Want more design inspiration? In other words, avoid over-accessorizing, decorating, and planting. Too many small planters or decor pieces can make a patio feel chaotic rather than curated, Soto says. John Keeble / Getty Images Additionally, layer decorative objects throughout, so the space also looks well-balanced. Some examples include graphite-coated metal-wire cafe chairs, dark-brown rattan sofas, and slatted-teak benches. Soto recommends creating a continuous surface of the same material or tile....

John Keeble / Getty Images Because theyre typically smaller spaces, bathrooms need to be neat and tidy. We chatted with several professional organizers to find out what makes a messy bathroom. Want more cleaning and organizing tips? John Keeble / Getty Images To fix the problem, she recommends investing in attractive storage solutions. Consider turning to a spas organizational techniques for inspiration. Mimicking these displays in your own bathroom can make your toiletries appear neat and organized....

When styled well, a coffee table should feel curated and cohesivenot cluttered and chaotic. TV remotes, while essential, fall into this category. Opt for one made from materials such as bone, burl, or leather to elevate the look. imaginima / Getty Images Want more design inspiration? “Using books as risers will give these items pedestal-like prominence, making them stand out.” A tray is the perfect way to anchor those pieces and create a cohesive look....

R A Kearton / Getty Images Gardening isn’t an exact scienceeven the most seasoned horticulturists sometimesget things wrong. When planning your planting,avoid these mistakes: Want more gardening tips? Many novice gardeners water all their plants with the same frequency and provide the same amount. R A Kearton / Getty Images The best time to water is early morning before 10:00 am. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day (10:00 am to 2:00 pm)....

Instead, the designer recommends investing indurable outdoor furnishingsmade from materials like teak or powder-coated aluminum. These types of pieces will withstand the elements while still looking polished, McGhee says. Want more design inspiration? Mint Images / Getty Images “Outdoor textiles matter more than people think,” McGhee says. “Faded, stained cushions and drapes can instantly make a patio feel neglected.” “Seventeen lawn gnomes and a medley of mismatched planters can overwhelm your space....

After clothes come out of the washer, you then must choose how to dry them. These include obvious articles of clothing like those made of delicate materialthink silk blouses or lace pantyhose. But what are some other pieces of clothing that should also be air dried? werayuth / Getty Images To find out, we chatted with a laundry pro about which items people should always air dry. Here, we cover the reasons why and the benefits of air drying these more delicate clothing items....

But before you do, there are a few things you should consider first. Finally, measurements are also important for getting the scale right. Want more design inspiration? Alberto Bogo / Stocksy Itll ensure that each smaller decision you make meets your overall objectives for the space. She also urges against being too trendy by working in timeless design elements. Averbeck advises to ask lots of questions about the quality: Are the frames are made of kiln-dried hardwood?...

Let’s dive in and see what garments to wash with cold water. Want more cleaning and organizing tips? Delicates are called delicates for good reason! HUIZENG HU / Getty Images I would hate to have my favorite pair of jeans ruined by using the wrong temperature of water. Cold water helps stop bright colors from bleeding and also helps preserve the colors. Hot water will cause the colors to run, which is a big no-no in our book....

Before this year arrives, it’s worth doing a bit of a sort through. Westend61 / Getty Images Want more cleaning and organizing tips? Make searching for the right jacket less of a burden by giving your closet a welcome clean out. fotostorm / Getty Images Not sure what to do with your unwanted outerwear? Consider passing on your gently worn belongings to someone in need who will greatly appreciate them....

ChayTee / Getty Images If you haven’tdecluttered your closetthis year, you’re already way behind. Here, we’ve rounded up some items you’re free to start selling ASAP. To Sell or to Donate? ChayTee / Getty Images If you might’t sell it in a week, it’s probably best to donate. Want more cleaning and organizing tips? With growing desires for capsule wardrobes, high-quality basics are sure to be easy to sell. The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska...

Rubbing alcohol can be harsh on certain items and will even ruin them if used often. The alcohol eats away at the paint, causing discoloration or even chipped paint spots. Mock recommends using a mild soap and water toclean painted areasand keep them intact. The Spruce / Jacob Fox Want more cleaning and organizing tips? Wood Furniture According to Bossart, rubbing alcohol is too harsh on wood surfaces. Rubbing alcohol can strip varnish or paint and leave a dull, damaged surface, she says....

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Liggoria-Tramp In an ideal world, your bedroom is your sanctuary. It should be a zen space with minimal distractions and all the things needed to promote ideal sleep health. But in the real world, this isnt always the case. Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Liggoria-Tramp Often, our bedrooms become multipurpose spaces, cluttered with clothes, technology, and paperwork. Laptops dont belong there, says professional organizer Michelle Urban....

Michelle Berwick Design Basements are a boon for homeowners lucky enough to have one. They are cooler, expansive, and offer many opportunities for extra living space or storage. Basements are often home to a water heater, a heat source, and an easy target for combustion. Michelle Berwick Design In the case of paint, temperature changes eventually change the color. This category also includes cleaning supplies. Want more cleaning and organizing tips?...