vertical space with hooks for hanging items, such as bags, scarves and hats. Have a laundry basket in your room to toss dirty clothes. Keep another decorative basket by the door for shoes or items that landed in the bedroom, but need relocating – such as this Highline Elephant Grass Basket from Roan Iris. Changing this habit will not only keep the floors clear, but also ensures you don't lose or misplace items.'

This Ludmilla Round Tall Water Hyacinth Woven Wicker Laundry Hamper has carry handles and a removable bag – plus, its wicker blends seamlessly into most bedrooms.

Verri says, 'Dirty clothes is something I commonly see on bedroom floors. It's usually caused by a bottleneck because there isn’t a clearly-designated spot for those clothes that's in close proximity to the items in need of it.

'I advise all my clients to ensure everyone has their own laundry basket. This makes it easier for each family member to stay tidy and makes doing laundry more streamlined. I suggest using a simple basket like this SAMMART 42L Collapsible Plastic Laundry Basket from Amazon – something that's not too big, so filling it won't result in hours of laundry.'

For more, check out these six organizing tips to make laundry easier.

3. Excessive bedding

Too many blankets, pillows, and throws can overwhelm your bed and make your room look busy.

Professional organizer and founder of Let Your Space Bloom, Amy Bloomer, says, 'Your linens should be fresh, crisp and clean as you sleep in them every night. Wash your sheets weekly, your pillows annually and treat yourself to new ones when they get stained, torn or too thin. Bring old blankets and pillows to your local animal shelter or zoo. If you don't have a linen closet and need extra linen storage, try a storage bench at the end of your bed, which also provides extra seating.'

Bloomer recommends this Kosas Home Anders Storage Bench from Perigold, which has a flip top and comes with a 30-day warranty.

Check out our guide to the popular 'Cloud Bed Recipe' which promises fluffier sheets and comfier sleep.

4. Crowded walls

Too much wall decor or an overabundance of photos can make a room feel confined.

Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids, says, 'Having too much wall decor in your bedroom can create a sense of clutter. It's best to stick to three or four items – anything more than five is going to feel cluttered. Using matching frames – such as the Mainstays Photo Frame Set of 4 from Walmart – can add a tidy sense of consistency.'

Choose a few favorite pieces and create one main focal point. Keep other walls clean for a balanced, airy look.

Steven Ip, founder of Cleanzen Boston Cleaning Services, says, 'When posters, photos, or artwork are scattered across several walls, it can create a sense of clutter that distracts the eye. Instead, focus on arranging these items in one dedicated area or in a designated frame, such as this RÖDALM Frame for 5 Pictures from Ikea or these QDSSDECO White Wood Poster Frames from Amazon.'

5. Visible cords

Tangled cords from chargers, lamps, or electronics are distracting.

Scott says, 'If a tangle of cords for lamps and chargers is creating a messy environment, consider using a cable management box – such as this Bluelounge CableBox from The Container Store – to conceal them.

'And if you keep your phone by your bed, use cord clips – such as these PRUNLLA Cord Anchors from Amazon – to keep the charging cable from falling down.'

6. Too much surface decor

Whether on nightstands, dressers or makeup vanities, displaying too many decorative items can create a cluttered look overall.

Jon Christensen, CEO of home improvement hub Bidmii, says, 'One common culprit in bedroom clutter is having too many decorative items on surfaces. Small decor pieces can quickly crowd the room and make it feel visually overwhelming.

'Instead, I recommend selecting one or two impactful pieces for each surface, such as a single vase or a favorite framed photo, to keep things stylish without overloading the space. For example, the Prisma Picture Frame from Umbra – which comes in black, chrome or matte-brass – offers a sleek design that adds elegance without contributing to clutter.'

You can also rotate pieces seasonally to keep things fresh without overcrowding. For more ideas, check out how to design a bedroom like a luxury hotel.

7. Open storage

Open storage can easily become cluttered if items aren’t organized well.

Christensen says, 'Some open storage solutions – though they may seem functional – actually make a room look chaotic, since a mix of items are in plain view. Closed storage – like drawers or wardrobes – can make a big difference by keeping things out of sight and creating a cleaner, more streamlined look. The BRIMNES Two-Door Wardrobe from IKEA is an affordable option that provides ample storage while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.'

