With this in mind, Sara San Angelo, a professional house cleaner with over 20 years of experience and owner of the blog Confessions of a Cleaning Lady, and Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert behind the blog Clean My Space, share eight of the dirtiest spaces in your home and how to clean them.

The 8 dirtiest spaces in your home, according to cleaning professionals

1. Faucet heads

You need to give your kitchen and bathroom faucets the same level of attention you would a shower head. All faucets are susceptible to hard water deposits, mineral buildup, and mold. “People don’t think to clean their faucet heads because they don’t see these places, but they can get very dirty and moldy,” says San Angelo. “This is a very important place to clean—you do everything from wash dishes to brush your teeth with the water coming out of that.”

How to clean faucet heads

Fill a plastic bag with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Submerge the faucet head with the solution and use rubber bands to secure the bag to the fixture. Let it soak in place for up to 30 minutes. After removing the plastic bag from the faucet head, remove loose debris with a cleaning solution like the Clorox Disinfecting All-Purpose Cleaner ($4) and a small scrub brush or soft-bristle toothbrush.

2. Dishwasher filter

You’d think that your dishwasher would clean itself, but a dirty dishwasher filter can prevent it from doing its job well. “If you notice your dishes aren’t coming out clean, it’s a good indicator that you need to clean your filter,” Maker says. She notes that older models don’t typically have these, but in newer models, it’s a mesh container located in the bottom of your dishwasher. To see if you have one and how to remove it, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your model.

How to clean a dishwasher filter

Remove the dishwasher filter before cleaning it. “Typically, you unscrew the filter, pull it out, and soak it in the sink with hot soapy water. You can use a cleaning toothbrush to scrub the mesh, and then just put it back,” Maker says. “You’ll notice your dishwasher runs so much better. You won’t get that grittiness on your glasses and things stuck to your plates.”

3. Door and window frames

There are some spaces in a home that people don’t often think (or want) to clean because they are so hard to reach, but dust and dirt will accumulate anywhere it can land. “Any horizontal space in your home will collect dust,” says San Angelo. “This goes for tops of doors and window frames.” While the idea of cleaning door and window frames can seem like an added chore, it can be done quickly and efficiently with one or a couple of cleaning products.

How to clean door and window frames

Simply, go over door and window frames with a dry microfiber cloth or a duster to remove debris. If your door and window frames are out of reach, consider using a duster with an extendable pole. One option that San Angelo recommends is the Swiffer Heavy Duty Extender Handle Starter Kit ($19), which extends up to three feet and comes with 12 dusters.

4. Exterior windows, screens, and interior window sills

Maker says that cleaning your exterior windows not only gets rid of visible smudges and dirt, but it can make a marked difference in your home. “The other day I went around the house and I did all my exterior windows … We have a beautiful backyard, but it can be really hard to enjoy if the windows are dirty,” she says. “Once I cleaned them, it just made all the difference—the inside of the house sparkled.” While this cleaning task is more involved, it’s well worth the time and extra effort.

How to clean exterior windows, screens, and interior window sills

Maker says you’ll need a double-sided window squeegee and an extension pole, like these: Ettore Complete Window Washer ($12) and Ettore 16 ft. Reach Extension Pole ($28). Fill a bucket with warm water, a tablespoon of dish soap, and a cup of white vinegar. Dip the spongy side in the bucket, wash the window, and then flip the window washer to squeegee off the water. “Each window takes about 30 seconds,” she says, adding that the extension pole allows you to tackle second-story windows without needing a ladder.

Next, you can pop your window screens out and scrub them in the bathtub with dish soap and an Iron Handle Scrub Brush ($7). “Screens catch things like dirt, dead bugs, little pieces of plants—they can just get really dirty over time.” You can do the same with screen doors by scrubbing with the iron handle brush dipped in warm soapy water, and removing the soap and debris with a wet Microfiber Cleaning Cloth ($15).

You’ll also want to show your window sills some love. “When your windows are open and closed, and open and closed, dirt blows in and it lands on the sill,” she says. Start by loosening up any dirt with a cleaning toothbrush, vacuum the sill using a brush attachment, and wipe it down with a damp cloth. Maker cleans her exterior windows and screens once or twice a year, and cleans her sills whenever they’re visibly dirty.

5. Lightbulbs

When was the last time you’ve cleaned a lightbulb? (My answer would be “never.”) You may want to make it part of your cleaning routine—they are prime dust magnets. “You don’t normally see your lightbulbs, but along with light fixtures, they can get very dusty,” says San Angelo. She adds that a dusty, grimy bulb can significantly lessen the amount of light it casts. So, before you even think about changing a lightbulb, you may want to try cleaning it first.

How to clean lightbulbs

Turn off the lightbulb and allow it to cool before cleaning. Dust the lightbulb using a duster, but if the dust is stuck on (“It happens sometimes in kitchens where there is a lot of grease accumulation,” says San Angelo”), remove it from the socket of the fixture and carefully wipe the bulb down with a damp rag. Dry the lightbulb before putting it back into the socket.

6. Behind your TV

When it comes time to clean your TV, the first thing you probably think to tackle is the TV screen, which is prone to unsightly smudges and dust. The same goes for behind the TV, though, and “just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean dust won’t accumulate on it,” says San Angelo. It probably doesn’t get much exposure to the elements, but it’s still important to keep it clean. When dust accumulates in the vents, nooks, and crannies in the rear, it can keep a TV from performing at its prime.

How to clean behind your TV

Turn off your TV and make sure it’s completely cooled down before you start cleaning. Using a dry microfiber cloth or a duster, gently wipe down the back of your TV, paying special attention to the vents and any tight corners and other hard-to-reach places. Perform this task weekly or every other week to ensure that it stays dust free.

7. Shoe closets and doormats

Maker says your doormats and shoe closets trap tons of dirt and debris that you track into the house on your shoes. “You can bring allergens in, you can bring in dirt, just unwanted stuff comes in,” she says. A 2008 study from the University of Arizona, funded by The Rockport Shoe Company, found that the average shoe sole is covered with 421,000 bacteria and that 90 percent of the time, bacteria transfers directly to clean tile floors—an excellent reason to clean your doormats and shoe closets more often.

How to clean shoe closets and doormats

“I don’t always vacuum every room every time I vacuum, but I always vacuum those mats. Because keeping those clean keeps the rest of my house much cleaner,” Maker says. The floor of a shoe closet can also get really gritty with dirt and debris, Maker says. While they don’t have to be cleaned as frequently, you’ll want to aim to vacuum it three to four times a year.

8. The floor around the toilet

You know the importance of cleaning your toilet, but what may be unbeknownst to some is that the job extends to the surrounding area. One spot that is easy to miss? The space around the toilet. “This spot is sometimes out of sight but can collect lots of grime,” says San Angelo. While you’re at it, you may also want to clean behind the toilet, which is among the dirtiest places in the bathroom. “It can just be a place where germs and dirt can be harbored,” Branch Basics co-founder Marilee Nelson previously told Well+Good.

How to clean the floor around the toilet

Using either cleaning wipes or a combination of cleaning solution and a rag or a power towel, wipe down the toilet base where it meets the floor. You may want to clean the floor around the toilet, which may also be dirty. Don’t forget to read the instructions on the cleanser label to find out how long it should stay on a surface to effectively kill germs and for proper usage.

Many popular houseplants—think monstera, pothos, rubber plant, and the ever-so-trendy fiddle leaf fig tree—come from tropical climates and require lots of work, especially if you live in a dry climate, or a climate with extreme temperatures, to help them thrive. If you love the look of houseplants but have found plant parenting challenging, or know that your space isn’t well suited for the proper sunlight, temperature, and humidity required to keep them alive, faux or artificial plants are an excellent alternative.

The best fake plants, at a glance

• Best snake plant: West Elm, Faux Potted Sansevieria Plant ($159-$179)
• Runner-up snake plant: Hollyone, Artificial Snake Plant ($29)
• Best taro leaf plant: Der Rose, Taro Leaf and Greenery Leaf Faux Plant With Pot ($18)
• Best fiddle leaf fig tree: 1-800 Flowers Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree 47″ ($100)
• Best pothos plant: Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, Faux Variegated Pothos Hanging Plant ($25)
• Best donkey tail plant: West Elm, Faux Potted Donkey Tail Plant ($39-$59)
• Best eucalyptus tree: Diiger, Artificial Eucalyptus Tree Plant ($90)
• Best zamifolia plant: Primrue, Faux Foliage Zamifolia Plant ($100)
• Best succulent: Kurrajong, Farmhouse Artificial Plant in Pot ($30)
• Best spiderwort plant: West Elm, Faux Potted Spiderwort Plant ($39)
• Best yucca plant: Amazon Basics, Artificial Yucca Plant ($62)
• Best monstera plant: Viagdo, Artificial Monstera Deliciosa Plant ($65)
• Best rubber tree: West Elm, Faux Potted Rubber Tree ($127-$406)

When you think of fake plants, you might think of sad-looking plastic or fabric-based plants that look anything but the real deal, but artificial plants have come a long way. In fact, some of them are so realistic that it’s hard to tell they aren’t actually alive. To find the best artificial plants, you need to first know where to shop, and we have had lots of luck at Amazon, Target, West Elm, and Pottery Barn. From a stunning snake plant that looks exactly like its live counterpart to a realistic-looking pothos plant and everything in between, here are our top picks for the best fake plants online.

West Elm, Faux Potted Sansevieria Plant, $159-$179

West Elm’s collection of faux plants is truly outstanding and so realistic. One of the most impressive varieties in its collection is the Faux Potted Sansevieria Plant, aka a fake snake plant, that looks so real that you’ll have everyone fooled. The plant comes in both dark green and green with yellow edges in two sizes and a small and sleek plastic plant pot that looks great on its own, or can easily be placed inside a ceramic planter for a more elevated look.

Dimensions: 8” x 38”
Weight: 10.7lbs
Colors: Green, green multi

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Hollyone, Artificial Snake Plant — $29.00

For another snake plant option that is more affordable than West Elm’s, consider the Hollyone Artificial Snake Plant from Amazon. This faux plant costs less than $30 and looks just like a Black Robust snake plant, which features a darker leaf with monochrome striping as well as five other snake plant varieties to choose from, depending on your personal preference.

Dimensions: 6” x 16.5” x 4.9”
Weight: n/a
Colors: 6

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Der Rose, Taro Leaf and Greenery Leaf Faux Plant With Pot (2) — $18.00

These artificial plants are so lush and perfectly green, nobody will know they’re not the real thing unless they really examine them. Even the stones look realistic. Since this set comes with two plants (and the pots are are on the smaller side), we envision these on a nightstand, office desk, or kitchen table. They make for a calming centerpiece or bedroom decor—with no hassle, of course. And, well, you can’t beat the price. They have excellent reviews from shoppers, with one writing, “I love these plants!! they are perfect, study, and well-made!!”

Dimensions: 11.3” x 4.3” x 4.3”
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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1-800 Flowers, Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree — $100.00

Rather than dealing with the mood swings of an actual fiddle-leaf fig tree, buy this one instead. It’s just as gorgeous as the real thing and comes potted in a rattan basket with faux soil (which is also looks as real as actual dirt). It’s compressed upon arrival, so once it’s unwrapped, spruce up the leaves and flounce up the stems to give it some life. From there, all you have to do is enjoy its beauty—no watering or repotting necessary.

Dimensions: 47″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, Faux Variegated Pothos Hanging Plant — $25.00

Pothos are some of the easiest houseplants to care for, but if you don’t have the right lighting, they can still give you a hard time. If you love the look of a satin pothos plant, consider snagging this Faux Variegated Pothos Hanging Plant from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia at Target, which is inspired by the satin variety. The artificial plant costs less than $25, which is about the price you would pay for a live satin pothos of the same size—and have incredibly realistic-looking leaves. On top of that, it comes in a super chic hanging basket that meshes well with a variety of home decor styles.

Dimensions: 12” x 14” x 14”
Weight: 1.08lbs
Colors: 1

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West Elm, Faux Potted Donkey Tail Plant, $39-$59

If you love trailing succulents, you will hardly be able to tell the difference between a live donkey tail plant and this Faux Potted Donkey Tail Plant from West Elm. The artificial houseplant comes in both small and medium sizes and comes with a pot that looks beautiful on its own but can also be easily placed inside a different pot, depending on your style.

Size options: 2 (small, medium)
Dimensions: small is 6.3″ x 12.6″ x 12.6″; pot is 4.5″ x 4″
medium is 6″ x 7.5″ x 18.5″; pot is 5.1″ x 5.1″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Diiger, Artificial Eucalyptus Tree Plant — $90.00

Indoor trees can really liven up a place but they can also be hard to look after, which is why we love the Diiger Artificial Eucalyptus Tree Plant from Amazon. This artificial tree is six feet tall and comes in a small garden pot that can easily be spruced up by placing it inside a chic indoor pot. The leaves and branches are also so realistic, it’s hard to tell that it’s not a real tree. On top of that, it costs less than most live eucalyptus trees of this size, sans the risk of it dying.

Dimensions: 7″ x 8″ x 71″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Primrue, Faux Foliage Zamifolia Plant — $100.00

Zamifolia plants don’t require a lot of work or even a lot of sunlight. However, if you’re in a space that gets too little light, they can still give you a hard time. Lighten up the darkest corner of your space with a little plant love, thanks to the Primrue Faux Foliage Zamifolia Plant from Wayfair. This 35-inch plant features nine sprigs of real-looking leaves that will stay that way forever without ever going brown. It also comes in a small black pot that is used as the base and can be placed inside a ceramic planter for a more elevated and realistic feel.

Dimensions: 35” x 18” x 18”
Weight: 3.8lbs
Colors: 1

 

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Kurrajong, Farmhouse Artificial Plant in Pot — $30.00

Small succulent plants are one of our favorite ways to spruce up a space. However, depending on where you live, they don’t always do well indoors (or at all). For a climate-friendly alternative, consider the Kurrajong Farmhouse Artificial Plant in Pot, which looks so real that it will make you do a double take. Inspired by the look of a real succulent, this faux plant features supple and spikey leaves that look super realistic without the stress of remembering to water it. On top of that, it comes in a super chic cement gray plant pot, so it’s ready for any indoor (or even patio) space.

