That's why we recommend decluttering before the holidays, with this simple toy-rotation trick that we promise actually works with kids. Doing it by 25 November will also allow the right amount of time to complete the rotation before Christmas lands, so it's perfect for the weekend.

Here's everything you need to know about this clever method to make storing and decluttering toys a breeze.

What Is the Toy Rotation Trick?

Any parent will know how tricky it can be to get their children to part with their old toys to make space for the shiny new toys they've received for Christmas. That's why we recommend using this decluttering method now, to clear space ahead of time with minimal fuss.

Max Wilson, co-founder of Pocket Storage, explains, 'The secret to a stress-free Christmas morning is making space now. The biggest mistake is waiting until January. By implementing a strategic toy rotation in November, you instantly clear physical space, curb impulse buying, and make room for the new gifts without feeling overwhelmed,' which is why you should always declutter toys before Christmas, where possible.

'Toy rotation involves packing away a portion of your child’s toys and only leaving out a smaller, curated selection,' continues Max. 'After a few weeks, you swap the stored toys back in, making them feel new and exciting all over again. Not only does this reduce clutter, but it also boosts creativity and independent play.

'It’s not about throwing toys out – it’s about giving your kids a manageable, focused selection that keeps them engaged. And by doing it in November, you also create much-needed space ahead of Christmas and birthdays.'

In turn, this will also make organizing toys far easier.

How to Try a Toy Rotation

Max shares his five-step pre-holiday declutter plan, which work to make it easier to organize toys in a small living room, and avoid any playroom organizing mistakes:

• Start small: Max advises that it's best to begin with just one box or area. 'Focus on toys your child has outgrown or hasn't played with in a while,' he says.
• Involve the kids: Encouraging your family to declutter can be tricky, which is why Max recommends framing it as 'making room for Santa,' or creating a special toy library they can swap from later. 'Go through toys and create three piles: Keep (daily favorites), Donate (items they have outgrown or no longer play with), and Store (toys that are in good condition but haven't been touched in three months),' he says, which can be corraled in a storage basket, such as the Homezone Natural Handwoven Seagrass Basket available at Walmart. 'Set a firm limit on how many toys go into that 'Keep' pile,' he adds.
• Store smart: 'Toys in the ‘Store’ pile should be boxed up and moved out of the main play area to a closet, under a bed, or to external storage,' says Max. Using storage boxes, like this one from STERILITE available at Amazon, is great for this. 'This technique is key,' continues Max. 'When the kids are bored with their new Christmas gifts, rotate the stored toys back in. They feel brand new again, which buys you more time before they demand new toys. Always use labelled, airtight boxes and keep them out of sight,' in your attic storage ideas or on your garage shelving ideas, for example.
• The inventory check for gifts: Before you shop for Christmas, advises Max, review your 'Keep' and 'Store' piles. 'This inventory check is vital for budget control; it prevents you from buying duplicates and ensures you only buy new items that genuinely fill a gap or passion,' he explains. 'It makes your holiday shopping intentional, not impulsive.' If you donate or sell any decluttered items, you'll also be making someone else's Christmas special, or you may find that you're able to make some extra cash ahead of the most expensive time of the year.
• Declutter as you go: As we've already touched on, 'Take the opportunity to donate or recycle broken or unloved toys as part of the process,' adds Max.

Why the Toy Rotation Trick Works

As Max explains, 'Toy rotation helps reduce sensory overload, improves focus, and promotes more creative play. It also makes your home feel lighter, more organised, and easier to enjoy during the busiest time of year.

'Clutter adds stress, especially around the holidays, but with just a few simple steps, you can create a calmer home, more intentional play, and a lot more breathing room for the joy ahead.'

Then, after the big day, you can invest in some of the best toy storage to beat Christmas chaos, such as the Humble Crew Primary Toy Storage Organizer available at Walmart or Homfa Kids Toy Organization Cubby Bookcase, also available at Walmart.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

While this toy rotation trick works with children, sometimes, unfortunately, you may have to declutter toys when your children aren't on board.

For that reason, I'll be picking up the Diptyque Baies Scented Candle, currently reduced at Walmart reduced by $22.

While it's still certainly a luxury purchase, it's my top pick of the best home fragrances to last all season long, with a burn time of up to 90 hours, and it makes a gorgeous gift, too.

This Diptyque Candle Is Perfect For Getting Guests in the Holiday Mood

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

I've often thought that if something is good enough for Victoria Beckham, it's certainly something I should be trying, and Baies is actually one of Victoria Beckham's favorite Diptyque candles. It's no surprise, really, Baies, available in a smaller, classic size at Amazon, is one of the brand's signature scents and unrivalled bestsellers. She's also a fan of the Diptyque Feu de Bois Candle, available at Amazon, which nabbed top spot in my list of the best candles.

It's not just Victoria who loves Baies, either. In fact, Diptyque candles boast an impressive celebrity following, with Khloe Kardashian even recently featuring the Baies candle on her Instagram. It's even Shaun White's favorite Diptyque candle, too.

What's more, it's absolutely perfect for making your home smell like Christmas with an unexpected twist, particularly when hosting over the holidays.

As I said, of course, just under $200 is a lot for anyone to spend on any candle. But, with Diptyque, you really do get what you pay for – the cleanest burn I've ever experienced from any brand, owing to the high-quality wax, a scent that effortlessly fills even larger spaces where you may be hosting, among your cozy living room ideas, for example, and a real feel of iconic, timeless elegance. And, at 21 oz, with a burn time of 90 hours, it will last you all season long.

Plus, if, like me, you like to reuse candle jars around your house, this particularly striking black Baies vessel will work well among any bathroom organization ideas, for organizing a bathroom vanity, or for organizing makeup, provided you know what to do with a candle when it's burnt out, and how to get candle wax out of jars.

It will also work to freshen common Christmas odors, particularly if you light it right after eating when hosting friends and family for a festive dinner party, or on Christmas day.

So, if you're searching for an easy way to make a home smell good for Christmas, look no further and snap up this cult classic at a reduced price. It makes an absolutely stunning gift, too, if you're looking for something a little more luxe for that special someone. I know I'd certainly love to find it under the tree come Christmas day.

What to Shop

Using one of the best reed diffusers in your home is also a great way to enjoy low-maintenance scenting.

That’s why this month, I decided I’m not waiting for January to refresh my home, whilst simultaneously accepting I have neither the time nor the physical energy to do a proper declutter.

That’s why I tried the easy ‘Houdini’ decluttering method to clear visual clutter out of my vital spaces at home and reset the calm I desperately needed during this busy time. Here’s how you can easily do the same with very little time or effort.

What is the Houdini decluttering method?

In short, the Houdini Decluttering Method is a ‘cheat’ decluttering tip, in that you’re not really streamlining, but making everything look less fussy and busy, whilst gaining functionality around your home with minimal effort.

In my case, placing a beautiful set of scalloped seagrass bins from Amazon on my busiest surfaces, and reusing empty storage bins as a catchall for items until I am good and ready for a deep clean and January decluttering session has been the win. Who knows, maybe I’ll even leave it till February to declutter and cut myself some slack.

Professional organizer and KonMari® Master Consultant Rebecca Jo-Rushdy of Spark Joy & Flow explains, ‘Cheat decluttering is such a relatable concept, especially at this time of year when life and surfaces just get fuller. I actually call it “shushing the space,” and it's such a powerful nervous system tool.

‘When things feel too busy or loud visually, using thoughtfully chosen baskets or bins to soften that noise can be a relief. It offers our minds a moment of pause, which is often exactly what’s needed to sustain momentum rather than tip into shutdown.’

And that is exactly the beauty of the Houdini Decluttering Method. It makes the mess disappear like magic, much like its magician namesake, with very little effort, and without needing you to find the will to focus on decluttering.

Rebecca adds a gentle caveat: ‘When we tuck items away without intention, the hidden clutter can quietly snowball. So when using this approach, I’d always recommend anchoring it with a future commitment, whether that’s adding a “tend to basket” reminder in the diary for January, or simply deciding that one box will be revisited at a time during a quiet Sunday morning.’

You can lean into the Sunday Butterfly Decluttering Method for naturally found chore time that doesn’t feel hard to focus on or maintain. It's especially useful for neurodivergent minds as it allows you to flit from one job to another without pressure to complete. Focus on one room or area for maximum benefit if using Butterfly decluttering.

As for forgoing January decluttering, don't feel guilty about it. Rachel Bearn, author of A Year to Slow Down, available at Amazon, says January is the least biologically natural time to reinvent ourselves, or our homes.’

Rachel, who is chronically ill, says, 'As humans, we often forget we’re part of the natural world. While animals and plants conserve energy through the coldest, bleakest months, we pressure ourselves to overhaul our lives at the very moment our bodies are craving restoration. Winter is designed for recovery, not reinvention at 100 miles an hour.'

That's why, personally, as a fellow spoonie (that's a nickname for those with energy-limiting or chronic illness), I wholeheartedly agree with Rachel's philosophy, and I am cutting myself some slack to get by this winter.

Rachel adds, 'Slow living isn’t about curated minimalism, as most people can’t overhaul their entire lifestyle, despite what social media often implies, nor should they have to.'

She advises instead to focus on 'small, manageable acts of rest that can be folded into everyday life to create pockets of peace.' That is the beauty of the Houdini trick.

How to Use the Houdini Hack in Your Home

For this time-poor, high-stress season packed with social events and hosting, and often, an increase in work tasks and school work, place a pretty bin in the area where clutter has accumulated and treat it like a catchall you will return to sort out in the future.

Rachel adds, 'There is a growing cultural shift toward seasonal living, nervous-system regulation, and intentional rest. TikTok videos tagged #slowliving have amassed more than 500 million views, reflecting a growing desire for change and a return to simpler, more grounded ways of being. “Wintering”, the practice of embracing slower rhythms during the darker months, is gaining traction because it offers something we’re collectively starved of: Mental breathing room, emotional steadiness, and sustainable well-being.'

The Houdini decluttering trick allows for this easily, especially if, like me, you find visual clutter very stressful to deal with.

Here’s what pro organizer Rebecca suggests to make Houdini decluttering successful and as useful as possible, without it spiralling out of control:

• Label Your Houdini Bins: Indicate a month to help avoid your Houdini bins becoming long-term clutter caves. If you don't want to ruin the look, place a label underneath, keep a digital note on your phone, or add a Post-it, which is great for providing easy visual cues for tasks, inside the bin.
• One In, One Out: A festive version of “one in, one out” method will come in handy. Anything bought for hosting should free up something that no longer sparks joy. Rebecca adds, ‘At the moment, I’ve got a shopping bag tucked in the sitting room that’s become our “Winter Fair donation bag.” Anything I come across that could go to one of the stalls goes straight in there. I’ve even been going through listed Vinted items and unlisting/surrendering those I no longer want to store just to get them physically out of the house. It helps me feel like I’m moving things out as new things naturally come in during this season, rather than waiting for the perfect time to do a full declutter!'

I Tried the Houdini Decluttering Hack

Two places on the first floor of my house descended into chaos in November, and I decluttered successfully with the Houdini trick.

The first was the sideboard that houses our ‘leaving the house’ or ‘coming home’ essentials, as well as our mail. The surface had become a pile of letters and paperwork to declutter, which we struggled to find time to sort out, and was a catch-all for things that needed to go upstairs.

Now I have placed a pretty shallow seagrass basket from Amazon on top with a tray organizer, also Amazon, that is perfect for our keys, wallets, and trinkets we may need on trips out, such as noise-cancelling earplugs for my daughter.

The back end of it now has our unfiled letters in, and since it has a limited amount of space, it’s forced me to scan and recycle mail I need to keep, or immediately take recycling to the appropriate bin.

This binning of waste without delay is a decluttering success tip from professional organizer Dana White, creator of the no-mess Five-Day Clutter Shakedown, and something she shared when I interviewed her last month on making decluttering easier.

Now, the new seagrass bin in this space has been a game-changer for clearing visual clutter in our entryway, and coupled with an agreement with everyone in my household to place things that need to go upstairs in the allocated stair tidy basket, the space has remained tidy, and our lovely table lamp is the star of the cozy corner, instead of a pile of mess.

Similarly, I’ve been doing a lot of online shopping for gifting season, an arctic snap of cold that made us realise our winter coats and boots needed replacing, and my daughter’s latest growth spurt. All those parcels and some awaiting returns had made our living room footstool look like a mini Post Room. It was visually messy and a constant reminder of a ‘to-do’ list that in itself was quite stressful.

Now I have a pretty lidded wicker basket from Wayfair there, which is much-needed winter storage for this flurry of online shopping. In the new year, I will return it to its former function as a toy storage box for my daughter’s things.

We’ve decluttered her toys ahead of Christmas, therefore freeing them up at just the right time as well as being about to donate potential festive gifts to local thrift stores when customers will need them most.

What to Shop

Pro organizer Rebecca adds, ‘Pretty, affordable storage that hides in plain sight and still invites you back in works beautifully. Scalloped seagrass, woven lidded bins, even stackable fabric cubes in soft neutrals or greens, or mossy sage tones, really help bring calm.’

Here are my top picks.

Meet the Experts

If you are looking to slow down on chores whilst still retaining calm at home, or perhaps you need to declutter with health challenges, delve into our Library of Tried and Tested Best Decluttering Methods for more streamlining tips to suit your time, energy, and health.

It's also possible to clean with adaptive pacing in mind to allow for chores to be completed during this busy season, without flaring your fatigue, pain, or health conditions.

That's why we recommend an easy overhaul just in time for the holidays with the SONGMICS Cabinet Organizer Shelves available at Amazon.

Here's why they're perfect for organizing kitchen cabinets to improve traffic flow at the very busiest time of the year.

These Shelves Are Perfect for Tidying Cabinet Chaos

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

While holiday hosting at the most wonderful time of the year might be fun and festive, not being able to find what you need in your kitchen cabinets can certainly feel frustrating. That's why we recommend picking up the SONGMICS Cabinet Organizer Shelves available at Amazon as a practical holiday hosting tip to stave off stress.

Designed to be sturdy and stackable, they're even suitable for organizing corner cabinets and making even the most awkward of areas more accessible, owing to their unique versatility. With one shelf slightly smaller than the other, they can either be stacked on top of one another, as a space-saving way to use vertical storage, nested, used separately, or arranged in an L-shape, allowing you to adjust them according to your specific kitchen ideas and kitchen storage ideas.

They're also easy to assemble, with clear instructions, and made of high-quality engineered wood and metal, meaning each shelf can hold a maximum weight of 33 lbs. For that reason, they can also be used elsewhere around your home, in your bathroom organization ideas, for example, or even in your bedroom.

One shopper, Daniela, leaving a five-star review, dubs them 'a total game-changer for kitchen organization.'

'These cabinet organizers have completely transformed the way I store and use my dishes,' she says. 'They make stacking so much easier and more efficient. The size is just right – large enough to hold bigger plates and dishes on top, while still leaving room for smaller bowls and items underneath. Everything has its place now, and my cabinets look so much more organized.

'One of the biggest perks is how much simpler it has made unloading the dishwasher. I no longer dread the task because putting dishes away is quick, easy, and stress-free. Even my kids can now reach what they need without having to climb on the counters, which makes things safer and more convenient for everyone.

'The installation was also a breeze – straightforward, quick, and no fuss at all. Overall, these organizers are sturdy, practical, and a total game-changer for any kitchen. I wish I had added them sooner!'

Another satisfied shopper, Michelle, highlights that they're 'Great for organization in small spaces,' meaning they'll work with even the smallest of small kitchen ideas.

'I can’t say enough good things about these shelves – they’ve completely transformed how I organize my space,' she continues. 'I started by using them in my kitchen cabinets for dishes, and it instantly gave me extra room to stack things neatly without everything toppling over.

'Then I realized they also work perfectly in my deep bathroom cabinets, which used to feel cluttered and wasted space. Now I can separate items by category, see everything at a glance, and actually fit more in without it looking messy.

'I’ve bought three sets already because they’re so versatile and easy to use. Assembly was quick and simple, and the shelves feel sturdy and well-made. The wood and metal design also looks nice, so I don’t feel like I’m just using cheap organizers – they actually add a clean, modern touch.

'What I love most is how much they’ve helped in my smaller space. Instead of feeling cramped and cluttered, I feel like I’ve gained extra storage just by using these shelves. Honestly, I’m even considering buying another set while they’re on sale because I keep finding new spots where they’d be useful.

'If you need to maximize storage in your kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere with limited space, these are a must-have. I absolutely love them!'

So, don't delay upgrading your storage ideas until after the holidays – enjoy stress-free, seamless hosting with everything you need, right where you need it.

What to Shop

These holiday hosting tips from professionals are also sure to reduce stress and save time.

If your drawers are pure chaos, you can never find what you’re looking for, or they get regularly jammed and won’t open, compartmentalizing the contents with my favorite set of 25 stackable drawer organizers from Amazon is the way forward.

I’ve already used them in my kitchen, living room, and bedrooms, as they are such a simple tidying tip that makes a real difference. They’re only $16 for the full set, reduced for Black Friday, and 30,000 Amazon shoppers bought them in the last month alone.

Why Shoppers Love These Stackable Drawer Organizers

I love this affordable set of clear plastic trays, which comes with four different sizes in each pack of 25. It's also available in opaque colors, including pink, white, and pastel green. The price point means they work out at just 80 cents a piece, and though they are made from plastic, the carbon emissions from the lifecycle of this product were measured, reduced, and offset by the manufacturer, and certified by ClimeCo Certified.

I like to be more sustainable at home, so those type of climate-friendly features are a big bonus when I am shopping, especially with big retailers like Amazon. With this particular tray set, which I have bought for my home multiple times over, I have kept track of its popularity all year, and it truly never wanes, with up to 40,000 shoppers a month taking the plunge.

And no wonder – the trays are versatile, useful, easy to clean, won't slide around, and are a very quick way to improve the functionality of your small storage space. They come with four sizes included so you can maximize your drawer space, whatever its dimensions: 9 x 6 x 2 inches (3 pieces), 9 x 3x 2 inches (6 pcs), 6 x 3 x 2 inches (8 pcs), 3 x 3 x 2 inches (8 pcs).

I’ve used these across my home to tidy up jammed drawers, a messy vanity, and to get my daughter’s vast collection of crafting materials into a sensible order, and it made each daunting decluttering task less overwhelming. Last month alone, 30,000 Amazon shoppers bought this set, and they hold an average rating of 4.7/5 stars.

Verified shopper, ‘TWB’ gave the set five stars, noting they were great for organizing drawers, adding, ‘We have purchased these twice, using them to organize our junk drawer, desk drawers, and bathroom drawers. The variety of sizes fit our needs. We have actually increased our storage while still being able to find things. The clear plastic appears to be of high quality. The included rubber feet are easy to attach and work well to keep the bins from moving around.

Another shopper, Jean, says they’re ‘perfect for organizing the little things in life’, expanding on their five-star review with, ‘These little organizers are exactly what I needed to organize my massive junk drawer! The multiple sizes are perfect for organizing the big and the little things that can be hard to find when you need them quickly.

'They're easy to use and well-made for drawers, and can be used in the kitchen, office, laundry, bathrooms, or wherever you have small things to organize. They come with little rubber stickers to adhere to the bottom. Those were easy to put on and worked well to keep things in place.’

I’ve found that those little rubber dots also help them stack without sliding around.

How to Use Organizing Trays to Sort Messy Drawers

The good thing about these 80-cent Amazon trays is that they force you to categorize or group like items together. This is a fundamental decluttering tip every professional organizer I’ve ever spoken to swears by, as it helps you instantly identify costly duplicates, trash, and items that have lost their way from a more convenient and suitable storage space elsewhere in your home.

When I put these trays into play, I do a mini decluttering challenge in that drawer space. It’s amazing how much stuff you actually get rid of then and there.

This makes the 80-cent Amazon trays a really easy way to prompt a sensible, clear-out, especially if you usually find it hard to let go of items, or don’t know where to start when streamlining.

I like to use the didn’t know method for drawer content. If I didn't know I had an item, or had forgotten it existed, it can be recycled, donated, sold, or trashed.

Clutter accumulation in drawers is quite normal. They make things look outwardly more organized, but hidden storage has a habit of allowing you to squirrel away a lot of items without further thinking of whether you really need to keep them or not.

Many of us are stressed by the stress of visual clutter in living rooms or bedrooms, areas where we should be able to relax, and therefore, it’s often easier to shove an item into a drawer and forget about it rather than figure out where it should properly live.

That’s where a good set of organizing trays can be really handy, allowing you to use the full height of your drawer well, whilst still being able to employ a sensible organizing system and find what you need, when you need it.

Dana White, professional organizer and founder of A Slob Comes Clean, adds, ‘Decluttering and organizing are two separate things. Focus on the decluttering first and get the trash, obvious donations, and a real idea of what you need in this space.’

I spoke to Dana last month for an in-depth reveal of what her coveted Five-Day Clutter Shakedown involves, and it’s the perfect decluttering method to apply when putting your new Amazon trays into play.

In a nutshell:

1. Remove all obvious trash: Grab the stuff that is visible (more will become apparent as you clear out).
2. Deal with the easy things: Take anything that has a permanent home to that spot.
3. Obvious donations: Things that can easily be given away should go straight into a box or bag and be taken to the thrift store when you’re done at home.
4. Obvious question: Anything left can be sorted out easily with a simple question: If I needed this, where would I look for it first? That’s the answer to where that item truly belongs. Otherwise, you might not need it, and therefore, it’s easy to say goodbye to it.

What to Shop

You can save space by using vertical storage, which is particularly handy when considering small space storage ideas. Alternatively, leaning into hidden storage ideas can keep visual clutter low and make use of otherwise 'dead' spaces in your home.

Luckily, getting rid of rodents in walls doesn't have to be stressful, nor does it require maintenance – the $22 MaPorch Steel Wool Mouse Hole Filler, available on Amazon, makes it simple. Here's why we recommend it.

This Steel Wool Mouse Hole Filler Effectively Keeps Mice Out of Your Walls

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

While no one wants to spot any tell-tale signs that they have mice, getting rid of mice is easy with the MaPorch Steel Wool Mouse Hole Filler available at Amazon, which is perfect for winter rodent protection both inside and outdoors.

Most importantly, the bendy and flexible steel wool is easy to use and shape. The included scissors are suitable for cutting it to size without any hassle, while the gloves keep your hands protected from cuts and scratches.

It's also so versatile – aside from using it to prevent mice from getting into your house, you can also use it to repel mice from your yard, get rid of mice from a garage, and even get rid of mice in the attic.

It's loved by shoppers, too. One, leaving a five-star review, writes that it's, 'everything you need in one box' for keeping mice out of your walls without buying multiple products or spending days on the problem.

'Very pleased with this,' they say, noting the simplicity of the application. 'The material was easy to work with, and it was nice to have the gloves and scissors included in the box.

'Not only did I seal up the pipes by the baseboard heaters, but I also stuffed the wool into gaps between the carpet and walls, under some baseboards, in gaps inside cabinets, and around water and plumbing pipes,' all of which are common spots for hidden pest harborage[...] I feel much better about keeping mice out of the house.'

A second shopper, David, dubs it 'great stuff,' adding, 'My house was built in 1960, so there are lots of little holes that I haven't had a chance to patch yet...in every hole I place steel wool in, I get no more mice.

'This stuff was well-priced, easy to use, and if they ever come back, I know exactly what I'm buying. I've also told my neighbors about it. And no, I'm not employed by the company or Amazon, I'm just ecstatic that after four years, I finally found a product that works great and doesn't break the bank.'

A third chimes, 'No mice since installation, yippee!' so take it from them – using steel wool to stop mice getting indoors really does work.

What to Shop

You can also utilize mouse repellent plants to keep them at bay.

Our HVAC experts say the answer heavily depends on a number of key factors, such as the size of the area, the severity of dampness and condensation, and airflow.

Here, they explain how to successfully use a dehumidifier to prevent and get rid of mold and mildew in your home and how to decide how many you need for optimum results.

Which Factors Determine How Many Dehumidifiers You Will Need? 

If you're looking to invest in one of the best dehumidifiers, the number you'll need to effectively remove damp and condensation in your home depends on several key factors.

As Tony Abate, certified indoor environmentalist and vice president and chief technology officer at AtmosAir Solutions, an indoor air purification and monitoring technology company, says, 'There is no universal answer, as every home is unique in size and layout. However, understanding these factors helps you make an informed decision and ensure your home remains comfortable and healthy.'

Key considerations include:

• The size of the area: 'This square footage of the space you want to dehumidify,' says Tony. 'Most residential dehumidifiers are rated for a specific area, typically measured in square feet.' TJ Laury, president at Ben's ProServ, adds, 'This is the most important part, as the bigger the rooms are, the larger the dehumidifier needs to be for it to work efficiently.'
• The severity of dampness and condensation: Tony continues, 'If your home experiences frequent or severe condensation – such as water droplets on windows or walls, persistent dampness, musty odors, mold, or mildew, you might need more powerful or additional dehumidifiers to address the problem effectively.'
• The layout of the space: As Phil Oliver, co-owner of Air Treatment Heating and Cooling, says, 'A single-story, open-concept home typically requires only one large-capacity unit. In contrast, multi-level homes or those with numerous closed-off rooms benefit from multiple dehumidifiers, allowing moisture to be removed evenly.' This will also depend on whether your home has closed-off rooms or is affected by poor airflow. 'Air does not circulate freely between rooms, so a single unit may not be sufficient for an entire house unless you have an open-plan layout,' says Tony.
• The source of the moisture: Additionally, 'If moisture is coming from specific sources, such as a basement, laundry room, or bathroom, placing a dehumidifier directly in those areas can be more effective than relying on a single unit for the whole house,' advises Tony.
• The number of people living in the house: As TJ explains, this affects humidity. 'More people mean more activities, and that could also mean more humidity.'

Tell-Tale Signs That You Need to Use More Dehumidifiers

If you're looking to avoid any dehumidifier mistakes, it's crucial to know which signs to be aware of, which may indicate that simply knowing the best place to put a dehumidifier isn't enough, and instead, you need to use more than one.

Tony adds, ''Anyone experiencing persistent dampness, condensation, or high humidity levels in their home should consider using a dehumidifier. Individuals with allergies or respiratory issues aggravated by mold and mildew.'

Both are common allergens, and Tony adds homeowners may also benefit from having a dehumidifier in areas with excess moisture. He says, 'Additionally, homes in regions with humid climates or poor ventilation are prime candidates for dehumidifiers to help maintain healthier indoor air quality.'

Here's what to keep an eye out for:

• Persistent dampness: As Tony highlights, if you notice mold, mildew, or musty odors in multiple rooms even after running a dehumidifier, it's a clear sign that you may need additional units.
• Visible condensation: 'Water droplets on windows, walls, or ceilings in rooms not served by your current dehumidifier indicate that more coverage is needed,' explains Tony. In this instance, adds TJ, you may also spot windows fogging up or have water droplets. 'If you are using paint or wallpaper, it might peel, or there may be bubbles underneath,' he advises.
• Visible mold: Which may appear as 'black spots on the walls, ceilings, or even corners,' says TJ.
• Slow drying times: Tony advises that if laundry, towels, or surfaces take a long time to dry, especially in certain rooms, those areas would likely benefit from the boost of an additional dehumidifier.
• Health symptoms: You may also find that the need for additional dehumidifiers may be a way your house is making you ill. 'Increased allergy symptoms or respiratory issues can result from mold and mildew caused by excess moisture,' warns Tony. 'If these persist, check for untreated damp areas.'

'Finally, keeping relative humidity levels lower than 60 per cent and close to the 40 per cent ideal range will improve both comfort and indoor air quality within a space,' adds Tony, and using a dehumidifier is one of the easiest ways to control humidity in the home.

'All these suggestions will help you make an informed decision to be sure your home remains comfortable, healthy, and most importantly, dry.'

There is still one important thing to note, though, which Eli Zimmer, director of operations at Luxaire HVAC Services, makes plain.

'The most common reason for needing multiple dehumidifiers is if your home is large and you don’t have a whole-house dehumidifier connected to your HVAC system,' he says. 'Standalone dehumidifiers are only going to have limited reach and may only work for just a room or two due to space limitations and the physical blocking of walls.