See how an Amazon storage gem keeps bedroom clutter out of sight and the small bedroom storage mistakes – and how to fix them.

8. An unmade bed

An unmade bed instantly makes a bedroom appear messy.

Verri says, 'This is the easiest tip to not only start each day on an organized note but to create serenity in your bedroom – and yet people still roll their eyes at me when I tell them it’s an imperative to order. An unmade bed is a perfect example of visual clutter. The good news is you can easily control it!

'I tell my clients this isn’t about making a bed perfectly. It is about simply straightening the sheets, comforter and pillows. When you do, you are more likely to keep the other flat surfaces in the space clear of clutter. Just like clutter breeds clutter, order breeds order.'

Take a minute each morning to make your bed – it’s a small habit that makes a big impact on overall tidiness and one of the things super organized people do every day.

So there you have it – eight things that always make a bedroom look cluttered, plus what to do instead. By addressing these clutter-prone areas, you can transform your bedroom into a peaceful retreat where you can fully unwind.

Next, check out these bedroom layout ideas – 15 ways to make the most of your space.

Your kitchen is the heart of your home – a space for cooking, entertaining and spending time with your loved ones. But, with so much use, it's no surprise that it can quickly slide into being messy and cluttered.

If this is a problem you feel yourself regularly contending with, it could be down to the things you keep in your kitchen, and particularly, the ones you keep on display. From appliances to overflowing dish racks, professional cleaners and organizers share their advice on the things that always make your kitchen look cluttered – and what to do about it.

So, if you're dealing with a chaotic space these tips to spot what to declutter in your kitchen from our experts will help you streamline your space with ease.

11 things that always make your kitchen look cluttered

1. Small appliances left on the counter

While you may love displaying your retro small appliances, they may be one of the things making your kitchen look cluttered, warns Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless, which is why leaving them out is one of the things people with tidy kitchens never do.

'Small appliances, like best toasters, best blenders and best coffee makers often take up valuable counter space, making the kitchen look busy and unorganized,' she says. 'Instead, store these appliances in cabinets or pantry shelves when not in use.

'If space is tight, consider creating a dedicated appliance corner, where everything is neatly arranged, but avoid letting them spread across the kitchen.'

Electrical appliances are items never to store on top of the refrigerator, so bear this in mind when choosing where to keep yours.

2. Excessive utensil holders

Utensils and utensil holders are a kitchen necessity, but it's important to take stock of what you have and decide whether you can declutter some.

'Having too many utensils in jars or canisters on the counter can create visual chaos,' says cleaning expert Toner. 'A large assortment of spatulas, spoons, and whisks can make the space feel cluttered, even if they are neatly grouped together.'

Instead, Toner recommends keeping only your most frequently used utensils in a single container on the counter. Then, store the rest in a drawer organizer, such as the Pipishell Bamboo Expandable Drawer Organizer for Utensils Holder available at Amazon, or keep them accessible but out of sight in a cabinet, if you're wondering how to organize kitchen utensils or where to put utensils in a kitchen without drawers.

3. Open shelving full of mismatched items

While you might love open shelving for an eclectic look in your kitchen, and I know I definitely do, if maximalist decor ideas aren't the look you're going for, these things could be making your kitchen appear cluttered. To avoid this, follow the golden rules of organizing open shelving in a kitchen.

'While open shelving is trendy, it can make a kitchen look messy when filled with mismatched items or things that aren't neatly arranged,' says cleaning expert Toner. 'This creates visual clutter.'

Instead, curate the items, and only display items that are both cohesive and visually pleasing, such as matching dishes or decorative glass jars, advises Toner.

'Keep functional but unattractive items stored away in cabinets,' she adds.

4. Mail

Want to know how to organize mail? Mail is a household item which often piles up, leading to a scattered and chaotic look that makes your kitchen look disorganized.

'Set up a designated mail sorting station with trays or folders, or immediately process the mail by tossing junk, filing important documents, and paying bills,' says professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized Di Ter Avest. 'A wall-mounted command center can also keep papers off surfaces, further enhancing the organized feel of your kitchen.'

5. Refrigerator magnets

'A refrigerator covered in magnets, papers, and coupons is a classic clutter culprit,' warns cleaning expert Toner. 'It can make the whole kitchen feel chaotic, even if the counters are spotless.'