Dimensions: 4.5″x 4.5″ x 8″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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West Elm, Faux Potted Spiderwort Plant — $39.00

Plants are an easy way to add a touch of color to your home, thanks to their lush green leaves. But, if you want to add a little more color to your space, go with the West Elm Faux Potted Spiderwort Plant, which boasts realistic variegated leaves in green with a touch of white and pink. On top of the realistic greenery, this fake houseplant comes in a stylish ceramic pot with fake dirt that will make others think you have a green thumb.

Dimensions: 26″ x 19″ x 9″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Amazon Basics, Artificial Yucca Plant with Plastic Nursery Pot — $62.00

A yucca plant is an excellent addition to bare corners in homes and offices alike. However, not every space has enough sunlight to keep these plants happy. No matter what your lighting situation looks like, the Amazon Basics Artificial Yucca Plant with Plastic Nursery Pot will thrive. This plant stands at 40 inches tall and comes in a plastic black nursury pot that looks good on its own but can also be easily covered in a chic ceramic pot with some moss on top for some added foliage styling.

Dimensions: 19.7” x 19.7” x 40”
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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Pottery Barn Teen, Fiddle Leaf Artificial Tree — $116.00

Fiddle leaf fig trees are, without a doubt, one of the hardest houseplants to care for and are notorious for drooping and dropping their leaves with any slight change. If you’re frustrated with your fiddle, you can get the same look with a faux variety for about the same price as a real one at Pottery Barn. This artificial tree features one stem that stands up straight with 19 leaves for a more lush appeal. On top of that, it comes in a beautiful ceramic planter that is ready to style in your home.

Dimensions: 14″ x 14″ x 42″
Weight: 7.25lbs
Colors: 1

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Viagdo, Artificial Monstera Deliciosa Plant — $65.00

Monsteras are another popular houseplant, but they do require the right amount of sunlight to remain so regal-looking. For the best fake monstera plant, consider the Viado Artificial Monstera Deliciosa Plant, which features large split leaves that look so realistic for a fake plant. The best part about this plant is that all of the leaves have a wire base, so you can bend them into shape and get the plant to look the way you want it (which is definitely not always the case with real monsteras).

Dimensions: 6″ x 6″ x 46.8″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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West Elm, Faux Potted Rubber Tree, $127-$406

Rubber trees are typically good options for those who can’t keep fiddle leaf fig trees alive, as they’re a little more durable than the finicky fig. However, they’re not entirely resilient, so a faux rubber tree might be a better option for your home. If you’re on the hunt for one that looks super realistic, you might have a hard time finding one as most definitely look fake, with the exception of the Faux Potted Rubber Tree from West Elm. Inspired by the classic dark green leaf variety, this rubber tree comes in both 3 feet and 6 feet tall with the option to include a stunning modern planter, for a more authentic look.

Size options: 3′, 6′
Dimensions: 3-foot plant is 24″x 39″; pot is 12″ x 12″
6-foot plant is 24″ x 68.5″; pot is 14″ x 15″
Weight: n/a
Colors: 1

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During a cast trip to Las Vegas and Lake Havasu City, Arizona, Leviss brought a galaxy projector light—and her co-stars Lala Kent, Katie Maloney, and Kristina Kelly all made fun of her behind her back for using the product. In a confessional interview, Kelly even went so far as to say, “I only know one other person who has this galaxy light, and it’s a 3-year-old little girl.”

Well, hot take: While we certainly can’t speak to the other drama in which Leviss is currently embroiled, we can defend anyone looking to set a bedtime mood with a galaxy projector light. Whether it’s added to a hotel bedroom on a trip, a bathroom for relaxing in the tub, or tapping into some childlike wonder in your bedroom, we stan the galaxy projector light.

The galaxy projector light can transform any room into an expansive star-scape, providing transportive energy that might make someone feel they’re actually stargazing outdoors (even if they’re tucked under some luxe sheets). And since being out in nature is connected to well-being benefits, including lowered stress and blood pressure, it’s not outrageous to consider the galaxy projector light as a tool that might help you relax and ease into a slumber.

And, lucky for us, one Reddit user actually asked Leviss for the details on her specific projector light when all of this was going down; the projector is conveniently from Amazon.

BlissLights Sky Lite Laser Star Projector — $50.00

Originally $60, now $50

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Raquel Leviss’ galaxy projector light

The light projector in question is the BlissLights Sky Lite, which is currently on sale for $50 on Amazon, and it’s an out-of-this-world way (couldn’t help ourselves) to add some celestial magic to your space.

The light is designed to project a patented celestial sky featuring drifting stars across with an RGB nebula cloud. And, as Leviss demonstrated, it’s small enough to travel with and it’s super-easy to set up with no installation required. The galaxy light also comes with Bluetooth capabilities and there is an app you can download to control all of the different celestial settings—including brightness, light effects, colors, and rotation—from the comfort of your phone.

In essence, the set-up of your home can play a role in your longevity because of the often passive ways in which we make everyday lifestyle decisions, like what to eat and when to move. “For example, Cornell found that up to 90 percent of the food choices we make each day are unconscious,” says Buettner. “So, even if I were to convince you to make good conscious decisions about what you eat, and get you to remember to make those decisions for the next 30 years, that would only cover a fraction of the total number of food decisions you’d be making daily.”

“[Blue Zones residents] live in environments that nudge them unconsciously toward healthier behaviors, like moving more and eating plants.” —Dan Buettner, longevity expert

Instead, to ensure those frequently unconscious lifestyle decisions follow a longevity-promoting course, you can take steps to engineer your surroundings so that a healthy, safe choice is the default. In that realm, design considerations as seemingly mundane as where you place your TV, how your bedroom is organized, and the height of your furniture can all factor into a longevity-boosting home.

And ever since the start of the pandemic, that couldn’t be more important to prioritize. “We spend about 90 percent of our time indoors these days,” says Ryan Frederick, CEO of SmartLiving360, a real-estate development firm that specializes in housing for healthy aging, and author of Right Place, Right Time: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Home for the Second Half of Life. In Frederick’s research on home design for mature populations, he’s found that incorporating elements of mood-boosting biophilic (aka nature-inspired) design and taking care to address accessibility can also help make any home a longevity-enhancing machine.

Below, the experts share their best home design tips for longevity, based on how the longest-living and healthiest seniors outfit their spaces.

9 home design tips for longevity, according to healthy-living experts

1. Put your TV in a room that’s far from your kitchen

We’re not going to say you can’t ever dive into a bowl of popcorn or even eat a full meal while propped on the couch—but studies have found that people tend to eat past the point of fullness when they’re also watching a show. If you have to walk several steps (or even down the stairs) to get to your kitchen from wherever you typically post up for TV time, you’re not only less likely to snack mindlessly, but also, if you do get up to grab a snack, you’re doing a little bit of walking, too. “It’s that type of regular, built-in physical activity that’s easy to maintain,” says Buettner. “And over time, it can have a more consistent effect than a gym membership, which we’ve found most people use fewer than twice a week.”

2. Keep a shoe rack by the door

According to Buettner, this is a one-two punch for longevity. With a rack by the door, you’ll be more likely to take off your shoes right when you get home, a common habit among people in Okinawa, Japan (one of the Blue Zones regions). “We’ve found that 28 percent of shoes carry fecal bacteria,” says Buettner, “and you don’t want to drag that into your home because you can get sick from it.” And separately, a rack also encourages you to keep comfortable walking or running shoes near the door, which will make you all the more likely to put them to good, active use. We love this one from Open Spaces that doubles as a decorative entryway piece.

3. Eat with family members or roommates as often as you can

Sharing a meal with others is an easy way to become more intentional about eating—which can, in turn, lead you to eat more slowly, allowing adequate time for the fullness signal to reach the brain. Not to mention, socializing is one of the core tenets of the Blue Zones regions. “And one of the best ways to build bonds with family or friends is to sit around the dinner table,” says Buettner. Doing so also creates natural punctuation between the go-go-go of the workday and the personal time of the evening, which can help you maintain work-life boundaries.

4. Grow a vegetable or herb garden

If you have any kind of outdoor space, use it to grow edible things, whether in the ground or in containers on a porch or terrace. “Gardening is something we see in every one of the Blue Zones, with people well into their nineties continuing to tend to plants and vegetables,” says Buettner. This has the triple-whammy effect of encouraging you to spend more time in fresh air, be active (weeding and watering require bending down and standing back up, after all), and eat more freshly grown foods.

And if you don’t have access to outdoor space? Set up an indoor herb garden, like this one from The Farmstand. This way, you’ll at least be more likely to consume fresh herbs, of which Buettner recommends growing rosemary and oregano, in particular. “These are often found in the Blue Zones, and they’re not only high in antioxidants but act as mild diuretics, which could help reduce blood pressure,” he says.

5. Bring elements of the outdoors into your home

To mimic the beauty of nature, Frederick suggests decorating your home with houseplants, which can naturally reduce stress. (For an easy starter option, go with a low-maintenance snake plant.) “If you can’t do that, even having pictures of natural landscapes or incorporating natural earthy and green colors into your home can help foster a positive and creativity-boosting environment,” he says, referencing the biophilic design that’s characteristic of longevity hot spot Singapore. That concept also extends to filling your home with natural light during the day by opening blinds and windows, if the weather’s nice enough to do so.

6. Design spaces with low furniture and rugs

It’s estimated that a quarter of Americans older than 65 fall each year, and it’s one of the leading causes of hospitalization, says Frederick. But no matter your age, incorporating low couches and chairs throughout your home is one simple way to steer clear of a fall that could compromise your longevity.

In Okinawa, they take it one step further and sit on the floor, says Buettner: “That means you have a 100-year-old woman getting up and down from the floor 20 or 30 times a day, which is essentially a squat. They end up having better balance, more flexibility, and great lower-body strength.” You can certainly copy that in your own home by sitting on the floor, though Buettner says low furniture works well for this purpose, too. (A cozy chair-and-a-half can do the trick.)

7. Safeguard bathrooms against slips and trips

Because they’re slippery, bathrooms rank high on the list of spots where people tend to fall at home. To prevent that, Frederick suggests laying slip-resistant mats on the floor (or installing slip-proof tiles, if you’re able to renovate), adding grab bars to the walls in the shower, and even placing a little bench in the shower. And if you’re in the market for a new place, consider choosing one with a shower instead of a tub, if you have the option, so that you don’t need to climb over the ledge to get into it, adds Frederick.

8. Calm-ify your bedroom

Creating a space that’s as conducive to sleep as possible is an easy way to get more, well, sleep—which offers a host of longevity-boosting benefits, like boosting cardiovascular health and improving cognition. In that vein, Frederick suggests installing blackout curtains on any bedroom window that gets a lot of light and setting up a white-noise machine that can fill your space with a calming and sleep-inducing sound, while also helping block out noise from outside. Regularly dusting and vacuuming your bedroom, and making your bed can also help create the kind of tranquil, sanctuary-like space that’ll help you regularly achieve high-quality sleep.

9. Make your home welcoming to guests

In the same way that eating with family members can strengthen longevity-boosting bonds, socializing more with neighbors and friends can foster the kind of relationships that may also extend your lifespan. While you might already have a dining-room or kitchen table, Frederick suggests creating other little nooks for gathering with tables and chairs throughout your space, or perhaps right outside your front door.

“There’s certainly research to suggest that having close friends supports longevity, but we also know that loose ties, like you might have with neighbors or people in your community, can boost your overall health and well-being,” says Frederick. And the more opportunities you have for engaging with those folks in and around your home, design-wise, the more likely you are to do it.

To help narrow down your choices, the Well+Good team tried and tested some of the most popular bath towels on the market, reviewing them in terms of absorbency, texture, and overall quality. Bonus points if they’re sustainably manufactured or made from eco-friendly materials.

From luxuriously plush to quick-drying bath towels, these seven picks are the best options for upgrading your shower routine.

Best bath towels, at a glance:

• Best plush: Brooklinen Super-Plush Bath Towel Bundle, $82
• Best budget: Frontgate Resort Collection Bath Towel, $42
• Best luxury textile: Cultiver Pure Linen Bath Towel, $80
• Best quick-drying: Parachute Waffle Towel, $49
• Best Supima cotton: Onsen Bath Towel, $50
• Best organic: Coyuchi Temescal Organic Bath Towel, $78
• Best organic towel set: Homebird Plush Bath Towel Complete Set, $168

Best bath towels

Best plush

Brooklinen, Super-Plush Bath Towel Bundle — $82.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 820 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 58 x 30 inches

Brooklinen’s bath towels live up to their name: At 820 GSM, they offer maximum plushness. Our reviewer noted the bath towel is “heavy and warm,” making it akin to cocooning yourself in a weighted blanket after a shower. The towel is absorbent too, so you can expect it to quickly soak up water. What’s more, according to our reviewer, it made the process of drying sopping wet hair much faster. Made from 100 percent Turkish cotton that’s Oeko-Tex certified, it feels soft, if a little slick, on the skin—ideal if you’re looking for something that is gentle on the face and body. A trade-off to using this plush towel is that it takes longer to dry, though our reviewer mentioned that it didn’t develop a musty odor between washes. As a bonus, the bath towels are sold as a set, and they come in a selection of classic and seasonal colors.

Pros:

• Plushest option on the list
• Highly absorbent
• Comes in a four-piece set

Cons:

• Bulky
• Slower drying time

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Best budget

Frontgate, Resort Collection Bath Towel — $42.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 700 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 58 x 30 inches

If you’re looking for luxury at a reasonable price, look no further than Frontgate’s plush bath towels. “Perhaps the plushest, dreamiest towels I’ve ever used in my life,” raved our reviewer. They’re woven from Oeko-Tex-certified Turkish cotton that is combed to reduce shedding, making them incredibly soft and smooth as a result. According to our reviewer, they have a “memory-foam like feel,” which might be largely in part to its weight of 700 GSM. “However, while luxuriously plush, these towels can get heavy when damp and can take a while to dry,” she noted. Another thing our reviewer points out? All the color options—“they have a huge variety of colors, allowing you to mix and match to your specific style.” Choose from over 20 options, ranging from neutral to bright pops of color.