'If your home is excessively damp, simply using some dehumidifiers may not solve the problem. Excessive moisture in the home could likely be indicative of some more serious issue, like a leak – plumbing or structural – or a significant ventilation issue, or something else.

'So, you want to actually get to the root of the problem so that you can actually fix it, rather than just using dehumidifiers to try to make it a little better.'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Next, learn about the easy shower tricks to prevent mold in your bathroom this winter.

It might be surprising, but our laundry pros actually warn that the answer is likely less than you already are.

Here, they explain why your winter woollies are things you are washing too frequently, and reveal exactly how much you should be.

How Often Should Winter Sweaters Be Washed?

As Rechelle Balanzat, founder and CEO of Juliette, shares, 'Most sweaters do not need frequent washing.'

In fact, when it comes to doing laundry, most wool and cashmere knitwear can actually go three to five wears before washing, Rechelle explains.

'If you wear a base layer underneath, such as a tee or turtleneck, you can often go even longer,' she adds. 'Some heavier winter knits can go an entire season without a full wash as long as there are no stains or odors. The only time you should wash immediately is when there is visible soil, heavy sweat, or a strong odor.'

Therefore, whether you're washing cashmere or any other knitwear, the key thing to remember is that washing them too much is a laundry habit ruining your laundry. Cutting down is also a smart way to do less laundry, and will help you to save money on laundry, too.

Alicia Sokolowski, laundry expert and co-CEO of AspenClean, agrees, adding that the washing frequency of your sweater will depend on its material.

She explains that wool, cashmere, merino, and alpaca fibers are naturally odor-resistant and, to some degree, self-cleaning. 'Therefore, they do not require frequent washing. You should wash these, ideally, every five to 10 wears.

'Cotton absorbs sweat and odors more easily than wool, so it needs more frequent washing, ideally, every two to five wears. Synthetic fibers can trap odors more quickly but don't degrade easily with washing. With synthetic materials, a wash every three to seven wears is sufficient.'

And, for chunky knits, Alicia says, 'These are harder to wash, but as they usually don't sit directly against the skin, we recommend washing them only every 8-10+ wears,' she adds.

Why You Can Wash Sweaters Less

As Rechelle explains, 'Washing creates friction. Friction weakens fibers.

'Every wash cycle causes stress on the knit. It leads to pilling, stretching, fading, and misshaping. Wool and cashmere are naturally odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. They simply do not cling to sweat the way cotton tees do,' particularly as they rarely come into direct contact with the skin.

And, most importantly, she stresses, 'When you overwash, you shorten the life of your sweater and dull its natural beauty.'

How to Protect Your Sweaters When You Do Wash Them

'When you wash your sweaters, think of them as delicate luxury items,' advises Rechelle. 'Handle them with intention.'

Here's what our pros recommend:

• Use a delicate detergent: 'Harsh detergents can strip and weaken fibers,' says Rechelle. 'Choose formulas made specifically for wool and cashmere, such as The Laundress Delicate Wash available at Amazon, and the Sonett Organic Olive Laundry Liquid for Wool and Silk available at Walmart. These clean gently and help maintain softness.' Preferably, adds Alicia, the detergent you choose should be enzyme-free, as enzymes in regular detergents can damage wool and cashmere. 'Make sure to use only a small amount.'
• Use a mesh laundry bag: Always wash sweaters inside out, and place them in a mesh bag. 'This reduces friction and protects the knit,' says Rechelle. For this, she recommends the Mainstays Mesh Wash Bag Set available at Walmart, or the Whitmor Zippered Mesh Wash Bags available at Amazon.
• Wash cold using a gentle cycle: 'Use cold water,' continues Rechelle. 'Select the delicate or wool cycle. Or hand-wash for anything truly luxurious or fragile,' being sure to avoid any handwashing laundry mistakes. 'Warm or hot water can shrink natural fibers or cause felting,' adds Alicia.
• Dry flat: Sweaters are things never to put in the dryer, even for a short cycle. 'Reshape the sweater while it is damp and lay it flat on a towel or drying rack,' advises Rechelle. 'Hanging will stretch it.' For that reason, you should always fold these clothes to save space and prevent them from becoming misshapen.
• Avoid fabric softener: You should also not use fabric softener in laundry when washing knitwear. 'Softener can coat the fibers, reducing breathability and making sweaters prone to pilling,' warns Alicia.

Finally, the simplest way to freshen up your knitwear, says Rechelle, is to simply air out your sweaters between wears. 'Lay it flat for a few hours,' she directs. 'This refreshes the fibers naturally,' and is one of the easiest ways to make laundry smell better.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

'Washing less is not only easier,' says Rechelle. 'It is the key to keeping your sweaters luxurious, soft, and beautiful for years. Treat your knitwear with the same intention you would give a pair of heels or a favorite bag. Gentle care always wins,' and, in this case, regular, frequent washing is a laundry rule you can break.

However, this alien-looking neck pain pillow design has helped me enjoy improved sleep quality on my side, and with a whopping 76% off at Amazon before Black Friday even starts, it’s one I’m snapping up as a spare. If you have neck pain, I encourage you to give it a go as I’ve tested six different designs at home before I found the one that works for me.

It really is one of the best pillows I’ve ever tried, and I’d be lost without it. Here’s why I’m grabbing a spare whilst this great deal is on, and stocks last.

Why This $39 Pillow Design is So Good for Neck Pain

Enjoy easier mornings and fewer neck cricks with an ergonomically designed pillow that will hold your head and neck in the best sleep position all night. I tried six different pillows at home till I happened upon this unusual-looking design and now swear by it.

The wings on the side stop your neck from overextending as you sleep on your side, which reduces muscle and soft tissue strain, and the dip in the middle stops the same if you do end up on your back.

Dr Gbolohan Okubadejo, Spinal and Orthopedic Surgeon at NYNJ Spine, explains, ‘This pillow is shaped to fit the natural curve of your neck. It holds your head in a way that keeps your neck straight, allowing your muscles to fully relax.

‘The raised parts support the cervical spine, keeping it in place and stopping it from bending the wrong way while you sleep. The dips and curves in the pillow are good for those who sleep on both their back or side. Side sleepers get extra benefit because the pillow fills the space between the shoulder and head, giving you that extra support that helps keep the neck aligned all night.

'Regular flat pillows often let your head tilt or sink, which can put the neck and shoulders in an awkward position, leading to soreness and stiffness. This shape spreads pressure more evenly, so you don’t wake up with stiff spots.

‘This pillow also reduces tossing and turning because your head and neck are supported. Using this particular pillow can make sleeping feel easier and more natural. Overall, it helps reduce neck pain and gives support that most standard pillows don’t always provide.’

Coupled with one of the best mattresses and best mattress toppers, you will be all set for sounder, more restorative sleep and less pain upon waking up.

Meanwhile, the breathable foam of this $39 neck pain pillow from Amazon, means you don’t wake up in a sweaty mess as it circulates twice as much air as standard memory foam fills, and has a plant-based 'Move+Cool' treatment that maximizes the cover's natural wicking qualities and turbocharged heat dissipation.

I’m a particularly hot sleeper due to a mix of chronic conditions, including pain and disautonomia, as well as medications, but memory foam is not a problem, and has certainly come a long way since its inception. This material even features in our best cooling mattress toppers, so strike that worry from your list now.

I put a large cotton pillow case on mine, or a silk one from Amazon for less impact on my skin, which gets topographic lines from the surface I sleep on. That additional layer also makes it easier to clean your pillow, though it’s worth noting the Amazon pillow deal comes with a washable ‘Omigosh-soft outer cover’ made from BioPreferred polyester fiber.

This is sourced sustainably from renewable wood pulp, and neither the memory foam (which can be recycled), nor the casing it comes in contains any volatile organic compounds. These VOCs are usually responsible for that strange and unpleasant ‘off-gassing’ smell some homeware products, such as memory foam, can have when you first unpack them.

Why the Pillow's Worth It

The price drop on Amazon's neck pain pillow is truly worthy and shouldn’t be overlooked. In the past, I have paid between $75 and $150 per neck pain pillow I have tried in my quest to ease neck pain, and my current one shares the design of the one on offer, which is now just $39.

James Roswold, an attorney with Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys who has been representing injured plaintiffs for 30 years, says, ‘Clients of mine have spent this much on pillows multiple times and have spent much more money on other expenses like medical bills due to discomfort because they didn't have this kind of pillow to support them.’

For the limited-time deal, you get a cleverly engineered pillow that can suit sleepers who need higher or lower pillows, as a 180° flip reduces the height instantly. I use this feature a lot, depending on how bad my neck pain is on any given night, and whether I need to be raised a bit to support my neck, or down a bit to reduce any pain radiating into my shoulder.

Back sleepers can comfortably nestle in the middle, whilst side sleepers no longer have to squash arms and shoulders awkwardly. There is space to place your wrist with the double-layer wing design, and ergonomic dips in the contours of the memory foam pillow to help you nestle into a comfortable position that won’t cause more neck tension and pain by the morning.

These are all the features I love in my own neck pain pillow, and can no longer live without. So much so, in fact, that if I am away from home for even one night, my trusty alien-looking pillow comes with me.

The density of the material makes it heavier to lug about than a down or synthetic traditional pillow, but I luckily have a partner who carries all our bags everywhere.

Otherwise, having a larger canvas tote with straps will make it easy to take your neck pain pillow with you wherever you go, and stop it from getting dirty en route. A set of three collapsible totes from QVC will come in handy all over the home, and especially during the holiday season, when you might be away from home.

Why Shoppers Love This Pillow

I’m not the only one who loves this type of pillow design. An impressive 93% of Amazon shoppers who bought and rated it, gave it 5/5 stars, bringing its average rating to 4.8/5 stars.

Verified shopper Amaresh Anand gave it five stars for being an ‘extremely comfortable cervical neck pillow for sleeping’, and expanded with a detailed review. They noted after trying ‘so many pillows over the years’, this pillow was the one that ‘truly transformed my sleep.’

Amaresh explained, ‘From the first night, I noticed how supportive yet soft it feels – it cradles my head and neck without going flat, and I wake up without the usual stiffness. This pillow is very comfortable. The materials feel high-quality and breathable, so I don’t get overheated during the night. The pillow has just the right balance between plush comfort and firmness, which makes it great for both side and back sleeping.’

They left their review after a week of constant use and felt they were waking up more rested, whilst also sleeping better.

For me, the neck pain relief was immediate after sleeping on this sort of design, whereas other neck pain pillows I ordered to try at home were returned after only one night.

Another neck pain sufferer who purchased the pillow and gave it five stars stated it’s ‘very comfortable’, and explained: ‘I’ve tried so many pillows over the years, memory foam, down, adjustable, but the Emircey Adaptive Pillow truly stands out. From the very first night, I could feel the difference. The dual-curve design is genius. One side is slightly higher, and the other lower, so I can easily switch depending on how I’m sleeping that night. It’s like having two pillows in one!’

That’s one of the reasons I love this shape, as I flip mine around to ease neck pain, depending on which area is hurting or tight.

The verified shopper continued, ‘The ergonomic contour gives just the right amount of neck and head support without feeling stiff or rigid. My neck and shoulders feel more relaxed, and I’ve noticed I’m waking up without that usual morning tension. It’s even great for reading or watching TV in bed, it props me up perfectly.’

A third happy shopper said, despite previously waking up with constant neck pain, this pillow brought ‘huge improvement’ for them within just a few nights, whether they slept on their side or back, and it was so profound that their 'chiropractor noticed the change.’ They called it the ‘best’ they’d ever had, and finished off their five-star rating with the following advice: ‘If you struggle with neck stiffness or headaches, do yourself a favor and get this pillow – it’s truly a game changer!’

I wholeheartedly agree, as living with neck pain is crushing, so anything that can help alleviate it, dial down the intensity, or help you rest and sleep better is important when living with chronic pain.

What to Shop

When using both heat and cold for pain, do not apply them one after the other, as this can lead to spasms in the muscles. Trust me, I’ve made that mistake before, and it was excruciating. Instead, allow your body temperature to return to normal, wait 30 minutes, and then switch. If you’re unsure about how best to manage pain, consult your doctor.

Next, learn about how to clean with adaptive pacing to reduce the risk of pain or fatigue flares, and how to declutter if you have health challenges.

There is no need to de-ice your driveway to make it safe to walk or drive on. In fact, experts say sprinkling a thin layer of sand is actually the more affordable, easy, and garden-friendly swap to make this November, as the perpetual ‘Freeze-Refreeze’ weather cycle begins across most of the US.

This way, it adds instant grip for walking or driving, and when the ice melts, you can sweep up the sand, put it in a lidded bin, and reuse it when the next freeze comes. It’s a great home winterizing tip experts love.

Why Sand Is the Best Cheap Alternative to De-Icing Frozen Driveways This Winter

Michael Clarke, landscape architect, horticulturist, and founder of Yardwork, explains, ‘Sand is the best alternative for breaking up ice on a driveway. While rock salt (sodium chloride) is common, it can damage concrete and driveway surfaces since it accelerates freeze–thaw cycles, which leads to cracking, spalling, and long-term surface erosion, especially on concrete less than 1–2 years old.'

You can pick up a very affordable 50 lb bag of cleaned sand from Ace Hardware today. For quick home delivery, try Amazon's play sand.

There are many reasons to pick sand over salt. Michael adds, ‘Salt also harms nearby plants, soil, and lawns, because the runoff can accumulate in garden soil, dehydrating plants and causing leaf burn, root damage, and long-term soil imbalance. Additionally, salt spray and runoff increase rust on vehicles and metal components around the home.

‘Sand, on the other hand, doesn’t melt ice, but instead breaks up slick surfaces by improving grip immediately, making walkways and driveways safer to use right away. It's less expensive than a bag of ice melt and lasts for several uses.’

Michael notes that as the ice melts, you can sweep up the sand, store it in a bucket, such as Walmart's lockable sand bin, and use it again next time, ‘reducing waste and because it contains no harmful chemicals, it won’t burn grass, pollute waterways, or damage soil biology like salt.’

This is particularly helpful if it’s not within your physical capacity to break up ice on your driveway, using pitchforks and other mechanical methods that often require a lot of upper-body strength and brute force. Salting isn’t easy either, as bags of it are heavy, shoveling is required, and it needs time to work before or after a freeze.

Head of Gardens at Homes & Gardens, Rachel Bull, adds, 'Using excessive amounts of salt on an icy driveway might seem like it makes perfect sense, but I always advise with caution because salt can play havoc with your lawn and your soil.

'Too much salt in the soil can leave plants unable to take up enough moisture and nutrients to thrive. It can even lead to problems such as leaf burn, where the tips of leaves turn brown and die. It can also mean brown, unsightly patches in lawns and seriously unhealthy grass.'

Quantities of Sand Versus Salt

Sand can be sprinkled a handful at a time on the area you need to walk on, and it makes a frozen driveway instantly easier to navigate. I recommend a spot spreader from Amazon to avoid that icky feeling on your hands, as you can scoop and spread without touching the sand.

Being able to sweep up the sand after the thaw and reuse it next time is a great way to be more sustainable at home, and in the long months of the freeze-thaw cycles will be much more economical.

For example, the average driveway in the US is 600 to 640 square feet, and to have enough salt to de-ice it, you’ll need 1-2 lbs of rock salt per 100 square feet, meaning for milder temperatures and pre-salting, you’ll need 6-6.4 lbs of salt, and on the high end, with severe cold or existing snow, you’ll need 12-13 lbs. This will need to be reapplied repeatedly, adding to costs and wastefulness as it cannot be reused.

Whereas with sand, you only need a thin layer to provide instant, temporary friction enabling you to walk on it safely, and a 50 lb bag is more than enough to cover the entire 600-640 square feet drive lightly. But remember, you only need to sprinkle it where you’re walking, or driving, and not the entire space, making your stash of reusable sand go an extremely long way during cold snaps and big freezes this winter.

Michael advises, ‘For best results, sand should be applied before walking or driving on newly formed ice. This gives you traction right away and prevents compacted, polished “black ice.”

‘Scatter a thin layer before a storm and again once the snow compresses into ice. If thick ice has already solidified into a smooth sheet, sand still provides traction, but you may need to rough up the surface first using a metal shovel edge or a garden hoe, before applying, since it won’t melt frozen slabs.’

This double-headed garden hoe from Amazon has a telescopic arm that collapses down when not in use, making it much easier to store as you won't need a full-height storage bin or shed to keep it out of sight.

And, if any sand makes its way to your grass or plant areas, fret not. Gardens pro Rachel adds, 'A little bit of sand on your soil can actually help to improve drainage, so you wouldn't need to worry if a small amount washes into your beds!'

When Do Freeze-Thaw Cycles Begin In the US?

Sand is helpful during any month with repeated freeze–thaw cycles, which Michael advises is typically:

• November to March in the Northern US.
• December to March in the Midwest and Northeast.
• October to April in the Mountain West.
• December through February in Southern states.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Next, learn how to prepare your home for freezing weather and the key items experts advise keeping on hand ahead of extreme cold weather.

The best news? They're all on sale right now, ahead of Black Friday. These are the nine chic pantry organization essentials we're adding to cart now, before they sell out.

9 Chic Kitchen Pantry Storage Gems Our Home Editors Are Snapping Up

Meet the Experts

Couple your new storage with these top chef prep secrets for holiday hosting to truly master your Christmas dinner routine.

Now, after testing this in a pet shelter, my own home, and our dedicated test center, I have a new favorite: The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog. This incredible vacuum banished every single mess I threw at it with its sheer cleaning power.

So, read on to find out why this is not only the best Miele vacuum, but the most effective vacuum you could bring into your home out of the 86 we've tested at Homes & Gardens.

The One-Minute Summary

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is the best vacuum cleaner I've ever used. After testing it in a pet shelter, my own home, and our dedicated test center, the canister vacuum knocked it out of the park in every test, picking up messes of every kind swiftly and effortlessly.

Its suction is incredible, reaching an airflow speed that's 10mph faster than our current top vacuum, the Dyson V15 Detect. This translates to efficient pulling up of dust, dirt, and hair – even from thick rugs and carpets – and a handheld nozzle that can dust hard surfaces better than a cloth.

It's also an absolute breeze to use, with thoughtful features like built-in attachment storage, one-handed cleaning, and being able to dock the floorhead into the canister with ease.

Its only downsides are the price – a whopping $899 in the US (but only £399 in the UK) – and the fact that hair wraps around the brushroll. The latter can be solved by a simple pair of scissors or seam ripper, but the price can naturally put people off, so if you're in the US, I'd recommend waiting until you find a stellar deal. With Black Friday sales around the corner, a great vacuum deal should be on the horizon any day now.

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Specifications

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Setup

Considering the bulky design of a canister vacuum, I was surprised that the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog arrived in a fairly compact box, similar to boxes I've received some of the best cordless vacuums in.

Assembly is straightforward if you've used this type of vacuum before: Attach the hose to the canister, then attach the handle, wand, and floorhead. If you follow the instructions, it'll take 10 minutes at most.

There's no battery to charge, and the filter and vacuum bag are already in place, so by that point, it's ready to use.

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Design and Features

I may be a vacuum nerd, but after the 31 best vacuums I've reviewed for Homes & Gardens, I can't help but admire the slick designs of Miele canister vacuums. The Guard L1 has a glossy finish with a premium feel, and even the way it wheels around is satisfyingly smooth.

When it comes to suction, the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog outperforms every vacuum we've tested, and this isn't an accolade I give lightly.

I measured its airflow using an anemometer, and it reaches an incredible 33.1 mph at the max suction level. Our current best-on-test, the Dyson V15 Detect, reaches 23mph in comparison (granted, that's a cordless vacuum with a smaller, battery-powered motor).

You can choose between four suction modes, which aren't super clear on the vacuum itself, but are outlined in the operating manual:

1. Curtain symbol (minimum): Curtains, fabric
2. Sofa symbol: Upholstery, cushions
3. Rug symbol: Cut pile carpets, rugs, and runners
4. Flooring symbol (maximum): Hard floors and heavily soiled carpets and rugs

You set suction levels using the foot buttons on the canister, and there's a light to display which mode is activated.

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog includes two floorheads – a universal one for all surfaces, and the Miele TurboTeQ, designed specially for carpets and pet hair. It also includes a two-in-one upholstery and crevice tool that's stored inside the canister vacuum itself, as well as a dusting brush that's built into the handle.

As the Miele Guard L1 is designed for pet owners it has advanced filtration, made up of the TU HyClean Air vacuum bags and an Active AirClean exhaust filter. You can buy a set of four vacuum bags and one filter for $28.99 at Miele USA or £13.99 at Miele UK. They're made of 80% recycled materials, too, so although they're disposable, the environmental impact is minimized.

This filtration system is said to achieve 99.99% dust retention – surpassing HEPA standards. Plus, the Active AirClean filter has activated charcoal that deodorizes air after it’s already gone through the vacuum bag, which majorly helps to eliminate odors as I've seen first-hand when testing the best air purifiers. It means the air that comes out of the vacuum smells fresh and free of nasty smells from pets, dust or smoke.

Miele states that the Guard L1 has been durability tested to last for a minimum of 20 years, based on the idea that we spend 37.5 hours vacuuming a year. You can find more information here, but I'll say that I've spoken to dozens of consumers who've also explained that their Miele vacuums have lasted longer than a decade, including our Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden.

What Is the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog Like to Use?

Immediately, it was clear that the Miele Guard L1 had been thoughtfully designed with the user in mind.

The buttons are big, durable, and easy to press with your feet without accidentally hitting the wrong one. The canister can easily be pulled using one hand, freeing up the other for opening doors or picking up objects. And the two-in-one upholstery and crevice tool is stored directly in the canister, so you don't have to carry anything with you while you clean or risk losing it whilst storing separately elsewhere in your home.

This is a major benefit to choosing one of the best canister vacuums over the upright or cordless alternatives. With other vacuums, you have to keep the attachments nearby to be able to swap them out as you clean, but the Miele Guard L1 keeps everything together neatly.

There are two floorheads, but to be honest, the universal one isn't anything special, and during testing, I found that the TurboTeQ performed better every time. And there's no need to swap it out to protect delicate surfaces (like cleaning hardwood or tile floors), as the TurboTeQ is safe to use on these surfaces, too.

I like that the floorhead slots into the back of the canister, allowing for easy vacuum storage without the hose and wand lying loose in a closet. It also means you can quickly prop it up if you need to park it mid-clean, without then having to bend down to pick it up again. This is particularly handy if you are cleaning with health conditions and need to avoid bending down, or have limited mobility in your hips and knees.

I also enjoy how the canister effortlessly glides in every direction. You don't need to turn it so that it faces the direction it's moving; it can go left to right as well as forward and back.

You can easily extend the wand by pushing on the toggle. At its longest, it almost doubles in size, and there are 20 increments before then to achieve your ideal reach. I find this super helpful, especially compared to the best upright vacuums, which have limited reach in comparison. It's great to be able to cover an entire entryway while standing in one spot.

I dive into this in more detail below, but my only gripe with the Guard L1 is that the TurboTeQ floorhead wraps with hair. In the manual, it advises to safely cut it out with scissors, which wasn't the biggest vote of confidence, but I see this as a minor inconvenience offset by the vacuum's outstanding performance...

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

I tested the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog using a half cup of flour and sugar to assess its ability to pick up fine debris and powder. This emulates dust and dead skin while being a great visual test, as we can see where residue is left behind on the floor or in the vacuum's parts.

On hard floors, when using each of the highest three suction levels, the Guard L1 picked up everything in one pass (aside from residue on a couple of sticky spots, so that was my own fault for not mopping). This is one of the best performances I've ever seen on this test, and on max mode, I really felt the high-powered motor with the brushroll spinning immensely fast.

On carpet, using suction modes three and four/max, everything was vacuumed up instantly. The floorhead gripped the carpet without too much suction, and you can adjust it if it does. Incredible performance – at this stage, I already knew it'd rank highly as one of our best vacuums for carpet.

Test 2: Pantry

I also tested the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog using a cup of lentils and cereal (20:80 ratio) to assess its ability to pick up medium and large debris.

The cereal poses the biggest challenge – we don't expect a vacuum to pick up such large pieces (it's great if they do), but it's useful to find out whether the vacuum flings them around, crushes them down, or becomes clogged by the crumbs.

The cereal pieces didn’t fit in the floorhead, but they were pushed forwards rather than being flung across the floor or crushing down and blocking up the airways, as we've seen in other vacuums like the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead.

The suction power on offer here is immense – once I took the floorhead off and turned it to max mode, every small piece got sucked in at a rapid speed.

On carpet, thanks to the grip provided by the soft surface, the cereal pieces were able to be crushed down and sucked up easily, without any clogs or blockages. This is easily one of the best performances I've seen for this test.

Test 3: Pet Hair

I tested the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog in Bristol ARC, a local cat and dog shelter. It's how we test vacuums on real pet hair, as well as being able to clean a building with high foot traffic, that's full of dust, debris, hair, and a variety of surfaces to clean.

On the entrance mat – a rough, bumpy surface that tends to pose the biggest fur challenge for vacuums – the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog cleared most hairs after 2-3 passes, and after a few more runs, barely any visible hairs remained. One of the top three performances I’ve ever seen – similar to the likes of the Dyson V15 Detect and Shark POWERDETECT, our two best vacuums for pet hair.

On low-pile carpet, all strands of pet hair were pulled up in one or two passes, even when they were stubbornly embedded in the fabric.

On laminate flooring, everything was vacuumed instantly. Every time I passed over an area, every strand of fur, small stone, food crumb, or bit of mud was gone once the vacuum had passed just once. The suction was so strong that the laminate flooring was sometimes pulled upwards, but this didn’t affect performance.

It became a bit tougher to push forward when vacuuming a thick rug, but everything was vacuumed swiftly regardless. Even when I vacuumed things I probably shouldn’t have – like a large bit of plastic – the vacuum made a whirring sound for a second while the inlet was blocked, then sucked it up without issues. It was only on this thick rug that I needed two hands to pull the canister.

Overall, I learned that not only is the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog an outstanding pet hair vacuum – potentially one of the best-ever – it also works incredibly effectively on any surface you're cleaning, even upholstery, as I detail below.

Its only downside is that hair gets caught in the brushroll. For a pet hair vacuum, that will undoubtedly become frustrating over time as you'll have to regularly cut hair out of the roller.

However, considering the all-around outstanding performance this vacuum has, I'd say this is a trade-off that's worth it. It can be made easier, too, as a seam ripper is the perfect hair-wrap fix, safer and precise than a pair of scissors. This affordable seam ripper set at Amazon is all you need to make this task a two-minute job every time.

Test 4: Attachments

The staff at the pet shelter asked me to clean the pet hair-ridden sofas in the waiting room, as their vacuum cleaner wasn't able to. It was a stubborn surface, and for each area, I probably went back and forth around four times, but it did vacuum every pet hair, almost.

The remaining strands had to be plucked out using my fingers, and then they could instantly be vacuumed. A motorized attachment would’ve perhaps been more effective, but at least this one doesn’t damage the fabric.

Plus, I'm a big fan of the fact that the attachment is both an upholstery and crevice tool. When you turn it between modes, it blocks the air from coming in the other end, so you’re still getting the full suction.

This is a thoughtful design: You don’t have to carry anything around with you. It is extremely loud using this attachment; however, on max mode, which helps pull fur from stubborn surfaces, it reached as high as 86.8 decibels, similar to the noise of a food blender. Prolonged exposure to this level of noise can be harmful to hearing.

Another nice touch from Miele is that, as you can park the floorhead at the back of the canister, you can quickly detach these parts when you need to do some handheld cleaning:

I also used the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog to dust my bedroom, and it pulled thick layers of dust from every surface I could find, and for the first time, I felt it actually suction itself to hard surfaces like my TV and mirror.

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Care and Maintenance

As the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is a bagged vacuum, you're not able to quickly empty it after a cleaning. Instead, once the vacuum bag is full, you dispose of it and then swap it out with a new one.

While this comes with recurring costs ($28.99 at Miele USA or £13.99 at Miele UK for a pack of four bags and one filter), it does mean that the vacuum maintenance is incredibly minimal. As dust isn't travelling through loads of internal parts, you don't have to clean out the insides as you would with other vacuums.

It also means that you're not exposed to household allergens, as the bag contains all the dust and hair without you having to release it to empty.