While you may wish to display magnet souvenirs or photos on your fridge, limit what you choose to put up, to keep your space looking streamline.

'Create a designated space elsewhere in the kitchen, like a bulletin board or a family command center, for important papers, menus, and lists.'

6. Overflowing dish racks

We're all guilty of delaying putting away dishes, either from our best dishwasher or after using some expert tips for washing dishes, but professional cleaner Toner urges that you tidy these away as soon as possible.

She says, 'A dish rack piled high with dishes can give the impression that the kitchen is constantly in use and untidy, even if it's just a matter of drying the dishes. Try to put away dishes as soon as they are dry, and avoid letting them accumulate. If possible, tuck the dish rack away under the sink or in a cabinet when not in use.'

If your dishes are usually wet after running your dishwasher, use a tea towel, such as the Mainstays Woven Kitchen Towel Set available at Walmart to quickly dry them off.

7. Jars and containers of food

'Counters crowded with jars of pasta, spices, or other dry goods can create a cluttered look,' says cleaning expert Toner. 'Even if neatly arranged, too many jars or food containers on display can overwhelm the space.'

Instead, store food items in pantry shelves or cabinets, and use shelf risers, such as the Kusmil Expandable Cabinet Space Riser available at Walmart to maximise your space, which are one of the kitchen organizing products our editors can't live without.

'If you prefer displaying some jars, limit it to a few cohesive, decorative containers, and keep the rest out of sight,' adds Toner.

8. Random items on top of the fridge or cabinets

There are items never to store on top of the refrigerator, and professional organizer Ter Avest warns against putting most things up there – they're one of the things pro organizers immediately notice in a messy home.

'Storing random or bulky items like cereal boxes, small appliances, or decor on top of the fridge or cabinets gives the kitchen a cluttered, unfinished look,' she says.

For a curated look, Ter Avest recommends clearing the top of your fridge and cabinets, or using the space for decorative items, or for practical storage with baskets, such as the Honey-Can-Do STO-02882 Nesting Banana Leaf Baskets available at Amazon, that match the kitchen's style.

'Avoid using this space for everyday items, and keep it limited to what adds value to the kitchen's overall aesthetic,' she says.

9. Too many decorative items

Just like covering your fridge in magnets, while decorative items can add a touch of flair and personality to your kitchen, it's important not to overdo it.

'Decorative touches like vases, candles, or figurines are lovely, but too many of them can make the kitchen feel overcrowded and cluttered,' says cleaning expert Toner.

'Keep decorative items minimal and functional. For example, opt for a single vase of flowers or a stylish fruit bowl, and remove any non-essential decorative pieces.'

For examples, our decorative kitchen ideas showcase how you can tastefully add character, not clutter, to your space.

10. Bulk buying overflow

While bulk buying is a great way to save money at home, excess products which don't fit in your cabinets can create visual clutter.

'Bulk purchases like large bags of flour, rice, or snacks that can’t fit into cabinets often end up piled on counters or tucked into corners, creating an unsightly mess,' says cleaning expert Toner. 'Invest in proper storage containers that fit in your pantry or cabinets to break down bulk items.' Make use of pantry storage ideas and pantry organization ideas to get on top of the latest pantry trends.

'Alternatively, store overflow items in a secondary storage space, like a garage or basement,' adds Toner, using air-tight plastic boxes such as IRIS USA 13 Qt Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids available at Amazon to keep your food safe from pests.

11. Mismatched or overcrowded countertop storage

When organizing kitchen countertops it can be difficult to know where to start, and you may need to rethink your kitchen countertop ideas.

'Cluttering the countertop with various storage solutions like baskets, trays, or bowls – especially if they don't match – can create visual disarray,' warns cleaning expert Toner.

'Stick to a few streamlined, matching containers for storing items on the counters, and keep them grouped together in one area.' We recommend the JoyJolt 12-Piece Glass Storage Jars with Airtight Lids available at Wayfair, which are available in six sizes for curated countertops.

'Avoid letting them spread across the entire kitchen,' advises Toner.

These cozy kitchen ideas are perfect for creating a warm and welcoming kitchen, even in winter.