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Highly absorbent
• Comes in over 20 color options

Cons:

• Slower drying time
• Comes with only one towel

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Best luxury textile

Cultiver, Pure Linen Bath Towel — $80.00

• Material: 100% European flax
• Weight: 550 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 55 x 28 inches

If you’re interested in purchasing a bath towel made from an alternative luxury textile, this option from Cultiver is what you’ve been looking for. “If you love linen sheets, you’ll love this linen bath towel,” says our reviewer. “It’s not soft and fluffy, but it feels incredibly luxe.” It’s made from 100 percent flax, which is grown in Europe, and it has an Oeko-Tex certification. The material is known to be lightweight but absorbent, which is ideal for anyone that wants the best of both worlds. At 550 GSM, the bath towel is quite substantial too—but it isn’t so thick that it stays damp for an extended period of time. Our reviewer adds that it’s “perhaps the most beautiful bath towel I’ve ever owned,” noting the fringed edges as a nice touch. “This is a high-end bath towel, no doubt.”

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Absorbent
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Pricey
• Limited color options

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Best quick-drying

Parachute, Waffle Towel — $49.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 240 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 56 x 30 inches

If you favor quick-drying bath towels over fluffy ones, Parachute’s waffle towels are a great option. According to our reviewer: “These towels wick away moisture quickly, but because of their soft, thin texture and slight stretch, these dry faster than thicker towels.” At 240 GSM, you will lose some fluff, but this doesn’t mean the towels skimp on softness. “I was expecting the waffle texture to be more rigid (think: white hotel waffle towels), but I was wrong,” our reviewer mentioned. “Made of 100 percent Turkish cotton, they are soft, breezy, and feel like they weigh next to nothing.” She adds that they’re attractive, too. “These light, airy towels look and feel more like expensive throw blankets than bath towels.”

Pros:

• Dries quickly
• Lightweight
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Thinner than the other options on the list
• Some reviewers say they stretch over time

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Best Supima cotton

Onsen, Bath Towel — $50.00

• Material: 100% Supima cotton
• Weight: 470 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (Oeko-Tex certification)
• Size: 57 x 31 inches

Another pick with a waffle weave, this bath towel from Onsen is lightweight at 470 GSM but it can wick water away from the body with little to no effort. Plus, our reviewer mentioned that it doesn’t take long to dry after use. Its textured style offers a pleasantly invigorating sensation against the skin, but it isn’t at all scratchy. The bath towel is made of 100 percent American-grown Supima cotton, which is known for its soft and incredibly smooth skin-feel (our reviewer confirmed this), and it’s Oeko-Tex certified. “Bonus: It’s not bulky, so it hangs really nicely, which really elevates the look of my bathroom,” says our reviewer. You can shop it in several options, ranging from classic neutrals to visually appealing colors, like denim blue and a sunny yellow ochre.

Pros:

• Made of 100 percent America-grown Supima cotton
• Lightweight
• Attractive design

Cons:

• Waffle fabric may snag, according to some reviewers
• Some reviewers say it isn’t very absorbent

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Best organic

Coyuchi, Temescal Organic Bath Towel — $75.00

• Material: 100% Turkish cotton
• Weight: 600 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (GOTS certification)
• Size: 58 x 25 inches

“Coyuchi’s bath towels are where fluffiness meets function,” our reviewer proclaimed. At 600 GSM, they are neither too thick nor too thin but fall within the Goldilocks category of “just right.” In addition to being gorgeous, our reviewer notes, “these have a soft, ribbed texture that makes them great at absorbing the little droplets that a typical towel might otherwise miss.” What might be one of the best features of these bath towels is the fact that they’re made with 100% Turkish cotton that is GOTS certified, “meaning they adhere to specific global sustainability standards for cloth textile production,” our reviewer reports—a big bonus for those who want to shop sustainably. While only available in a handful of neutral colors, they’re versatile enough to fit right into any bathroom.

Pros:

• GOTS and MADE SAFE certified
• Absorbent
• Comes in various options

Cons:

• Pricey
• Some reviewers say it becomes less soft post-wash

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Best organic towel set

Homebird, Plush Bath Towel Complete Set — $170.00

• Material: 100% organic cotton
• Weight: 700 GSM
• Certifications? Yes (GOTS certification)
• Size: 58 x 30 inches (bath towel); 30 x 20 inches (hand towel); 13 x 13 inches (washcloth)

If you want to switch to sustainable bath linens, the Homebird towel set comes with everything you need. Included in the set are two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths, all made of GOTS-certified long-staple organic cotton. “When I step out of the shower, I want to step into a fluffy towel—the thicker, the better,” our reviewer says. These towels fit the bill. At 700 GSM, our reviewer describes them as “thick and absorbent,” plus “[they] stay fluffy and soft after use.” While on the plusher side, they don’t stay damp for long. “When left hanging in my bathroom with the exhaust fan running, they don’t take long to dry,” our reviewer says. “All in all, if you want your towel to feel like it’s giving you a hug, the plush towels from Homebird will do just that.” However, she recommends reaching for the brand’s Classic line if you want a super quick-drying towel.

Pros:

• GOTS-certified
• Highly absorbent
• Comes in a six-piece set

Cons:

• Expensive
• Limited color options

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What to look for when shopping for bath towels

Parima Ijaz, the founder of bedlinen brand Pure Parima who draws knowledge from years in the textile industry, told Well+Good that there are three things to consider when shopping for bath towels: material, weight, and style.

Material

First, you’ll want to think about the material of the bath towel. Bath towels are typically made from cotton or a cotton blend. If you’re after a pure cotton bath towel, look for options made from long-staple cotton, like pima and Turkish cotton, which produce soft and strong yarns that, as a bonus, are gentle on the skin. Budget-minded shoppers might want to opt for cotton-blend bath towels. They’re soft as well, though according to Ijaz, they aren’t as absorbent as options made from pure cotton. If you’re particular about purchasing bath towels made from eco-friendly materials, opt for varieties made from organic cotton, which typically requires less water and no synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to cultivate, or alternative textiles, like flax.

Those who are shopping with sustainability in mind might also want to choose options with environmental certifications that involve third-party verification to check whether a company adheres to sustainability practices. Reputable certifications include the Oeko-Tex certification (which ensures textiles are free of substances that are potentially harmful to humans and the environment), or the Global Organic Textile Standard or GOTS certification (which verifies that at least 70 percent of the fibers in a textile are organic and meet environmentally responsible processing standards).

Weight

A bath towel’s weight, measured in grams per square meter (GSM), is another consideration. Typically, a higher GSM corresponds to a thicker bath towel, with a trade-off being that it may take longer to dry. Those who prefer quick-drying options might want to opt for one with a lower GSM—or, alternatively, a loose-weave bath towel, which thanks to its breathable design, won’t stay damp for a long time and risk developing a musty odor between washes.

Style

Function aside, you might want to select a bath towel that matches your aesthetic sensibilities. Luckily, there are plenty of options on the market, from neutrals to bright pops of color, so you’re bound to find one that will make you look forward to showering and the moment that follows, aka “towel time.”

How to care for your bath towels

A quality bath towel will stand up to frequent use, says Ijaz, lasting you from five to 10 years. If you want to ensure they last a long time, proper care is essential. Follow the specific care instructions on your bath towel’s label as they can vary widely from brand to brand. Many bath towels, for instance, can be safely machine washed while others require air-drying—or at least the manufacturer recommends it.

“When you’re looking at doing perennials for your outdoor space, whether you have a garden or you’re going to do container gardening, however you plan to approach your garden, you really want to make sure that you’re thinking about the environment that you have,” says Palomares. “You want to take into consideration how much light you have in your space, whether you get a lot of sunlight or you’re in a more shady environment. That’s going to be really important to understand as you plan for the plant that you pick going into your garden.” A light meter ($16) can help with that.

Next, you’ve got to think about soil and spacing. Figuring out if you want to place your perennials directly in the ground or in pots will help you figure out how many to buy. If your plant needs a special type of soil that’s very different from what you have naturally, choosing to pot your perennials can be an easy solve.

“You also want to think about how big these perennials are going to get over time and the space that you have, and whether that’s going to work in your favor,” he says. “Because if you’re talking about low-maintenance plants, you want to make sure your planning ahead so it’s going to get the desired effect that you have.”

Lastly, you want to consider when your plants will be in bloom. If you plant nothing but daffodils, they’ll be super pretty until they start to wilt in May, leaving you with a bare garden for the rest of the year. Planning your garden with this in mind is called “staging,” explains Palomares. Keep in mind that you can always supplement your perennials with annuals (plants you have to replant every year) if you need some added color that will last throughout the warmer months.

8 Low-Maintenance Perennial Flowers That Return Year After Year

Lavender — $20.00

“One of my favorites is the lavender plant. This is a great plant, it’s a fragrant plant,” says Palomares. “It has beautiful blooms as it comes up in the season. You can really find those in nice temperate climates throughout the United States. That one does require more sun, and you really do want that well-drained soil. You want to make sure you have the right environment for that.”

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Daffodils — $9.00

“Something like a daffodil, which is really one of those first signs of spring, if you plant those bulbs in the fall, those are a great plant that you’re going to see early on in the season, just as the seasons are about to turn away from winter to spring,” says Palomares. You can buy five and get five bulbs to get this gorgeous dandelion mix for $15.

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Azaleas — $17.00

Azaleas are a fantastic low-maintenance plant available in a variety of blooming colors, whether it’s a white, pink, red. “Sometimes you’ll see some yellow blooms on there as well,” says Palomares. “Azaleas thrive in a nice, cool, moist climate, and they bloom in late spring and early summer. And they bloom for quite some time, so I think that’s a really easy-to-care-for plant that gives you that great pop of color that you might be wanting. It’s also is one that you can also plant in a container. You might have to prune back slightly just to make sure that it stays within the right size. But that one also does very well, whether you do that in the ground or a container.”

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Tulips (2-Pack) — $20.00

“Tulips—a great, easy, low-maintenance bulb that, as long as you’re planting it at the right times, you’re going to get that really first pop of color, that first bloom in your garden, and then you progress into some of your other perennials,” says Palomares. Shop eight Amber Glow Tulip bulbs for $13 and plant them in the fall.

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Peonies — $30.00

“Peonies, again, those are just those really big just gorgeous floral blooms that you’re going to get out of your perennials plants, and they come in great colors—white, red, coral, purple,” says Palomares. “These are plants that are going to go dormant in the wintertime, but when you plant them they’re going to thrive. They can grow to be five feet tall, so these are one of those you want to plan ahead for. You want to make sure you have that space to support the peonies.” Peonies thrive in areas with cold winters so be sure to take that into consideration. Shop this 5-pack of peony bulbs and plant them after the first frost.

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Lilacs — $58.00

“Lilacs are also known for their very fragrant florals. It’s a beautiful perennial,” he says. “You’re going to see that in many different shades of purple and lavender and blues.” Lilacs bloom in the spring.

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Black-Eyed Susans — $17.00

“Other favorites are the black-eyed Susans, which is this really bright, happy plant,” says Palomares. “It’s really one of those things that attract all of those pollinating insects, bees and butterflies, and all of those great things.” Shop this three-pack of 2.5 quart yellow black-eyed Susan plants.

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Hostas — $27.00

“Hostas are probably one of the easiest perennials that you could handle. They love partial shade, so that’s perfect for those areas if you’re more north-facing and don’t get a lot of sun in your backyard,” says Palomares. “They can get very large in size, provided you have the right space and care for them. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Hostas are a great perennial. Even if you do have full sun, there’s always kind of that spot in your garden that doesn’t get quite all of the sun—this is one of those great plants for that space. And they will spread. So you’re putting them into the ground, this is one that has that opportunity to give you additional plants year over year as that root system continues to grow.” Shop this pack of four hosta plants.

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The most pet-friendly plants, according to a plant doctor:

Second, and more selfishly, I wanted a chic chair. Like, one of those cloud-like bouclé chairs all the influencer girlies have in their airy, modern apartments. A tried-and-true Cancer, I’m naturally a nester and a homebody. I love aesthetics and creating a spaces that make me feel good, places I can retreat to when I’m craving alone time, or can show off when I’m entertaining. That leather chair was not part of the equation—it was time for a change.

So when I had the opportunity to check out a Sixpenny slipcover chair, I jumped at the chance. The New York-based furniture brand makes stunning, timeless pieces using beautiful, eco-friendly materials, many of which are washable and easy to care for. An excuse to ditch the leather fossil for good!? And with something that looked like it was handpicked by an interior designer? Count me in.

Turns out, we don’t miss that old leather chair so much anymore. In fact, we love our Sixpenny armchair so much we often fight over who gets to sit in it, dog included. Find my full review, below.

Customizing your chair

I finally settled on the Neva Chair ($1,449) which, per the website, is “the fluffiest, comfiest ‘wow this is soft’ collection we’ve made. Neva’s playfully minimal style will turn any room into an effortless oasis.” Sold.

Sixpenny, Neva Chair

Prices start at $1,449 and vary by upholstery. 

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Before ordering, though, I was sent a box of fabric swatches to choose from, which I highly recommend doing, since this is an heirloom investment piece. Currently, the Neva Chair can be upholstered in 32 materials: cotton canvas, cotton linen, thread-dye cotton linen, washed cotton linen, washed cotton velvet, lightweight linen, medium-weight linen, and faux fur. Prices vary based on material. You can choose up to 12 fabric and leather swatches for free; anything after that is $2 a piece.

You also choose your fill, which is available in a feather down (a blend of ethically-sourced feather, ethically-sourced down, and vegan poly fiber) or a vegan poly-fill, “made to mimic the decadent, sink-in experience of feather-filled cushions.” Color-wise, I landed on a creamy washed cotten-linen blend called “Corn Silk” (since the slipcovers can easily be cleaned, I felt a bit more comfortable going with white than I normally would). As for the fill, I opted for the poly-fill, since I try to live as animal-free as much as possible.

Some of the color/fabric combinations are ready to ship, but the “Corn Silk” was not. Since the piece was handcrafted, it took 10-12 weeks to order. Depending on the materials you choose, the lead time can fluctuate  bit, Still, 10-12 weeks is pretty standard for custom furniture.