I actually received a faulty sample at first, but doing so meant that I had a good look under the bonnet of the Guard L1, and realized how easy it is to replace the bag and filter.

The vacuum bag slides in and out easily; you don't need to follow any instructions to see how it's done. The same goes for the air filter; it pops out by pulling the tab at the top, then slots in simply by pushing it in.

I also want to commend Miele for their rapid response as soon as I'd informed them that the machine was faulty. First thing the next morning (as I'd let them know in the evening), I had a call from a Miele technician who talked me through troubleshooting steps, then, after realizing the appliance wasn't fixable, they sent a new unit within two days.

This level of customer service is something Miele consumers have reported to me previously, too, so it's not just because I was testing for review purposes.

How Does the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog Compare?

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog costs $899 at Miele USA, or £399 at Miele UK. Those are wildly different prices, most likely due to Miele being a German brand, and the shipping and tariff prices involved when selling in the US.

$899 is quite expensive, but only $50 more than our current best-on-test, the Dyson V15 Detect. These are two very different vacuums, as the V15 Detect is a lightweight cordless stick that offers greater convenience and takes up less space. But after testing both models myself, I can confirm that the Miele performs better, even if its price is a tad out of reach.

Alternatively, the Shark POWERDETECT Upright is another best-on-test from the 86 vacuums we've tested, costing $449.99 at full price but frequently on offer for around $340-$400. It's less versatile than the Guard L1 Cat & Dog, with a more limited reach and more weight to carry around with you, but it's a self-contained unit that can be easier to store in certain homes, and can come with more attachments depending on the model.

But while the Dyson and Shark may cost less and offer different kinds of convenience, the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is the most likely to last for years, potentially up to two decades. Consider it an investment, where all you'll need is to buy vacuum bags a couple of times a year.

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is undoubtedly one of the most effective vacuum cleaners I've tested, so if you can afford it (and have the space for storing it), I'd look no further.

Next, read through our tried-and-tested guide to the best Dyson alternatives, or find out more about our robust vacuum testing methodology.

That’s why I’ve recently switched my cutting board to this Joseph Joseph BPA-free trio that lives mounted under a wall cabinet with a nifty stainless steel storage caddy. It's also currently on offer at Amazon ahead of Black Friday price drops.

It’s perfect for small kitchens as you’ll only have the cutting board down on the counter when it’s in use. Otherwise, it’s neatly tucked away, leaving your counters free whilst still being at hand whenever you need to get chopping.

Why This Joseph Joseph Set is Perfect for Limited Counter Space This Hosting Season

I’ve had a chopping board saga in the last year. First, I swapped my plastic one for a glass one to make my home more non-toxic, but that almost immediately dulled my best kitchen knives. Then I switched to a trio of wooden boards, which were wonderful to look at, but they soon began splintering and had to be recycled.

That’s why I figured if I have to swap my board a third time, I might as well kill two birds with one stone and declutter my countertops, which are more crowded than ever. This is especially a nuisance during hosting season when people are coming for dinner, or I need more space to prep larger meals with my husband.

We use our Ninja Dual Zone Foodi Air Fryer, and Ninja Steami every day, which means they now both live permanently on our kitchen counters, alongside our microwave. Add to that a roster of easy, comforting winter meals in our Crockpot slow cooker, available at Walmart, and counter space is at more of a premium in my kitchen than ever.

That’s why this Joseph Joseph stainless steel caddy set is genius. It slots under the wall cabinet of my choice and is installed so quickly. This means an instant doubling of the counter space available near my sink, which is always busy.

The three color-coded BPA-free cutting boards that come in the set are so handy, helping to avoid cross-contamination, and best of all, they’re dishwasher-safe. I have thoroughly enjoyed this freeing up of counter space as I can crack on with what I need to do, instead of playing counter Jenga to make space for the simplest of tasks.

As I have limited mobility and cannot stand up for more than a minute or two at a time without injury, any extra time spent on my feet unnecessarily is a big nuisance for me. That's why my counters being clear before I start my task is vital, whether I am cleaning with adaptive pacing or preparing a meal.

Amazon shoppers adore the Joseph Joseph set, too. One, self-titled ‘mom of two’ calls the set ‘Brilliant,’ adding, ‘Got this for my husband and we love it. Nice size cutting boards at your fingertips, but no clutter on your counter.’

Meanwhile, verified shopper Elizabeth Crowley gave it five out of five stars and said, ‘Fits great under my kitchen cabinet, convenient size for smaller needs. Quality seems great.’

If you don’t have any wall cabinets, instead attach it under a shelf, or flip it vertically and install it on the inside or outside of a lower cabinet. That’s what shopper K. England did. They explain in their review, ‘I attached it to a lower cabinet door rather than screw into the bottom of a cabinet shelf. It's really easy to slide the cutting boards in and out. The boards are easy to clean. I love this!’

An Even Quicker Installation Tip

Though the instructions say to screw in the back end of the caddy, I don’t have the wrist strength to do this. Instead, I used three strips of double-sided heavy-duty nano tape from Amazon to easily and instantly attach it.

It was fine to use immediately, but whenever I use any adhesive like this, I leave it 24 hours, and this ensures a proper seal before weight is added. Mine has not budged since.

Using nano tape instead of screws also converts installation to renter-friendly and damage-free, so if you need to change the location, or decide to move house one day, you can remove it without leaving any visible holes or marks.

Before you use any nano tape, make sure to fully clean and dry both surfaces for the best and most secure adhesion.

What to Shop

If you're often contending with the issues that come with having a compact kitchen, these are the kitchen organizers our editors can't live without.

Microshifting is a simple, flexible approach to work-like tasks that means you do less desirable chores around other commitments, rather than the other way around.

Now, my home feels calmer, my weekends lighter, and my to-do lists are far less overwhelming. Here’s how to use this productivity trick in your home, and why the experts love this work-life balance hack for all aspects of life.

What is Microshifting?

Microshifting is, traditionally, a flexible approach to work. Rather than working in one linear hours-long shift, you break the work up into smaller chunks to fit around your other commitments, such as time with family, appointments, and activities. You still get everything done, but you no longer feel like your enjoyable tasks are shoe-horned into the end of your day, when you are already feeling burnt out, and struggle to be present.

As part of my hectic Christmas prep countdown, I am integrating this productivity trick to tackle my chores. As my schedule gets busier, breaking from my usual strict cleaning routine to fit it around my social commitments is the best way to both get organized for Christmas and actually enjoy the run-up to the festive season – a time period that, importantly, includes several important birthdays (including my own).

Dr. Sydney Ceruto, founder of MindLAB Neuroscience, says that this approach has good potential for reducing a lot of the stress associated with getting a home guest ready for the holidays.

‘Microshifting isn’t just a productivity trick; it’s a smart way to hack your brain’s dopamine system,’ she explains. ‘Our brains love novelty and tiny wins, so when you break chores into bite-sized steps, you get a small rush of motivation each time you finish something, even if it’s just unloading half the dishwasher. This keeps overwhelm at bay and builds momentum, which is why micro shifting feels less draining than powering through an entire to-do list in one go.’

How to Microshift Your Chores

Microshifting chores requires a level of self-discipline. You do, after all, have to complete the tasks after your other priorities, or you risk your house falling into disarray. As Sydney reminds us, ‘Microshifting lets you reclaim both your time and your sense of accomplishment, especially around the holidays, when every bit of motivation counts.’ It is not an excuse to skip chores altogether.

Rather, Sydney suggests using it to tackle your most hated chores, ‘seeing if you can break it down into three or more micro-tasks’ that you can then fit flexibly around your day. ‘Celebrate every small completion, even if it feels silly, your brain truly responds to the win,’ she adds.

It may help to use a daily planner, such as the Ruff House Spiral Planner from Anthropologie, to plot out your schedule, including white space in your day to offer downtime to relax, and then identify gaps where you can fit your chores into smaller shifts.

You could use microshifting alongside the ‘today's top three’ challenge, for instance, to slip three items from your to-do list around your more fun activities to pace yourself and still accomplish your goals. Using a cleaning playlist can also help boost dopamine and make must-do jobs around the home that little bit less painful.

My Verdict

I am usually someone who does everything related to one task all at once. Having grown up in a military household with the concept of Ordung muss sein (which translates to 'there must be order'), I am far more accustomed to powering through every step of a task from start to finish, even if it meant I was burnt out by the end.

Microshifting was, however, a very pleasant change to my routine. For example, rather than dedicating my usual nearly three hours to resetting my home and cleaning a kitchen and bathroom on a Sunday before going to the gym, I split my cleaning tips up this month. I cleaned the kitchen counters and cabinet fronts on Friday night after dinner, but left cleaning the sink and vacuuming until Sunday morning to kill time as my breakfast settled before my workout.

After writing out my weekly schedule for this week, and identifying that I wouldn’t have time to clean this weekend, being at a convention both days, I found gaps around my workday and ‘white space’ to fit my usual chores. For instance, I set aside half an hour of my lunch break one day to clean the bathroom, then 20 minutes before dinner the next day to dust the bedroom, and so on.

It isn’t quite cleaning as I go, but it was far less frustrating to maintain my home when I knew that my downtime and fun activities were protected in my schedule, helping me find a better cleaning balance in my home.

Over time, Monica Ricci, a personal growth and development coach and owner of Catalyst Coaching, suggests that this prioritization approach will help to tackle stress and chore resentment.

‘In my experience, I notice most people – especially women – put others' needs, wants, and priorities ahead of their own. This inversion of importance leads to prioritizing external responsibilities (tasks and chores) over internal ones (health, self-care, and well-being), eventually resulting in neglect of the self. However, by committing just a bit of time and energy first to basic fundamental wellbeing needs such as sleep, mindful eating, movement, and social connection, these same people are actually more equipped to manage the external responsibilities of life.’

It is a 10/10 approach that I will certainly come back to beyond November, the holiday period and into 2026.

My Chore Essentials

Meet the Experts

Ended up with a task backlog? Consider trying a ‘scary hour’ to help power through the chores you have been procrastinating, in under 60 minutes.

It runs more quietly than the best robot vacuums out there, and it does an outstanding job vacuuming and mopping, doing much of your home's deep cleaning for you.

It uses cleaning solution, which is something that I wish more robot vacuums would do. After all, you wouldn’t mop your floors with plain water, so why would you have your robot vacuum do the same? The Yeedi S20 Infinity [at Amazon] is also Matter-certified, meaning it can connect to any smart home system out there. Read on to find out why I rate it so highly.

The One-Minute Summary

It can be tough to recommend a premium product sometimes, because as good as they are, they’re expensive and there are cheaper models that often punch above their weight. That’s the case for the Yeedi S20 Infinity.

The Yeedi S20 Infinity [at Amazon] performs better than most of the competition. It runs very quietly while still doing a stellar job vacuuming and mopping. It also has a very long battery life and has most of the features one could think of, including being able to connect to any smart home ecosystem.

That being said, it’s pricey, and the Yeedi S14 Plus is much cheaper and covers 90% of the same territory. You’ll have to decide if paying the difference is worth the smart home support and the deeper clean owed to higher suction and dedicated cleaning solution.

The Yeedi S20 Infinity is available for $1,599.99 at Amazon.

Yeedi S20 Infinity: Specifications

Yeedi S20 Infinity: Setup

When unboxing the Yeedi S20 Infinity robot vacuum, I was struck by how little assembly was required, but also how tedious certain aspects of it still are. When I pulled everything out of the box, the side brush was already installed on the robot vacuum itself. In fact, on the unit, all I had to do was remove some plastic wrapping and the foam lining.

The base station took a little more work, however. The whole thing is on the heavier side so it takes a bit of muscle to get it out of the box, and there’s a base plate that needs to be installed.

Everything is covered in clingy plastic that needs to be peeled off section by section. While I appreciate the fact that it’s there to keep the base station safe during transport, it does mean a little extra work to unbox, and it isn't the most eco-friendly design choice. In total, fully unboxing the Yeedi S20 Infinity takes maybe five minutes.

Setting it up is fairly straightforward. Besides powering the base station and the robot vacuum, most of the work is during the app and smart home setup, which mostly consists of following the on-screen prompts, though you do need to pair the robot vacuum (there’s a button to hold down next to the power slider) and you should know the WiFi info of the network you’ll be connecting to.

Of course, it’s not fully set up at this point, as it needs to map your home. Getting it to do so is a press in the app, but it takes some time to go from room to room and map out the floor plan. I found that once that’s done, the map created is fairly accurate. It’s worth noting that you can’t fully set up the Yeedi S20 Infinity robot vacuum without a smart phone.

Before running, you'll need to fill up the clean water tank and the regular and hard cleaning solution reservoirs if you chose to get them, as they’re an additional purchase.

Yeedi S20 Infinity: Design and Features

The Yeedi S20 Infinity follows the looks of most of the other Yeedi robot vacuums I’ve tested. Its colorway is a black and gray affair with splashes of red, usually on levers or buttons. The robot vacuum itself is flat on top – great for fitting under furniture where dust tends to build up – with a removable faceplate that hides the power slider, pairing button, and onboard dustbin.

There’s also the onboard water reservoir on its back, which is pretty small. Where this robot vacuum is a little different than most, though similar to other more premium models from Yeedi, is how it’s arranged underneath. The brushroll used is the kind of anti-tangle one I see a lot with alternating lines of brushes and silicone that’s good for dealing with lots of hair, especially as a vacuum for pet hair. There’s just one side brush, which has a unique angle to push debris in front of it instead of kicking away.

And the Ozmo Roller 2.0 mopping roller brush is probably the most innovative improvement that I’ve seen on a robot vacuum. Not only does it extend out to mop edges, but its form factor means that it’s spinning but doing so in a forward to back motion instead of a circle like most mop pads that spin. This means that it mops up spills instead of moving contents around.

While you can control the Yeedi S20 Infinity through the app, and there’s plenty of fine tuning such as turning off the voice that announces every little thing the robot vacuum is about to do or scheduling cleaning, this robot vacuum supports the Matter smart home standard. This means that it can be connected to just about any ecosystem and voice assistant you use.

The base station also holds a few important design improvements and features. Notably, it holds both regular and heavy-duty cleaning solution, for different spills. The base station will also wash and dry the mop regularly during and after cleaning. Also worth noting is that while you do have to buy those cleaning solutions separately (both the regular and heavy duty solution is available at Amazon), you won’t have to buy dust bags as the base station’s dust bin is a removable, reusable canister that can easily empty into the trash the one time a month it’s required.

A little less impressive are the size of the water tanks. It’s not a dealbreaker, but the robot vacuum likes to wash its mop fairly regularly so under default conditions, I have to fill up the clean water tank and empty the dirty water tank every two to three uses.

What Is the Yeedi S20 Infinity Like to Use?

When it comes to interacting with the Yeedi S20 Infinity, I find using it to be on par with any other recent robot vacuum I’ve used. While there’s a button on the vacuum itself that will set it to start cleaning, this is the kind of device where I instinctively turn to the app for whatever I plan to do, whether that’s creating a schedule or choosing the parameters of a cleaning.

Adjusting the parameters is easy per usual as everything is in a menu that you can pull up from the bottom. Choosing vacuum and mopping strengths and the number of passes gives quite a bit of flexibility. However, if you don’t want to think about it, there is an AI mode that will adjust on the fly, which makes things more intuitive.

While I don’t recommend robot vacuums for deep cleaning your home – even when they’re as powerful as this one – in its day-to-day use, I’ve found the Yeedi S20 Infinity to do a fantastic job of keeping dust and debris off the floor. Pet dander, little pieces of food, and random dust all get sucked up for a floor clean enough that I don’t mind walking across it barefoot.

I was also impressed by how silent this robot vacuum is. The last robot vacuum I tested was the Yeedi S14 Plus, which I already found to be on the quiet side. The S20 Infinity is even quieter (unless you have it at max vacuum suction settings), running at around 56 dB. Of course, the self-emptying on the base station is louder at 76 dB but that takes a very short amount of time.

The object avoidance was good as it recognized objects quickly and navigated around them. Plus, you can toggle a setting in the app to take a wider berth to objects – essentially an “avoid hitting my dog” button.

It mops the floors evenly with its wide, six-inch cleaning path. I didn’t find any streaking or uneven washing, and as I’ve used this robot vacuum on carpet, I didn’t have to worry about the roller getting the carpet wet as it automatically lifts up when used.

Lastly, since I used the Yeedi S20 Infinity in a carpeted room that was on a different floor, it had to last at least half an hour of testing without using up too much battery. And since the battery life its very long, rated at 254 minutes, it’s not something I had to worry about. Of course, it does have fast charging to the tune of 6% of the battery in three minutes if you somehow manage to run that battery out.

The Yeedi S20 Infinity is available for $1,599.99 at Amazon.

Yeedi S20 Infinity: Vacuuming Tests

For the vacuuming tests, I ran the Yeedi S20 Infinity by cleaning hardwood flooring and low-pile carpeting. I used flour, sugar, lentils, and cereal to see how well this robot vacuum would do with debris of various sizes. While it had already done a good job with dust and pet dander, using these controlled tests was illuminating in a way I didn’t expect.

The Yeedi S20 has 19,500Pa of suction, which means that it should vacuum everything up in its path without mercy. While it certainly does have powerful suction, it still had some areas it struggled in.

Now, it sucked up the lentils and cereal with aplomb, besting the Yeedi S14 Plus that tended to shoot lighter particles like lentils out like it’s playing hockey. And it did so effectively on both hard and carpeted flooring.

It handled getting pieces of debris at the edges well on hardwood, though it struggled a bit on carpet between the carpet and the molding, which is one of the hardest cleaning tasks and not something I can really hold against the robot vacuum.

That brings up probably the most important point for a flagship robot vacuum, and that’s the fact that no matter how powerful one is, it can’t beat manual deep cleaning with your best vacuum cleaner. Whether it’s cleaning up lentils at the edges of my carpet, mopping up large amounts of ketchup, or getting a bunch of flour and sugar, most robot vacuums aren’t going to be able to spot clean a big mess as easily as I can with a regular vacuum.

Vacuuming up sugar and flour definitely highlighted that shortcoming as well as any other test or observation. Namely, the Yeedi S20 Infinity took a long time and multiple passes to mostly suck up these smaller particles on hard flooring as it did on carpeting. However, it did better on carpeting as it mostly captured all the sugar and flour, while I had to manually clean up some remnants on hard flooring even after two passes.

Yeedi S20 Infinity: Mopping Tests

When it comes to mopping, the Yeedi S20 Infinity has a leg up on most other robot vacuums. It’s actually surprising how few robot vacuums use additional cleaning solution, considering the goal is clean floors. Along with the eufy Omni S1 Pro, the Yeedi S20 Infinity is one of the few.

Also in its favor is its “Ozmo Roller 2.0” brushroll, which rolls the same way as a regular brushroll as opposed to either a flat pad that’s pressed against the floor or the spinning round mop pads that a lot of premium models come with.

This roller then combines the even cleaning surface of the former flat pad and the spinning pressure and motion of the round mop pads. It’s the best of both worlds and it showed in our mopping tests.

The Yeedi S20 Infinity sucked up the mustard and ketchup that I set out in front of it quickly and in one pass. Now, this isn’t a true replacement for the best vacuum-mop combos, despite the marketing, as it does get overwhelmed a bit with a lot of liquid. In this test, even though it did two passes and got most everything it was supposed to, it did still leave thin lines of mustard and ketchup at the edges of its cleaning path.

It did at least get to the edges of the room with some ketchup I had squirted over there. And it left the rest of the floor outside of the remnants it left behind very clean. While another pass would have probably gotten the rest of what was left, I was impressed with its mopping skills.

The Yeedi S20 Infinity is available for $1,599.99 at Amazon.

Yeedi S20 Infinity: Maintenance

The aforementioned vacuuming and mopping tests provided a good chance at looking under the hood. After all, learning how to clean a robot vacuum is going to affect its performance and longevity.

Luckily, it’s mostly straightforward. The brushroll and the cage that contains it are easy to remove, making it easy to get to anything that gets tangled in there. A filter that sits behind the Ozmo Roller 2.0 mopping brushroll comes out just as easily to be emptied out and cleaned.

Outside of that and the filter inside the robot vacuum’s own dustbin, none of the other parts are easily removable, if removable at all. That mopping brush may get washed and cleaned in the base station, but the area behind it is basically inaccessible to clean. And when you’re mopping up a bunch of ketchup and mustard, you’re probably going to have to clean the underbelly of this robot vacuum somehow.

As far as the routine maintenance goes, the base station does a good job of automatically emptying the robot vacuum’s contents into its own dustbin every time the robot vacuum docks. And that dustbin is big enough that it will only need emptying once a month. I also appreciate that it's a canister and not a dust bag that eventually needs replacing, with more recurring purchases.

The water tanks are a little bit smaller than average. I have filled up the clean water tank after every other clean and emptied the dirty water tank almost as much. I do appreciate the fact the Yeedi S20 Infinity always washes and dries its mop roller, but it’s probably a major reason why it runs through water so quickly.

How Does the Yeedi S20 Infinity Compare?

With an MSRP of $1,599.99 at Amazon, the Yeedi S20 Infinity robot vacuum fits into the premium flagship level of robot vacuums, not only for its price but also its feature set. Not only is there the high suction vacuuming and spinning brushroll for mopping, but Alexa and Google Support are built in as is the ability to use two actual cleaning solutions. It's often discounted though, as it is now at the time of writing, with almost a third off the full asking price at Amazon.

The Yeedi S14 Plus is an interesting comparison, mostly because its MSRP of $1,199.99 is also out of reach for many, but the frequently discounted price of $549.99 puts it within reach of those that are price conscious. You don’t have any smart home ecosystem support and you can’t use a cleaning solution, but it’s still a very solid option that will get you most of the way there for a much smaller spend.

The Eufy Omni S1 Pro has a similar MSRP to the S20 Infinity, but is often discounted to as low as $900. It also uses cleaning fluid to help with mopping but doesn’t have the suction power of either Yeedi robot vacuums.

How I tested the Yeedi S20 Infinity

There is a lot that goes into how we test vacuums, which includes going through the app with a fine tooth comb, running benchmarks, and simply living with the product to see how it fits into everyday cleaning.

For the Yeedi S20 Infinity, I used it for a week running it every day in an area regularly occupied by five adults, two French Bulldogs, and a reclusive cat. I ran it typically with vacuum and mop functionality together, though I’ve run it with just one or the other for testing.

As far as targeted tests go, I tested it using a quarter cup of sugar, lentils, and cereal, testing with each type of substance individually on both hard flooring and carpet. I also tested the mopping by running two tests, first with a quarter cup of ketchup and second with the same amount of mustard.

The Yeedi S20 Infinity is available for $1,599.99 at Amazon.

Next, learn how to choose the best vacuum for every home and budget.

When steam from hot showers can’t escape, it clings to walls, ceilings, and window frames – and that trapped moisture is exactly what mold loves.

I see it constantly as an Indoor Air Quality specialist, but there is a simple, free fix to prevent mold and save yourself hours of cleaning and remediation this winter.

Why You Shouldn't Shut Up Your Bathroom in Winter

While the risk is present year-round, mold is a particular problem in winter when homes are cold, and everyone keeps the windows shut to keep the home warm all day, turning any and all bathroom ideas into sealed boxes.

You shower in hot water, moisture hits the cold surfaces, and it sticks around for hours with nowhere to go. This trapped moisture feeds mold on grout lines, ceilings, paint, and the caulking around showers. As the owner of Clean Air Technologies, I tell homeowners regularly that if a bathroom stays wet for more than 30 minutes after a shower, there is a very high chance of mold infestation.

The simple, single solution is to re-establish that airflow and improve ventilation.

Luckily, there are some fast and low-cost fixes that will offer improvement in about a week. Better yet, you don’t need fancy equipment:

• Run the exhaust fan the right way: Most people run the fan for five minutes, but they need to run it for at least 20-30 minutes after every shower so the humidity actually clears out.
• If the fan is weak or noisy, clean it: Half the fans I open up are clogged with dust, which cuts airflow by a lot. Simply cleaning a bathroom extractor fan with a vacuum and a soft brush (also from Walmart) usually makes a lot of difference.
• Crack the door open after the shower: You don't even need tools to improve bathroom ventilation. Even a one-inch gap in your bathroom doorway is enough to let moist air escape into the hallway. You can also use shock ventilation to clear out humidity from your home.
• Use a cheap squeegee: Pull water off the shower walls and glass with a squeegee from Walmart. This will remove 70-80% of the moisture the fan would otherwise have to handle. Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden, banished limescale build-up in her shower with a squeegee, too.
• Warm the bathroom slightly before showering: Warm surfaces don’t collect condensation as quickly – there are several ways to keep a bathroom warm without heating if needs must. Plus, it makes a bathroom cozy for post-shower dressing.

Removing the moisture on your shower tiles and glass with a squeegee not only lowers the moisture levels, but also makes it easier to keep this space clean and reduce your deep cleaning schedule.

Punteha van Terheyden adds, 'I have chronic pain and limited mobility, so deep cleaning is not easy for me to do. That's why I always squeegee down the shower to remove the moisture, which is especially good for avoiding mold in my tiny en suite, but also doesn't allow mineral deposits to build up.'

This is a great way of cleaning with adaptive pacing in mind. Punteha recommends the Casabella Rubber Blade Squeegee Broom, available at Target for easy reach and to protect your back, hips, shoulders, and neck, if you have pain in those areas and find it difficult to bend down or reach up.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Did you know there are some things you can declutter to prevent damp and mold this winter? targeting moisture magnets is a great way to protect your home from damage in the holiday season.

That’s why I am so intrigued to learn from experts that the problem is usually ‘overdosing’ laundry.

Here, an expert in bedding reveals what laundry overdosing is, why it happens and the simple fix to avoid the damp smells on clothing it produces, including on towels and linens, so you only have to do a load of laundry once like a pro.

What is Laundry Overdosing?

Simply put, it’s when you use too much detergent or softener, and it clings to the fibers of your laundry items, trapping moisture inside and unpleasant smells with it.

Rachel Fraser, Product Specialist at home retailer Pillow Talk says, ‘Overusing detergent or fabric softener when drying indoors can leave a residue that traps moisture, reduces absorbency, and makes fabrics feel coarse.

‘One of the biggest culprits behind that musty, "wet dog" smell in laundry during winter is excess moisture, either because items aren’t drying quickly enough or because there’s too much detergent residue trapped in the fibres. When detergent builds up, it acts like a sponge, holding onto water and creating the perfect environment for bacteria and mildew to thrive.’

Rachel notes this can be a particularly seasonal winter issue, adding that as temperatures drop and outdoor drying becomes impossible, many households are turning to indoor racks, radiators, and dryers to get laundry dry. 'But how you wash and dry your bed sheets and towels this winter could be the difference between soft, fresh fabrics and stiff, smelly, or worn-out ones,' she says.

It only takes small missteps in winter laundry routines to quickly lead to musty smells, rough sheets and towels, damage to fabrics, and having to wash loads again with even more detergent.

Rachel says, ‘People often assume more detergent means a deeper clean, but it’s actually the opposite. Overdosing can stop fabrics from rinsing properly, especially when you’re drying clothes indoors, where there’s less airflow. That leftover product mixes with moisture and warmth, which is why things can start to smell even after washing.’

In addition to this, it can be harder to properly air-dry laundry, which has lots of benefits. In winter, this is an added issue that can lead to those damp smells. Rachel explains, ‘During colder months, people often wash and dry more frequently but with less ventilation.’

Here, she shares her top tips for keeping clothes, bedding, and towels fresh through the colder months, without relying on outdoor drying.