When it comes to organizing your home, not all storage solutions are created equal. While some products bring peace and order – others can actually attract more clutter and chaos.

From accordion file folders to vacuum storage bags, pro organizers reveal the nine items they wish you wouldn't spend your hard-earned money on, while explaining what to invest in instead.

Armed with the products professional organizers can't live without, you'll soon be relaxing in a sea of organizational tranquility.

1. Accordion file folders

Accordion files seem like a space-saving way to store important papers, but they usually end up crammed with old, dusty documents – making it difficult to locate important papers.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'This is the all-time worst product. We want our items to not only go in easily but come out easily, but the accordion file is a nightmare in that regard.

'All storage solutions should be flexible and allow us to adapt. The accordion file is fixed and does not allow for a category to grow. Like binders, they create a sense of permanency for paper we probably don't need to hold on to anyway.'

Instead, consider investing in a filing cabinet such as this Ayani 7-Drawer Mobile Storage File Cabinet from Wayfair – or labeled hanging file folders. This method keeps documents sorted, accessible, and in better condition without the hassle of dealing with an overfilled accordion folder.

2. Huge storage bins

Large plastic bins may seem like an ideal solution for storing bulky items, but they often become catch-all containers that make finding things challenging. Overfilling them makes them heavy and awkward to manage.

Soreff says, 'Huge storage bins often seem like a great answer, with people thinking, I will put everything I own in this giant bin and be done. But that isn't organizing – that's just hiding stuff and hoping it will go away. Think about four huge dark bins stored in your attic. Whatever is in that bottom bin – you are never getting it out again.'

Instead, Soreff recommends opting for smaller, clear storage bins that can be stacked and labeled – such as these IRIS USA Stackable Plastic Storage Bins with Lids from Amazon, which have more than 14,000 five-star customer reviews.

This system keeps items easily visible and encourages more thoughtful, segmented storage, helping you avoid the chaos that comes with huge, overstuffed bins.

3. Baskets

While baskets can add aesthetic appeal, they tend to accumulate clutter. Items thrown in them get jumbled and disorganized, making it hard to locate what you need.

Soreff explains, 'In terms of ease of use, inboxes and baskets seem awesome – I put something in and feel done. But what if we ever want to see that item again? If you ever have a basket containing more then one category of item, forget about it – it is simply a black hole.'

Opt instead for clear or labeled storage containers with lids, especially for small items. These provide visibility and ensure your belongings stay organized and easy to find. These Peaknip Sterilite 6 Quart Lightweight Plastic Storage Bins with Lids, available from Amazon, are stackable and easy to label.

Soreff adds, 'In the end, baskets with handles are horrible organizers and are better treated like decor. If you think they are pretty, focus on that and not as some magic answer to storage.'

For related tips, check out these seven things people with tidy homes never do.

4. Vacuum storage bags

Vacuum storage bags promise to save space but can easily tear, and the vacuum-sealed contents tend to expand over time, undoing the compression.

Amy Bloomer, owner of Let Your Space Bloom, says, 'While these technically do save space, there are a few big trade-offs. The contents can get severely wrinkled, they are difficult to store in aggregate because they aren't easy to stack neatly, and it's easy to forget the specific contents unless you take the time to carefully label them.

'As an alternative, I'm a huge advocate of Veno Moving Bags from Amazon. They come in many shapes and sizes, and protect the contents because they are sturdy with zippers. Many come with built-in slots for labels, which are very user-friendly, plus they're easy to stack and store neatly.'

5. Tensioned drawer dividers

Tensioned dividers often slip out of place or lose tension, resulting in a disorganized drawer. They can become more of a hassle than a help.

Bloomer says, 'While I like the idea of this product, they often don't stay in place and end up creating more harm than good. Instead, traditional drawer organizers in acrylic or bamboo are my go-tos for keeping the contents of drawers in place. They are sturdy, easy to clean and – when accurately measured and well-placed – don't shift around.

Bloomer recommends this Royal Craft Wood Luxury Bamboo Drawer Organizer Storage Box Set, available at Amazon.

6. Decorative storage boxes

Although stylish, decorative storage boxes can quickly become clutter magnets. Their lids hide the contents, making it easy to toss in random items and forget about them.