Delivery

Fun fact: Nearly every piece of furniture I own I’ve had to put together myself. From my bed-frame and dressers down to my ottomans, almost all of my furniture has arrived disassembled in boxes, leaving me and my disgruntled boyfriend to put them together. To my delight, the Neva Chair is made-to-order and arrives fully assembled (for free) at your door, no flat-lay boxes or Alan wrenches to be wrestled with. Scheduling your delivery is easy, and if there are any special requirements or arrangements to be made, the company coordinates that with you ahead of time.

On delivery day, my Neva Chair arrived in one of the biggest cardboard boxes I’ve ever seen, which was promptly brought inside and opened by two delivery men. I simply told them where I wanted it to go, they stripped away the cardboard and other packaging, and set it up—easy as pie. It took all of five minutes and—arguably the best part—they discarded all of the waste for me, so I wasn’t stuck with mounds of cardboard until trash day. This was my first go at white-glove service and let me tell you—it’s luxe!

The Sixpenny Neva Chair: An honest review

Look and feel

My first impression of the stunning Neva Chair was, “Wow, it’s huge.” Measuring out at 44 “x 41” x 33”, it’s a big, boxy throne. While it’s not noticeably taller than most chairs, it’s definitely wider—the seat width is a whopping 38”, meaning there’s plenty of room for sprawling out in.

Size aside, as soon as it was set up I turned to my boyfriend and said, “This is the nicest piece of furniture I will probably ever own.” It’s stunning. The Corn Silk Linen is gorgeous and so soft, it practically drips luxury. I love its minimalist look, slightly mussy covers, and soft lines, and find it really opens up my space (especially against the ’70s-style wood paneling that’s been leftover in our living room).

More importantly, it’s a cloud a chair form. Holy soft. As soon as I sat down into this thing I knew I’d never want to get out of it. The poly-fill cushion is so sink-in-able but still supportive, so your body can completely and totally relax. Even more impressive is its width. At 5’9″, I can sit on my side with my knees curled up, almost like I’m on a human-sized dog bed—it’s that big. If we wanted to, my boyfriend and I could sit in it together with our legs sprawled out on my Levity Ottoman ($299) (which matches perfectly, BTW). However, if I do share it, I prefer to do it with my dog, who’s smaller and arguably a better cuddler. However, we all like our space, which is an issue because we all like the chair, and are thus constantly fighting over who gets to sit in it.

Quality and price point

As my first “adult” piece of furniture, I get why people pay for custom furniture. I’m not discounting drop-ship products, by any means. But there is something satisfying about having a piece that’s made for you, with the high-quality fabrics and fill you want.

The Neva Chair is undoubtedly my nicest piece of furniture because of its quality. Like I said, everything is handcrafted, not put together by machines or robots. The frame is made from kiln-dried wood and plywood, which is then reinforced with corner blocking and finished with a high-tenacity webbing (aka, you won’t fall through). The cushion isn’t just filled with poly-down but rather features three layers of foam for additional support. Each cushion in Sixpenny’s lineup is made with a foam core of high-density foam sandwiched between two “comfort layers” of medium-density foam. That way they’re still lofty but not so lofty you get stuck in them.

Its piece de resistance, IMO, are its slipcovers. Yes, slipcovers! If before you were scratching your head as to why I would let my dirty, rotten hound climb up on a $1,500 chair, it’s all because of the slipcovers, which can be unzipped and cleaned in a pinch. Technically, it’s a washable chair, however, you’re going to want to wash it carefully depending on the materials you get.

Per the Sixpenny website, natural linen (like mine) and cotton are better off dry-cleaned. You can definitely get away with a spot treatment (I’ve done it) and, if you’re really careful, a washing machine with cold water and mild detergent. Additionally, “while we always recommend washing every component of your slipcover consecutively to maintain color uniformity, it’s important to wash every piece of the slipcover on its own.” And with the zippers closed, as they can get snagged on the agitator when left open.

I haven’t found I’ve needed to clean mine yet. As I mentioned, spot cleaning has done the trick (heads up: there are some fabrics, like the thread-dyed linens, that can’t be) as has vacuuming with my upholstery attachment for dirt and dog hair. Even if I am forced to go to the dry cleaner, having slipcovers makes me feel so much better about the lifespan of my chair, which, given the hefty price tag, better be a long time.

Sustainability

In the year 2023, we should be doing everything we can do be sustainable. This includes shopping from responsible, ethical brands which prioritize the earth’s well-being as much as our own. Thankfully, Sixpenny does just that.

First are the materials, most of which are natural (pure linen, cotton), if not at least recycled. Most fabrics are hand-dyed in small batches, and nothing is treated or coated with any protective performance repellants—it’s au naturel. Certain pieces also feature reclaimed woods like oak and pine “etched with over 30 years of history in every knot.” There’s also the fill, which is ethically sourced, too. According to the Sixpenny website, their distributor “only uses non-live-plucked down feathers, which they obtain as natural byproducts of the food industry. They’re audited and inspected by the Feather and Down Association every year, and their certification is renewed annually.”

Each piece is also built to last. Considering the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates an average 9 million tons of furniture end up in landfills each year, durability is automatically a win for planet Earth. The slipcovers are a big part of this. Rather than having to throw a piece away or replace something entirely, you can clean it in a jiffy. Perhaps a slipcover is beyond repair—that’s okay, you don’t need to nix the whole chair. You can buy another one on its own. (Just be prepared, it’ll cost a pretty penny—The Neva Chair Slipcovers currently start at $449 each.) But better than forking over another $1,500 to replace the whole chair.

A steep price tag can be tough to swallow but with eco-friendlier options, it’s worth it in the end if you can swing the cost. For you, the planet, and (maybe) your wallet.

Final thoughts

Time for the million-dollar question: Is the Sixpenny Neva Chair worth it? Unequivocally, undoubtedly yes. In fact it’s so good, I’m trying to convince my boyfriend to let us buy the matching Neva Sectional, which is a cool $4,000. (He’s not having it.)

I think my mother—a tough critic with a natural eye for interior design—said it best: “Wow, this chair is the bomb.” She never said that about the old leather chair we replaced, so… ’nuff said

A supple leather sectional from West Elm, this piece of furniture is gorgeous—it’s the best thing I’ve ever purchased, and I will love it forever. You know who else loves it? My dogs. They sleep on it, drool on it, stretch on it, eat on it—and they scratch it up with their gigantic wolf dog nails, even though I carefully cover it with a special, dog-friendly throw blanket when guests aren’t over. The first time it happened, I panicked, Googling “how to fix a leather couch when your dogs have confirmed you make bad shopping decisions by scratching your thousands-of-dollars sectional oh my god why am I so dumb.”

Luckily, I found a cheap and effective solution: Furniture Clinic Leather Re-Coloring Balm ($30).

Furniture Clinic, The Original Leather Re-Coloring Balm — $30.00

Pros:

• Easy color match
• Covers surface-level scratches and marks
• Simple to use
• Comes with two sponges to apply solution
• One tub will last you years
• No odor

Cons:

• It won’t permanently cover scratches and marks
• You may have to try different colors before finding the exact one
• It won’t work if you don’t have absorbent leather (if liquids slide right off, you don’t have absorbent leather)

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My honest review of Furniture Clinic Leather Re-Coloring Balm

It’s not a permanent solution, but it will easily hide scratched leather. The balm, which comes in 16 different colors, applies like a thick paint: You take one of the two sponges that are included, and you simply apply a small amount to the part of the leather that’s damaged. I’ll apply a coat of the balm to my entire couch a couple of hours before I have company (it’s quick-drying, but I like to give it some time, just in case people are wearing light clothing—I’ve never had an issue with the balm rubbing off on anyone), and the re-coloring effect will last for a few weeks.

It’s designed to be versatile, too. You can use the re-coloring balm on furniture, shoes, car seats—anything made with absorbent leather is game. What I really love about it is that it’s super easy to use (you don’t need a masters in reupholstery), and it’s pretty mess-free. If you get some on your hands or clothes, the dye isn’t permanent, so it comes right off with water (although I would highly recommend wearing gloves and an outfit you don’t that much about to be on the safe side).

And it really, really works. I’m honestly shocked by how well it masks scratches and makes my couch look near-new. It restores my couch’s rich, cognac-brown leather so that the surface looks cleaner, more vibrant, and most importantly, scratch-free. The color balm I have is “medium brown” and it’s supposed to match three shades. Another nice thing is that you don’t have to apply the balm to the entire couch—you can spot treat, and the color blends right in.

I mean, it’s pretty dang impressive.

The Furniture Clinic balm has over 11,000 5-star review on Amazon, which isn’t surprising. “My couches are VERY scratched and worn from the dogs and kids. I bought this stuff in an effort to get these to last a little longer before we have to purchase new couches. I figured it’s worth a try, they can’t get any worse. This stuff works amazingly well,” one shopper says.

Another says, “We have a wonderful high-quality leather sofa. The dog and kids over 15 years created scratches, liquid spills and just sitting wear marks. I love the couch and quality-wise it was still in like new great physical shape. It just (understandably) didn’t look new any more and really I was going to buy a new one. I thought, what harm could it do to try this fix. I was shocked. It looks like it was when first purchased. I’m not kidding in the least.”

Me and my dogs give Furniture Clinic an A+ and two thumbs (and paws) up.

We know that hosting can quickly become a costly endeavor, so we chatted with the pros, aka party planners, to learn what hosting materials are worth and not worth investing in.

What not to waste your money on

Overly-themed dinnerware

First off, Hovik Harutyunyan, a party planner and creative director at Harutyunyan Events, says that you can ditch the overly-themed dinnerware. Plates with holiday themes, seasonal or bold patterns, and vibrant colors don’t age well and “given their highly specific looks and aesthetic, they can only be used during certain times of the year, so they don’t really get you a lot of mileage,” he says. Instead, Harutyunyan recommends investing in two or three timeless dinnerware collections that can be used all throughout the year or creatively mixed and matched. Solid and or neutral colors work best.

Themed disposable decor

Next up: Overly-themed disposables. According to Rachel St Amour, a principal partner and co-owner of Van Saint Group, themed partyware (think: paper Mardi Gras signs)—which you can find in the aisles of Party City or Target—may be cute at first, but they’ll just end up in storage or your trash bin. “Opt instead for solid colors that go along with the theme; you’ll be so much more likely to be able to reuse those in the future,” she says.

Non-edible party favors

If you’re thinking small trinkets or non-edible party favors—don’t do it. “Most of the time, you’ll be left with an excess of them for years to come,” says St Amour. “If you are absolutely compelled to have a favor for your guests, opt for something edible. No one is ever sad to see a specialty cookie, little jar of jam, or infused olive oil.”

What host essentials to invest in

Serveware

Serving dishes not only elevate your space and event, but they’re also practical. “Investing in a variety of shapes and styles of appetizer bowls, platters, trays, cake stands, cutting boards, and cheese knives will not only make your food look more beautiful, but will make planning your party (and its menu) all that much easier,” says Harutyunyan.

Gomakren, Serving Platters (Set of 3) — $39.00

For dinner parties, spruce up the table with Gomakren’s Serving Platters. They have exaggerated corners that look aesthetically pleasing, are easy to grab, and fit all dishes, from pasta to salad to protein. Food never looked this pretty.

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Uncommon Goods, Compact Swivel Cheese and Tapas Board — $98.00

Host to impress with this Compact Swivel Charcuterie Board from Uncommon Goods. Made of sturdy bamboo, this board features special sockets for ceramic serving bowls, a built-in groove for crackers, and a hidden drawer to store cheese knives. From fruits to nuts to salami—this board holds it all.

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Williams Sonoma, Black Marble Cheese Boards — $80.00

Build your dream butter board with Williams Sonoma’s Black Marble Cheese Boards. The black Marquina marble looks incredibly classy with its delicate white veins, and since marble is naturally cooling, it’ll keep fruit and cheese fresh throughout your event. I know this sounds cheesy, but this board really is “grate.”

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West Elm, Marble and Brass Charcuterie Knives (Set of 3) — $42.00

No cheese board is complete without a set of charcuterie knives, and this set of three is timeless. The set includes a knife, spreader, and slicer to make munching a breeze. See, everything tastes gouda!

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Sweese, 10-Ounce Porcelain Bowls (Set of 6) — $28.00

Originally $30, now $28

For appetizers like olives or nuts, use these perfectly sized porcelain bowls that look a lot more expensive than they are. This set of six is ideal for holding side dishes like soup, salads, cereal, fruit, and ice cream (ice cream partay anyone?). Made of durable porcelain, these bowls are durable and have a classic look with an all white finish. Plus, the curved design adds visual appeal to any space.

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Lustide, Ceramic Shell Shape — $10.00

We also love these squiggly bowls for smaller sides (like fruit, nuts, sauces, and dips). The shell-shape is unique and doubles as decor, and the bowls are perfectly sized to be easily passed around the table. Each dish is glazed to prevent staining and are made of chip-resistant porcelain for durability in the years of hosting to come.

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Timeless dinnerware

Investing in timeless and high-quality dinnerware is a better investment. Harutyunyan says you can’t go wrong with a classic all white china set, one with a gold or silver border, or a more modern and playful set.

Our Place, Set the Table Set — $225.00

Originally $260, now $225

Harutyunyan recommends investing in staple dinnerware sets, and this one from Our Place is timeless (but still feels effortlessly modern). The set comes with everything you need to host brunch or dinner. What’s included? Four large ceramic plates, four midi plates, four small dessert plates, large bowls for pastas and salads, and small bowls for dessert. Available in four colors, pink, cream, orange, and charcoal, this set will stand the tale of time no matter if it’s a party, baby shower, or casual get-together. Happy hosting!

Colors: 4

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Gibson Home, Zuma Dinnerware Set (Set of 16) — $50.00

Originally $55, now $50

As recommended by Harutyunyan, solid colors work best because they tend to age better over time. That’s the case with this set of 16 by Gibson Home. This set comes with four of each dinner plates, dessert plates, bowls, and mugs for the ultimate feast. Each piece has a smooth and matte finish to illuminate whatever you’re cooking in the kitchen. Available in seven solid colors, from yellow to black to grey, there’s a color for your hosting needs.