• Avoid overloading and overdosing: ‘It’s tempting to use extra detergent when clothes smell damp, but this actually makes things worse,’ Rachel says. ‘Too much detergent can build up in fabrics and stop them from drying properly. Use the correct amount and run an extra rinse cycle if needed.
• Ditch the fabric conditioner for towels: ‘Fabric softeners can coat the fibres of your towels, making them less absorbent,’ she says. ‘Instead, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle once a month, it helps lift residue and keeps towels fluffy.’ This also applies when washing microfiber cloths, which are a more planet-friendly cleaning item, as they can be washed and reused hundreds of times. Ditching the softener keeps their microfibers absorbent.
• Dry smart, not fast: Rachel advises using low to medium heat in tumble dryers, or air-drying near a dehumidifier or open window to prevent condensation. ‘Over-drying on high heat can make towels stiff and cause shrinkage,’ she adds. ‘And never dry items directly on radiators, as it can trap moisture indoors and create musty smells.’
• Follow care labels and give items space: ‘Different materials need different care,’ Rachel says. ‘Always check the label, wash delicate items like silk pillowcases in laundry bags, and avoid cramming too many bulky items like duvets or toppers into one load.’ We particularly like the multipack of mesh laundry bags from Walmart. They’re highly rated by shoppers, and the various sizes make them very useful across all different types of laundry loads.
• Protect your investment: To extend the life of bedding, Rachel recommends using washable protectors for mattresses and pillows, rotating between two or three sheet sets. ‘This keeps your bedding hygienic, makes laundry less overwhelming, and helps everything last longer,’ she adds.

As winter sets in, these small changes can make a big difference, not just for keeping laundry soft and fresh, but for maintaining a healthier home environment and avoiding moldy and mildew smells.

How to Avoid Overdosing Your Laundry

To help you avoid overdosing your laundry, Rachel explains, ‘Generally, most loads only need about half to three-quarters of the amount listed on the detergent cap. Modern formulations are very concentrated, and using less is usually more effective.

‘When filling the detergent drawer, aim for roughly two tablespoons of liquid detergent or a heaped tablespoon of powder for an average load. If you’re washing towels or bedding, add an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the product is removed.’

This is something I do at home, especially when it’s my daughter’s clothing, as she has sensitive skin and any detergent residue can aggravate her eczema. I’ve also found that a much smaller amount of detergent than recommended still goes a very long way, reducing how often I need to buy detergent, which is welcome as the cost of living continues to rise.

I avoid detergents with optical brightening blue colors, as it is hazardous to the environment. I love the luxurious smell of the EWG-verified Attitude detergent with Geranium, available at Amazon. A small amount goes a long way, and if you air-dry laundry as I do, this fills the air with a subtle geranium smell that is very pleasant.

Bedding expert Rachel adds, ‘If airdrying, dry your laundry near a window or use a dehumidifier to help moisture escape faster, it’ll make a huge difference to that lingering damp ‘wet dog’ smell.’

Indeed, I run a small dehumidifier that I bought from Amazon next to my wet laundry, making sure the air intake vent is facing my laundry rack. This vastly speeds up slow winter drying and also helps banish damp smells from fresh loads.

What to Shop

Finally, Rachel says, ‘For winter washes, it’s also worth occasionally running an empty hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar to clear out any detergent residue in your machine.’

Next, learn why your house feels damp and the things to declutter this winter to avoid mold.

Here's our ultimate Homes & Gardens guide packed with expert advice on how to keep your best bed sheets feeling as cozy and comfortable as the day you bought them, for years to come.

How to Wash Bed Sheets Without Ruining Them

Your bed is one of the most important spots in your home, and knowing how to wash your bed sheets correctly and preventing any bedding mistakes will make slipping under freshly laundered sheets one of life's simplest, yet most rewarding, pleasures.

Luckily, most bed sheets can go straight in the washer, but it's certainly worth taking the time to get to know useful laundry tips, such as the most appropriate cycle and heat settings for each material – be it cotton, silk, satin, or bamboo.

Don't forget that the majority of us should be washing our sheets every one to two weeks, but if you share your bed with a partner, pets, little ones, or are a particularly hot sleeper, you may need to increase this frequency accordingly. This may also vary from one season to the next.

Here's how to get the job done properly. These steps refer to cotton bedsheets, but there's specific insight for bamboo, silk, and more:

1. Check the care label: First, check the laundry symbols on your sheets to ensure you follow any specific instructions for the fabric type.
2. Pre-treat stains: Next, check bed sheets for stubborn stains as they’re best tackled pre-wash. For stains like sweat or body oils, use a pre-treatment spray such as Shout Active Enzyme Laundry Stain Remover Spray available at Amazon, or OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Spray available at Walmart, and let it sit for five minutes before washing. If you prefer not to use chemicals or suffer from allergies that prevent you from doing so, you can also try cleaning with baking soda. Mix it with water to form a thick paste before applying it to the dampened, stained area. Let the mixture dry until flaky before brushing off any excess and popping your bed linen in the wash.
3. Load the washing machine: Once stains have been pre-treated, your bed sheets will be ready to load into the washer, provided they're washing machine safe. Make sure not to overload the appliance, and, where possible, wash your bed sheets alone, as it's best not to wash clothes and bedding together, nor bedding and towels. It's also best to turn your bedding inside out before washing, to protect the fibers, color, and texture. If your sheets aren't suitable for your best washing machine, they will need to be hand-washed, following the same principles as when you hand-wash clothes.
4. Choose the right detergent: Next, it's important to choose the right detergent – and to add the right amount. Non-bio detergents, such as the Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent available at Amazon, tend to be the best choice, particularly for those with babies or allergies, and are generally capable of cleaning normal amounts of dirt. When washing your best white bed sheets, you may want to use bleach in laundry, but only if it's safe for the fabric. The amount of detergent you add is dependent on the size of the load. Always follow the guidance on the packaging with regards to recommended amounts, and where to place the detergent – in the drum or detergent dispenser drawer. Too much detergent can lead to excess water use and sludge build-up in your washer’s inner pipes, which can lead to damage. Less is always more. Just like when you’re washing towels, skip the fabric softener as it can reduce the absorbency of natural fibers and weaken the fabric, and always use silk-friendly detergent on silk sheets, as you should when washing a silk pillowcase.
5. Set the temperature and spin speed: Then, you'll need to set the temperature of your machine cycle. Unlike cotton clothes, cotton bed sheets are best washed in hot water (90-130° Fahrenheit or 30-60° Centigrade), while best linen sheets will fare better in cold or lukewarm water (up to 85°F or 30°C), and, to wash silk sheets, always use cold water. In general, use a medium spin speed, but for delicate fabrics like silk, always opt for low.

When washing bamboo bedding, these same steps apply, but always wash cold, to protect the fibers from shrinkage and breakage, and air-dry where possible. If you must use a dryer, select a low heat setting and tumble dry on low before removing bedding promptly to avoid wrinkles.

Then, only iron if necessary, and use a low heat setting. High heat can damage bamboo fibers.

The same rules apply for silk and linen bedding, although, for the former, you should also select a specialized detergent, such as the Heritage Park Silk & Wool All-Natural Laundry Detergent, available at Amazon, while, for the latter, you should never use bleach, even on white linen.

Alternatively, you can clean with oxygen bleach, a chlorine-free alternative that helps whiten whites and brighten brights without the risk of damaging the fibers or the color.

To wash fleece bedding, gently lint-roll it with the Scotch-Brite Everyday Clean Lint Roller available at Amazon, and remove stains, before selecting a cold, delicate cycle, and a specialized detergent, such as the Woolite Damage Defense Liquid Laundry Detergent.

If you're unsure how to wash Tencel bedding, pre-treat stains before washing with a gentle detergent on a cold cycle. A mesh laundry bag, available at Amazon, can also help protect Tencel garments during the wash cycle.

And finally, to wash viscose bedding, handwashing is the safest approach. Fill a basin with lukewarm or cool water, and add a small amount of mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics, before submerging and swirling the bed linen for about five minutes and rinsing with cold water.

If the care label indicates that machine washing is acceptable, use a gentle or delicate cycle. Place the viscose item in a mesh laundry bag to reduce friction with other garments, which can damage the fibers.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

How to Remove Discoloration from Bed Linen

Few things look as inviting as a freshly made bed with crisp, white sheets. Give it a few years of regular use, however, and lighter bedding might start to look a bit yellow.

Fear not! This discoloration is normal and usually a result of sweating or moisturizing before bed. They can still be unsightly, however, especially if they crop up on well-loved guest linens.

Here's how to remove them, to restore that fresh-sheet feeling without splurging on a new set:

• Wash with vinegar: When bedding discoloration and staining are mild, it is best to start off using natural remedies, such as using white vinegar in laundry to avoid damaging your bedding fibers with harsh chemicals. Pre-soak your bedding in warm water with half a cup of baking soda, before letting it sit for between two hours to overnight. Finish by washing on a warm, not hot, cycle with a cup of white vinegar, poured into the rinse tray of your detergent drawer. When removing yellowing from bed linen, you should never use hot water, as this can further set the stain.
• Use oxygen bleach: Oxygen bleach is a chlorine-free alternative to bleach that releases oxygen when exposed to water, helping to lift out stains and dirt. Mix half a cup of oxygen bleach with warm water and soak the bedding for several hours or overnight. Then, add one cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle and half a cup of baking soda to the drum before washing the sheets.
• Use enzyme-based detergents and pre-treat stains: As discoloration on bedding is often caused by organic compounds, you can enjoy great stain removal results with enzyme-based cleaners, such as the Nature’s Miracle Laundry Boost In-Wash Stain and Odor Remover available at Amazon. One of the golden rules of stain removal is to treat the stain as early as you can, using The Pink Stuff Stain Remover Spray available at Amazon.
• Soak the stain in glycerin: This cleaning tip is simple. Smother the stain in vegetable glycerin, available at Walmart, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, using a soft-bristled brush (or an old, clean toothbrush) dipped in warm water, scrub the stain. Repeat the process as needed until the bedding is white again.
• Dry bedding in the sun: After washing, dry the bedding in the sun, as natural sunlight helps brighten whites.

If you regularly change your hair color at home, you may also find yourself needing to know how to remove hair dye from bedding. Whilst it can be done, removing it isn't easy.

Hair dye that is semi-permanent or long-lasting sinks deep into fabrics and can be a pain to get out, especially if you’ve got cotton or linen sheets, which soak up everything.

Here are some tips on how to remove the stains, depending on how permanent and set in they are:

• Act quickly: Timing is important, and it increases the chances of a positive outcome the earlier you apply the treatment.
• Spot test and pre-treat the stain: Treat the stain with an appropriate-quality stain remover or a solution of warm water and an oxygen-based bleach substitute, like OxiClean Max Force Advanced Stain Remover Powder available at Walmart.
• Wash: After pre-treatment, you should wash the stained item in your washing machine using the maximum water temperature for the fabric. This will help soften the hair dye stain and, in the process, wash out the compounds. If this fails, then repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps on the stained area.
• Let air dry: If it’s possible, try to let it dry in the sunlight, as the sun can naturally help to bleach out any leftover traces of the stain.  

All of these methods are also suitable for removing hair dye stains from clothes, too.

How to Make Rough Sheets Soft Again

Whether your new sheets are stiff or, after a few washes, you notice your sheets are gradually losing their soft feel, using tried-and-test tactics to ensure they remain comfortable can improve your sleep and prevent skin irritation.

Here's what we suggest:

• Pre-soak: Dissolve around 1/2 cup (120 g) of baking soda in warm water and let your sheets soak in this solution for a couple of hours. Once the soak is done, wash them. They should come out of the washer feeling refreshed and soft. Then hang them out to dry.
• Use Epsom salts, available at Walmart: These relax the fibers. Pour around 1.5 ounces of Epsom salts into a tub of cold water, and mix thoroughly. Give your sheets a full night's soak, then rinse and hang to dry.
• Use baking soda and vinegar: Start by putting the stiff sheets into the washing machine, then add one cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of vinegar to the machine. You don't need to use your regular laundry detergent. Then run the machine on a regular cycle with warm water, before air drying or putting them in the dryer on a gentle, low heat setting.
• Opt for a longer wash cycle: Sometimes, the reason your sheets may feel rough is insufficient washing time, which means your sheets have less time to agitate and soften up. If your sheets still feel rough after a regular wash cycle, try setting your washing machine for a longer cycle. 
• Add wool dryer balls: These, such as the Evriholder 100% Wool Dryer Ball available at Walmart, help fluff up and separate fabrics, preventing stiffening.
• Use less detergent and softener: Be mindful of the amount of detergent or fabric softener you add to your laundry, and don’t overuse them.
• Invest in quality sheets: The best way to avoid rough sheets altogether is by investing in natural, quality sheets that will actually become softer over time. Lower-quality sheets, typically made with short-staple cotton fibers, tend to be rough and prone to pilling. Higher-quality sheets and the best luxury bed sheets made with long staple cotton fibers are generally softer and more durable. High-thread-count cotton sheets especially become softer with each wash.

How to Dry Bed Linen

Sheets dried outside on a clothesline are hard to beat for freshness, especially on a warm summer’s day. This should ideally be done in the sun and breeze, either on a washing line or drying rack, such as the number one bestselling Amazon Basics Foldable Portable Laundry Drying Rack available at Amazon, but always turn colored sheets inside out to reduce the risk of colors fading in the sunlight.

Luckily, if the weather is bad, it’s possible to use your best clothes dryer to get the job done. Opt for a low heat setting, regardless of the fabric, and consider adding dryer balls, such as the New Zealand Wool Dryer Balls available at Target, which help dry bedding more quickly and efficiently, and agitate the fibers in your bed sheets, making them softer and cozier.

And, if you're drying silk bed sheets, always air-dry, as the short answer to ‘can silk go in the dryer’ or not is no, absolutely not.

For drying fleece bed linen, a cold setting on the tumble dryer is ideal as it will spin the item around, fluffing up the fabric and restoring its soft and cozy texture, while Tencel and viscose fabrics are best air dried to avoid damage and shrinkage.

If you need to dry bedding quickly in winter to avoid days of damp, we recommend:

• Use the 'three-hanger method': First, clip two corners of your bed linen to one hanger. Then, drape the middle part of the sheet over a second hanger to keep it off the floor, before clipping the other two corners to a third hanger. This means the sheet is evenly supported, gets plenty of air circulation, and dries faster than if it were just bunched up. As for pillowcases, you only need one hanger and two clips. Put them on the clothesline and separate properly, just so they have enough space.
• Keep load sizes smaller: Washing in a smaller load will help the washer spin out more moisture. This also makes it easier to dry in the dryer, even at a low setting, because there is less fabric to dry. You can also add an extra spin cycle to your wash to remove as much water as possible before drying.
• Use your drying rack strategically: Including an indoor drying rack in your laundry room ideas is the obvious way to dry wet bedding indoors during the winter, but its positioning and location will play a huge role in how quickly it dries out. Use a drying rack placed in a warm, well-ventilated area with low humidity to speed up the process, or circulate the air with a desk or ceiling fan. Make sure the material is spread out evenly, and flip the bedding regularly.
• Maximize your dryer's efficiency: Maintaining your appliance and cleaning the dryer vents regularly will help.
• Keep your home well-ventilated: For example, leave a window open to allow for ventilation and release moisture faster and more efficiently.
• Invest in a dehumidifier: Your best dehumidifier, such as the TABYIK Dehumidifier available at Amazon, really can help speed up drying time when hanging bed linen indoors to dry.

How to Store Bed Linen

It might be surprising to learn that bed linen is often an afterthought when it comes to considering bedroom storage ideas.

Here's what we suggest:

• Under the bed: Utilize under-bed storage space for your bed linens, and squeeze more in with vacuum-sealed bags, available at Amazon, and containers. This often-underused area can be a great solution, especially for those with limited space. Just slide out the container when you need fresh linens, and you're all set.
• In a linen closet: One of the most efficient places to store bed linens is in a dedicated linen closet. They also offer some useful towel storage space. Importantly, though, you shouldn't store bedding in your closet, as doing so means there will be less space for your clothes, it will be harder to find what you need, and it simply isn't a typically designated spot for bedding items.
• In a bedroom bench or ottoman: A storage ottoman or bench, such as the Arshi Tufted Square Storage Ottoman available at Wayfair, is a great way to add extra seating to a room while also providing storage for bed linen. Have one in the main bedroom and one in the kids' rooms if you want to make changing the bedsheets extra quick and easy, separating the linens for the correct-sized beds.
• In bedroom dresser drawers: If you have an extra dresser in your bedroom, designate a couple of drawers for storing bed linens. 
• Displayed on a vintage ladder: Repurposing a vintage wooden ladder into a stunning linen display is a great way to store your linen that is also aesthetically pleasing. By leaning the ladder against the wall and elegantly draping bed linens over its rungs, you not only ensure organized storage but also craft an artistic centerpiece for the room.

For optimal efficiency, you should also group, label, and pay attention to finer details, for instance, always storing your cooling bed sheets separately from those you use in winter.

You can also use laundry bags for seasonal linen, to protect it from dust and humidity when not in use throughout the year, and keep bed linen fresh with cedar and lavender, such as the MYARO Lavender Scented Sachets available at Amazon, which will also help to keep moths out of your closet or storage solution.

The only slight technicality comes with folding and storing those awkward fitted sheets.

To fold fitted sheets:

1. Lay the fitted sheet flat on your bed.
2. Fold once, from bottom to top.
3. Tuck the corners inside each other. You should not have a wide rectangle on the bed.
4. Fold into the middle, then into the middle again.
5. Then fold twice from the bottom up The result should be a neatly folded sheet.

Then comes storing your bed linen. The best way to do this is using Bed Sheet Organizers, available at Amazon, which keep even the smallest of small linen closets from ending up looking like a jumbled mess.

The boxes are perfectly shaped to stack neatly in your existing storage ideas, rather than tumble over, and you can also use them to store extra pillowcases, towels, and protect special linens from dust.

What to Shop

FAQs

Why are my sheets pilling?

If you regularly sleep with the same set of sheets, you may notice that they start to pill. These small friction knots may appear on the surface of your sheets as loose fibers get twisted and torn, leaving your once smooth and silky bedding fuzzy.

Pilling happens when loose fibers from the fabric tangle up and form small, stubborn balls.

As for why these fibers come loose in the first place, friction is the culprit. Every time you toss and turn in the night, you're breaking down the fabric fibers in the sheets, and the same thing happens when you throw your sheets in the washer or dryer.

That being said, cheaper materials tend to be more prone to pilling.

Luckily, pilling can be removed with a fabric shaver, such as the BEAUTURAL Fabric Shaver and Lint Remover available at Amazon, which has almost 100,000 five-star reviews on Amazon for efficiency and ease of use.

Do you need to iron bedsheets?

There's no denying that ironing is a generally unavoidable task, but do you need to iron bed sheets? And is doing so the secret to achieving that crisp, hotel feel?

No, it's not necessary by any means, but it can effectively elevate your space and give it a more polished, luxurious look.

In general, cotton and linen should be ironed with a high heat, whereas a lower setting should be selected for synthetics. Alternatively, you can use a garment steamer, such as the HiLIFE Steamer available at Amazon, instead.

But most wrinkles do ease out after a night's sleep, so it's not always worth your time.

Once you've tackled your bed linen, the next step is washing, drying, and caring for your blankets and throws.

Experts agree that prevention is key. Simple steps such as sealing windows, insulating exposed pipes, clearing gutters, and checking your heating system can make a major difference to how efficiently your home runs through the coldest months.

With just a few strategic and simple winterizing tasks, you can protect your property, prevent mold, lower your energy bills, and stay cozy all winter – no matter what the weather brings.

Winterizing a House Checklist

Although the NOAA has predicted a milder winter for most of the southern and central parts of the US for late 2025 and early 2026, it is still important to plan ahead and stock up on snow essentials in the face of winter storm warnings, just in case.

With that in mind, there are some general tasks you should complete as the temperature starts to dip in your region:

• Check the roof: ‘Good roof maintenance is vital to avoid water damage to a building’s fabric. Slipped slats or tiles, failing leadwork, and roof valleys blocked by debris will all wreak havoc if neglected,’ says Roger Hunt, author of the Old House Handbook. ‘Roofs should be repaired promptly by an experienced roofer. Never use quick fixes, such as spray foams or liquid waterproofing; they may trap moisture, hinder repairs, and are likely to prevent the future reuse of materials,’ he adds. It is also important that you remove any moss and leaves from the roof as this will hold water, leading to dampness and rot.
• Clean your gutters: Cleaning gutters is far from the easiest chore, but it is essential to winterize a home, says Matt Schmitz, home expert and managing editor at HomeServe USA. 'Obstructions in your gutters can trap moisture and snow; the resulting cycle of repeated freezing and melting can cause a large mass of ice to accumulate, damaging shingles, gutters, and siding.' Over time, this can result in roof leaks. It can be made easier with a floor-level gutter cleaning tool from Walmart, negating the need for ladders and helping you to avoid common winter home maintenance mistakes.
• Assess the chimney: The chimney is a vulnerable part of the house, exposed to high winds, frost, and snow. Repair minor cracks with a patching cement from Lowe's. For more severe damage, it is time to call the pros for lasting repairs before you light your fireplace. If you are not planning on using your fireplace over winter, consider installing a removable chimney draft excluder from Amazon to block downdrafts and make your heating more efficient. Always remove it before using the fireplace.
• Check exterior walls: Douglas Kent, technical and research director at the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, explains, 'Freeze-thaw cycles affecting wet masonry or unfired earth in cold weather can cause cracking, spalling, and structural instability. Exposed parts are particularly susceptible, including parapets, copings, cornices, and chimneys.' Look for signs of cracking, rot, or efflorescence (a sign of damp), and call a repair expert as needed to protect against further damage.
• Draftproof windows & doors: 'A task homeowners can do in the fall to prepare for the winter weather is inspecting and draft-proofing their windows and doors,' says David Flax, president of Window Genie, a Neighborly company. ‘For windows, a layer of thermal insulating film from Walmart can add an extra layer of protection against cold air transfer,’ he says. For doors, use weather stripping (also from Walmart) to seal gaps in the frame, and hang thermal insulating curtains from Wayfair to create a cozy entry shield.
• Insulate: Knowing where to insulate your home can help keep your home warm all winter. Attic insulation and basement insulation, in particular, are fantastic for limiting energy loss to keep a home warm all day for less. There are, however, several areas of your home you should never insulate to avoid trapped moisture and mold problems.
• Check ventilation: ‘It is important to stay on top of our home ventilation systems in winter as we look to turn on the heating and close our windows, so as to reduce humidity in a house, improve air quality indoors, and prevent mold in our homes. Ben Leo, HVAC specialist and founder of HomeCaprice, recommends cleaning vents, adding 'consider investing in an air purifier, especially if you have pets or allergy concerns, and a dehumidifier such as the Insignia 25-pint Energy Star Dehumidifier from Best Buy to keep your warm indoor air dry.’
• Service heating: There are several home heating types your home can have, and each of them will need a professional service before you turn it on again, especially if you have not been using it over spring and summer. Austin Fain, CEO of Perfect Steel Solutions, urges, 'Schedule a professional HVAC technician to inspect and service your furnace or heating system and replace air filters with high-efficiency filters ready for constant use.'

Winterizing HVAC & Plumbing

Servicing your HVAC system can help you avoid emergency call-outs in the middle of winter, Matt suggests. Even if you are not using your AC in winter, a few winterizing tasks now will ensure it is ready for use when the temperatures rise again next year.

Matt begins, ‘For your outdoor AC unit, trim back shrubbery around the unit, and clear any natural debris (leaves, acorns, mulch) that has found its way onto, into, around, and under your unit.

‘If you decide to cover the unit for the winter to keep debris out while not in use, be sure to get a proper cover, preferably one that is breathable and covers only the top of the unit, stretching down the sides no more than a few inches to prevent trapping snow or providing an enticing spot for critters to hole up for the season.’ This heavy-duty cover from Amazon is available in three sizes and leaves the sides exposed to prevent trapped moisture.

Matt also recommends scheduling an annual HVAC tune-up with a trusted local technician to confidently prepare your household for the cold if you are unsure of what to do yourself. 'You should also ensure you’re changing your furnace filter quarterly,' he adds. 'It is the single most vital routine maintenance task you can do for your HVAC system’s health.'

It's also worth preparing for heating your home when the power goes out, to be safe. A quality propane heater, available from ACE Hardware, can be a great backup up just remember to ventilate your home correctly to stay safe. Alternatively, use a backup generator, such as the Generac GP Series 6500 W Gas Portable Generator, from ACE Hardware, can power space heaters.

Preventing frozen pipes in winter should also be a top priority in winter if you want to avoid huge bills and frustrating repair work. When water freezes, it expands, which can potentially lead to burst pipes and flooding.

Josh Mitchell, plumbing technician and owner of Plumbing Lab, advises paying special attention to exposed interior pipes in your kitchen and bathroom, particularly those mounted or running along exterior walls, as temperatures there will be cooler. 'Keeping cabinet doors open allows warm air from your home to circulate the pipes, reducing the amount of freezing,' he suggests.

To insulate exposed pipes inside your home, we recommend using insulation tape, such as the bestselling Redford Supply Co. 2 Inch Pipe Insulation Tape available at Amazon. This offers maximum pipe freeze protection, helping to prevent costly plumbing repairs. Alternatively, if you live in a very cold area, upgrade to a heat tape, such as this self-regulating tape, also from Amazon, which heats your pipes to prevent freezing.

Knowing when to drip a faucet is also useful when winterizing a house, as it can keep water moving, preventing freezing.

It is also important to protect your washing machine, especially if it is in a cold part of your house, such as a basement or garage. If pipes freeze before you can insulate them, you can gently thaw your machine by filling the drum with warm (not boiling) water and allowing it to sit for a few hours. Alternatively, gently heat the water lines with a hairdryer on the low setting.

Winterizing a Garage

• Insulate the garage door: Home improvement expert Tommy Mello of A1 Garage suggests you start winterizing your garage by insulating your garage door to keep the heat of your home in and the cold of the outside out. ‘I always recommend the Reach Barrier Garage Door Insulation Kit from Amazon for my customers,’ says Tommy. ‘These kits are easy to install and can make a big difference in maintaining a stable temperature inside your garage. Each kit usually includes foam panels that fit between the door’s panels and everything you need to insulate a standard garage door.’
• Seal gaps: Next, inspect your garage for any cracks or gaps, particularly around windows, doors, and the foundation. Even small gaps can allow cold air to seep in, making it harder to keep your garage warm. Use weatherstripping for doors and windows, such as Frost King Weatherseal Foam, also from Amazon, which is rated 4.4/5 by customers for its durability and ease of application.
• Install a heater: A heater will keep the space comfortable, especially if you use your garage as a workshop or storage area for sensitive items, and it can help protect pipes from freezing. The DR-988 5600W Portable Industrial Heater from Dr. Infrared is a portable electric heater that is powerful enough to heat a large garage and is easy to use with built-in safety features.
• Declutter: Winter is also a great time to declutter your garage and organize a garage with too much stuff. Move items off the floor and into cabinets or shelves to protect them from any potential moisture, cold damage, and pests like mice, which like to nest low to the ground in garages.
• Ventilate: While sealing your garage is essential, Garage Living co-founder, Aaron Cash, reminds us that you also need to ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew. If your garage doesn’t already have a ventilation system, consider installing the iLiving Garage Exhaust Fan available at Amazon, rated 4.7/5 by customers, to keep the air circulating and moisture levels in check, ensuring your garage is well-ventilated.

Winterizing a Driveway

• Clean: home improvement expert Tommy Mello suggests you start by thoroughly cleaning your driveway – an outdoor cleaning task to have on your radar from fall. This will remove dirt and debris that can trap moisture and lead to cracks. ‘Deep cleaning calls for the Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer from Amazon,’ says Tommy. ‘It's cost-effective and perfect for cleaning outdoors.’
• Seal cracks: Repairing cracks in driveways is a must, as even the smallest fracture can turn into a chasm should water get in and freeze in winter. For small to medium cracks, use a latex-based crack filler such as Bluestar Flexible Asphalt Crack Filler from Walmart. It’s easy to use and especially formulated for extreme climates.
• Seal the surface: A good-quality driveway sealant can add a protective layer against water, oil, and salt, which can eat away at the surface. According to John Mazzuca, home builder and mason at Gambrick Construction, you should use coal tar-based sealers such as Liquid Rubber Driveway Restore Sealer from Lowe's, rated 4.6/5 stars by shoppers for asphalt driveways. ‘These give far more protection from the elements and last much longer than acrylic-based ones, protecting your driveway for longer,’ says John.
• Stock up on de-icing products: Even though salt is normally used for melting snow and ice, it is terribly corrosive to concrete and asphalt driveways. Instead, use deicers based on calcium magnesium acetate or potassium chloride, both of which are a bit less toxic to plants and less corrosive than regular salt. The Safe Paw Ice Melter from Amazon, rated 4.5/5 by consumers, is a safe, salt-free solution. It helps to have a good snow shovel, from ACE Hardware, on hand to clear away snow and ice from your drive and car as needed, too.
• Consider a heated driveway: For a long-term solution for ice and snow, consider having a heated driveway installed. According to expert contractor Luke Beerman says 'The cost can vary depending on what you choose and what you’ve got to work with. On average, you’re looking at about $12 to $25 per square foot for an electric system and $15 to $30 for a hydronic one. This includes materials and labor.'