Instead, choose clear storage bins with lids, such as this six-pack of Rebrilliant Stackable Storage Bins with Lids from Wayfair, which offer both functionality and visibility. You’ll be able to see what’s inside, encouraging you to stay organized.

Check out our guide on how to maximize storage in every room.

7. Desk cord management boxes

Cord management boxes may hide unsightly cables, but they often create an inaccessible tangle, making it harder to charge devices or rearrange cables when needed.

Will Cotter, owner of FreshSpace Cleaning, says, 'Designed to hide your cords, these boxes are often bulky and can overheat if you stuff too many cables in. Look instead for velcro ties or adhesive clips, such as these Velcro One Wrap Ties from Target, or these XHF Adhesive Cord Clips from Amazon. These are easier to manage and don’t take up space.'

8. Spice racks in drawers

Drawer spice racks might seem appealing when organizing spices, but waste valuable drawer space. They crowd out other kitchen essentials like cutlery or utensils.

Cotter says, 'These take up way too much drawer space for what they do. Plus, it’s hard to get to the spices at the back. A rotating countertop rack or magnetic spice rack that sticks to the fridge both offer a better use of space and make spices easier to access when cooking.'

This HuggieGems Magnetic Spice Storage Rack from Amazon comes in more than a dozen color options. For more inspiration, check out these Japanese organization techniques for your kitchen.

9. Over-the-door shoe organizers

These organizers take up precious door space and tend to create bulk, making it hard to close the door properly. Additionally, they can end up stuffed with random items, not just shoes.

Tommy Mello, owner of A1 Garage Door Service, says, 'These multi-pocket, over-the-door shoe organizers might seem like a great solution for storing footwear or small items. However, they can quickly become a trap for hidden clutter.

'Once these pockets start to fill up, it’s easy to lose track of what’s inside. In the end, you’re left with an overstuffed, unwieldy organizer that doesn’t actually solve any storage problems. Instead of cramming everything into these organizers, opt for a clear and adjustable shelving unit.

'I recommend the Whitmor Adjustable Shoe Rack from Amazon. Its open shelves make it easy to see everything at a glance and ensure shoes are stored neatly. Plus, it can be expanded as needed, giving you flexibility to customize based on your space.'

Check out our guide on how to hide shoe clutter in small spaces for more alternatives to an over-the-door shoe organizer.

So there you have it – what pro organizers wish you wouldn't spend your money on, plus what to get instead. By avoiding these common organizing shopping pitfalls and investing in smarter, more functional alternatives, you can create a clutter-free, well-organized home without wasting money on inefficient products.

Next, check out these time-saving organizing tips.

No matter your feelings toward winter, it's hard to deny that the season is the coziest of all. For every bitter cold morning, there's a comfortable evening to be had – and throw blankets and pillows are inevitably at the center. With this in mind, Kelly Clarkson's new Wayfair collection has arrived right on cue.

The singer is no stranger to Wayfair (you may already associate her with the French Country range that launched back in April 2020). However, her latest drop draws inspiration from a zip code slightly closer to home: New York City. The collection, which pays homage to her move to the Big Apple, comprises everything from light fixtures to storage baskets, but nothing sets the tone for the season ahead quite like her textured accessories.

While these may seem like small additions, designers say that changing (or adding) these pieces is among the most impactful changes we can make, especially as we approach winter. First on the agenda: cushions.

'Give your sofa a revamp by updating your cushions. Swapping out your cushions will always give your room a refresh and add a bit of colour when you feel that you are bored with your decor,' comments designer Lisa Dawson.

'Think tactile materials such as warm fleece, soft faux fur, and thick cotton in neutral stripes, which will give your home that autumnal glow. Different shapes will add interest and draw the eye – when you’re decorating your rooms, it’s really important to have something that adds a fun element, and a cushion is a great way to do this.'

These pieces, designed by Clarkson, are the perfect starting point (and they're currently reduced for Way Day).

Next up, Dawson discusses the importance of layering – and the secret to nailing this is in the perfect throw blanket.

'One of the most important ingredients when it comes to styling your home and creating spaces that make you happy is layering. Layering your textiles not only finishes the look but also draws the eye, creating areas that are just as beautiful to look at as they are to be in,' she says.