Colors: 7

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Anthropologie, Glinda Glass Dessert Plate — $10.00

Tea party? Look no further than Anthropologie’s Glinda Glass Dessert Plates. These seven-inch flower petal-like plates are made of glazed glass—which look beautifully when paired with cake. Now these plates are worth saying “cheers” to.

Colors: 4

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West Elm, Kaloh Melamine Outdoor Dinnerware Collection — $152.00

For outdoor soirées, you can do no wrong with Kaloh Melamine’s dinnerware collection. This set comes with 16 items: four dinner plates, salad plates, pasta bowls, and cereal bowls. Each piece is lightweight, durable for outdoor conditions, and has a modern look. It’s available in classic colors like white, gray, and black, and the light blue color way makes for a unique pop of color.

Colors: 4

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Anthropologie, Shiny Latte Pasta Bowls (Set of 4) — $56.00

These Latte Bowls from Anthropologie give pasta parties new meaning. Each bowl fits spaghetti, fettuccine, and more. The finish undergoes a glaze process, giving the bowls a smooth, sleek look—like they were *just* dipped in half-and-half. Choose from cream, lavender, pink, maize, and terra cotta, and if you can’t choose, the assortment works, too.

Colors: 5

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Famiware, Plates and Bowls Set (Set of 12) — $70.00

For something with a bit more design and texture, Famiware’s Plates and Bowls Set is another way to spruce up your event. This stoneware set comes with four dinner plates, salad plates, and cereal bowls. You can plate soups, salads, entrees, and even desserts. What’s more, these plates passed the dishwasher and microwave vibe test, all of which are safe to use on those devices, making clean up easy peasy.

Colors: 5

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Candles

Another cost-friendly way to spruce up your event is through candles. “Candles are one of the easiest, quickest, and most affordable ways to spruce up any party,” says Harutyunyan. “I recommend having a bulk set on hand at all times that you can throw on a table in a moment’s notice for even last-minute entertaining situations.”

Hosley, Ivory Unscented Candles (Set of 48) — $40.00

This 48-pack of candles come recommended by Harutyunyan. This bulk set features 48 ivory and unscented candles that immediately brighten up the room. Add around your event space or use to set up the dinner table. Whatever way you use them, it helps that they go with everything.

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Burke Decor, Fukai Candles — $6.00

There’s something about tall candles that can jazz up a table, and these Fukai Candles from Burke Decor are jaw-dropping. The wick is made of cotton and is OEKO-TEX certified and lead-free. All in all, the candle last 12 hours, so you’ll get plenty of use.

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Oatnauxil, Gold Candle Holders (Set of 6) — $26.00

Originally $30, now $26

If you’ve got a little extra spending cash, candle holders are another great way to beautify your space, says Harutyunyan. These gold candle holders are timeless and come in three different heights: small, medium, and large.

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Cloth napkins

Having cloth napkins like linen and cotton can go a long way, since guests will be using them throughout the event. “I recommend investing in a few key color sets that will give you great value,” explains Harutyunyan. It also helps that they can be reused time and time again, making them more earth-friendly. White for formal entertaining, a soft green for spring or summer, and a burgundy one for fall and winter. He adds that you can find beautiful linen and cloth napkins at Target or Sur La Table.

Solino Home, White Linen Napkins (Set of 4) — $38.00

Linen can really jazz up your table setup, and we’re swooning over these white linen napkins from Solino Home. Made of 100 percent flax linen, these napkins are lightweight and are perfectly suited for spring and summer dinners. Even more, they’re machine-washable and are extremely easy to care for. No matter the occasion, be it ice cream parties or get-togethers, these napkins have got your bases covered.

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Sur La Table, Linen Napkins (Set of 4) — $50.00

Instead of paper napkins, party planners recommend opting for linen ones, and these Sur La Table ones are perfect for setting the table. The packs comes with a set of four and is available in 13 fun and solid colors, from red to green to dark blue.

Colors: 13

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Target, Tick Stripe Cloth Napkins (Set of 4) — $10.00

For a subtle print, we’re gawking over these springy tick stripe cloth napkins from Target. Made of a cotton-linen blend, these napkins are absorbent, environment-friendly, and stylish. Fold and add on top of a plate to complete your dinner table.

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Fingercraft, Cloth Napkins (Set of 12) — $22.00

For something more heavy duty, these cotton and linen blend cloth napkins are great. They’re durable, machine-washable, and are great for absorbing crumbs and debris from your mouth during gatherings. The set comes as a pack of 12, which is great for medium-sized gatherings, baby showers, and more.

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Colorful glasses

Lastly, you can’t go wrong with an array of colorful tumblers. “Build a collection of rocks and tumbler glasses—vintage, handblown, colored, etc—and they will tell a great story when you serve cocktails,” says Courtney Zentner, co-founder of the Drifter. Plus, they double as water glasses and add an extra pop of color.

Nordic Peace, Colorful Vintage Glassware (Set of 6) — $68.00

Originally $80, now $68

This colorful set of glassware from Nordic Peace will have guests in awe. The slightly scalloped glassware is beautiful as it is functional, and can be used for cocktails, juice, soda, water, and whatever your guests desire.

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Blue Print, Murano Tumbler — $35.00

Zentner recommends this Blue Print tumbler. Each tumbler is handblown and doubles as a glass for cocktails or water. “We love the tomato-orange color,” she says.

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Comfit, Colored Wine Glasses — $59.00

For the wine enthusiasts, having a set of colorful wine glasses will be sure to entertain. Each glass has been handmade and crafted with only the best materials, and the set of six comes in different colors: green, orange, red, blue, purple, and pink. Made for red or white wine, these glasses will give you something to celebrate no matter if it’s a party, wedding, or holiday.

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Don’t believe us? It’s actually science: According to multiple studies, strong, pleasant scents can help make you feel happier and calmer, thanks to the connection between your olfactory bulb (the part of your brain that processes smell) and the amygdala (the part of your brain associated with experiencing emotions). And who doesn’t feel happy and calm on vacation?

To achieve all the chill-but-lavish vibes—without booking a vacation, or even leaving your house—opt for noticeably refreshing scents that can turn your own home into a retreat, like the new Air Wick^® Vibrant fragrances. The luxurious home scents are infused with natural essential oils (psst: that’s 2x more natural essential oils vs. regular Air Wick^® scented oils) and can last up to 60 days*—so you can get the mental perks of vacationing without using all your PTO.

Below, we’re matching each scent with a different room so you can set the mood in your favorite space, or try them all and send your senses on a multi-destination trip just by wandering through your house.

Keep scrolling for the luxurious home scents that will elevate every room in your home.

*on low setting

“Over time, any mattress can lose its shape and begin to sag, creating dips and lumps—and an uncomfortable mattress can interfere with your ability to get a good night’s sleep,” says Bridget Chapman, certified sleep coach at Sleepopolis. Indeed, even the best bed-in-the-box mattresses or traditional varieties degrade in quality as the years wear on.

When and how often should you replace your mattress?

The average lifespan of a mattress is seven to 10 years, and manufacturers will typically recommend replacing it within this time period. For Chapman and Rebecca Fair, certified sleep coach at Mattress Nerd, the answer isn’t so straightforward.

Various factors influence the longevity of a mattress, the first of which is mattress type. Not all mattresses are created equal, and some options may last longer than others. Among the most popular mattress types available, Fair and Chapman agree that those made from latex are the longest-lasting variety. Another factor that may affect mattress lifespan is a person’s sleep position. According to Chapman: “When you sleep in the same position and in the same spot on your mattress every night, your mattress is more prone to sag and wear prematurely from the constant pressure of your body.” Also, Fair adds that if a person has a larger build or they share a bed with a partner, it can accelerate a mattress’s decline.

All that is to say, there is no one answer to the question of how often or when to replace a mattress because mattresses, bodies, and sleeping habits are all different. However, if you aren’t sleeping as well as you should, your bed might need replacing. This is especially true if you notice any of the following issues with your mattress.

5 signs that it’s time to replace your mattress

1. It’s uncomfortable

If your mattress is leaving you more restless than well-rested, it might be time to replace it. “Over time, the structural integrity of the support and comfort materials in any type of mattress will degrade, resulting in a gradual decline in how the mattress sleeps,” says Chapman. Also, she adds: “If you’re waking up with pain that you didn’t fall asleep with, then it’s time to consider changing your mattress.”

2. It’s visibly damaged or worn

Is your mattress sagging or lumpy? Does it have permanent imprints in spots you routinely sleep on? Are there coils or springs poking out from underneath the surface? If you’ve said yes to one or all of the above, “these are definite signs it’s time to change your mattress,” says Chapman. “The degrading materials will almost certainly impact your quality of sleep at night.”

3. It’s noisy

If you hear creaking, popping, or squeaking each time you lay down or shift in bed, these might point to a decline in a mattress’s structural integrity—which, as mentioned, can have a major impact on sleep quality. According to Fair, this is particularly evident in hybrid or innerspring mattresses with coils or springs, which tend to make unwanted noise as they weaken over time.

4. It’s making you sick

“An older bed that’s had time to collect dust, bacteria, dead skin cells, allergens, and more can cause people to feel under the weather more often than usual,” says Fair. If you find that you wake up stuffy or with scratchy eyes, even though you frequently clean and deodorize your mattress, you might want to consider investing in a new one.

5. It’s more than seven years old

While not all mattresses need to be replaced after seven years, it’s a good indication of when you may need to think about buying a new one. As Alexandra Duma, DC, DACBSP, a New York-based sports chiropractor, previously told Well+Good: “No matter how great your mattress is, over time it will degrade in the quality of support it provides for your body.”

How to replace your mattress

When your mattress is near the end of its lifespan or it becomes a pain to sleep on, you’ll definitely need to replace it. “Replacing an old mattress is so important for avoiding aches, pain, loss of sleep, poor sleep quality, and the possibility of becoming sick.” says Fair, adding that, “an unsupportive mattress is a recipe for developing body sores or feeling generally uncomfortable on a daily basis.”

That said, buying a new mattress will often cost you a pretty penny. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay full price to get a quality mattress. Besides yearly President’s Day sales, the best time to buy a mattress at discounted prices are during holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day. Retailers also typically slash prices on mattresses on Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, but buyers have to act fast as stock is usually limited and deals are often short-lived.

As you shop for a new mattress, you’ll ideally want to try it before you buy it. It can be hard to know whether you’ll like how it sleeps or if the mattress’s firmness level works best for you without having tried it in person. When buying a mattress online, it’s also important to look for one with a trial period and, better yet, a generous return policy if for any reason it doesn’t work out for you.

If buying a new mattress isn’t in the budget? A mattress topper can serve as a solution, albeit a temporary one. “Think of a mattress topper as a ‘bandaid’ in this situation,” says Fair, “they can hold you over by maintaining a supportive surface to sleep on until you have the time or money to get a new bed.” If you’re considering buying a mattress topper, she recommends one that’s durable and supportive, such as latex models. Keep in mind that “even with help from the best-quality mattress topper, an old, uncomfortable mattress is likely to still cause you backaches or sleeplessness,” says Chapman.

How to maximize the lifespan of your mattress

Indeed everyone will have to replace their mattresses at one point or another, but there are a few things that you can do to maximize the lifespan of the mattress you already own. The first and arguably most important thing you can do is rotate your mattress at least every few months. “For latex and foam mattresses, you can do this every six months or so, and for innerspring or hybrid beds, every two to five years,” says Fair. “Doing so prevents sagging or indentation from being localized to one area over years of use—in turn, helping to maintain the feel of your bed’s surface for longer.” Chapman adds: “This also helps minimize the risk of pain or discomfort when you sleep.”

Second, make sure your mattress itself receives proper support. According to Chapman: “It’s a good idea to make sure there is a solid platform under your mattress to ensure it wears evenly and the way it is intended to.” You might also want to consider investing in a mattress protector. “Using a mattress protector can help keep your bed clean and stain free,” says Fair. In addition, it safeguards your bed from regular wear and tear, thereby, helping extend its lifespan.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know when I need a new mattress?

“When you realize your bed is either on the decline, or completely unsupportive, I would recommend replacing it as soon as possible to avoid the development of aches, pains, or loss of sleep in general,” says Fair. Sagging or lumpiness are often signs that you need to replace your mattress, and so are permanent body impressions. If you wake up tired and achy in the mornings, it could also mean that it’s time to think about investing in a new bed.

How long should a decent mattress last?

On average, a mattress’s lifespan is anywhere from seven years or longer. While there’s no firm answer on how long a decent mattress should last, you’ll likely want it to last you for as long as possible. More often than not, a mattress made from quality materials will last longer than its counterparts—and among the most common mattress types available, latex mattresses have the longest lifespan.

Can a mattress last for 20 years?

It’s possible that a mattress can last 20 years, though it may be unlikely. The average mattress can last up to 10 years before its quality starts to decline. However, you can maximize its lifespan by implementing a few regular maintenance practices. Experts recommend rotating the bed once every few months and ensuring it is supported by a sturdy platform. Plus, investing in a mattress protector can keep it clean and helps safeguard against premature wear and tear.

While fancy laundry detergents aren’t new—The Laundress launched $50 detergents in Le Labo fragrances back in 2014 (though they were recalled late last year), I could never justify dropping the cash. That was until I tried the Dedtergent ($35) by Dedcool. The LA brand has been crafting genderless (and waterless) fragrances with vegan ingredients and organic extracts since 2016—and the laundry detergent, cleverly named “Dedtergent,” was its answer to customer pleas for more ways to experience Dedcool fragrances. And they sure delivered.

Dedcool, Milk Dedtergent — $35.00

The lightest of Dedcool’s fragrances, the Milk Dedtergent features a blend of bergamot, white musk, and amber notes for a clean yet warm aroma.