Winterizing Balconies

• Protect outdoor furniture: Jon Christensen, CEO of home improvement hub Bidmii, says, 'Clean your outdoor furniture to remove any dirt or debris that could lead to mold or mildew. Once it's dry, cover each piece with a durable, waterproof cover that fits securely. I recommend the Duck Covers Ultimate Patio Furniture Covers from Amazon. They're made of heavy-duty material that resists tearing and have secure tie-downs to keep the covers in place during windy conditions.'
• Stash small items: Windy winter weather can easily knock over lightweight items, such as planters or decorations. Keep these inside, along with any tender plants to bring indoors in November to protect them from frosts. Similarly, if you have hanging plants, lights, or decorations, make sure they’re securely fastened or remove them altogether.
• Remove fabric items: Move pillows and blankets indoors for longer-term storage, protecting them from water damage and mold. Vacuum storage bags from Walmart are ideal for this, limiting their footprint in your storage ideas. Even the best outdoor rugs are susceptible to mold and mildew in damp conditions, so roll those up and stash them in a cabinet, too.
• Reseal grout on tiled balconies: The grout between tiles on your balcony can crack and wear down over time. Before winter hits, reseal the grout to prevent water from seeping in, freezing, and expanding, which can lead to costly cracks and structural damage. The Miracle Sealant from Lowe's is top-rated and resists water absorption, salt intrusion, and freeze/thaw damage.

How to Winterize a Vacant House

Whether you have a second home or are going away on a longer winter vacation, it pays to winterize a vacant home correctly to avoid coming back to flooding or pests.

As the house is empty, you have a few more options besides the general home winterizing advice:

• Turn off the water at the mains: As the home will be empty, you can turn off your water at the mains and drain your home's plumbing system, rather than bother with insulating pipes. This is more useful if the home will be empty for several weeks, but it is more effective against potential leaks.
• Adjust your thermostat: Just because no one is home, doesn't mean you should turn off the heating. Setting the ideal temperature for a thermostat when on winter vacation will help to stave off mold and protect pipes. A smart thermostat with an app (such as the ecobee Enhanced Smart Thermostat from Best Buy) can help you monitor this from anywhere in the world.
• Set up security: With longer, darker nights upon us, it is wise to invest in some quality home security tips for empty properties, especially around the holiday season when thieves become more opportunistic. The eufy indoor wired security camera with spotlight from Best Buy is a great choice, offering pan and zoom functions for enhanced monitoring, while outdoor motion-sensor floodlights from Walmart can help to deter thieves from getting too close.
• Switch to smart monitors: Setting up a smart home can help when you are out of the house as well as inside. Smart leak detectors, from Best Buy, for instance, can alert you to damaged pipes, while smart fire alarms, from Amazon, can give you ample time to call help, even when you are away from your home.

Winterizing an Outdoor Kitchen

Joe Raboine, VP of design at Belgard, explains that winterizing is essential for protecting your outdoor kitchen ideas from the elements. 'By doing this prep work, you will ensure your outdoor kitchen is ready to go as soon as the weather gets warmer,' Joe says.

The key steps, he adds, include draining water lines, cleaning appliances, shutting off the gas, and covering both materials and appliances to shield them from harsh winter conditions.

Start winterizing your outdoor kitchen in the late fall, before the first freeze, to prevent any issues with pipes freezing or appliances malfunctioning in the winter.

• Clean: Start by deep cleaning your outdoor kitchen, removing any traces of leftover food, scrubbing down all surfaces, and ensuring appliances are spotless. This helps prevent rust, mold, and other damage during the colder months. Polish counters, clean refrigerators, and vacuum out any pesky bugs, so it's worth getting your hands on a quality, cordless handheld vacuum cleaner.
• Drain water lines: Save yourself the hassle of winterizing your outdoor kitchen pipes by cutting off the water supply at the mains and draining the water lines.
• Shut off gas and power: Grills, stoves, and other gas-powered equipment are vulnerable to cold temperatures, and leaving gas lines active could result in a serious safety hazard. Begin by turning off the main gas supply to all outdoor appliances to avoid any risk of gas leaks or damage over the winter months. Propane tanks should always be disconnected and stored in a well-ventilated, dry area for winter. While outdoor storage is generally safe, make sure the tanks are kept out of direct contact with snow and ice to prevent rust and pressure fluctuations. At the very least, invest in a quality gas tank cover from Walmart.
• Cover and protect appliances: To safeguard your outdoor kitchen appliances, covering them is a must. Protective covers can shield grills, sinks, and cabinets from snow, ice, and debris. It will also help prevent them from rusting. Leave refrigerators unplugged and slightly open to prevent moisture build-up and musty smells.
• Seal surfaces: To protect your outdoor kitchen countertops and cabinets, be sure to cover them or apply a high-quality sealant before the cold weather arrives. For stone countertops or concrete surfaces, a weatherproof sealant will protect against moisture, which can seep into tiny cracks and freeze, causing the material to expand and break. Ghostshield countertop sealant from Home Depot works well on concrete surfaces, while this Stain Proof Dense Stone Impregnating Sealer from Amazon is ideal for natural stone worktops.
  Wooden surfaces, meanwhile, should be covered to prevent moisture from soaking in and freezing, which can lead to swelling and cracks.

Winterizing Essentials

FAQs

How much does it cost to winterize a house?

How much it costs to winterize a house depends largely on how large your home is, how old it is, and any extras you need to work on, such as outdoor kitchens or driveways.

On average, however, for homes that require a little work to fix cracks or seal drafts, you can expect to spend around $1,000 on necessary repairs or insulation, especially if they are carried out by a professional. This increases with the degree of work required.

Newer houses, those comfortable with DIY or those that have recently had work done, may not need to spend any money, on the other hand.

How long does it take to winterize a house?

How long it takes to winterize a house will depend on the size of your home and the tasks you need to complete. For smaller spaces without garages or driveways, it can take as little as a few hours. For larger homes or those that need work on the roof, it can take a full weekend.

Hiring a professional contractor can cut this time down while ensuring a quality job .

With your home shored up against the cold and wet weather, take some time to get your home emergency ready to protect you, your family, and your property from the worst-case winter scenario.

All you need is a basket or tray, half an hour, and some music for boosted motivation. It is the simplest, most methodical way to tidy your home, and for me, it comes in handy every December when, between social events, trips away, and a very busy period at work, I don't have much time for housework.

This is why I go back to this decluttering method every not just every holiday season, but throughout the year. Here's how to use this expert tactic in your own home.

Why I Always Come Back to The Ski Slope Method in Busy Periods

The Ski Slope organizing method takes its name from the fact that you start in one corner of your room and work back and forth across the space, zig-zagging as if you are cascading down a ski slope.

Using a Joseph Joseph folding laundry basket from Wayfair, I collect up all the mess cluttering up one corner of my room, putting items back as needed, before moving over to the next corner, emptying the basket of items that live there, collecting anything that needs to be moved, and crossing back over and repeating the process.

When I reach the doorway, I head to the room where the most amount of items in the basket belong and start again.

For example, I usually start in my entryway-dining room space, putting coats and accessories back on hooks and collecting items from the table, before typically heading upstairs to the bedroom, where most of the residual items belong. When the bedroom is complete, I typically work in the office, putting books and cables away, and so on. It usually takes me less than half an hour to complete and makes such a difference to my home.

It's particularly handy for all the guests I have coming in the next few weeks, as November and December have shaped up to be the most socially-packed two months of 2025 for me.

The beauty of this method is that it reduces distractions and gives you a prop with which to focus your efforts, helping to anchor you more firmly in the task at hand.

While I am not diagnosed with a neurodivergency, I am certainly very easy to distract and quick to procrastinate (which is how the mess accumulates in the first place). Having a clear goal and anchor point means, however, that the ski slope method can be ideal for creating an ADHD-friendly home.

Gillian Economou, owner and lead organizer at Sort It Out, uses this approach with her ADHD clients, claiming that it is the simplest way she knows to stay focused. ‘Using a ‘single path’ makes for quick visual wins and prevents the room from pulling your attention in 10 directions,’ she explains. ‘The room becomes the checklist, and for neurodivergent minds, the working mental load is lighter, and momentum is easier to keep.’

Breaking larger, messy rooms into smaller sections is a great approach to tidying your home when you feel overwhelmed. The -ber months at the end of each year always spell chaos for my schedule, and my home takes the brunt of it. Tables and worktops get buried, items end up piled in corners, and storage overflows with seasonal additions. It feels impossible to tackle until it is divided up. You can also use the Mount Vernon method and work clockwise around your room, rather than back and forth, if sticking to the wall is more helpful.

The wonderful thing about this method is that it can be used to tidy, declutter, and organize your home. While I primarily use it for tidying up, the method often helps me to identify items that do not have obvious homes within my home. These items end up lingering in the basket, and give me an opportunity to either find homes within my home organizing ideas, or declutter them. It is the home organizing systems that keep me sane.

You don’t have to tackle everything right away, either. As the items are neatly stashed in a basket, you can put them to one side should you run out of time or energy, or, as Gillian does with her clients, leave sentimental items to one side for a separate session, so you can get rid of sentimental clutter with discharge decluttering, working carefully to avoid declutter regret.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Of course, one of the things people with tidy homes do is put items away as soon as they use them to prevent lingering piles. The one-touch rule can help with this if you are looking to build better habits than me over the holiday season.

From snow shovels to emergency alarms, these five must-haves will keep you and your home safe when up to two feet of predicted snow settles.

These are the tools the experts recommend to prepare your home for a snowstorm, and why they make such a difference when the weather turns.

5 Must-Haves to Prep for Winter Storm Warnings

While the November 2025 warnings are specifically for New York, Nevada, and parts of California's Northeastern region, anywhere where temperatures drop should prepare a house for cold weather and stock up on essentials before there's a sudden rush for supplies or infrastructure, and therefore, home deliveries are delayed or impossible to access.

1. Compact Snow Shovel

Shovelling snow safely is not only useful for leaving and accessing your home, but it can also help to prevent damage, especially as it begins to melt.

A two-in-one snow pusher and ice chopper from Walmart is helpful for this, but Joshua Shanley, emergency management faculty at Purdue Global, adds that you should also have a compact snow shovel for your car.

'When stranded or attempting to navigate through accumulating snow, a compact, car‑friendly shovel becomes invaluable. A lightweight, collapsible snow shovel is one of the most useful tools to keep in your car during the winter months. It allows you to quickly dig out tires if you get stuck in snow or clear around your vehicle during a roadside stop.

'The Garant ABS Telescoping Car Shovel & Snow Brush (available at ACE Hardware) is a great choice. It stores easily and includes a built-in brush to help remove snow from windshields and windows.' It is also ideal for storing in small entryways if you are short on home storage.

2. Backup Power

A home backup battery can be vital in a power outage, giving you power to heat your home, cook, and communicate in severe weather. While a winter storm will not always equate to grid failures, it never hurts to prepare a home for a power cut, Joshua continues.

You can hook up a generator to your house, such as the top-rated Generac GP Series 6500 Gas portable generator from ACE Hardware, or, for a less permanent solution, a power bank should suffice.

'A portable power bank or USB battery pack allows you to keep phones and small electronics charged, ensuring you can receive updates, call for help, and maintain light,' Josh explains. 'Tools like the Nebo Rambler 20,000 mAh Power Bank with Flashlight (available at Amazon) are compact, multi-use, and widely available.'

In terms of communication, Sean Gold, emergency management specialist and owner of True Prepper, adds, 'I strongly suggest having an emergency weather radio, too. This is a powerhouse for any disaster- stay informed, charge your devices, and have a light at night with solar/crank recharging. I like the Eton Odyssey (available at ACE Hardware).'

3. Reliable Emergency Lighting

Many people rely on candles to help get a home emergency ready; however, Joshua warns that this is both unreliable and poses a home fire risk.

Instead, he says, 'Battery-powered LED lanterns are a safer, longer-lasting alternative for illuminating entire rooms. Choose a lantern that offers multiple brightness settings and extended battery life, such as the Milwaukee M18 700 lumen Red LED Lantern, from ACE Hardware, or the Rayovac Workhorse 600 lumen Black LED Lantern, also from ACE Hardware.'

4. A Carbon Monoxide Dectector

'In colder months, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning rises, especially during storms when alternative heat sources, fireplaces, or generators are used,' Josh warns. 'A working carbon monoxide detector with a battery backup is critical for home safety. Options like the First Alert Plug-In Alarm with Battery Backup (available at ACE Hardware) is easy to install and highly effective.'

Owning a carbon monoxide alarm is one thing, but it is vital to also understand where to install carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they work correctly. Keep them between knee and head level, no lower or higher.

5. A Heater

A winter storm is, by definition, a cold storm. It is therefore essential to know how to heat your home when the power is out to keep you and your family safe in the worst-case scenario.

Sean suggests, 'Mr. Heaters Buddy's (sold at ACE Hardware) can pick up the slack when your central heating system loses power. Make sure they are ventilated properly, that you have ample propane stored, and an adapter if needed. Know how to use it safely before a storm hits. Alternatively, extra blankets [such as these foil theram blankets from Walmart] and even setting a tent up inside can help trap slightly more body heat.'

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Live somewhere that experiences bad weather frequently? Consider investing in some home upgrades to prepare your house for extreme weather, such as permanent secondary generators, solar panels, and surge protectors, for longer-lasting protection.

It turns out that chargers for phones, laptops, and electric toothbrushes are secret ‘energy vampires’, constantly draining the socket and raising your bill in the process. This all adds up to extra secret spending over time, especially in winter, which, with rising energy costs across the US, is the most expensive time of the year for many.

That's why experts are urging a tiny shift in charger habits to instantly cut energy bills, prompting better ways to control your energy use without compromising on practicality.

Why You Should Unplug Chargers Every Day

It is all well and good to choose energy-efficient appliances or make heating more efficient, but if you do not break bad home habits, your energy bills will still quietly creep up.

Chargers are amongst the most innocuous of the ‘vampire appliances’, secretly costing you money, but when you consider that many are left plugged in every single day, in multiple rooms across the home, and there are often several chargers in play for different devices or household members, the background cost of keeping them plugged in can add up quickly.

‘Phone chargers and device charges use on average about 0.25 watts when plugged in and not charging, so if you have 10 devices plugged in, that equates to 2.5 watts,’ explains David Borchardt, senior mechanical engineer at MD Energy Advisors.

When paired with other ‘phantom loads’ such as TVs, consoles, small appliances, and computers all on standby, David explains that it can equate to ‘nearly between $95 and $150 annually, depending upon how many items you might have plugged in.’

The Smart Solution

Unplugging chargers and standby devices is far from practical in the modern world, where almost everything requires power at some point in the day. The solution? Organizing cables and using power strips to control energy usage, suggests Lizzy Kolar, co-founder and CEO at Scope Zero. Having several items plugged into one power strip means you only have to remember to unplug one item, making it a more sustainable habit.

‘An alternative approach to reduce vampire loads is to plug your devices into a smart power strip,' Lizzy adds. ‘There are several types of smart power strips: Timers, remote switches, master-controlled, and masterless. Each type offers different advantages depending on how you use your devices and what types of vampire loads you’re trying to reduce.’

• Timers: A timer power strip or timer outlet, available from Walmart, automatically turns power off on a pre-set schedule, and is ideal for turning chargers off in the regular hours you are out of your home, such as when you are at work.
• Remote switches: Smart plugs, such as the Govee Smart Plugs from Amazon (which energy monitoring app for extra savings insight) can be controlled remotely, usually using an app, allowing you to control your chargers even when you have left the house, although there are some models, such as the BN-LINK Mini Wireless Outlet Switches from Walmart, that come with a physical remote. These are ideal if your outlets are in awkward-to-reach locations.
• Master-controlled: Master-controlled power strips are better for larger vampire appliances, such as computers, media devices, and laptop chargers. When a primary device is turned off (such as a computer or laptop), power is also cut to the rest of the strip, saving money on auxiliary devices such as printers, consoles, etc.)
• Masterless: Masterless power strips, available from Amazon, are some of the more expensive options, but they eliminate phantom loads. When all of the controlled devices are turned off, the power strip also cuts power to help save you money in the long term. David shares, ‘Many local utilities provide smart strips at a discount or for free if requested. Check your utilities website for information on discounts, but it is worth noting that even at full cost, the payback would be about six months if you use it for as many phantom loads as possible.’

It is important to note, however, that smart power strips often use some amount of power to operate, Lizzy adds, ‘so the best way to reduce costs of vampire loads is to always fully unplug items from the walls.’

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Limiting energy use is not the only way to save money at home. There are some great sustainable household swaps you can make that can save money over time while protecting the planet, and the ETC method can help prevent clutter while cutting spending.

I’ve already moved my larger cooking utensils into the cabinet with my pots and pans, but now I am freeing up even more space by switching my bamboo in-drawer knife caddy to this slim, vertical, and chic Joseph Joseph Knife Holder Set, available on Amazon at a discounted price of $68.

What’s particularly spectacular about this storage gem is that it comes complete with a set of six stainless steel Japanese Knives, which are worth the money alone.

It’s such a great deal that I am snapping it up and retiring my tired knife set. Having some of the best knives on hand is just what my household needs before all the festive prep we will need to do ahead of hosting Christmas this year.

Why This Joseph Joseph Knife Caddy and Set is Great for Tiny Kitchens

What I love about the Joseph Joseph products I have used or tested in my home is that they are built with materials that not only feel and look luxe, but also last a long time without looking tired or falling apart. You get what you pay for, and in this case, the knife storage block is just one of the pros, as it's vertical and slim, making it great for big and small kitchens alike.

With counter space at a premium during hosting season, this caddy combines ease of access without a big loss of counter space, but the set of five Japanese stainless steel knives makes this a true winner.

Homes & Gardens Kitchens Appliances Editor and professionally trained chef, Lydia Hayman, agreed that the Japanese Knives are the star of this currently discounted buy. She says, ‘Japanese knives are the gold standard in cookery; they are sharper, lighter, and made from harder steel than most Western-style knives.

'I was really impressed to see that this set contains a Santoku knife. This is what I use at home and on jobs as a private chef. The design has a largely flat edge, with a slightly tapered tip, which is ideal for slicing, dicing, and mincing. You can't get better for efficient, precise prep work.'

The color-coordinated handles of the knives also take the guesswork out of finding the knife you need when you’re hurriedly making dinner or when hosting. This is a feature I particularly like, as my current stainless steel knife set is not color coordinated on the handles, and I’m forever pulling out the wrong one.

It’s worth noting that these knives are not dishwasher safe, and I’ve learned this the hard way with my current stainless steel set, which now has spots of rust because of the dishwasher. Now I always wash and dry my knives immediately after use, which is also safer for anyone in your household who might stick their hand in a busy sink to start washing, and might meet the sharp end of these.

The Joseph Joseph BladeBrush, available at Amazon, is great for easily cleaning serrated or sharp knives safely by hand.

As for the slim, sleek design, it’s a great one for compact kitchens. Content editor and resident decluttering expert, Chiana Dickson, says, ‘While I am partial to a cutlery organizer to keep my limited countertop space clutter-free, I can 100% see the appeal of a knife holder.

'Shoving a lot of knives into one small cubby can not only make it more difficult to find what you need without the risk of cutting your finger while digging through in a rush, but sharp knife tips can damage the organizer itself, resulting in either plastic dust or wood splinters in your kitchen drawers.

'We had this very problem with our steak knives in our plastic organizer, and it was awful for my partner with contamination OCD. A countertop organizer, on the other hand, with safe, dedicated slots, negates this completely.

'Just be sure to also pick up some narrow straw cleaning brushes (also from Amazon) to clean out the storage caddy's grooves and prevent dirt and debris from accumulating inside the slots over time.'

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Next, learn the best ways to keep your knives sharp, the surprisingly kitchen Feng Shui tips to be mindful of when arranging your items, and where to put utensils in a kitchen without drawers.

Regular vacuum cleaners can't handle anything wet, even if it's just the slight moisture that you'd find in a muddy footprint. But there's a fix: A handheld vacuum that can suck up liquids, like the Shark MessMaster that's on offer for just $89.99 at HSN as an early Black Friday deal.

We absolutely loved it during testing, as it picked up all manner of typically un-vacuumable messes, and it'll be your new best vacuum for cleaning up all that winter grime.

The Shark MessMaster Will Eradicate Winter Mess, From Snow to Soggy Footprints

If there’s one thing that defines winter cleaning, it’s moisture. Melting snow, road salt, damp paw prints, wet doormats – winter messes can shorten a regular vacuum’s lifespan, with the moisture clogging filters and doing irreversible damage to the motor.

That’s where the Shark MessMaster steps in. Unlike your standard upright or cordless vacuum, it’s built to take on the wet grime that comes with the season. It can pick up liquid spills as easily as dry debris, which makes it perfect for cleaning everything from melted ice on entryway tiles to soggy leaves that have found their way indoors.

In our Shark MessMaster review, seasoned vacuum and product tester Camryn Rabideau noted that it could even ‘lift moisture from carpets surprisingly well’, making it a genuinely practical tool for winter use.

This versatility is helped by its two cleaning modes – handheld and extended reach – which allow for both close-up spot cleaning and quick sweeps across wider areas, like when cleaning carpet or tile floors. The accessories click neatly into place and include a crevice tool for corners, a wide nozzle for puddles, and a brush attachment for stubborn residue such as salt or grit.

It’s also easier to maintain than full-sized vacuums. The washable filter and removable dust container mean you can rinse it out after every use, which is ideal when you’re dealing with muddy water or pet mess. The compact build makes it easy to store by the back door or in a utility area, ready for when the next storm hits.

Plus, just because it's small, it doesn't mean it's lacking in power. Its suction is on par with some of the best handheld vacuums and cordless sticks, yet it’s light enough to carry around one-handed. As we noted in our testing, it ‘handled thicker debris with ease’, making it suitable for quick cleans between deeper sessions, or to complement one of the best robot vacuums that'll do a lot of the work for you.

And because it’s designed specifically to deal with both wet and dry messes, you don’t have to worry about the kind of accidental spills that would normally send your regular vacuum to an early grave. From soaking up melted snow beneath boot racks to tackling pet accidents on tiled floors, it’s a genuine problem-solver for households battling through the colder months.

With a generous $80 off the full price, the Shark MessMaster is an excellent early Black Friday deal, and an investment that'll keep your home cleaner, drier, and far easier to manage this winter.

The Shark MessMaster is available for $89.99 at HSN.

More to Shop

Our testing sessions have included plenty of other outstanding wet and dry cleaners that will keep your home spotless this winter. Here are a few of my personal favorites.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Next, learn the perfect deep cleaning schedule for winter, and see the three high-impact fixes we're using on winter mud this year.

I rarely deep-clean any space in my home until it becomes essential. Don't get me wrong, my home is never very dirty as I stay on top of key hygiene tasks, but those hidden corners, greasy appliances, and more intensive tasks are something I've always put off.

So, I decided to sit down with a professional cleaner to create a deep-cleaning schedule that would balance the best cleaning tips with significant enough breaks to prevent burnout and make these tasks more manageable, especially during the busy and very social winter months.

Professional Cleaneres Reveal the Perfect Deep-Cleaning Schedule

I have always struggled to find the right cleaning balance in my home. I am an inherently lazy person, but the nature of my job as content editor on Solved here at Homes & Gardens means I am constantly confronted with just how dirty a house can be. As a result, I ping-pong between overcleaning and feeling burnt out, and undercleaning and regretting all of my life choices.

While I am good at sticking to the key areas, such as cleaning a kitchen and cleaning a bathroom every week, more thorough tasks, such as degreasing an oven, deep cleaning carpets, and even dusting up high, are left for 'next time'. But it never comes, and by spring cleaning time, I have a huge list of tasks to catch up on, and no degree of good weather is enough motivation to prevent me from cleaning when I feel overwhelmed.

So, a proper deep cleaning schedule was a must to help me balance how often you should deep clean a home with downtime.

I spoke to Karina Toner, operations manager and professional cleaner at Spekless Cleaning, and a contributor here at Homes & Gardens. She explained that rather than leaving all deep cleaning tasks to my spring cleaning checklist, it would be better to break them up and pepper them throughout my year.

'A sustainable deep cleaning schedule should make maintaining your home feel manageable rather than overwhelming,' she explained. 'Instead of trying to deep clean every area at once, spacing out tasks throughout the year keeps each season focused and prevents burnout.'

She recommended that I break up the tasks seasonally, so that the deep clean of each area corresponded to both the weather, in the case of outdoor tasks, and to seasonal events where certain rooms, such as my kitchen ideas, are used more often than others. For example:

• January-February: Tackle bathrooms and laundry areas – fewer guests mean more time to focus on scrubbing tile grout, deep cleaning drains, and refreshing linens.
• March-April: Deep clean upholstery, rugs, and mattresses as the weather warms up, allowing fabrics to air out.
• June-July: Focus on windows, blinds, and ceiling fans when summer dust tends to build.
• September-October: Refresh kitchen appliances, cabinets, and pantry storage in preparation for holiday hosting.
• November-December: Keep maintenance light – wipe down surfaces, vacuum baseboards, and give the guest room a deep clean before visitors arrive.

Although it does mean that I clean more often throughout the year, spacing the tasks means I am not left facing off against a giant chore block all in one go. This is especially important in spring when I would rather be out enjoying the fresh weather and longer days, and during fall cleaning, when my motivation starts to tank as the days get shorter and my schedule, busier.

'This seasonal rotation works because it spaces out labor-intensive tasks while ensuring every area gets attention at least once a year,' Karina continues. 'Plus, it is flexible enough to fit around your lifestyle.'

It is one of the simplest ways to make a to-do list less overwhelming, and I believe it is the perfect deep cleaning schedule for any home.

My Cleaning Favorites

As a cleaning editor, I would never be without these six non-toxic cleaning supplies in my cabinet; they are key to keeping every room in my home clean.

Meet the Expert

Now we just have to wait and see if I am able to finally break my bad home habits and build better routines for a cleaner, more manageable home. With the help of some productivity tricks such as body doubling and a cleaning playlist, however, I reckon I am in with a good shot.

And of course, it's smart to consider a Dyson. Even if the British brand mostly focuses on cordless vacuums now, I was excited to get my hands on their only canister vacuum, the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead.

So, I tested it in a pet shelter, our dedicated test center, and in my own home to find out if it could be your new best vacuum cleaner.

The One-Minute Verdict

The Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead is a strong choice if you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-use vacuum cleaner that performs excellently on hard floors and can vacuum pet hair from thin carpets and upholstery.

It has some of the strongest performance on hard floors like linoleum and hardwood that we've tested, with a brushroll that instantly sucks away all manner of debris. It also performs well on low-pile carpets, but I wouldn't recommend it to anybody with thick carpets, as the brushroll will either slow down or completely stop spinning.

It's intuitive, easy to carry around the house, and maneuverable enough for effortless cleaning of tight spaces and furniture. But if you're looking for something with fewer quirks for a similar price, I'd recommend the cordless Dyson V11 or the corded Shark POWERDETECT Upright.

Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead: Specifications

Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead: Setup

When unboxing the vacuum, I was surprised by the amount of soft plastic packaging. Dyson is one of my favorite brands for shipping their products in sustainable packaging (cardboard and paper), so I wasn't expecting to see everything wrapped in plastic this time around.

Setting it up involves connecting the floorhead, wand, handle, and hose to the vacuum, one by one. Different canister vacuums do this differently, so I looked to the instructions for guidance, only to find them – in my view – confusing and overwhelming.

Maybe others will find this more straightforward, but I had to rely on my experience testing canister vacuums. Luckily, once I got started, it all made sense. If you know what to do for each step, it shouldn't take more than 10 minutes until the vacuum is ready to use.