'A soft throw is a great addition as it’s a good multitasker, working well in both the bedroom and the living room as a functional accessory. Whether it’s strewn over the sofa, folded neatly on an ottoman, or next to the bed in case of need, a cozy throw is the icing on your styling.'

Once again, Clarkson has us covered. We're adding the above throws (also reduced) to our cart today.

Since the dawn of Instagram, the home organizing space has seen a huge uptick in the demand for aesthetic storage solutions. Though trendy options can offer instant gratification, the tried and true methods are longer-lasting and can look even more stylish. Wicker baskets are the perfect example.

Wicker storage baskets are timeless, natural, and beautiful. We've always been huge fans of the Kelly Clarkson Home collection at Wayfair, and her versions of wicker baskets are some of the best on the market. They're handmade, ultra-durable, and could be used with versatilty across the home. Even better, our favorite wicker pieces from her collection are more than 50% off for the Wayfair Big Holiday Sale.

How can wicker baskets fit in your home? One of the best ways to use Clarkson's coastal chic receptacles is as a kitchen storage idea. Neil Marcus, in-house interiors expert at HomeThreads, says: 'Wicker enhances a kitchen with its timeless charm, seamlessly combining functionality and warmth. The natural texture and earthy tones of the wicker introduce a touch of nature indoors, establishing a cozy and inviting ambiance. Whether in the form of baskets or furniture, wicker adds rustic elegance, fostering a relaxed and casual atmosphere in the kitchen.'

The seagrass baskets would be perfect for cabinets or organizing kitchen countertops. Marcus states: Wicker's versatility shines in storage solutions, where baskets organize and display fruits, vegetables, or essentials, marrying practicality with visual appeal. The interplay of light and shadow on the woven surface adds depth to the kitchen decor, making wicker a stylish and enduring choice for those desiring a tasteful blend of comfort and functionality in their culinary space.'

One of our favorite ways to use them is for pantry organization is sorting sauces and jars. The long, monochrome design helps calm the noise of a variety of labels and colors. Mark the top of the jar with the items contained within to make it easy to find exactly what you're looking for every time.

The usefulness of wicker in the kitchen isn't limited to just storage. Wicker furniture can also add a storied warmth to your kitchen or dining space. It's a great method for those who love coastal decor.

Marcus recommends: 'For a surprising and eclectic kitchen seating idea, consider wicker bar or counter stools, blending functionality with a touch of bohemian flair. These unique applications contribute to a visually interesting home decor that goes beyond traditional uses, creating a cohesive and charming ambiance.'

If you can't get enough of the Kelly Clarkson-inspired look, consider how wicker or rattan decor might work in your home beyond the kitchen. Marcus suggests: 'Explore unconventional uses for wicker, such as incorporating woven storage baskets in the bathroom for towels or toiletries to add warmth to the space. In home offices, opt for wicker desk organizers or file baskets to introduce a stylish and natural element. Elevate any room's decor with the addition of a wicker-framed mirror.'

Kelly Clarkson wasn't the first to use a wicker basket for storage in her kitchen, but it's always good to have a reminder that sometimes the most classic styles are the best ones.

Classic farmhouse kitchens have long attracted designers and their celebrity clients alike – but with their traditonal look comes the challenge of making it work in a modern home. This is where we can take notes from Kourtney Kardashian.

Designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Kourtney Kardashian's industrial farmhouse kitchen is a modern classic – from its neutral tones of cream and abundance of wood to its old-money-style glass-fronted cabinets. The space is an almost perfect celebration of this decorating aesthetic, with one exception: mixed metals.

The combination of metals, seen on the cooker hood, backsplash, and through Kardashian's refrigerator, brings an industrial feel to the otherwise warm space – instantly making the farmhouse style more accessible to a modern home. Unsurprisingly, therefore, designers say we can learn a lot from this technique.

For the ultimate mixed-metal statement, this high-tech fridge, complete with a pefect silver finish, is currently reduced on Wayfair.

'Farmhouse Kitchens are morphing and modernizing into more contemporary spaces, thanks to the popularity of “Old English” & “California Coastal” aesthetics,' begins Sarah Storms, a designer from Styled by Storms.

'Though some steadfast characteristics still remain – such as large farmhouse sinks, living brass hardware or light fixtures, beadboard, butcher block, and textural stone or brick – the biggest change in the farmhouse aesthetic is letting the stainless steel speak for itself.' The first lesson we can take from Kardashian's space is how she integrates the refrigerator to complement the similar metal kitchen backsplash.