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About Dedtergent

The Dedtergent comes in four scents, all inspired by the mesmerizing aromas in its perfume lineup: 01 “Taunt,” 05 “Spring,” Red Dakota, and Milk—one of the brand’s top-selling fragrances (and the one I’m reviewing here). It’s packaged in a 32 fl oz. tin (that looks great on your shelf I might add), can be used for up to 60 washes, and is fully refillable—you can buy a three pound refill pouch for $50 bucks on the Dedcool site. Even better than the cool tin, Dedtergent has a biodegradable formula that’s planet and people-friendly, and features coconut-derived surfactants to gently (but effectively) clean. Dedtergent works wonders for hand-washing delicate items and can be used on virtually any and all clothes and home linens—from your undies and jeans to bed sheets and towels.

While fancy, perfume-scented laundry detergent might sound like a sensory overload at first, the Dedcool laundry detergent is made to leave a soft scent behind, so you get the mood-boosting essence of your favorite perfumes without the heady, overwhelming aroma. Dedcool notes the “strength” of its fragrances on every detergent too, so you know exactly what to expect.

The Review

It has a clean, comforting scent

I already adore Dedcool’s Milk fragrance—a light, layerable scent that mixes with your unique body chemistry (and enhances the brand’s other perfumes) to create a soft, skin-like aroma that smells a little different on everyone—so I knew the Milk Dedtergent would be the one for me. Lo and behold, the Milk Dedtergent captures the same indescribably clean scent that is the original Milk in spades, with notes of bergamot, white musk, and amber. Claiming to smell “like you, but better,” Milk Dedtergent’s warm, clean but mellow scent is hard to pin down, but unmistakably delicious. And the best part is, you only need a little to smell Milk on your clothes, so the 32 oz tin will last you much longer than you think.

It actually outperforms my old detergent

Beyond the incredible scent, the Dedtergent actually does a fantastic job of cleaning my clothes and linens, outperforming my old laundry detergent. It brought my sweatiest activewear to its clean, pre-workout glory, gave my absurd collection of T-shirts a brightness boost, and made my bath towels smell so good, I now require a solid 15-20 seconds post shower to bury my face into my towel for some blissful deep inhales.

Even more telling, my husband (who has never had opinions about our laundry detergent) is super into it. “It smells like a fancy hotel, but even better,” he told me. It’s that good. And a convenient bonus: it completely eliminated the need for a separate fabric softener, thanks to its lasting fragrance and effective (but gentle) clean. “It’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin, and I can’t stop smelling my clothes,” wrote one happy Dedcool customer in a 5-star review.

It makes my bed more inviting than ever

But if you’re going to use Dedtergent on anything, please use it to wash your bed sheets. Everyone knows that scent can have a profound impact on your mood, and let me tell you that there is truly nothing better than wrapping yourself up in Milk-scented sheets.  The soft and warm scent totally calms my mood and helps me wind down before bed. Couples therapists have even said that new sheets can improve your sex-drive by appealing to your sense of touch; so if you’re a fragrance-head like me, catering to your sense of smell with a luxe laundry fragrance could spice things up, too.

Between the sustainable packaging, gentle, eco-friendly formula, and the comforting, high-end fragrance—the Dedcool laundry detergent single-handedly made me love laundry day. Snag a tin for yourself or try a mini size for $14 bucks on the Dedcool site.

For even more good smells...

Dedcool, Milk Room + Linen Spray — $40.00

If you really want to bathe in Milk, do yourself a favor and get the matching room and linen spray. It brings the soft, skin-like goodness that is Dedcool’s Milk to any room in the house.

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According to Caroline Copeland, a design expert at online landscape design platform Yardzen, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when shopping for functionally stylish propagation vases, such as size, shape, and material.

How to choose a propagation vase

Ideally, says Copeland, you’ll want a vase that can accommodate the plant cuttings you are propagating, says Copeland—and one with a large enough opening when time to move the cutting into a pot. “You want to ensure that the opening of the vase is large enough to remove the plant without damaging the roots that you worked so hard to grow,” she says. That said, you’ll want to avoid purchasing a propagation vase with a neck that’s too wide. When propagating plant cuttings, Copeland says that you want to avoid fully submerging the leaves in water—a vessel with a thin neck can prevent this from happening while helping keep the plant upright.

As you shop, you might also want to think about purchasing a vase made from clear glass, which shouldn’t be hard to find as many propagation vases are made of the material, and for good reason. According to Copeland, a clear glass vessel allows you to keep an eye on how the roots of your propagated plant are growing. If you want to prevent the risk of your vase from tipping over, select one with a sturdy base too. Those limited on space can also consider purchasing an option that hangs from the wall or ceiling—fortunately, there are plenty of options for those as well.

With all this in mind, here are 10 stylish propagation vases for every budget and preference.

10 stylish propagation vases

Bloomscape, Kinto Propagation Starter Set — $60.00

Originally $70, now $60

The KINTO propagation kit from Bloomscape comes with two glass vases in different sizes—small and large— that are handcrafted in Japan. They have a beautifully minimalist design that would blend with most decor, and in addition to propagating plants, you can also use them to grow bulbs, herbs, and avocado seeds. As a bonus, the set includes TakeRoot Rooting Hormone, which contains Indole-3-Butyric Acid to help encourage root growth in plant cuttings.

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DZHJKIO, Glass Planters (Set Of 6) — $28.00

These glass orbs are designed for showcasing air plants, but many Amazon shoppers also use them to propagate their plants. They come as a set of six, and they can stand alone or be mounted to the wall, placed throughout your home or arranged together to create an interesting visual display. Several reviewers have also mentioned that, if placed on the wall, they are easy to install and remove. Just keep in mind that you may have to use hooks to mount the vessels.

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Uncommon Goods, Plant Propagation Bookend — $60.00

Uncommon Goods’ plant propagation station doubles as a bookend to holding up books—and keeping them in place. It’s handmade of wood and has a unique staircase design with room for three test tubes that you can use for your favorite plant cuttings. The vials are also a cinch to remove when you want to change the water or clean it. The propagation station is available in a maple option (pictured above) or a walnut option for a few more dollars. One tradeoff? The bookends are sold individually.

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Glasseam, Glass Propagation Station With Metal Frame (Set Of 2) — $18.00

These propagation vases come in an elegant gold finish that will add glitz to a console or coffee table—all for under $20. The vases come as a pair and accompanying glass test tubes for propagating plant cuttings or floral bouquets. As a bonus, multiple amazon shoppers who’ve purchased the propagation vase set have also mentioned that you can remove the glass test tubes for easy cleaning. If you aren’t keen on gold, you also shop the pair in a sleek black finish.

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Lively Root, Glass Orb Vase — $18.00

Lively Root’s glass orb vases come in four colors, from pink and yellow to sky and azure blue. The orbs are suspended on a glass stand, making them look as though they’re floating in midair. They would look lovely on a desk, for instance, or on a bookcase. Keep in mind that these vases are on the petite side—and if you foresee yourself propagating a lot of cuttings, you might want to opt for another option or consider purchasing several of Lively Root’s orb-shaped vases.

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Ivolador, Wall-Hanging Planter Terrarium — $19.00

This macrame plant hanger blends modern and rustic elements, displaying your newly propagated plants in style. It features a sturdy loop for hanging and two wooden tiers that can accommodate up to 10 test tubes. In addition, it comes with 11 glass test tubes (in the event one of them breaks), plus a cleaning brush. If macrame isn’t your thing, it’s also available in three other styles: three-tier wood planters in beige or brown finishes and a wood-framed option that can hold up to five glass test tubes.

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The Sill, Theory Beyond Design Maple Sunrise Propagation Vase — $46.00

This propagation vase from The Sill provides a welcome burst of green to a room’s walls. It’s constructed from wood and a single test tube, which can accommodate only one or a couple of plant cuttings at a time. Its rounded shape adds visual interest without being a distraction, and the vial is easy to remove come time to change the water or repot your plant. If you plan on propagating more than a few plants, there’s another version from The Sill that can accommodate up to three test tubes.

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Mkono, Plant Terrarium With Wooden Stand — $21.00

Versatile and affordable, this propagation station can be wall mounted or stand alone. It comes with a wooden stand and five glass globes for your plant cuttings. The vessels are attached to the stand, but they can all be tipped over when you want to refill them with fresh water. Choose from three finishes: brown (pictured above), black, or beige. If you are tight on space, it’s also available in a “small” version, which comes with three glass containers instead of five.

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Aoderun, Hanging Glass Planter — $10.00

This hanging planter comes in a sleek metal frame that effortlessly secures to the ceiling or wall (with the inclusion of a rope, hanging hooks, and adhesive hooks). They’re trendy enough to proudly display your plant cuttings, but not overly so; these planters are timeless enough to keep for years to come. It’s available in three sizes, including small, medium, and large, or as a three-piece set with different sizes, which will only set you back a few more dollars.

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Greendigs, Propagation Vase — $25.00

Greendigs’ propagation vase is accented with a brass neck, which adds the perfect touch of interest to its otherwise simple and straightforward silhouette. The vase is made from glass, and it comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to suit various preferences. While available in multiple options, each vase is designed to hold “a trimming or two,” according to the manufacturer—something to keep in mind as you shop. Regardless of which size you choose, the vase is sold at the same price of $25.

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It’s adored by A-listers like Chrissy Teigen, Shay Mitchell, and Kourtney Kardashian. And look, I get it: It is cozy—but it’s also quite expensive, at normally $147 a pop. That’s why when I came across the Cupcakes & Cashmere Knit Leopard Patterned Throw on one of my many, many trips to HomeGoods, I was nothing short of enamored.

Cupcakes & Cashmere, Knit Leopard Patterned Throw — $25.00

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The Cupcakes & Cashmere Knit Leopard Patterned Throw measures 50” x 60” and, like the CozyChic Throw, is made of 100 percent polyester microfiber. It’s soft, stretchy, fluffy, and a downright dream to snuggle up in. I can attest to this, because, after buying one when I first saw it back in 2020, I have since purchased two more—another leopard one (because my dog Cash, adorable as he is, chose to suckle and chew holes in my first one, thus dubbing it his), as well as a holiday version that I found late last year.

That’s the beauty of the Cupcakes & Cashmere Knit Leopard Patterned Throw: It’s sold in a bunch of different colors and prints that go beyond the rather neutral ones Barefoot Dreams sells, and all of them are reversible, showcasing inverse colors of the same print. Though, it all comes down to luck in the store, as only the leopard one is sold online it seems. That said, I’ve seen skull versions around Halloween, deer-print options throughout the year, and the aforementioned holiday one (which is red and white and says “Fa La La La La” on it with snowflakes).

Now here’s the best part: It’s only $25. Yes, you read that correctly. It’s an absolute steal. And it even washes nicely, maintaining its fluffy allure after a spin in the wash and dryer (something that I’ve found my Barefoot Dreams Throw to not hold up as well with). See, that’s the thing: I own both the original Cozy Chic Throw and the Cupcakes & Cashmere Knit Leopard Patterned Throw and, I kid you not, I reach for the latter every single time.

If you’re on the hunt for the coziest blanket for the cold months ahead, or you’re searching for the cutest, most useful gift for a loved one, this blanket is it. Snag it while you can!

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Research suggests that scents like lavender, rose, and frankincense can help us wind down before bed and promote better sleep, so it’s not a stretch to assume that there are aromas that can deliver the opposite effect and boost our focus throughout the work day. According to Amy Galper, a board-certified aromatherapist and founder of the New York Institute of Aromatic Studies, it’s totally possible.

“When we smell something, the aromatic molecules trigger an electrical impulse that then sends a signal to the part of our brain called the limbic system, which is responsible for our ability to learn and remember, our behavior, conscious and unconscious, and is also responsible for manufacturing the enzymes and proteins that make up our hormones, which regulate and control all the actions in our body,” she previously told Well + Good. So the through line between scent, our moods, and behaviors is way clearer than you think.

To help reinvigorate your WFH routine, we learned more about the scents that’ll help boost your focus in the new year, and found their best candle counterparts that’ll *spark* your attention. (Pun intended.)

Lemon 

“Lemon is one of the most refreshing scents and it has been shown to boost energy and focus,” says Linda Clark, an aromatherapist and writer at Scent Selective. “The citrusy smell of lemon is invigorating and can help you feel more alert.” Which is exactly what you need if you find yourself spacing out during Zoom meetings. And remember the limbic system we were talking about earlier? According to Clark, lemon essential oil has been shown to stimulate the limbic system, which can help explain why it’s helpful for supporting focus.

Lemon scented candles

Mrs. Meyers, Soy Aromatherapy Lemon Verbena Candle — $17.00

Notes: Lemon, fir, lemongrass

You probably know Mrs. Meyer’s for its cleaning products, but don’t sleep on its scented candles. The Lemon Verbena Candle is made using a soy and vegetable wax blend, and essential oils like lemon, fir, and lemongrass. The trio makes for a fresh, citrusy scent that fills a room and helps refresh your senses when you need a pick-me-up. Plus, it’s under $20, which you can’t beat.

Smells like: A citrus garden

Burn time: 35 hours

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Heretic, Dirty Lemon Candle — $70.00

Notes: Lemon, bergamot, patchouli, sandalwood, black pepper

If you want a lemon-scented candle with a twist, meet Heretic’s Dirty Lemon Candle. The lemon notes are juxtaposed with earthy patchouli, warm sandalwood, and spicy black pepper, resulting in a sophisticated aroma that’s totally one-of-a-kind, but still fresh. While the $70 price tag is a splurge, this 100 percent soy candle is worth every penny.

Smells like: A sexy lemon

Burn time: 40 hours

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Nest, Amalfi Lemon & Mint Candle — $46.00

Notes: Lemon, bergamot, mint, driftwood

Inspired by summers spent on the Amalfi coast, Nest’s Lemon & Mint Candle has a clean, zesty scent that carries throughout your space, without overpowering it. Notes of lemon and orange bergamot are paired with herbaceous mint and driftwood—and it’s a match made in heaven. You can even get a mini size for only $18.

Smells like: Icy limoncello

Burn time: 50-60 hours

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Rosemary

A member of the mint family, Rosemary has an astringent, slightly woodsy scent that stimulates your senses with every whiff (similar to eucalyptus or camphor.) “Rosemary has long been associated with improved memory and concentration, making it the perfect scent to help support energy and focus,” says Clark. “The aroma offers an experience of profound clarity and purification, and can energize our thoughts and exercise our memory,” Galper explained to Well + Good. So if you’re overwhelmed by a barrage of unread emails, rosemary’s clarifying scent will give you the boost you need to get through it.