I tested the UK model of the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead, the Dyson Big Ball Animal 2. It's the same vacuum unit as the US, just with a slightly different set of attachments and a gray and purple colorway (compared to the Turbinehead's yellow colorway).

The main floorhead is the same across both: The turbine head. It's similar to the Motorbar floorhead that we love in the Dyson V15 Detect and other top models, but a little smaller and without the same anti-tangle credentials.

But the UK version comes with an extra attachment that you won't find in the US model: The pneumatic head. I'd never seen a vacuum attachment like it and was excited to try it out – but if you're in the US, don't worry. The turbine head performed better in every way.

What Is the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead Like to Use?

The Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead is the only canister vacuum currently sold by Dyson. The brand now focuses mostly on cordless vacuums and floor cleaners (and they're some of the best in the world...), but the canister vacuum still has its USPs.

It comes down to versatility and maneuverability. As you're only holding the handle and not the entire vacuum unit, it's lightweight to carry, and it means you can get into tight spaces more effectively without maneuvering a big appliance.

But while the best cordless vacuums also share this benefit, they're limited by a battery, while canister vacuums can still house large motors that plug into the mains, leaving them unrestricted when it comes to suction power.

However, the Big Ball Turbinehead boasts 250 air watts of suction, which is the same as our best-on-test cordless vacuum, the Dyson V15 Detect, which costs more than twice as much.

The power and cord pullback buttons on the Turbinehead are on the canister 'ball, positioned so you can press them with your feet, although they seem a little delicate, and I wonder about their durability.

Others, such as the best Miele vacuums, have buttons that depress into the unit, while the Dyson Big Ball has the buttons sticking out, in a way that feels like the right amount of force could snap them off:

The power button also isn't the most responsive, so you have to press it firmly to make sure the vacuum turns on.

I tested the airflow using an anemometer, and it reached 27.2mph. That's higher than every cordless vacuum we've tested with the anemometer, demonstrating how much suction power a corded vacuum can pack.

I also tested the vacuum's noise levels using the Decibel X app, and it averaged 70.4 decibels. Vacuums range from around 60 to 80 decibels, depending on size and suction level, so the Big Ball Turbinehead sits comfortably in the middle.

A design note I love about the Big Ball Turbinehead is the fact that its 'ball' can never be toppled over. It was designed in a spherical shape to make maneuvering around corners easier, but this also allowed Dyson to design an anti-toppling mechanism:

There's also a suction release toggle on the handle. If you vacuum curtains, socks, or other un-vacuumable fabrics, you can quickly pull the toggle and air will flow out of the handle, releasing any suctioned objects.

And generally, like all of our favorite Dysons, it glides across the floor smoothly. I like that the wand extends, almost doubling in size to provide extra reach. My model also came with a wand clip that can store two attachments.

It'll certainly be safe when cleaning hardwood floors, and after testing the cord pullback four times in a row from different angles, I don't worry about it accidentally hitting your hand as it winds up.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

In our dedicated test center, I tested the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead using a half cup of flour and sugar on linoleum, wooden, and carpet flooring. These substances assess a vacuum's ability to pick up fine debris like dust and dead skin, while being clear visual tests, as we can see where residue is left behind.

On hard floors, everything was cleared in one forward pass, even between the wooden floor panels. That's super impressive – it's not often that a vacuum boasts such strong, neat performance.

On carpets, it took around 4-5 passes using the turbine head, and much longer using the UK-only pneumatic head.

At this stage of the testing, it seemed as if neither of the floorheads was designed for carpets. The pneumatic one doesn’t have any bristles to dig in, while the turbine head doesn’t have any grip adjustment, so it becomes quite hard to push forward, and the brushroll doesn’t spin as quickly. Strong suction is evident, though, as it gripped tightly to the surface.

The only adjustable setting is to stop the brushroll from spinning, which then makes the suction too hard to effectively move across the carpet. I'd look elsewhere for the best vacuums for carpets.

Test 2: Pantry

I also tested the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead on linoleum, wood and carpet using a cup of cereal and green lentils. The lentils are slightly sticky and represent medium-sized debris, while the cereal poses a particular challenge for vacuum cleaners as it tends to be too large to fit into the floorhead. Some vacuums crush it down, some fling it around, and some vacuum it with no issues.

On linoleum and hardwood, the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead crushed some cereal, but most was pushed forward and flung around. It struggled with a large amount of crumbs as it got caught in the small floorhead nozzle. Also, as the dustbin is on a tilt, some food got stuck in the side, and I had to shake it around to dislodge it.

Any sizable food pieces struggle to get sucked up in one attempt, and take a bit of back and forth or placing the floor head directly on top. But once I took the floorhead off, the suction was strong enough to pull up the large pieces from a 1-2 inch distance.

Now, it's normal for even the best vacuums for hard floors to get clogged with high volumes of food crumbs. The real test is in the vacuum's ability to deal with that mess afterwards, and whether the suction is strong enough to vacuum large pieces without the floorhead. The Big Ball Turbinehead passed this test.

On the carpet, it took a while. There were lots of flinging crumbs around, or getting caught in the floorhead and the wand. Neither the turbine nor pneumatic heads were able to properly pick up big pieces from the carpet.

Also, the inlet to the dustbin was clogged with food – not completely abnormal with a mess of this volume – but I expected better from a corded Dyson. Cordless models like the Dyson V11 performed much better, without these issues.

Test 3: Pet Hair

To see if the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead could be one of the best vacuums for pet hair, I tested it in a local cat and dog shelter on hard floors, entrance mats, low-to-high-pile carpets, thick rugs, and upholstery.

The entrance mat is the toughest challenge for a vacuum with its bumpy, high-friction surface. The Big Ball Turbinehead did a really solid clean in about two passes, followed by a few strokes to get the rest of it. That's certainly better than average, but not as effective as what we've seen with other models like the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog.

A few hairs remained, but that’s expected with this surface. And unlike the carpet tests above, the brushroll actually spun on this mat, likely because of the bumpy texture providing more breathing room.

The results were instant when vacuuming pet hair from hard floors. As soon as the floorhead neared any mess – whether pet hair, leaves, or dust – it pulled it in, sometimes from about half an inch away.

The long wand is great for reaching far from where you’re standing, providing more reach compared to other vacuums. The floorhead also vacuums right up to the edges without having to approach them at annoying angles.

On low-pile carpet, it was great, and again, the brushroll had no issues spinning at full speed. Everything was picked up instantly, and I could see great clumps of pet hair filling up the dustbin – more than I could see on the floor.

It grips low-pile carpet nicely, and the low profile of the floorhead lets it slide under furniture and doorstops. Its small shape also makes it easy to maneuver when cleaning stairs:

While the brushroll had no issues spinning properly on the entrance mat and thin carpet, it stopped spinning on the pet shelter's thick rugs, just as it did at the test center.

When you move it forward, it starts spinning again, but you can feel that it’s not as fast, and it makes a noise as if it’s struggling. More debris was left over when vacuuming this surface than on hard floors and low-pile carpet. If your home has lots of carpets or thick rugs, I'd look elsewhere, such as the Shark POWERDETECT Upright.

After a few hours of vacuuming at the pet shelter, the dustbin was almost filled with fur, but there were a few wrapped hairs in the brushroll, showing that it isn't completely anti-tangle:

Test 4: Attachments

The upholstery tool doesn't tend to be the strongest attachment for a vacuum cleaner, but the Big Ball Turbinehead's is incredible. It pulled all manner of dirt, dust, and pet hair from sofas and padded chairs, and would be a perfect tool for keeping your home clean with pets.

My UK model also came with a unique detangling hair attachment. I haven't seen this in any of the Dyson vacuums we've tested, which is surprising considering it's genuinely one of the best pet hair attachments I’ve used on padded upholstery.

Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead: Care and Maintenance

Many canister vacuums are bagged, using disposable vacuum bags that you dispose of once full. But Dyson is the brand that invented the bagless vacuum, so the Big Ball Turbinehead is one of the few canister vacuums that doesn't come with recurring bag costs.

It also has a lifetime washable HEPA filter that won't need replacing so long as you rinse it thoroughly with cold water every 1-2 months.

You detach the dustbin by pressing a button on the top of the canister. Then, hold it over the trash can and push the lever, and the dust will descend. It's quick and painless, with minimal blowback of dust and fine debris.

How Does the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead Compare?

Costing $379.99 at Dyson (or £299.99 at Dyson UK), the Big Ball Turbinehead is reasonably priced. In fact, it's one of the cheapest vacuums that Dyson sells, with my personal favorite, the Dyson V15 Detect, costing $849.99 at full price.

Our best-on-test canister vacuums so far are the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog [Amazon] and the Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog [Amazon] – and they both cost around $1,000. They perform better in most aspects (except for being a little less maneuverable), but considering the steep price hike, I'd go for the Dyson over them.

But if you're looking at spending around $300-$400, I'd also recommend considering the Dyson V11 and the Shark POWERDETECT Upright. They both performed outstandingly on our tests, with high suction and easy usage, and can be found for around the same price. They also both work wonders on pet hair, without any hair wrap.

Next, look at the best Dyson alternatives for more affordable floorcare, and see our full deep-dive into how we test vacuums.

However, after she was unexpectedly ill this weekend and spent a few nights in with us, the sink became blocked overnight, and a smell started coming from the drain.

As it’s a small space, I avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals wherever possible, since the odors can be overwhelming. Instead, I used natural cleaning solutions to clear my clogged sink, and it worked remarkably well in just a matter of minutes, without costing a thing.

I Cleared My Bathroom Sink Clog in Minutes Without Harsh Chemicals

What you’ll need:

• A kettle full of freshly boiled water (but don’t pour boiling water down the drain)
• Dish soap (enough for three tablespoons or good squeezes)
• Half a cup of cleaning vinegar (available in bulk at Amazon)
• A thin metal hanger or straw brush

The use of these everyday kitchen ingredients makes this clog-clearing technique simple, whatever the reason your sink won't drain, as most of us will have these items at home already.

Professional cleaner and operations manager at Spekless, Karina Toner, says, 'What’s great about this exact approach is that a good squeeze of dish soap can reach under and around spaces where hands and tools can’t, which is just perfect for tricky, tight drains.'

What I Did

First, I squeezed three squirts of dish soap, such as Dawn (available in handy bulk packs at Amazon), into and around the drain. My drain has an annoying built-in design that means the plug won’t come off, it’s static and in place, with a small gap to let water drain. It’s one of those that you push to plug and cannot be removed.

The dish soap is excellent for breaking down natural materials and loosening up any grease or biological residue stuck under that plug or in the first couple of inches of the drain pipe.

Karina says, 'You are right: Dish soap is such a simple but powerful tool here because it cuts through grease and grime and starts breaking down buildup immediately. Starting with dish soap primes the drain, setting the stage for hot water and vinegar to do their job even more efficiently.'

I let that sit while I boiled the kettle. Then, I poured two cups' worth of hot (not boiling water) down the drain. This will help loosen up any natural materials or soap and scum build up, whilst avoiding boiling temperatures will preserve the integrity of your pipes.

Karina thinks this is 'spot on', adding, 'Using hot, not boiling, water is a safe way to loosen everyday buildup, while avoiding temperatures that could potentially warp or damage pipe joints. The heat from the water softens grime and grease so it can be flushed away more easily, and helps break down residues that soap alone can’t.'

I followed this with vinegar, which is a great natural deodorizer, and its acidity helped eat away at limescale, soap scum, and other common drain blockers.

Karina adds, 'In most cases, a short 5-10 minute soak is enough for vinegar to do its job. If you’re dealing with stubborn limescale or heavy residue, letting it sit a little longer or going through the routine a second time should help.'

After a couple of minutes, I followed that up with another quick pour of hot water, and I used the thin metal handle of an old straw cleaner to poke down into the drain and, using a scooping motion, pulled out any loosened debris that wouldn’t wash down. I also simultaneously jiggled our static plug left and right to loosen things up a bit. Sometimes, that tiny bit of wriggle room is all it takes to dislodge a new clog.

Karina says, 'Even with natural cleaners, sometimes you still need a little hands-on help. A mix of chemistry and a little mechanical work. Using a thin tool to scoop out loosened gunk is a great way to prevent future clogs and keep the drain flowing freely, and truly gives your drain a proper reset!'

The block turned out to be a mix of natural residue, which had been visible towards the top, and a random bit of plastic from one of my daughter’s toys. Of course!

After running the tap, the water immediately drained, and the sink's smell had also gone. As a happy side effect, the bit of limescale around the metal drain was now also cleared without any scrubbing, thanks to the vinegar working its magic.

You can also use baking soda to clean, but be aware that, contrary to popular belief, mixing it with vinegar will actually make them cancel each other out, chemically. They do create a fizzing reaction, though, so that 'bubbly cleaning' can sometimes be helpful in dislodging blocks.

Karina adds, 'It’s true that when baking soda meets vinegar, the resulting acid-base reaction neutralizes both, so you don’t actually get a long-lasting cleaner. What you do get is a short burst of fizz, which can help agitate and lift minor debris near the top of a drain. For deeper or heavier clogs, though, that fizz won’t be enough on its own.

'It still has its perks! Even if it’s not dissolving gunk, it can slightly balance out acidic residues such as leftover vinegar or toothpaste, so sprinkling some down the drain can help counteract lingering smells. This mix doesn’t "clean” in the traditional sense, but it can help maintain a neutral environment that discourages odors or buildup.'

What to Shop

Next, delve into the drain solutions pros swear by, and learn how to prevent gutter clogs.

Poor air circulation results in sluggish radiator heating and a strained boiler. Luckily, it is simple and free to fix, say our experts.

Here is the simple layout trick heating pros use for radiators to heat up faster and make heating more efficient in winter without spending an extra cent.

Moving Furniture Away Will Make Your Radiators Heat Up Faster

When trying to keep a home warm without turning up the heat, clearing the area around your radiators is essential.

Phil Oliver, co-owner of Air Treatment Heating and Cooling, explains 'Radiators use convection to distribute warm air, so blocking that flow with furniture or curtains can drastically reduce their efficiency.

'If you have a radiator, I recommend keeping at least 12 to 18 inches of space between it and any large pieces of furniture, such as couches, beds, or shelving units. Maintaining this space around your radiator will produce a noticeable difference in how evenly and quickly your room heats up.'

For that reason, having a shelf over a radiator is often not a good idea, nor are radiator covers – even if they look nicer aesthetically.

It isn't just furniture that impacts how quickly your radiators warm up your room, adds Scott Levene, VP at Levco. Dust can also impede heating, with thick layers making your heating system work harder and possibly being the reason why your house smells musty.

Getting rid of dust regularly is easier with a radiator duster, from Walmart, which is designed specifically to fit between those awkward radiator panels and fins. It is the best tool for cleaning behind radiators without damaging your appliance or your wall, and negates the rust and mold risk associated with the viral hack of pouring water between your radiator panels to clear debris.

Similarly, it is best to avoid leaving curtains hanging over a radiator when in use, as this traps heat and redirects it to the glass, resulting in significant heat loss. Opting for blackout roman shades from Target can be a more convenient option for window treatment ideas above radiators.

Putting aluminum foil behind your radiators can also help to direct airflow into your room for more efficient heating. Phil explains, 'Radiator reflector panels or heat-reflective foil [available from Amazon] on the wall behind the radiator to help reduce heat loss.

'These inexpensive panels reflect heat into the room, rather than letting it escape through the wall, which allows the space to warm up faster and helps to keep a home warm all day.'

Investing in a smart thermostat, bleeding radiators, and checking the pressure settings on your boiler can also help to boost your radiator's efforts and heat your home more quickly.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

In very old heating systems, it might be necessary to drain a radiator to remove sludge and boost efficiency. If you are not a fan of messy DIY, it might be time to call a pro for this task.

In the meantime, a stylish portable heater can help you zone-heat and reduce bills whilst staying cozy and warm at home this winter.

If stored improperly, artificial Christmas decor can secretly turn into a breeding ground for spores in the off-season, bringing health impacts on our health throughout the festive season.

Here is how to check your decor for mold before decorating this season or clearing it away, and how to store your sentimental festive items correctly in the future to prevent mold from dampening your festivities next season.

Tackling Mold on Christmas Decor

Outside of the festive season, most of us store our Christmas decor ideas in the basement, garage, or out of sight in our attic storage to keep them out of the way.

However, these lesser-used storage spaces are particularly prone to fluctuating temperatures and humidity, especially when they're not temperature-controlled.

When your decor is packed into tight bags and containers with little air flow, it creates the perfect breeding ground for mold, warns Robert Weitz, principal and founder at RTK Environmental Group.

When pulling your decor out of your storage ideas, it is therefore essential that you check for any signs of moisture damage, such as damp stains on bags or condensation on storage bins – or strong musty smells, he suggests.

You may also spot discoloration on your faux Christmas greenery, especially when fluffing a Christmas tree or garland. Check close to the ‘stem’ where the needles will have been squashed more tightly in storage.

If you spot mold, smell mildew, or are concerned about either risk, it is simple to clean an artificial Christmas tree, Robert continues. Cleaning with vinegar is your best option for this, as it doesn’t risk damaging your decorations and helps towards creating a non-toxic home.

Simply spray down to affected areas with pure 30% vinegar from Walmart, let sit for at least 20 minutes before wiping away with a microfiber cloth (also from Walmart) and leaving to air dry. The best dehumidifier can speed this process up and help to prevent regrowth.

Several essential oils also kill mold, including clove oil from Amazon, if you would prefer a more fragrant scent when removing spores from your prized home decor. Plus, clove oil can help to deter spiders, making it a great all-around oil for common fall and winter issues.

How to Prevent Mold Building Up on Your Christmas Decor in 2026

Keeping your Christmas decor safe from mold next year comes down to storing Christmas decorations properly, Robert says. ‘The best way to prevent this problem in the future is to make sure decorations are stored in a dry place and that boxes are clean and dry before being sealed and put away.’

Picking up some of the Christmas decor storage essentials every home needs, such as tree duffle bags from The Container Store, clear latch lid totes from Walmart, and garland boxes also from The Container Store, can help to keep your decor safe from damage and mold.

Decluttering your Christmas decorations before storage can prevent overstuffing, encouraging airflow while making decorating easier next year, too. For sealed storage, adding moisture absorber pouches from Walmart can also help to prevent musty odors and mold growth between needles.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

Subjecting your decor to moisture is not the only Christmas decor storage mistake you might be making that risks damaging your festive essentials. Not wrapping up lights and storing items on top of faux foliage can also slow down decorating and require more frequent replacements.

This practical approach to streamlining is, experts say, perfect for practical storage areas, such as linen closets, cutting the decision process down to just one question: 'Does it serve a clear and current purpose?'

Here's why it worked, how to use it yourself, and why the organizing pros recommend this helpful decluttering method for those times you need to make a difference, quickly.

What Is The Functional Elimination Method?

Similar to the value-based decluttering method, you simply ask yourself if an item serves a clear purpose right now. Not if it will serve a purpose in a few years, or if it has been in the past. This helps to determine what is functional and what is fluff.

'If the answer is no, why are we keeping it?' Kimberly Cheeseman, professional home organizer and owner of Orderly At The Store says. 'The Functional Elimination method is one of the most effective ways to simplify a home. It is especially useful in practical spaces like garages, where things tend to pile up just in case.'

Why the Functional Elimination Method Works

The Functional Elimination method is the perfect decluttering trick, no matter if you are preparing well ahead of hosting like I am, or if you are getting a home guest ready in under one hour.

It works because it does away with 'maybe' piles and breaks the 'someday syndrome' cycle, adds Cathy Orr, pro organizer and co-founder at The Uncluttered Life.

She explains, 'Someday Syndrome is a huge decluttering obstacle for a lot of people. They think they might need an item “someday” and, for that reason, hold on to it. But, as they say, “Someday" never comes. I am ruthless in my decluttering,' she shares. 'That’s because I use the “Functional Elimination Method” on an ongoing basis.'

The method is great for those of us who need to reduce mental load, as it takes the emotion out of the decision, Cathy continues. 'It makes the decision more logical and concrete based on truth rather than on guilt or emotion. That’s why this form of decluttering is so effective. You’ll see that you need much less than you think you do.'

It works so well when organizing a linen closet because you are unlikely to have many sentimental items stashed away that need more careful consideration. Rather, it is usually stuffed with items we keep 'just in case', such as small travel toiletries or sample products.

By asking what serves a purpose right now, you can quickly cut out all of the old towels and sheets that might have seen better days, and those tiny free guest products you took home from your last hotel stay.

My Verdict

Armed with nothing but two trash bags from Walmart to stash items that I needed to donate or trash, I started by emptying my linen closet. Employing the chaos decluttering method meant that I had to decide on every item in the closet before putting it away again

When asking if an item served a current purpose, I set a few parameters to avoid getting rid of genuine essentials. At the time of testing the method, my travel-sized toiletries didn't serve an immediate purpose. However, I knew that they would be in a few weeks when I go on vacation, so they stayed. To cut some of the clutter, I asked myself if the item would serve a purpose if I were packing for my trip at that moment. If no (and unopened), it went in the donate bag.

It was amazing how easily this method reduced decision fatigue, especially when dealing with towels and bed linens that were usually shoved to the back in favor of fresher sets. It was a super simple way to transform my tiny linen closet.

Overall, this brutal 5-second decluttering rule is perfect for quick pre-holiday prepwork, and gets a 10/10 from me and the experts.

Where Else This Method Works

Because of the rapid decision-making and ruthless approach, the Functional Elimination method works best for practical spaces around the home, such as organizing a basement, organizing a pantry, or decluttering a bathroom, among others. It may not be the best approach when decluttering sentimental items, where a more considered approach can help to avoid decluttering regret.

The trick, regardless of where you use the Functional Elimination method, is to work one area at a time, suggests Amanda Rivera, professional organizer and owner of Tidy Red. 'Take all of the items out within that area to categorize and sort, and then present them to the clients to go over one item at a time to see what they want to keep/remove within their space. I believe every single item in your house should have a place and a purpose, and if it doesn’t have either, then you need to be realistic with your expectations as to what your next steps are.'

If you find the mess of 'take everything out' decluttering techniques stressful, delve into professional organizer Dana White's 5-Day Clutter Shakedown, which brings only streamlining progress and not any messy piles you'll have to deal with.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Prefer a more laid-back approach to tackling clutter? Try slow decluttering instead.

As a professional organizer, I always recommend using a stylish, tiered makeup organizer to group relevant items and keep them visible and accessible, without having to spend big for a curated home bar look.

So, whether you're obsessed with collecting beautiful thrifted vintage glassware or just want to revive your home bar easily and quickly on a budget, a makeup organizer is the surprising key to being the host with the most this socializing season.

Why a Makeup Organizer Belongs in Your Compact Kitchen

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

While the best makeup organizers are usually used for organizing makeup, as a professional organizer and the founder of Diisorganized, I know that using a makeup organizer as a glassware storage solution is actually a genius little switch.

Makeup organizer trays help make items more visible, which makes them perfect for storing glassware and organizing glassware, such as wine glasses, cocktail tumblers, or even small drinkware.

They're also a clever space-saving way to use vertical storage while organizing kitchen countertops, so you're not just spreading items out horizontally and cluttering the surface. This is particularly important when making more counter space in a small kitchen.

Plus, this simple storage gem looks polished and intentional, and with it, suddenly your bar or cocktail area feels curated and glamorous, not just functional. It's perfect for mixing up a Christmas cocktail when hosting for the holidays and having everything you need to hand.

Other Ways to Use Makeup Organizers in Your Kitchen

It's not just glassware that you can use a makeup organizer for in your kitchen ideas, either. In fact, there are so many ways to use these versatile, chic trays.

For example, you can use them to display pantry staples such as baking ingredients, jars of sprinkles, chocolate chips, or cooking oils, keeping them visible and easy to reach.

I've also used them for home coffee bars, storing mugs and seasonal items, which is a lovely and easy way to update your coffee station ideas when hosting for the holidays.

Makeup organizing items are also great for organizing canned goods, small snack packs, or condiments, making use of vertical space so you don’t have to spread things across your counter or pantry shelf.

Any group of kitchen items that can stack neatly benefits from this kind of tray setup – it’s simple, efficient, and visually appealing.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

If you're in need of some hosting inspiration, our sherry cosmopolitan, maltito cocktail recipe, spiced pear bellini recipe, rum and pear warmer recipe and lilac flower vodka sodas are the perfect starting point for curating your drinks menu. All of them can be enjoyed alcohol-free, too, to suit every guest and taste.

So, it's no surprise that leading vacuum brands such as Shark continue to try to save us from this ongoing hassle, and the new Shark PowerPro Pet is no exception. It promises to solve pet hair issues at home, with strong suction and an anti-tangle roller to clear fur without hassle.

I tested it in a local pet shelter, in our dedicated test center, and in my own home for an extended period to find out if the Shark PowerPro Pet could be one of the best vacuums for pet hair.

The One-Minute Verdict

The Shark PowerPro Pet offers a strong clean for its mid-range price, seamlessly passing from carpets to hard floors with its automatic power modes. It's clearly designed to be as intuitive as possible, with smooth gliding, floor sensors to adjust suction level for you, and a flexible wand that can help you reach under furniture where pets love to snooze and leave hair behind, without straining your back.

After testing in a pet shelter, I was surprised by how much fur it pulled out of low-pile and thick carpets, and it never once wrapped with hair. It struggles a bit when it comes to bumpy surfaces or large debris, but the ease-of-use redeems it, as you can easily adjust the attachments to vacuum anything that's left behind.

It's a great vacuum for the price, but if you're happy spending a little more, I'd recommend the Shark PowerDetect Cordless or the Dyson V11 as both have higher suction and performed better all-around during our real-world tests.

Shark PowerPro Pet: Specifications

Shark PowerPro Pet: Setup

I was happy to see that the Shark PowerPro Pet had been packaged using just cardboard and paper, without any non-recyclable plastic, and in a box that's smaller than what you'd expect for a vacuum cleaner.

It took a few minutes to unbox it all and connect the vacuum's sections. It's always recommended to fully charge the battery before the first use to get the most from your vacuum, preserving the battery's health and lifespan, and this took just under two hours.

I tested the UK's version of the Shark PowerPro Pet, which is the same vacuum but with a different power cord, and one different attachment: The pet multi-tool. They're similar in design, consisting of a brush that detaches to reveal a high-friction upholstery tool. But the UK edition has rubber fins for the brush, whereas the US version has bristles.

My model also came with a handy Shark tote bag that neatly stores all the vacuum's attachments in one place, but as the US version doesn't include this, I'd recommend this Kememo Corduroy Tote Bag at Amazon – I didn't realise how handy it was until now, especially as the Shark PowerPro Pet doesn't have slots to store attachments on the vacuum itself.

Shark PowerPro Pet: Design and Features

The PowerPro Pet is part of Shark's latest cordless vacuum range (which also includes the Shark PowerPro Flex), which builds on the brand's cleaning technology that they've steadily been developing over the past few years.

It has smart floor sensors that tell whether you're vacuuming bare floors or carpets so that it automatically adjusts the suction mode. This 'Auto' feature is a common staple of modern cordless vacuums, particularly Dyson vacuums, and it's helpful to not have to make these adjustments yourself while cleaning.

The 'PowerFins' floorhead is self-cleaning to avoid hair wrap, and its roller is made of a rubbery plastic. It doesn't have bristles, which can be particularly helpful for carpet vacuums, nor does it have two brushrolls like the Shark PowerDetect Cordless, one of our on-test favorites.

Bristles and dual brushrolls can be highly effective when cleaning different surfaces, but instead, Shark designed a floorhead focused on vacuuming hair, while still being able to pass from carpet to bare floor.

Also on the floorhead are LED headlights, a feature popularized by the Dyson V15 Detect – our best cordless vacuum. But while Dyson's lights can reveal dust that your naked eyes can't see, the Shark headlights simply illuminate the floor.

The Shark's attachments – crevice tool, upholstery tool, and pet multi-tool – cover every cleaning task you'll need around the house. When you remove the pet multi-tool's brush, it reveals an upholstery tool, which I found a little odd, as Shark could've omitted the separate upholstery tool altogether, rather than having two.