'A great example of how to achieve this look is through the appliances in your kitchen. I love Sub-Zero’s Classic Series Refrigeration and the Cove Dishwasher, which offer an industrial, professional look with sleek stainless-steel doors,' Storms says. 'The best part is that while they do have a commercial edge, the blend of stainless steel with cabinetry creates a contemporary vibe that feels fresh and modern.' This

Combining different finishes (for example, brushed or oil-rubbed metals with matte metals) is another way to bring this look into your kitchen, as Cathleen Ryan, the design manager at Country Kitchens, explains.

'Mix metals in your backsplash by using copper or stainless-steel tile options, or combine metallic and stone materials to add to the industrial feel,' she says. 'Plus, bringing in metal lighting and ceiling fans, updating hardware and hinging to more rustic metals, including metal framed furniture, light fixtures, open shelving with exposed brackets, and even updating window trim can all update a farmhouse design.'

Similarly, we can buy into the mixed-metal aesthetic with these buys below.

'Some other ways to make your farmhouse kitchen feel more contemporary are by adding feet to give the cabinets or other items in the kitchen a more furniture-like appearance, replacing standard white paint or backsplash for a more rustic look, incorporating more wood tones and neutral colors (stay away from anything too bright),' Ryan adds.

'Focus on user-friendliness and functionality- don't be afraid to leave some 'raw edges.'

Fall is here and it's the perfect time to revamp your tool kit. Whether you need a new planter or trowel for planting spring bulbs, need something to help you clean up falling leaves and acorns, or just want to take advantage of the low prices now summer's over, it's one of the smartest times of year to buy new tools.

Amazon gets all the headlines for sales in the fall, but Wayfair has some huge discounts for Way Day. While I don't like everything on offer, there are a handful of tools that are worth considering.

As a product tester, I know first-hand what makes for an essential gardening tool. After picking my way through hundreds of deals, I think these are the best gardening tools on offer at Wayfair.

Best Wayfair garden essentials

Fall means the end of the lawncare season, and it can leave some gardeners at a loose end. However, there's still lots to do in fall and winter – it just takes a little extra effort as the weather turns colder and the ground gets muddy.

These tools make tricky autumn tasks much easier. Whether you're picking up leaves or planting spring bulbs, these tools will make your yard work much more efficient.

FAQs

When is Way Day?

This fall, Way Day is running from Saturday October 5 to Monday October 7. We expect to see huge discounts on indoor and outdoor furniture and appliances, with up to 80% off and free shipping.

For further shopping inspiration, we also explore our favorite Amazon gardening essentials – get your shopping list ready ahead of Amazon Prime's Big Deal Days shopping event, starting on Tuesday, October 8.

With its ability to appear effortlessly cool yet always luxurious, it's no surprise that the classic New York design aesthetic is among the most revered. Designers far beyond the East Coast often draw from this city's quirkiness in their work, but it would seem that celebs are similarly not immune to its charm.

Kelly Clarkson is the latest figure to assocaite herself with NYC's quintessential allure via her new Wayfair collection that's 'inspired by her move to the city'. We've already penned a love letter to her conversational sofa (that's a standout piece from the collection in question), but we haven't delved into what exactly makes the range so New York-centric – until now.

'Capturing that classic ‘New York’ style living space is all about blending industrial chic with sophisticated comfort,' comments Joyce Huston, the lead interior designer and co-founder at Decorilla. 'In my experience, I’ve found that the key is to start with an open floor plan and embrace features like exposed brick walls or ductwork, real or faux.'

Naturally, we can't all live in a NYC loft (and, sometimes, recreating these architectural features is not so simple. This is where furniture like Clarkson's takes center stage.

'When it comes to furniture, I like to find pieces that are both sleek and multifunctional. A leather sofa [like this one from Kelly's Wayfair collection] and a glass coffee table [again, such as this one] are perfect to balance comfort with urban cool. I like to stick to a neutral color palette and complement it with statement lighting or bold artwork to add personality,' Huston says.

There's no better time to invest in these stand-out pieces, as they're enjoying reductions for Way Day now.