Rosemary candles

Paddywax, Al Fresco Candle - Rosemary + Sea Salt — $29.00

Notes: Rosemary, thyme, sea salt, lemon blossom, orange

This Rosemary + Sea Salt Candle by Paddywax stars notes of rosemary, thyme, and jasmine, along with top notes of orange, lemon blossom, and sea salt. The result is an herbaceous, fresh aquatic scent that’ll make you miss dining outdoors in the summertime, which is all the motivation you need to power through your to-do list. Plus, the tinted glass vessel makes for a cute desktop organizer when it’s done!

Smells like: An herb garden with an ocean view

Burn time: 50 hours

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Flamingo Estate, Climbing Tuscan Rosemary Scented Candle — $55.00

Notes: Rosemary, cypress

If Flamingo Estate hasn’t already inspired you to start a home garden in the new year, the brand’s rosemary scented candle is bound to seal the deal. Hand-poured in LA, this 100-percent vegetable wax candle boasts a slow, even burn, and an even better scent throw, filling spaces big and small with the stimulating, herby goodness of rosemary. “The scent on this candle is wonderful—really energizing and fresh,” confirms one FE shopper.

Smells like: Stepping into a garden

Burn time: 60 hours

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Lafco, Rosemary Eucalyptus Candle — $46.00

Notes: Rosemary, eucalyptus, basil, juniper, patchouli

This Lafco candle combines the refreshing scent of rosemary with purifying eucalyptus and basil to create an uplifting aroma that’s exactly what we need during afternoon slumps. Notes of sweet juniper berries, fresh sage, and comforting patchouli give the candle an earthy base scent that grounds a wandering mind and helps keep you focused on busy work days.

Smells like: A luxury spa

Burn time: 50 hours

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Peppermint

The holidays may be over, but the cooling scent of peppermint is always in vogue. “This refreshing herb has long been used to help with concentration and mental clarity,” says Clark, thanks to its sharp, energizing scent that jolts the senses and helps clear your mind when you’re struggling to focus. It’s even been shown to help relieve tension and soothe anxiety—two things that tend to ramp up when you’re stressed about work.

Peppermint candles

Diptyque, La Droguerie Odor-Removing Candle — $70.00

Notes: Peppermint, basil, tomato leaf

Not only does Diptyque’s La Droguerie Candle totally eliminate unwanted odors, it’ll get rid of your WFH-brain too. The garden fresh aroma is made up of a blend of uplifting green herbs like peppermint and basil, along with tomato leaf to evoke the mood boosting effect of spring and inspire a more productive workday. Besides, the odor-removing technology makes it the perfect candle to burn after lunchtime (which is also when you need a pick-me-up most.)

Smells like: Fresh picked herbs

Burn time: 60 hours

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Voluspa, Havana Mint Mojito Glass Jar Candle — $32.00

Notes: Peppermint, lime, basil, coconut rum

Voluspa’s Mojito Candle combines the cooling scent of peppermint with tangy lime to create the ultimate fresh, focus-boosting aroma. Featuring notes of lime, fresh mint, basil, and coconut rum, this sweet and zesty candle is like a breath of fresh air in your space—and perfectly embodies everyone’s favorite summertime cocktail.

Smells like: Your next vacation

Burn time: 100 hours

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Jo & Back, Peppermint Eucalyptus Candle — $27.00

Notes: Peppermint, eucalyptus, oak moss, patchouli

This Jo & Back Candle touts notes of top notes of eucalyptus, middle notes of peppermint, rose, and wood, all on a base of patchouli, cedar, and oakmoss—to revitalize a tired WFH brain, and keep you grounded so you can take on the day. Made with soy wax and a cotton wick, it burns clean and evenly, effectively filling your space with a minty, mind-clearing scent.

Smells like: A walk in the woods

Burn time: 46 hours

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Original Stretch Blanket

From the moment I opened the box I knew that this blanket would deliver on its BIG (size) promises. The throw is a sizable 10′-by-10′ square of heavenly plushness you’ll want to crawl under the moment you open it. If you’re bad at math, that’s a whopping 100-square-feet of material—larger than your standard king-sized comforter or duvet. At 11 pounds in weight,  it’s not technically a weighted blanket but it certainly has some heft to it making it a bit of a mini upper-body workout to lift the large throw out of its carrying case.

Big Blanket Co., Original Stretch Blanket — $159.00

Available in six core colors and four limited-edition hues.

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Currently, the Original Stretch Blanket comes in six colors under the brand’s “favorites” category (polka dots, light grey, fuschia, royal, camel, and teal) and four limited-edition hues, including a retro-y orange half-moon pattern and a bright flamingo pink. The brand switches up its colors regularly, though. (I snagged a moody gray Smoke that’s not available on the site anymore.) To appropriately assess the true size of this blanket, I literally threw it onto my bed, slid underneath, wrapped one side under me, then the other side, before folding the bottom under my legs. And I must say, I was a burrito. A fuzzy, gray burrito, but still a burrito nonetheless.

This blanket snuggled all 6-foot-2-inches of me in coziness with plenty of room to spare. The fabric is so soft and a touch velvety on the side stitched without the brand’s “B” logo patch. Since it’s made with a 4-way stretch polyester, it’s particularly snuggly and buttery–the brand dubs it, “the yoga pants of blankets.” At 100-square-feet, it really is roomy, giving plenty of space for taller people like myself, and more. And if you’re worried about its weight, don’t be; The pressure of the 11 pounds is definitely felt, but less in a weighted-blanket type of way and more like a soft embrace.

What’s arguably the best part, though, is the fact that it fits in your standard-sized washing machine. Seriously—just as long as you don’t throw anything else in with it, it can be tossed into your washing machine at home. That means when you inevitably spill something on it or it gets drooled on during your nap (it happens), there’s no toting it to the laundromat or dry cleaner. Talk about a game-changer.

It’s safe to say that this big ol’ blanket has become a staple for snuggling on my couch, in my bed, and everywhere else I can fit underneath it. Do yourself a favor and get one too from Big Blanket Co. or Amazon—there’s other materials to shop if the poly-blend isn’t your thing. Now, if you excuse me, I’ll be living out my tall-girl, blanket-burrito dreams under this tremendous throw…

Premier Plush Blanket — $259.00

This plush blanket that’s as luxurious as it looks. It’s the same, ginormous size as the original, only made in a microfiber that’s softer than bunny ears. It’s pet-friendly, too, and its texture does wonders for hiding dirt, drool, and dog hair.

Available colors: 9

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Premium Woven Blanket — $229.00

Looking for the perfect throw blanket for movie nights? Toss the Premium Woven blanket on your couch. The cozy knit is an elegant upgrade from the fleece and comes in a handful of stunning geometrics patterns that make it a statement piece.

Available colors: 7

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Classic Knitted Blanket — $275.00

Or, splurge on this textured beauty that’ll have you snuggling in style. Its chunky, parallelogram pattern looks gorgeous draped over the foot of your bed or over your favorite chair. And it’s bound to keep you warm without getting stuffy or hot.

Available colors: 4

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The first step is understanding the wax. This is where soy reigns supreme. Paraffin wax tends to be cheaper, and burns at a much faster rate than soy wax. In comparing two candles of the same size, a paraffin candle will usually have a lifespan of 35 to 40 hours whereas a soy candle can burn for 50 to nearly 80 hours. Because soy wax is softer and doesn’t take as much heat to melt, soy candles usually can use a cooler-burning wick, meaning that the wick is not burning as hot and as a result, the wax is not burning away as quickly. To prolong your fragrant love affairs, these are the best long-lasting candles that are sure to end up on your wick wish list.

Best Long-Lasting Candles

Piecework Puzzles, Heavy Petal Candle — $36.00

Known for their elaborate, maximalist jigsaw puzzles, Piecework debuted their first-ever collection of candles this year and they blew us away. Made using a soy wax blend, the Heavy Petal Candle has an aquatic, fresh floral scent—featuring notes of rose damas, bergamot and vetiver, along with musk, peony and sandalwood. It’s a floral candle that everyone will enjoy.

If you’re partial to warm, smokey scents, try the Fire for One candle that has cedarwood, patchouli, and clove notes.

Burn time: 50-60 hours

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Boy Smells, Ganni Park Life Candle — $46.00

Created in collaboration with Danish clothing brand, Ganni, Boy Smells’ Park Life Candle smells like “if a Shakespeare novel came to life,” according to one Nordstrom shopper—and we kind of agree! Starring notes of fresh ginger and basil, along with sweet fig, creamy tonka bean, and earthy sandalwood, Park Life smells like a perfect fall afternoon spent at the park. The only thing more beautiful than the crisp, outdoorsy scent is the green mirrored vessel it comes in.

Another successful collab, the Slow Burn Candle, created in collaboration with Kacey Musgraves, boasts a warm and spicy aroma that you’ll want in every room in the house.

Burn time: 50 hours

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Otherland, Berkshires Granola Candle — $36.00

Made with a blend of coconut and soy wax, Otherland’s Berkshire Granola Candle is as comforting as it gets. Starring notes of creamy oat milk, warm toasted granola, and earthy pumpkin seeds, every light of this dreamy gourmand candle is a sweet treat.

But if you prefer crisp, fresh scents then the brand’s Alpine Crystal Candle might be the one for you—with notes of juniper, tonic and lemon fizz.

Burn time: 55 hours

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Malin + Goetz, Dark Rum Candle — $58.00

Malin+Goetz candles are loved by everyone from Instagram influencers, to SoulCycle locker room changers, to hotel lobby dwellers. This best-selling scent marked by notes of bergamot, plum, leather, and rum creates a uniquely warm aroma that fills a room in just a few minutes.

For fans of a green, herbaceous fragrance, the brand’s Cannabis candle will not disappoint—it brings the subtly zesty scent of cannabis accord (minus the THC), together with fresh bergamot, orange, and cedarwood to create a scent that’s totally unique.

Burn time: 60 hours

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Glossier, You Candle — $45.00

Glossier fans have been clamoring for a candle version of the brand’s best-selling You fragrance for years—and the brand finally delivered in 2022. Just like the viral fragrance, the You Candle has that nuanced, skin-like scent that’s immediately comforting. Notes of pink pepper, fresh iris, woody ambrette seeds and ambrox bring instant warmth to your space.

If you love a floral scent with a touch of fruity freshness, check out Glossier’s Orange Blossom Neroli Candle, which features notes of neroli and pear, along with citrus and cypress.

Burn time: 45 hours

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DS & Durga, Big Sur After Rain Candle — $65.00

A slow burning standout among DS & Durga’s lineup of expertly crafted fragrances, Big Sur After Rain captures the romance of the Pacific Coast Highway. Starring purifying notes of coastal rain and eucalyptus shoot, with sweet magnolia and pacific spray, on a base of wet wood and eucalyptus leaf—this candle’s cleansing aroma is like a breath of fresh air that’s worth every penny.

If you’re craving something sweet, DS & Durga’s Breakfast Highlands Candle is another favorite. Featuring notes of warm oats, biscuits, and honey, the delicious gourmand scent evokes the comfort of a home cooked breakfast.

Burn time: 60 hours

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Homesick, Book Club Candle — $23.00

Originally $38, now $23

With a burn time of 60 to 80 hours, this Homesick Candle is one of the longest burning candles on our list. Inspired by memories of rainy days spent cuddled up with a book indoors, the Book Club Candle features notes of orange, cinnamon, fresh balsam and warm amber, recalling the crisp and comforting scent of freshly printed pages.

For a sweet, wintery scent that takes you back to the slopes, look to their Ski Trip Candle.

Burn time: 60 – 80 hours

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Salt + Stone, Saffron and Cedar Candle — $49.00

Salt + Stone shoppers say the brand’s Saffron and Cedar Candle is a true Californian scent, and they’re not far off. The fresh, earthy scent features notes of saffron, neroli, oakmoss, heliotrope flower and surf wax—atop a base of sweet sugarcane and warm cedarwood.

If you prefer a citrusy scent, Salt + Stone’s Grapefruit and Hinoki Candle is an elevated, dynamic take on a zesty classic.

Burn time: 55 hours

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Anecdote Candles, 2023 Candle — $26.00

For its latest candle of the year, Anecdote captured the ambivalent feels we’re all having about 2023. Starring zesty notes orange and lemon, complemented by sharp ginger, the 2023 candle is punctuated by sweet and comforting, amber, tonka bean and cedarwood.

Anecdote’s best-selling Adulting Candle is another timeless classic, featuring notes of fig, cashmere and sandalwood.

Burn time: 40-50 hours

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Voluspa Baltic Amber Candle — $32.00

Voluspa’s candles are made of a proprietary coconut blend that’s free of pesticides and parabens, and they have natural wicks to help them burn clean. What’s more, they’re hand poured into gorgeous jars that you can repurpose after you’ve burned through the candle. The ever popular Baltic Amber scent has notes of amber resin, sandalwood, and vanilla orchid to bring warmth to any room.

If you prefer a fresh floral scent, the Voluspa French Cade and Lavender Candle is bound to be a winner, with notes of Bulgarian lavender, French cade wood and verbena.

Burn time: 50 hours

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Vacation, High Ceiling Resort Lobby Candle — $34.00

If the White Lotus were a candle, it’d smell like this Vacation candle. Hand poured using a premium soy wax blend, this chic candle encapsulates the scent of glossy magazines, fresh cut tropical flowers, and a soothing ocean breeze. It’s the kind of scent that will make everyday feel like PTO.

To experience the transportive, coconut-y scent of Vacation’s best-selling sunscreen at home, check out the limited-edition “Vacation” Black Label Candle.

Burn time: 80 hours

 

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Homecourt, Cipres Mint Candle — $60.00

Of all the celeb-owned brands that launched this year, Courtney Cox’s home care brand, Homecourt has really wowed us. The Cipres Mint Candle touts an invigorating fresh scent marked by notes of spearmint, eucalyptus oil, and black tea, with a hint of citrus and woods. And it’s hand-poured into a kiln-fired ceramic vessel that’s label-less and ready to repurpose.