Shark doesn't list the suction power for their vacuums, but from my testing, it appears as if the PowerPro is one step down from the Shark PowerDetect Cordless, which has Shark's most powerful suction in a cordless vacuum.

I tested the airflow using an anemometer, and it ranges from 9.3 to 14.7mph. For comparison, the high-powered Dyson V11 ranges from 9.8 to 19.6mph, and the affordable Levoit LVAC-300 ranges from 7.1 to 12.3mph. The Shark sits comfortably above average.

What Is the Shark PowerPro Pet Like to Use?

The Shark PowerPro Pet has clearly been designed to be effortless to use. Automatic power adjustments, no floorheads to swap out, and smooth gliding across floor types make it a seamless cleaning experience.

It takes less than a second for the vacuum to automatically change suction mode when you pass between bare floor and carpet, and there are lights on the vacuum and floorhead showing which mode it's on. It's intuitive, taking away the guesswork and making it a more natural experience.

It automatically goes into carpet mode when you lift the vacuum up from the floor. At first, I thought this demonstrated how the floor sensors work – that they only recognise bare floors, and assume anything else is carpet – but after testing, I realised this was a clever design move. It avoids crumbs spilling out of the floorhead when lifted into the air, as that slight boost in suction makes sure the debris goes up into the dustbin.

Max mode (the highest suction level) isn't automatic; instead, it's activated by an easy-to-reach toggle right on the handle, as seen above. This simple, non-strenuous design is one of the best ways I've seen to control a cordless vacuum's strongest setting – and I'm surprised it isn't more common.

The Shark PowerPro Pet only has one floorhead. Others like the Dyson V12 Detect Slim and the Levoit LVAC-300 have separate floorheads for carpets and hard floors, which can offer a more specialized clean, but it can be inconvenient to swap them out while you're vacuuming. Instead, the Shark prioritizes convenience, using a versatile floorhead that can tackle both floor types.

I go into this in more detail below, but Shark's claim of anti-hair wrap is absolutely true. After testing the vacuum in a pet shelter, there were no hairs around the brushroll.

At 7 lbs, it's a lightweight vacuum, and one that can easily be carried upstairs or held with one hand. As a general guide, cordless vacs range from 6-8lbs typically, but upright vacuums are typically 13-18 lbs. The Shark PowerPro Pet also glides along floors smoothly with soft wheels that won't scratch delicate surfaces, like when cleaning hardwood floors.

I tested the noise levels using the Decibel X app, and they range from 68.5 to 73 decibels. This is typical for a cordless vacuum (and a little quieter than upright vacuums), but I found that the Shark PowerPro Pet's sound is softer and less jarring than others I've tested, likely because of the lack of bristles hitting the floor.

One gripe I have is that it's difficult to store the vacuum. It doesn't stand up by itself, which isn't uncommon, but if you lean it against a wall, it rolls forward and falls down. This is quite inconvenient, as cordless vacuums are most easily stored by leaning against a corner, but it also means that while you're cleaning, you have to bend down to place it on the ground if you ever need to free up your hands.

I found that when opening heavy doors or moving furniture that it became frustrating having to do this every time. I couldn't quickly prop it against something, as it would instantly roll down and hit the floor. It shows how smooth the wheels are, at least, but it may be a barrier if you deal with chronic pain or have difficulty bending down.

But there isn't a wall mount included, or even available on the SharkNinja website for this model. To store it, you'll have to lie it flat somewhere, which can take up a considerable amount of floorspace – unless you're happy stashing it under some furniture.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

I tested the Shark PowerPro Pet using a half cup of flour and sugar, to assess its ability to handle fine material like dust and dander. I ran the test three times on carpet, linoleum and wooden floors.

It took two passes on linoleum, and 2-3 passes on wood, as afterwards a small amount was left in the cracks between the wood panels, but these got picked up instantly when I used max mode. This is strong performance, but not as fast as the one-pass Dyson V15 Detect or Shark POWERDETECT Upright.

When only using max mode, everything was vacuumed in one pass.

On carpet, results were similar, taking three passes on average to clear, thanks to max mode picking up the tiny number of debris left behind after the first two passes.

Carpet mode was great, automatically adjusting the grip so that it doesn’t suction itself to carpet. It felt intuitive, and I'd certainly recommend it as one of the best vacuums for carpet if you're looking for a cordless model.

Test 2: Pantry

I tested the Shark PowerPro Pet using a cup of green lentils and cereal, as seen below, to check how well it can handle medium and large debris. The cereal is a particularly enlightening test, as it shows a vacuum's capabilities when dealing with large pieces that can either be crushed down or flung around, and as it's a high volume of mess, there's a possibility of clogging up the internal parts.

On hard floors, most of it was vacuumed in one forward pass. Some big cereal pieces were pushed forward, but there wasn’t any flinging around, blockages, or mess. It was painless, even if I had to go and vacuum the final bits that were left behind afterwards. As far as cordless cleaning goes, this is one of the best vacuums for hard floors, as many cordless sticks struggle with the larger cereal pieces and become clogged.

Unfortunately, when testing against cereal and larger debris on carpet, almost everything was pushed forward instead of being sucked up. It seems like the gap between the floor and carpet is quite slim, so when there’s this much debris, it struggles to enter.

But while this would usually be a major criticism, it was so fuss-free to remove the floorhead and vacuum the rest using the max toggle, that I’m confident in its universal use around the house.

Test 3: Pet Hair

I tested the Shark PowerPro Pet in a local cat and dog shelter, Bristol ARC, to assess its cleaning ability on real pet hair on a mix of floor types. It's also a great test for seeing how the vacuum can handle lots of mess from a big, busy building with high foot traffic. It's how we test real-world results for the best vacuums for pet hair.

On the ridged entrance mat pictured above – one of the trickiest surfaces to vacuum pet hair from – it took seven passes to achieve a decent clean. I tested it alongside the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead, which did a similar clean in two passes. Boost mode improved performance on the Shark vacuum significantly, and honestly, this was the only way to pull a healthy amount of fur from the entrance mat.

Performance was stronger on low-pile carpet. Almost every strand of hair or speck of dirt was vacuumed in one, sometimes two or three passes if it was particularly stubborn. The light really helped illuminate what was there, and the vacuum cleaned right to the edges.

When cleaning carpet with cordless vacuums, you’re not always sure if they’re digging deep enough to get everything, but the dustbin became surprisingly full of fur. After cleaning the same amount of floorspace, it had collected more hair than the corded Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead.

When cleaning a thick rug, I could feel it getting into the fibers and agitating the rug as I moved it around. I tried the flexible wand and it was useful, sure, but it became quite hard to steer at that angle, especially on a soft surface, and I feel this feature is better suited to hard floors. Everything was vacuumed in around four passes – slower than our favorite Dysons like the Dyson V11, but faster than more affordable picks such as the Ultenic U20.

There was solid performance on hard floors, although I occasionally had to go over the same spot for big things like leaves that don’t easily fit under the floorhead opening. Unlike on carpet, it struggled when cleaning edges, and I had to try different angles to get a few strands of hair.

Overall, this is a good performance for a cordless stick, but I've tested better. Models with higher suction perform better, whether it's one of the best Miele vacuums or the Dyson V15 Detect. But considering the Shark's relatively low price, this is impressive.

And importantly, after vacuuming for two hours at a pet shelter, there wasn't a single strand of hair in the brushroll.

Test 4: Attachments

The upholstery tool works well, but only if you use repeated forward strokes, as there’s less grip on the pull-back. The hairs on the pet shelter's padded chair are stubborn, and most vacuums struggle to clean them, but with a few repeated strokes, the Shark PowerPro Pet got them all.

As I mentioned above, the pet multi-tool is different in the UK and US. It’s still a multi-tool which clips off to reveal the upholstery tool underneath (which is almost identical to the other upholstery tool, just with thinner pads). It works amazingly, though. The fins yank fur right out, faster than the upholstery tool, and I hope that the US attachment is an effective vacuum attachment for pet hair.

Shark PowerPro Pet: Care and Maintenance

The Shark PowerPro Flex should be maintained just like any cordless vacuum: Empty it after each session, check the filters, and clear the brushroll to make sure suction isn't restricted.

Emptying it is as simple as removing the wand, then pushing the latch; however, the small lip on the dustbin lid means that hair can get stuck there – it's a minor inconvenience, but it means you’ll have to get your hands dirty occasionally.

Cleaning the vacuum filter is essential maintenance to preserve the appliance's lifespan and protect the motor from overworking. The foam pre-filter is washable; however, the main HEPA filter isn't, meaning you'll have to buy replacements when it starts to wear. This is a shame, as other vacuums have washable HEPA filters, omitting recurring filter costs.

How Does the Shark PowerPro Pet Compare?

Available for $329.99 at SharkNinja (and often discounted with up to $100 off), this is a strong mid-range vacuum cleaner, and it's cheaper than similar offerings from Shark.

The Shark PowerDetect Cordless is the closest comparison. They both have floor sensors, automatic power adjustments, seamless cleaning across floor types, and a flexible wand. However, the PowerDetect has stronger suction and dual brushrolls, making it a more effective and versatile cleaner, but it costs more. At full price, it's $449.99 from SharkNinja, but it is often discounted to $299.99.

But honestly, if you're considering spending up to $300 on a vacuum, I'd recommend spending a little extra on a Dyson deal. The Dyson V11 is often on offer for $399.99 at Dyson (as it is at the time of writing), and it boasts much higher suction and a floorhead that digs deep into carpets and plucks every visible strand of hair in one or two passes.

Next, see which vacuums top our tried-and-tested guide to the best Dyson alternatives.

It's a 'no-brainer' when it comes to staving off stress, saving precious time when your guests sit down to dine.

It's the practical hosting tip they will all be using in their own homes this season – here's how to set one up for yourself and fly through Thanksgiving and Christmas hosting with ease.

How This Hosting Tray Trick Staves Off Hosting Stress

A hosting tray (or designated drawer or shelf nearby) is a great way to ensure easy access to all of your hosting essentials so that you are not left scrambling when your guests arrive. It is a smaller and far more space-convenient version of having a hosting closet in your home.

As Laura Price, founder and creative director at The Home Organisation, explains, 'A hosting station follows the same principle we apply to all organisational systems: Grouping like items together and creating zones reduces decisions and saves time.

'During the holidays, when stress levels are already high, the last thing you want is to be searching through three different cupboards for tea lights while your guests are arriving. A hosting station or tray means everything is in one place, easily accessible, and ready when you need it.'

What to Keep on Your Hosting Tray

What you keep on your hosting tray will depend on your individual hosting needs, how many people you are hosting, and what type of dinner or event you are hosting.

Start with some pre-Christmas decluttering to help pare back to the essentials and cut extra items that may get in the way or increase stress levels.

Then, to help you pick the right items for your hosting tray, ask yourself which things will 'reduce mental strain,' urges Tina Priestly, home declutterist at Ready, Set, REFRESH. 'A hosting tray helps you appear as the composed, present host you desire to be, in addition to keeping you organized,' she reminds us. 'Because it is not perfection but preparation that is the true key to entertaining with ease.'

With that in mind, Laura suggests that some items you may want to keep at hand include:

• Napkins and napkin rings [such as these Harrison Napkin Rings from PotteryBarn, which are perfect for use year-round]
• Candles and matches, or a lighter. You can find rechargeable electric lighters at Walmart
• Serving utensils that you don't use daily
• Chargers or special occasion placemats
• Cocktail napkins and coasters
• A corkscrew and bottle opener
• Small vases for table flowers [from Anthropologie]
• Your good tablecloth [A neutral color, such as this 100% linen oversized tablecloth from PotteryBarn, is perfect for any dinner occasion]

Once you have decided on your items, house your hosting tray close to where you will use it, Laura continues.

'An unused drawer in your dining room sideboard is ideal, but a large basket on a shelf or a dedicated section of a cabinet works just as well. If you're using a drawer, add dividers [available in several sizes at The Container Store] to keep smaller items like napkin rings separate from larger items.'

'The most important step is maintenance,' she adds. 'After each event, make sure everything gets washed, dried, and returned to the hosting station. This ensures yours is always ready to go and prevents the gradual migration of items around your home.'

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

With your dining room set up, focus your efforts on the chef-prep secrets for holiday meals to ensure your food comes out perfect on the day.

I'm not just talking about the classics, either, like candles boasting notes of wood fire and vanilla. Both winter and Christmas inspire natural scenting, with the use of seasonal spices and foliage to decorate your space and create a sense of welcoming warmth.

Here are my best home fragrance picks to help you create a chic and luxurious scented winter wonderland at home that is affordable, eco-friendly, and effortless.

Six Suggestions for Scenting the Season

If you're after more recommendations or holiday gifting inspiration, I've also put together a guide to the best candles, best reed diffusers, best essential oil diffusers, and the fall scents I'm shopping from Net-a-Porter, all of which contain options to suit any budget.

While researching decluttering methods to help me on my way, I came across the Time-Box Elimination Method, and although I was skeptical it would work, I gave it a go, and it surprisingly proved to be the perfect solution to my overflowing pantry.

Here's why it worked, how to do it, and where else our organizational pros recommend using it this busy season and beyond.

What is the Time-Box Elimination Method?

'Think of the Time-Box Elimination Method as a mini power session for your space,' advises Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized. 'You pick a specific area – like your pantry – and give yourself a set block of time, usually 20 to 30 minutes.

'The goal isn’t perfection; it’s focused action. You quickly sort, decide what stays or goes, and stop when the timer rings. You’re learning to make decisions faster, reduce mental clutter, and give yourself small wins that actually stick.'

Di's not our only pro who recommends this method to overhaul your pantry organization ideas.

Cathy Orr, co-founder of The Uncluttered Life, adds, 'I consider the time-box elimination method to be the time-blocking method. Time-blocking is another word for time allocation. I believe that time-blocking is the best way to work on a project because it reduces decision-fatigue and forces you to make quick decisions.

'Time-blocking in a pantry, for example, gives you a very specific amount of time to look at what to keep and what to discard.

'Set a timer for a reasonable amount of time – 30 minutes or so – and do your best to make quick decisions about what you should keep, donate and discard.

'Agonizing over decisions is what makes this process difficult for most people. If you have a very small or specific amount of time in which to work and make decisions, your brain doesn’t dwell on something. It moves,' making undertaking a quick fall pantry reset easy.

As Di adds, this method works because it forces you to make decisions fast and prevents overthinking and decision fatigue, something that made trawling through my personal pantry far speedier than I expected.

She continues, 'When you know the clock is ticking, your brain switches from “I might need this someday” to “Do I really need this now? That urgency helps you move through clutter much faster than you would if you were letting yourself linger over every item.

'Plus, even a short, focused session creates visible results, which is super motivating and gives you momentum to keep going. This is huge because every small, intentional choice is part of a bigger habit of living in a calm, organized space that supports your well-being.'

Why Is It Particularly Effective for Pantries?

As Cathy highlights, 'Pantries are sacred to a lot of people.' I know mine is, particularly when it comes to trying Christmas party recipes for hosting my friends and family. But that's not to say that there aren't plenty of baking supplies to declutter before the holidays.

'There is something about having and keeping food, and believing food should never go to waste,' explains Cathy. 'I believe there is a lot of guilt tied up in letting go of food when other people are doing without,' which becomes particularly apparent during the festive period.

'So clients look at an item that they know they will never eat, but put it back on the shelf because they don’t want to give it away,' she continues. 'Eventually, the item expires.

'We have worked with people who repeatedly purchase the same item because they don’t realize they already own it. For example, the item is stuck way in the back of the pantry, and now the client owns two, which feels wasteful to them.

'Also, a lot of people purchase in bulk so they have a lot of the same item that will take a long time to use up and most likely will expire.'

Importantly, though, as Cathy points out, there are food banks that will take the food you no longer want or need, and anything inedible should be thrown away in any case.

'Go through your items quickly, discard what is expired, leaking, smells off, like spices, and keep the rest,' she advises. 'Look at what you own and then try to group by category. And make sure to look in the bags of, for example, flour.

'Make sure everything you own is within expiration and edible. And don’t feel guilty if you bought too much of something.

'Either donate overstock to your local food pantry if it’s still good, or let it be a good lesson for how to purchase going forward,' embracing zero-waste pantry restocking in the place of overconsumption and waste.

As Di adds, and as I found, a time-box session forces you to tackle what's expired, duplicate items, or things you never use, so the space actually works for you, rather than against you.

'Pantries are one of the first spaces we organize with the Organize Yourself Healthy method in mind because they directly impact daily routines – meal prep, snack time, and holiday baking can all get stressful if your pantry is a mess,' she says. 'Plus, a clear pantry saves mental energy, reduces stress, and makes cooking and planning easier – small updates that change into healthier, happier routines.'

My Verdict

Armed with my timer, available at Amazon – which I regularly use for the Pomodoro technique – and the assurances of Di and Cathy, I set a timer for half an hour and set about streamlining and tidying my pantry.

To my great surprise, half an hour was actually all it took to finally organize my messy pantry, and get rid of everything I didn't need or wouldn't use, which was practically all expired, sometimes by, admittedly, more than a couple of years.

It's amazing how focused one can be under a time constraint, and I felt so inspired I even moved on to organizing my canned goods ahead of the holidays.

Overall, this technique gets a 10/10 from me.

Where Else Would the Time-Box Elimination Technique Work Well?

As both our pros assure, the time-box elimination method can essentially be used absolutely everywhere.

'Think closets, organizing a bathroom, conquering the dreaded junk drawer, craft areas – even digital spaces like emails or photos,' says Di. 'Anywhere you feel overwhelmed, a focused, time-boxed session lets you take back control, boost your confidence, and make your home – and your life – feel calmer and more manageable.'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Once you've decluttered, make sure you're aware of the types of storage you should never use in a pantry.

Not only that, but if you empty your vacuum into an indoor trash can, you risk re-releasing the allergens you just vacuumed back into your space. That's why I love sharing the benefits of the Shark PowerDetect Cordless, which is also discounted by $150 right now, as it solves this issue.

It stores dust inside a HEPA-sealed container for over a month, drastically reducing your exposure to allergens and reducing how often you need to empty it yourself. Plus, it's one of the best vacuums we've tested.

Say Goodbye to Dust Blowback With the Shark PowerDetect Cordless

The Shark PowerDetect Cordless is an outstanding vacuum by itself – one of the best cordless vacuums we've tested, in fact – with the added benefit of storing your household's dust for up to six weeks.

It's an effortless vacuum to use. It seamlessly passes from carpets to hard floors with its dual brushrolls and intelligent floor sensors, and its suction is strong enough to clean everything from dust to pet hair in seconds.

It's also a neat way to store your vacuum, as unlike the best upright vacuums, cordless sticks don't usually stand up by themselves. The Shark PowerDetect Cordless has a somewhat stylish design (as stylish as a vacuum cleaner be...), so it doesn't hurt to have it on show.

As soon as you place the vacuum on the dock, it will start self-emptying and charging, ready for the next use. It locks away 99.97% of allergens – without this, you risk them becoming airborne as they're released into your home, which will result in allergy symptoms unless you have one of the best air purifiers.

And as the dust, debris, and hair are forcibly sucked out of the vacuum, it actually cleans the vacuum more than if you were emptying it by hand.

This results in an appliance that's kept in better condition, as the dust particles that can erode the internal parts are pulled right out of the appliance, from the dustbin all the way down to the floorhead. This improves its lifespan and protects against loss of suction as there are fewer chances for the airways to become obstructed.

The nifty cordless stick also bends at the wand, meaning you can reach far under furniture without having to strain your back. It's an effortless motion: Press the latch to release it, then pull up to snap it back into place.

Tester James Holland put the vacuum through its paces in his home with a heavily-shedding cat, and the PowerDetect Cordless had no issues vacuuming fur, even from thick carpets. It's one of the best vacuums for pet hair if you're looking for cordless convenience.

It also has a 70-minute runtime – longer than the typical 50-60 minutes for a cordless stick – and detects the floor type you're cleaning to automatically optimize the suction. It's intuitive, taking away the guesswork and making adjustments in the background while you clean.

Forget Black Friday – if you've been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your floorcare, look no further.

The Shark PowerDetect Cordless is discounted by $150 at SharkNinja for a limited time.

More to Shop

Although this is a stellar deal, it doesn't hurt to shop around, so here are a few more of our favorites after our rigorous testing sessions. They don't have the Shark's unique Clean & Empty System, but hold their own in other great ways.

All prices correct at time of publication.

For more high-performing, affordable floorcare, see which vacuums top our tested guide of the best Dyson alternatives.

In fact, all it takes are simple and cheap pool noodles from Walmart, a box cutter, and less than a minute of your time.

This is how the experts use this quick and easy trick to insulate pipes without expensive heat tape, and why it works so well.

This Pool Noodle Trick Is The Secret to Beating Frozen Pipes

Stopping pipes from freezing is simple. All you need is a combination of insulation and dripping faucets to keep water moving.

While you can buy pipe-specific insulation covers, pool noodles are often thicker, easier to source, and often cheaper for a quick fix that you may already have in your pool supplies, should the temperatures drop suddenly or unexpectedly.

It's also super simple to implement, Steve Ellis, VP of Wind River Environmental's residential line of business, assures. 'You can wrap exposed pipes with polyethylene foam noodles by slicing them lengthwise, fitting them around the pipe, and securing them with tape or zip ties.

'This method is useful for pipes in unheated spaces such as garages or crawlspaces and provides a quick layer of protection during sudden cold snaps.'

To ensure the perfect temperature to avoid frozen pipes and perfect the fit, he shares the following steps:

1. Measure the length of the exposed pipe you want to insulate and gather enough pool noodles to cover it.
2. Slice each pool noodle lengthwise so it can open and fit around the pipe. A boxcutter, from Walmart, is handy for this.
3. Fit the noodle around the pipe, making sure to cover all exposed sections, including bends if possible.
4. Fill any small gaps with extra material, such as old insulation or rags, to ensure a snug fit.
5. Secure the noodles in place using tape or zip ties [also from Walmart] to prevent them from sliding off.
6. If the pipes are outdoors or in areas exposed to wind or moisture, add a weather-resistant wrap [from Walmart] over the noodles for extra protection.

It is worth noting, however, that pipe insulation is only a temporary solution, and as with any foam product, it will need replacing over time.

For a longer-term solution to winterizing a house, Steve recommends installing safeguards such as heat tape or heating cables, available from Lowe's. This is especially important for very cold climates and helpful for areas that regularly experience cold winters.

For outdoor pipes, he adds, insulation with UV-resistant jacketing [such as this rubber pipe wrap insulation from Lowe's] is also a must for long-term prevention.

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

No matter how well you insulate your pipes in winter, it never hurts to know exactly what to do if a pipe bursts to prevent further damage to your home.

And, even if your couch is relatively clean, a build-up of dust can make it look far less inviting and lead to musty odors. Luckily, with a little expert know-how, these are all easy and quick to fix.

Here are the top three issues I always spot when visiting at Christmas, why they stand out to me as a professional cleaner, and how to clean your couch and fix these potentially embarrassing issues fast before company arrives.

3 Things I Always Notice About Dirty Couches

1. Dull, Dusty Fabric

As a cleaning expert and the operations manager at Spekless, I know better than anyone that fabric that's lost its brightness immediately makes a living room look tired and less cared for, and that there are more than a few habits making your sofas dirty.

Importantly, the fine layer of dust or pet hair catches light differently, making the couch look older than it is.

To spruce up your couch, one of the dirtiest places in a living room, use one of the best vacuums with an upholstery attachment to lift dust, lint, and dander easily from creases and seams.

Then, lightly mist with Febreze Fabric Refresher available at Amazon to neutralize lingering odors. For a deeper clean, I recommend the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, also available at Amazon, which removes embedded grime without soaking the fabric, helping to swerve any couch cleaning mistakes.

This combination restores color and texture while leaving fabrics fresh and touchably soft, especially when keeping your home clean with pets.

2. Greasy or Darkened Armrests

Armrests tend to darken quickly from skin oils and lotions, creating visible contrast against the rest of the fabric. It's one of the first signs of a well-loved but under-maintained couch, which is why tackling them is one of the things people with clean living rooms always do.

For this stubborn area, I mix a drop of mild dish soap with warm water and gently blot the area with a microfiber cloth. This works well as mild soap breaks down oils safely, while microfiber grabs residue without pushing it deeper into the fibers.

For convenience, use Dr. Beckmann Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon, which lifts greasy residue without harsh chemicals.

3. Odors Trapped in Cushions

Even clean-looking couches can hold onto smells from pets, food, or humidity – especially during winter when windows stay closed, which is one of the many reasons you should open windows this winter. It's the kind of issue you notice the moment you sit down, and it may leave you wondering why your house smells musty.

Tackling these odors is one of the things people with nice-smelling living rooms always do, and you can banish them easily, and you don't need harsh chemicals to achieve results. Simply sprinkle Arm & Hammer baking soda, available at Walmart, across the cushions, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly, to naturally absorb odors without chemicals, leaving the fabric neutral and refreshed.

Then, finish with a light spritz of a fabric-safe scented mist.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden says, 'You can make your own with two cups of water and 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as luxurious-smelling geranium, available at Walmart in an undiluted and pure form.

'Keeping your mixture in amber glass spray bottles and spritzing it onto microfiber clothes (both available at Walmart) and then wiping across couches will mean your mix won't degrade easily, and won't stain your couch. I use this on my couches weekly and it really helps to firstly break down and remove new grease stains or spills with ease, and keep your upholstery smelling fresh.'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Expert

Neglecting these simple steps is one of the things people with nice-smelling living rooms never do. Importantly, though, it's crucial to know the cleaning methods you should never use on a fabric couch, to avoid any irreparable or expensive damage.

Always spot test cleaning tools and solutions on inconspicuous areas first, so if any damage or color-changing occurs, it won't be in the middle of the cushion or somewhere very noticeable.

That’s why this over-the-sink expanding dish rack from Walmart, which is just $10.99, really caught my eye. It will instantly double my dish-drying space, as and when I need it, without using my counter.

This is an especially useful small kitchen storage idea, and when you’re grappling with extra slow cookers on counters, guest dinners with additional serveware and fresh produce to wash and dry, this Walmart find is an easy win.

Why This $11 Walmart Dish Rack is Perfect for Small Kitchens

Freeing up counter space is a vital task in small kitchens, as standard, but even more so during hosting season, with all those extra festive bakes and guests coming by for multi-course meals that require even more washing up and drying than usual.

It’s a common problem many face, including Chiana Dickson, content editor at Homes & Gardens and queen of testing decluttering methods and products for small-space living.

She says, ‘The kitchen in my old Victorian home is tiny, with barely enough space for three people to stand comfortably at the same time. Counterspace has always been a nightmare, but as I prepare to host friends for the first time this coming Christmas, I have been racking my brain for improvements.

‘Juggling three courses and dishes without a dishwasher, all without stressing myself out, has been a challenge, but this super handy Walmart in-sink disk drying rack will solve the piling dishes issue between courses.

‘With it, I can stack all the dishes neatly while washing up by hand, before lowering them into the empty sink afterwards to instantly free up much-needed counterspace for food prep or plating, without having to factor in time to hand dry and put everything away. This also decreases the likelihood of me being bogged down in chores and letting something burn on the stove or missing time with my loved ones.

‘It's quick to move on and off the sink and increases efficiency when drying dishes during hosting season without adding clutter to counters. It’s exactly what’s needed in small kitchens in the busiest month of the year.'

It's a simple way to declutter countertops.

Shoppers love it too, with verified shopper Deborah giving it five stars, and commenting, ‘I've been looking for an over-the-sink dish drain for years! This one is the best! It is adjustable to fit over any sink.' She particularly loves that it has a robust metal construction with plastic at each end to ensure the sink and area around it don't get scratched.

Another happy buyer, Tammy, adds, ‘Fantastic, over-the-sink, dish dryer. The fact that it's adjustable made it so easy.’

Others commend its durability, how it expands easily, and also functions as a freestanding dish dryer on the counter in case you need to use the sink.

I’m definitely trying it out for myself, especially as I am hosting Christmas Day dinner at my house this year, and will desperately need that extra drying space.

What to Shop

Over-the-sink drying racks are not the only way to streamline your sink space. These useful additions will help with every small space sink issue, from allowing sponges to dry properly to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and cross-contamination, to going vertical on racks to allow more space to dry dishes and more.

Next, delve into how to get your kitchen hosting-ready.

Smart lighting has become one of the simplest ways to elevate that warmth, offering endless color combinations, scene settings, and energy-saving features. You don’t need a full smart home setup to enjoy the benefits – even a few connected bulbs or switches can transform your space.

Below, experts share four easy ways to ‘set the scene’ this holiday season with smart lighting solutions that make gatherings glow brighter and more creatively, while saving energy in the process.

4 Ways Smart Lights Transform Indoor Holiday Gatherings

From color-changing bulbs and smart switches to motion sensors and music-syncing light strips, it’s easier than ever to make your home glow exactly how you want it to. Smart lighting benefits span creativity and efficiency, letting you enjoy the warmth of the season without wasting energy or effort.

‘Don’t be scared to be silly,’ says Kobi Cummings, co-founder at The Valley Venues. ‘Changing lights means changing atmosphere – so lean in, and be dramatic! It’ll be worth it.’

1. Switch to Smart Bulbs for Instant Ambiance

When it comes to creating atmosphere, color-changing smart bulbs are one of the most effective solutions. From a quick tap on your phone, you can switch from a warm golden dinner glow to a deep red or icy blue palette, depending on the mood. They'll quickly become a guest favorite.

‘Smart lighting is an easy and convenient way to make your holiday events feel special while reducing your energy bills,’ says Nick Barber, co-founder at Utilities Now, adding, ‘You can set the mood based on the activity you want to enjoy by choosing the colors that match that activity.’

Kobi shares this excitement for the smart home gadgets, 'I will literally sit at a party with my lights app and set the mode depending on the music, or conversation, although I know that's a little extra! Lighting really is everything, especially for a themed party.'

Color-changing LEDs also use a fraction of the energy of traditional holiday bulbs, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious hosts. And luckily, they're not expensive, as this EcoSmart 60W smart bulb from Home Depot costs just $9.97, and can shift hues, dim smoothly, and even pair with Google, Alexa, and Hubspace for voice control.

I use smart bulbs to set ambiance in the evenings, and I wouldn't live without one now. Being able to adjust the brightness and hue of the lights makes every room feel warmer with minimal effort.

Yamed Mahfoud, a director at Bees Lighting, adds that color-changing bulbs have become essential Christmas décor ideas, adding, 'They create dynamic atmospheres that adapt to different party phases and guest activities. Start with smart bulbs in high-traffic locations, then move on to more decorative areas.’

2. Add Smart Dimmer Switches for Subtle Control

For those who love their current fixtures but want more flexibility, smart dimmer switches are the perfect in-between, and one of the latest lighting trends. They let you lower the brightness for intimate dinners, then brighten things up for games or cleanup.

‘Smart dimmer switches are great if you want to use your existing light fixtures but still want more control,’ says Nick. They also integrate easily with most systems, meaning you can pair them with your voice assistant or smartphone.

Consider installing this Decora Smart Wi-Fi Dimmer Switch at Home Depot to fine-tune your control over brightness levels while cutting down on unnecessary energy use. It can connect to Google and Alexa setups, meaning you can control the lights from anywhere, and with your voice.

This small addition makes a big difference in how your home feels throughout the evening – whether you’re hosting cocktails by the tree or enjoying a late-night dessert with friends.

3. Sync Lights to Music for Effortless Party Energy

If you’re planning a lively gathering, lighting that reacts to music brings a touch of magic to the get-together. ‘Lighting really is everything, especially for a themed party,’ says Kobi Cummings.

Music-responsive systems use built-in microphones or app integrations to pulse and shift colors with the beat. Options like the KSIPZE 100ft Led Strip Lights at Amazon can be placed behind furniture or around the ceiling for subtle, glowing movement that energizes the space.

Yamed Mahfoud adds that voice-operated systems make it easy to adjust mid-event, ‘Presets allow for smooth transitions from cocktails to dinner. Just check that all lighting scenes work before your guests arrive, with manual standby controls set up in critical areas.’

4. Set and Forget with Energy-Saving Features

Beyond color and creativity, one of smart lighting’s best perks is its practicality. With built-in timers, motion sensors, and scheduling features, you can ensure the lights dim down or switch off automatically once the party winds down.

Nick Barber recommends grouping lights by room or function so you can ‘control everything without wasting electricity.'

Dara Greaney, CEO of LEDLightExpert agrees, adding, ‘Using LEDs for your holiday lighting saves up to 90% on energy over incandescent lighting. Utilize features like timers and smart switches, which can be used for indoor as well as outdoor lighting.’

Try these Defiant Smart Plugs from Home Depot to create schedules and timers. You can set them to dim at a certain time, light up as you wake up, or turn off by a certain time to avoid wasting energy.

Next, learn these Christmas tree ideas and Christmas tree decorating mistakes to keep yours stylish and timeless.

That’s why I am depending on the FIFO (First-In, First-Out) Method to keep my hectic home storage flowing without adding to my already overwhelming mental load.

It’s the easiest home organizing idea I have ever tried, and it’s saved me time, money, and unnecessary stress – plus, the experts love it too. Here’s why.

I Tried the FIFO Method and Loved It

The First-In, First-Out Method is somewhat self-explanatory – the items you put into storage should be the first items out. It is a simple dual organizing and decluttering method that works perfectly for any items in your home that have an expiration date, says Sharon Lowenheim, certified professional organizer and owner of Organizing Goddess.

It is perfect for organizing pantry shelves, keeping a fridge neat, or organizing a bathroom during the busy hosting period of November and December.

Sharon explains, ‘For example, if you have four jars of tomato sauce, line them up in the cabinet with the oldest one in the front, and the rest of them in a column behind it, with the newest one in the back. When you unpack your groceries, make sure you are putting new items behind older items.

'People tend to unpack the new groceries and stick them in the vacated space in front of the cabinet or the refrigerator. Older items get buried in the back and eventually expire or become unusable.’

Shelf stackers, from Walmart, or an acrylic three-tier organizer from The Container Store can make this trick easier, preventing those items pushed to the back from getting forgotten about completely.

When I am super busy, organizing my home storage ideas in this way makes using my home seamless. When I tried the FIFO Method in my home, I found it to be easy to adopt permanently and so effective.

For instance, by restocking the fridge and my small pantry with new items at the back when I bring them home, I don't have to hunt for expiration dates on packaging when I am in a rush to make breakfast and lunch, saving time without any extra effort. Plus, it is a handy food storage idea to reduce food waste.

In the bathroom, the FIFO Method is a simple solution to organizing a medicine cabinet and skincare when I have to add extra products to my routine to combat seasonal dryness, irritation, and condition flare-ups.

It is also a great cleaning tip, adds Danica Carson, professional organizer and owner of The Uncluttered Life. She adds, ‘Cleaning supplies expire and lose their efficacy after a certain point, and it’s a lot shorter than you think. Things like bleach and disinfectants start to degrade after about six months.

'So, if you have a backstock of cleaning supplies, which I see in almost every house I organize, you should use them in the order you purchased them.’

It is certainly another quick trick to organize cleaning supplies that I will be implementing when I find some free time.

For items without obvious expiration dates, consider using a label maker such as the DYMO handheld label maker to make them clearer. Otherwise, if you don’t care for perfect aesthetics, use a Sharpie (both from Walmart).

So far as time-saving tips go, the FIFO Method might seem too simple, but it drastically cuts down time searching through products, and by reducing waste, saves countless additional trips to the grocery store to replace items that have expired before I could use them.

Not to mention it can also help you to save money at home, which is another massive benefit during the costly holiday season.

Having tried and kept the FIFO Method in my arsenal at home for several months, I no longer feel like I am losing control of clutter and know I will return to this trick time and again through the upcoming winter weeks of busy hosting and socialising.

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Pairing the FIFO Method with additional chore and time management tips is the best way to ensure a smooth-running home in the busy season. We love the White Space Method to help reduce stress, alongside clearing visual clutter in living rooms that see a lot of guests in winter.

As the nights grow longer and the temperature drops, designers say now is the time to bring that same comfort and chic home with the Hotel Method.

The secret? Layering your sheets to perfection when styling your bed. It's the chic and cozy upgrade your bedroom (and your sleep) deserves this season. I tried it and it really works.

What is the Hotel Method for Warming Bedding?

For interior designer Alice Molloy, layering in interior design, such as your bedding in the Hotel Method, is a year-round essential for ultimate coziness.

She shares, 'Besides being a great way to stay warm this winter, layering up your bedding is the perfect way to add a little luxury too, as it will feel like you are in a hotel, trust me. It’s both a technique and a philosophy: Combining comfort, cleanliness, and visual symmetry to create an inviting, high-end sleep experience.'

As with many things in design, the rule of three applies to the hotel method. Three types of layers form the perfect bed, helping you to keep warm in bed in winter without cranking up the heat.

It is a similar principle to insulating your home, creating layers for pockets of air to be trapped within, keeping heat inside and cold air out. I've been using this trick for years to keep my heating cost down, and the cozy factor up, as long winter nights and the accompanying chill seep into every corner of my drafty Victorian home.

For Marta Pawlik, co-founder and director at luxury holiday let company LAIK, this includes a crisp foundation layer, a layer of comfort, and a layer for added softness.

She shares, 'Generally speaking, I begin with a crisp percale cotton bottom sheet [we love the Brooklinen flat sheets, available in six sizes] followed by a top sheet of either brushed cotton or flannel, depending upon the guest preferences, for softness.

'Then a lightweight wool or down blanket [also available at Brooklinen], and finally a quilted topper or feather duvet. Layering creates depth, comfort, and allows air to circulate throughout all the layers.'

The colorblock wool bed blanket from West Elm is available in three color options and two large luxurious sizes as the perfect final layer. With 80% wool, it is also perfect for breathable, naturally-regulated warmth that won't leave you overheated.

Marta continues, 'Typically, I layer approximately four to five pieces in a standard bedroom within our holiday homes,' she reveals. 'The results are consistently the same – a bed that is visually luxurious, yet easy to climb into after a cold and damp day.'

The real trick, Marta continues, is picking the best bedding materials, as there are some key bedding materials to avoid if you want to avoid waking up in a puddle of sweat.

'Fabric selection is the key element in my layering process. Cotton is breathable, linen helps regulate moisture, and wool retains heat in wet and damp weather conditions. I generally do not include synthetic materials as they retain too much heat and provide little of the inviting heavyweight associated with natural fabrics.'

With everything layered, Alice then recommends pressing the sheets if you want to make a bed the right way or are preparing a guest bedroom for Christmas. 'I don't always do this, but it is good practice to iron or steam sheets. No wrinkles, no visible seams, and precise alignment of everything from pillow edges to duvet fold lines instantly elevates your sleep space.'

What to Shop

All prices correct at time of publication. Bedding prices for king-size beds.

Meet the Experts

With your bedroom cozied up, try some other ways to decorate every room for fall to make your home feel more welcoming in the cold seasons.

That's why we recommend the RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray available at Amazon, which is fast-acting on multiple different surfaces, with no scrubbing or elbow grease needed.

Shoppers are raving about it, getting rid of mold and mildew in the home, and 46,000 five-star reviews back it up – and more than 20,000 bottles bought last month.

Thrilled Shoppers Swear by This $16 Mold-fighting Spray

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

While getting rid of musty smells in a bathroom often involves removing mold, many sprays and natural remedies are simply are not enough. That's when we recommend using the RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover Spray available at Amazon, which removes deep-set stains in just 15 seconds and begins working instantly.

Whether you need to remove mold from ceilings, grout, or tiles, this spray is suitable for almost all surfaces and comes ready to use with no mixing or scrubbing required. You can also use it to remove green mold and mildew from wooden decks, too. With just a simple spray, watch stains indoors and out disappear before your very eyes.

As one satisfied shopper, Rob, leaving a five-star review, writes, 'This stuff is awesome.I had a weird crevice between my shower door/wall/ floor [with a] buildup of black nasty gunk I couldn’t treat with bleach and a toothbrush scrub.

'I sprayed this product on the affected area and pow! When I came back 15 minutes later, it was 95% gone. Amazing. It does have a chemical smell similar to bleach, but who cares? Spray then walk away. It totally ate up mildew in the lower grout components of my shower tile, too, which scrubbing couldn’t handle. Great product. Highly recommend.'

Though it's worth noting that wearing suitable PPE, such as an adjustable respirator mask, available at Amazon, will help protect your lungs against the harsher chemicals found in strong mold-removers such as the RMR-86 spray. Otherwise, keep the area you're treating well ventilated, and your pets and children out of the space whilst in use and for a while afterwards. The litmus test is whether or not you can still smell it. If so, keep ventilating until clear.

For any spots that do need scrubbing, like cleaning shower tracks, for example, we recommend using the Joseph Joseph CleanTech 3-in-1 Detail Cleaning Brush available at Amazon, which is also one of the best ways to clean shower grout.

Shopper Stephanie agrees with reviewer Rob, and 46,000+ verified shoppers who have left a glowing review on Amazon, describing this spray as a 'powerful mold remover that works instantly.'

She adds, 'I used this spray on mold in my bathroom caused by a lack of ventilation, and it worked exactly as promised. The stains disappeared almost instantly with no scrubbing required. The application was simple, and the results were noticeable right away. All I had to do was spray the problem areas and let it sit and do its job.

'For safety purposes, I opened my bathroom window first, grabbed some goggles and gloves, wrapped my hair, and then I sprayed. Since I was spraying the bathroom ceiling, I wanted to protect myself as much as possible. Also, the smell is strong, maybe as strong as a bleach smell, but make sure to open a window first. It’s rare to find a product that works this well, but this one truly does.'

We definitely recommend using gloves with this product as spray triggers on plastic bottles like the one the RMR-86 spray has can often drip down your finger when you're spraying. The Inspire Black Nitrile Gloves, available at Amazon, are chemical, rip, and puncture-resistant.

A third reviewer, Michelle, dubs this spray 'extremely effective,' and assures that it 'makes bathroom cleaning effortless.' She explains, 'This cleaning spray has been a game-changer for keeping my bathroom clean. I’ve struggled with stubborn mold and mildew stains around grout and corners for years, and this spray works almost instantly without scrubbing.

'Application is simple: Spray directly on the affected areas, wait a few minutes, and the stains fade away. The formula is powerful enough to tackle tough discoloration on shower floors, tiles, and bathroom walls. Even long-standing, dark mildew spots became noticeably lighter after a single treatment.

'I also appreciate that it doesn’t require aggressive scrubbing or harsh tools, which makes the cleaning process faster and less messy. It has a mild scent compared to traditional mold removers, which makes it much more pleasant to use indoors.

'Overall, this spray is powerful, convenient, and reliable. It makes cleaning mold and mildew virtually effortless, and I’ll definitely continue keeping it on hand for bathroom maintenance.'

Don't forget to check behind your couch for mold colonies, too, which is often a hidden spot that could be harboring mold this winter due to a lack of air circulation. Moving your furniture off the wall and allowing a couple of inches worth of space will allow more air movement, and reduce the humidity and still environments where mold spores can take hold and flourish.

What to Shop

It might sound surprising, but there are also things you should declutter to prevent damp in winter, like old magazines and papers.

November is the perfect time to take a quick look before the early cold sets in, checking for the five key warning signs that mold is growing in your attic, and catch it before it spreads.

Here's what to look out for to help you get rid of mold, and the simple, budget-friendly DIY solution that can slow the growth and buy you time ahead of any necessary mold remediation work.

5 Warning Signs There is Mold in Your Attic

1. Mildew Odors

If you have popped into our attic to collect your holiday decorations or guest bedroom essentials and left wondering why your house smells musty, it could be hidden mold.

According to Alan Bernau Jr., owner of Alan's Factory Outlet, persistent musty or mildew-type smells could be a sign of danger in your home.

He explains, 'This smell can continue to occur even when you've cleaned the space or aired it out. The smell is usually caused by trapped moisture in your wood or insulation and creates an optimal environment for mold spores to reproduce. In many cases, homeowners identify this smell strongest on warmer, more humid days or immediately after a rainstorm.'

You can check the moisture levels in your attic with two tools: The first is a hygrometer, from Walmart, which can instantly measure and tell you the moisture content of the air. The second is a pinless moisture meter from Lowe's, which can tell you the moisture content of a surface such as attic ceilings, walls, or floors.

2. Black Spotting

One of the most obvious signs of mold in the attic is physical growth on surfaces. When ensuring your attic is safe, it is important to look for black mold in particular, advises Tony Abate, a Certified Mold Inspector and Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at AtmosAir Solutions.

He explains, 'Many times black mold, which is the most concerning, will show as those black spots on attic walls or ceilings. How do you know it’s mold? A simple test is to take a cotton swab and dip it in chlorine bleach [available at Walmart] and dab that black spot. If the spot quickly vanishes, it was likely black mold and not dirt or grease, etc.'

3. Allergic Symptoms

Mold and fungal spores are one of the most common allergens that plague our homes, Tony explains. If you are noticing a flare of allergy symptoms in your attic, or during/after entering this common storage space, it could be hidden mold.

He suggests paying attention ot symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy or burning eyes, and dry throat. This may have increased in November if you've been in and out of the attic for festive decor, winter clothes, or additional serveware for hosting.

4. Water Damage

Water damage is a big risk in attics in winter, especially if roof tiles are damaged by high winds or you do not clean your gutters when winterizing your home. Any additional moisture can quickly lead to mold if left unchecked.

Russell Vent, VP at Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Rochester, says, 'Water damage is the most important indicator that there may be mold growing, especially if it is on a porous material like drywall.

'On the surface of the drywall, you may only see yellow water staining, but if the moisture source is coming from behind the wall, that painted surface of the drywall will often be more resilient to allowing mold growth since it has a raw fibrous backing – there may be hidden growth within the wall or ceiling cavity.'

'Bubbling paint, drips, ceiling water stains, dripping pipes, and leaky toilets are a few examples of maintenance issues that should be a red flag if you are concerned about mold growth,' he adds.

5. Condensation

Stopping condensation on windows is not your only concern in winter. Condensation can also form in attics, especially those not insulated or ventilated correctly, quickly leading to attic mold growth.

Russell warns, 'This indicator may not seem like a huge deal when you first identify it; however, they are a sign that you have a more universal, atmospheric problem going on, and if not rectified, could lead to a more serious problem.'

He recommends ensuring you are monitoring your humidity in your home and keeping your attic below 55% relative humidity using the best dehumidifiers, or by improving ventilation using attic fans, from Lowe's. Focus on decluttering things to prevent mold, too, to create space in overstuffed attics for good air flow.

The DIY Fix

Getting rid of mold in the attic is not always a simple DIY task.

In most mild cases, such as small surface patches, Alan suggests spraying the area with white vinegar from Walmart or hydrogen peroxide from Amazon, allowing it to sit for one hour, and then using a stiff-bristle brush to remove the mold. He adds that, 'Bleach should never be used to treat mold because bleach evaporates rapidly and does not penetrate to the roots of mold growing in porous wood.

'After cleaning the area, concentrate on preventing future mold growth through improved attic ventilation, repair of roof leaks, and proper exhaust from bathroom and kitchen fans to ventilate outside of the attic.'

When cleaning, you must wear the correct protective equipment, including thick cleaning gloves available from Target and a respirator mask from Lowe's.

However, for extreme attic cases, or mold that returns after cleaning despite proper ventilation, dehumidifying, and the best temperature to curb mold, Tony warns you may need to call the pros.

'Many people make the mistake that by simply cleaning off these black spots, they will take care of the mold issue. Remember, mold doesn’t like airflow and light. If black spots are showing on the surface, the underside of the substrate will likely have a much larger mold infestation.

'If there is actively growing mold, the surface must be removed or, in some cases, encapsulated,' he explains. 'This is where you should contact a mold professional to test and investigate your home to find mold growth that may often be hidden. A good professional will then write up a remediation plan for a remediation contractor to follow to remove and clean, and encapsulate molds to ensure no further spread or growth.'

What to Shop

Meet the Experts

Mold may also be a sign that you have too much stuff in your attic, limiting air flow. Check out our tried and tested library of the best decluttering methods to help tackle the backlog and restore order.

While the essentials, like portable heaters and electric blankets, are as crucial as ever, what does an HVAC expert specifically urge homeowners to have on hand ahead of time?

Here, our pro shares his one non-negotiable item to prepare your home for a freeze.

The 1 Item Experts Recommend Having in Extreme Cold Weather

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

With colder weather conditions on the way, we spoke to Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and founder of AirConditionerLab, to find out his top recommendation for keeping a house warm without turning up the heat.

'One item I always recommend homeowners keep on hand during extreme cold snaps is a plug-in thermostat controller,' he says, recommending the Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller, available at Amazon.

'This plugs into a standard outlet and allows you to control a space heater or heat lamp based on the air temperature. You just set your target temperature and plug your heater into the controller. It will automatically turn the heater on and off to maintain the room or space within the set temperature range.'

This makes it effortlessly easy to maintain the ideal room temperature, even in particularly cold weather.

'Most people overlook this, but it can help keep basements, garages, and equipment rooms from dropping below freezing without running heat nonstop,' he adds. 'I’ve used it in situations where maintaining a temperature of 40°F in a mechanical room was enough to protect sensitive HVAC parts like condensate pumps, mini-split lines, or backup furnace components.

'For best results, hang the temperature probe about halfway between the floor and the ceiling. Avoid placing it directly in front of the heater, as this can skew the readings. Set it a few degrees above freezing if you're protecting a utility room or mechanical closet.

'If you have a ductless mini-split,' a type of HVAC system which provides both heating and cooling without traditional ductwork, 'this controller can help manage backup heat in rooms where the unit might struggle during extreme cold,' continues Josh.

'Some systems begin to lose efficiency or spend more time in defrost mode when outdoor temperatures drop below approximately 17°F, depending on the model. By connecting a small space heater to the controller, you can maintain a safe room temperature without having to continuously run extra heat.

'If you're renting, this is easy to use without requiring any changes to the system. Just unplug it and take it with you when you move.'

For maximum efficacy, you can also arrange a room to maximise heat, which should also help you to cut energy bills, too.

Another recommendation that Eli Zimmer, director of operations at Luxaire HVAC Services, suggests is using electric blankets, such as the Homemate Electric Heated Blanket available at Amazon.

'The great thing about electric blankets is that they really don’t use us very much energy,' he explains. 'So, they can be a cost-friendly way to make your bed or couch warmer when you’re cold, rather than cranking up the heat.

'What I like to do is have an electric blanket on my bed, which I then turn on before I actually get in bed, because that gives it the chance to warm everything up. Then, I unplug it, because you don’t want to leave it plugged in while you sleep, as that can be a hazard.'

And, if you're wondering exactly how much it costs to run an electric blanket, they only use very little energy, so you won't need to worry about soaring energy costs by any degree. Zone heating is a great way to stay comfortable without cranking up the heat and your bills.

Additionally, Tamer Sayed, owner-operator of Tamas Mechanical Inc also recommends using a ceramic space heater, such as this Dreo Space Heater available at Amazon, which he says it 'reliable and affordable,' and features tip-over and heat protection.

'It lets you keep one “priority room” warm if the furnace struggles, without heating the whole house,' he explains, advising, to use it most effectively, 'Pick one room and close the door to trap heat. Place it on a hard, level floor with a three-foot clearance from bedding and curtains, and plug it directly into a wall outlet, with no power bars or extension cords.

'Set the built-in thermostat around 20°C [68° Fahrenheit], and turn it off when you leave or sleep. If you want a low-cost add, thermal blackout curtains cut window heat loss at night.'

What to Shop

Meet the Expert

With cold weather on the way, it's also crucial to protect plants from frost ahead of time, and prepare your home for extreme weather.

With the right setup, you can create a cozy 'entry shield' that can make the rest of your home feel cozier, cleaner, and far more welcoming.

From draft-proofing and clever storage to organizing your entryway, these five expert-approved tricks will keep warmth in, and chaotic cold channels out, setting the tone for a calm, cozy, home all winter long.

5 Cozy Entryway Hacks to Block Cold and Winter Mess

1. Layer Floor Coverings

Tina Priestly, CEO of Ready, Set, Refresh and a professional organizer, begins, 'Your entrance takes a significant hit in the winter. It's the catchall for everything that you track inside with you – wet footwear, a soaking wet coat, and snow and salt.'

The answer? Layering several entryway rug ideas to create a floor barrier to catch mess and prevent it from spreading.

'It's all about the layers,' Tina says. 'Place a heavy-duty outdoor runner mat [available at Walmart] to remove gravel and mud before entry. You'll want to replace the indoor carpet with a rug or runner that can be washed and will dry quickly. I tend to have a waterproof boot tray, from Amazon, just inside the door, because it's the unsung hero that will protect your flooring from salt rings and puddles.'

If you live in a very cold or wet climate, you can also invest in a boot dryer from Amazon. These standing racks speed up drying times for warmer boots, reducing the risk of mold growth and lingering odors.

2. Create Separation

Visual separation is a great way to stop mess from spreading beyond your entryway ideas, while making your entry feel cozier.

Jonathan Palley, CEO of Clever Tiny Homes, explains, 'Entryways are best at containing outdoor messes when they're blocked off by a door or at least clearly separated from the rest of the home with different flooring, for example. If your entryway sprawls into your living room, so does the dirt.'

If you are working with open plan entryways and cannot change the flooring, adding in larger rugs to divide the space is a good place to start. We love the area rugs by Ruggable as they are machine washable for easy winter maintenance.

3. Timed Lighting

Entryway lighting ideas play a huge role in making an entry 'shield' more efficient as the days get darker sooner in winter.

Rory Everitt, owner and principal interior designer at Rory Everitt Design, suggests, 'Be welcomed home with a warm glow by using a programmable outlet timer [available at Walmart] for the entry lamps, or a programmable timer switch [from Amazon] for ceiling lights. It's an easy DIY project to swap out a manual light switch with a programmable switch, enabling you to turn your porch and garage lights on automatically from 4:30 pm to 11 pm.'

For a more custom approach to lighting, consider upgrading lightbulbs to the Philips Hue Smart Bulbs from Amazon. These handy bulbs connect to your phone and will turn on after sunset when your phone comes back into close proximity after a day out, preventing energy wastage if you find yourself coming home at different times each evening.

Outside, motion sensor security lights from Walmart are ideal, acting additionally as great home security.

4. Use Curtains to Block Drafts

To prevent cold air from leaking into your home when the door is closed, the next step is to draft-proof your entryway. Eli Zimer, director of operations at Luxeaire HVAC Services, recommends, 'Look at the door and see if there are any gaps. It’s not uncommon for front doors to have a slight gap at the bottom. If that’s the case, I would recommend getting an under-the-door draft blocker [such as this decorative yet practical brass door brush from Amazon], which is something you can just slide on that helps fill that gap and block air from traveling through it.'

For gaps around the frame, consider caulking, such as the GE Foam and Silicone Insulation Kit from Lowe's, to prevent air leaks. Foam weatherstripping rolls, from Walmart, can also ensure a snug fit inside the frame to prevent both cold air and pests from entering in winter.

If making an entryway look welcoming is the top of your priority list, consider curtain hacks for a warmer home. Rory continues. 'If you have a particularly drafty entry, borrow an idea from restaurants in Chicago and NYC: Set up a seasonal drape around the door. A curved metal rod [available at Amazon] supports heavy drapery to create a 4ft diameter pocket that keeps cold air outside and prevents your heat from rushing out the door. Close the exterior door before parting the drape fabric to enter your home.'

We suggest investing in good-quality insulating curtains from Wayfair for added thermal benefit and to help make home heating more efficient.

5. Assign Homes for Items

The onslaught of bad weather comes with an onslaught of coats. Tina concludes, 'If you don't assign a place, jackets, scarves, hats, and mittens will take over. For coats and bags, consider setting up some durable wall hooks [from Walmart]. For hats, gloves, and scarves, I recommend a labeled box or basket from Target. A storage bench is even better because it hides clutter underneath and can be a place to sit down.

'If you have kids, make it easy for them. One hook and one bin each will reduce the chaos. Beyond preventing a messy entryway, you want it to feel easy to breathe when you walk in. Winter feels easier when everything has a home, and the space is cozy.'

If you rent and cannot add hooks, consider a hall tree coat rack from Wayfair, which has a built-in bench for the easy removal of boots.