To experience the scent of blossoming citrus trees from the comfort of home, try Homecourt’s Neroli Leaf Candle—starring notes of orange flower, jasmine petals, mandarin and apple.

Burn time: 60 hours

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Maison Louis Marie, Antidris Lavender Candle — $36.00

The beauty is in the simplicity with Maison Louis Marie. With no artificial dyes or ornate labels, when it comes to why this brand is as adored as it is, the proof is in the pudding. The refreshing, herbal aroma evokes the true scent of lavender—one that’s earthy and woody, but never cloyingly sweet or soapy.

Rumor has it, that the brand’s No.4 Bois de Balincourt Candle is a dupe for Le Labo’s famous Santal 26, featuring notes of sandalwood, vetiver and amber wood.

Burn time: 55 hours

 

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Le Labo, Santal 26 Candle — $82.00

If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, you can’t go wrong with Le Labo’s Santal 26. Featuring sophisticated notes of amber, sandalwood, cocoa, vanilla, and spices, the Santal 26 Candle boasts a soft and smokey fragrance that simply never gets old. The 100 percent pure soy wax candle contains high concentrations of essential oils that give it a pure and powerful throw (candle speak for how the scent carries in a room), making it well worth the steep price tag.

Le Labo’s Palo Santo Candle, which features grounding notes of cedarwood, incense and patchouli, is another fan favorite.

Burn time: 60 hours

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Byredo, Bibliothèque Candle — $90.00

Remember the library scene in Atonement? This candle is that in a jar… minus the iconic green dress. Bibliothèque is Byredo’s best selling scent and with top, fruity notes of peach and plum with base notes of leather and vanilla, it makes sense as to why. The candle comes in the brand’s signature black wax and iconic glass vessel you’ll keep forever.

If you’re in the mood for florals, Byredo’s Burning Rose Candle will deliver in spades. It features notes of rose petals, violet, and leather atop a base of birch and ebony woods.

Burn time: 60 hours

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P.F. Candle Co. Golden Coast Candle — $24.00

P.F. Candle Co. makes all its candles in California using domestically-sourced soy wax, fine fragrance oils, and cotton-core wicks. The scents are all luxurious, including this Golden Coast candle, which has hints of eucalyptus, sea salt, redwood, and palo santo—reminiscent of Big Sur.

Honorable mention goes out to P.F’s Teakwood and Tobacco Candle, which features warm, woodsy notes of teakwood, leather and orange.

Burn time: 60-70 hours

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Ceremonia, Guava Candle de Ceremonia — $42.00

2022 was the year that beauty brands got into candles—and Ceremonia’s Candle de Ceremonia is a shining example. The follow-up to the brand’s debut candle inspired by its signature fragrance, the Guava Candle features top notes of guava, peach, and lemon zest, middle notes of jasmine, violet and black tea, all on a base of woodsy vetiver, warm tonka beans and sweet brown sugar—recalling the fruity flavors of summer.

For a classic, fresh scent, check out Ceremonia’s signature fragrance, which captures notes of lemon, kumquat, and green tea, along with jasmine, violet, and black tea.

Burn time: 50 hours

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Brooklinen, Bright Idea Candle — $30.00

Originally $35, now $30 

Made with a blend of coconut and soy wax, Brooklinen’s hand-poured candles were developed in collaboration with expert perfumers to help set the mood for relaxation. The Bright Idea Candle is characterized by notes of fresh geranium, comforting cardamom, and earthy vetiver that’ll help you clear your mind and decompress after a long day.

For a crisp, focus-boosting scent, try the Good Intentions Candle, which features notes of fresh basil, minty buchu leaf, and bright citrus notes.

Burn time: 60 hours

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There’s nothing necessarily wrong with these traditional scents, and for many people, these are the smells that they associate with holiday cheer and spending time with loved ones. But this season, some candle brands are making a case for switching things up—and the results have brought some pretty fun and unexpected pairings.

To break down the inspo behind a few of these non-traditional home fragrances, we spoke to experts from some of our favorite cool-kid candle brands, like Otherland, D.S. & Durga, and Anecdote. Read on to find out more about the next generation of holiday scents that smell nothing like your standard Christmas tree.

Inspiration strikes from real life

For brands re-imagining holiday fragrances, drawing from personal experience is key. “We like our products to be a reflection of both memories and moments,” says Julie Maskulka, CEO and founder of Anecdote Candles. “Memories lend themselves to nostalgic scents while moments can be those simple pleasures we take for granted.”

For example, Otherland’s Gilded Collection (one of its two holiday lines for this year) includes candles that take Abigail Stone, the brand’s co-founder and CEO, back to the fancy, “larger than life” Christmas parties her mom’s boss hosted throughout her childhood. Moonstruck has notes of white mahogany and smoked birch that remind her of sneaking out of the party for a breath of fresh air,” while Black Velvet was inspired by the black-tie dress code and combines alpine violet, iris woods, and night-blooming jasmine in a way that feels reminiscent of “sipping on a French 75 and swirling around the dance floor as the big band plays.”

Similarly, David Moltz, co-founder of D.S. & Durga, crafted the brand’s new-to-2022 Lightable Latkes candle based on his family’s Hanukkah traditions. “The smell of frying latke is the smell of the season for us,” he says. He adds that the reason the scent works so well as a candle is because when you light it, there’s the natural mix of fire with the notes of potato that makes it feel authentic to the actual smell of latkes being cooked.

With all of these next-gen scent blends, the trick is in translating memories in a way that captures the way they feel without being too obvious. For instance, Anecdote’s Mistletoe candle doesn’t contain a single note of actual mistletoe. Instead, it’s “a rich, layered fragrance with notes of apple, saffron, black currant, and amber, that’s meant to capture the festive nature of the mistletoe tradition.”

What comes first, the name or the candle?

Much like the chicken and the egg, there’s no real answer here.

“The name always, always, always comes first,” says Maskulka of Anecdote’s processes. Her brand is unique in that each candle has a name, but also an anecdote below it. For example, the label for Snow Day reads “smells like a change of plans and a cup of cocoa.” So, the team starts with a name, decides on the accompanying anecdote, and then crafts a fragrance that best fits the feeling and mood that they evoke.

On the contrary, Cook Stone has a strict process where “scent informs name,” which means that Otherland candles don’t get their names until their in the final stages of formulation. At that point, it’s a group activity with her team where everyone shares their ideas, ultimately landing on one that everyone feels best embodies the fragrance. That’s not to say it’s easy, though: “There’s rarely alignment on one name, so we have to debate them all,” she says. And you’ll notice that each candle has two words in the name and three scent descriptors (instead of the typical base, middle and top notes)—this is a brand decision that keeps everything as clear and concise as possible for customers.

Moltz likes to mix it up and says, “usually I’ll have the idea [for the scent] first and then I’ll just tighten up the name perfectly.” He adds that sometimes it works the other way around, but that ultimately, the name is just meant to represent what the scent is.

Shop our favorite unexpected holiday candles

Anecdote Candles, Spiked & Spiced — $34.00

This warming blend of spicy clove, mulled wine, orange, red currant and cinnamon that has the power to transport you to an outdoor holiday market as the snow begins to fall.

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D.S. & Durga, Portable X-Mas Tree — $65.00

For the brand’s third iteration of this seasonal candle, you get more than just balsam fir. There are also notes of clove water, spruce, amber, and Austrian pine, which come together to create an aroma that screams, “I’m not your basic Christmas tree scent.”

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Otherland, Alpine Crystal — $36.00

For a surprising twist on a candle you might expect to smell like snowy pine trees, this one has notes of juniper sprig, icy tonic, and lemon fizz that make for a delightfully zingy blend that’s more about a drink than the great outdoors.

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Heretic, Dirty Santa Candle — $65.00

Heretic is known for its tongue-in-cheek fragrances (… like Gwyneth Paltrow’s “This Smells Like My Vagina” candle), and this seductive combo of pine, warm clove, oakmoss, and leather deserves a place on Santa’s naughty list. And yes—we mean that as a compliment.

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Candier, I'm Dreamin of a Pink Christmas — $31.00

Red and green can be a little overdone this time of year, but pink? Now that’s a welcomed twist. This unexpected scent combines yummy buttercream, angel cake, and a splash of bourbon for a drool-inducing (but not-too-sweet) aroma.

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Hotel Lobby, Chalet Candle — $56.00

If being whisked off to Aspen isn’t in the cards for you this holiday season, you can have a little taste of the good life by way of this boujee burner. The lingering scent of spiced cinnamon, bergamot and amber will warm your home long after the candle is blown out.

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Lavune, Ember Candle — $42.00

It wouldn’t be the holidays without having the yule log on loop. Even if you don’t have a fireplace of your very own, this woody candle brings the smell of one right into your living room. Crackling fire mode: activated.

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Chillhouse, Cashmere Cafe — $38.00

Although not technically a holiday blend, this candle has notes of bright rhubarb, cassis, cedar, and sandalwood that are meant to be reminiscent of ducking into a chic Soho bakery for a treat. For us, it summons the cozy feeling of being wrapped in a new cashmere blanket while eating leftover Christmas cookies.

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Brooklyn Candle Studio, Vert Deco Holiday Edition Candle Prosecco — $39.00

You may be gearing up for dry January, but that doesn’t mean your sense of smell needs to be sober, too. This cocktail-inspired blend taps notes of wild roses, red berries, and white musk, and is so luxuriant you’ll want to keep lighting it well into 2023.

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FORVR Mood, Burr Candle — $38.00

This candle is all about wanting something hot to warm you up during the cold-weather months. Jackie Aina, the founder of the brand, says its oud-forward fragrance feels like cozying up at a cabin in the woods.

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Snif, Old Saint Wick — $44.00

We present to you, an elevated Christmas tree, if you will. Thanks to notes of sandalwood, apple blossom, rosemary, and jasmine (with Siberian pine, fir balsam, and cedarwood for good measure), your home will smell like a freshly cut fir on display in a chic ski chalet.

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Nest, Crystallized Ginger & Vanilla Bean — $46.00

If you’re craving the nostalgic aroma of your grandma’s baking, you’ll love this gourmand combo of ginger and vanilla bean. It’s a crowd-pleasing scent that makes for a great stocking stuffer.

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Diptyque, Etincelles Spark Candle — $84.00

For a delightful take on a wood fire, this candle incorporates rich chocolate and bold coffee. Plus, the gold-flecked vessel looks decadent as the red wax melts inside.

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Common Heir & Everything Nice Holiday Candle — $68.00

This candle is the definition of subtle. It swaps overzealous balsam scents with warm cardamom and sandalwood, giving it cozy, homy vibe you can burn way past December. There’s also tonka bean and chestnut that give it a touch of sweetness and play off its spicyness.

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11 last-minute gift ideas your holiday party host will love

1. A Set (or Two) of Cocktail Ice Cube Molds

W&P Peak Silicone Everyday Ice Tray w/ Protective Lid — $15.00

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W&P Peak Silicone Sphere Ice Mold w/ Cover — $17.00

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W&P Petal Ice Tray, Perfect Etched Sphere — $25.00

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If your host loves to work magic behind the bar, you can’t go wrong with a set (or two) of high-end craft cocktail ice cube molds. The W&P Peak Silicone Everyday Ice Tray w/ Protective Lid ($15) is a popular option among Amazon shoppers, as is the W&P Peak Silicone Sphere Ice Mold w/ Cover ($17). For even fancier cubes, try the new W&P Petal Ice Tray, Perfect Etched Sphere ($25).

2. The Most Stylish Tea Ever

Irreverant Tea Sampler Volume One: A New Hope — $15.00

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Irreverent Tea: Awoke — $15.00

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Irreverent Tea: Mint 2.0 — $15.00

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Sure, there are many pretty tea tins and sachets out there, but none compare to the work of art that Irreverent Tea is. Sold in a beautifully-boxed Tea Sampler ($30) as well as in individual-flavor colorful Tins ($15), this tea brand is so aesthetically-pleasing that it may just inspire your host to transition their bar cart to a tea cart—heck, I bought a whole ‘nother bar cart for the exact reason! (Psst: the Mint 2.0 and Awoke are my personal faves!)

3. A Well-Designed Bamboo Charcuterie Board

Royal Craft Wood Unique Bamboo Cheese Board — $44.00

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Whether your host likes to create charcuterie boards, dessert boards, or butter boards, a high-quality bamboo board is a great gift idea. The Royal Craft Wood Unique Bamboo Cheese Board ($35) is beloved by Amazon shoppers for its spacious design, concave areas (which are perfect for holding nuts, seeds, and smaller items), dip bowls, and hidden serving tool compartment.

4. A Decorative Candle

L’or de Seraphine Billie Candle — $36.00

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L’or de Seraphine Tarantella — $36.00

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Candles are a classic host gift idea. Instead of picking up a generic candle from your local drugstore, though, go all out with one that doubles as decor. When style is the goal, no candle brand compares to L’or de Seraphine, with its artfully decorated porcelain canisters complete with coordinating lids. Our faves? The warm and cozy Billie Candle ($36), with its gorgeous marbled packaging, and the Tarantella Candle ($36), which is festive and woody, making it perfect for the holidays.

5. A Chic Match Cloche

Skeem Design Helix Fireplace Glass Match Cloche — $38.00

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While on the topic of candles, match cloches—delicate glass vessels filled with long, candle-friendly matches—are a sure-to-please host gift. I, for one, have received two and have them proudly displayed on my bar cart and fireplace mantle. The Skeem Design Glass Fireplace Match Cloche Bottle ($38) set the trend and is sold in four colors.

6. A Candle Trimmer Set

Dangshan 3-in-1 Candle Accessory Set — $18.00

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Still sticking to the candle theme, a chic candle trimmer is never a bad idea. After all, candle wicks should be kept trimmed to a quarter of an inch and trying to do so with scissors can often gouge the wax. With that in mind, the DANGSHAN 3 in 1 Candle Accessory Set ($18), which is sold in seven colors and comes with a trimmer, snuffer, and wick dipper, is a no-brainer host gift.

7. The Oven Mitt of All Oven Mitts

Ove Glove Hot Surface Handler Oven Mitt — $16.00

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To help keep your hosts’ hands and wrists free of burns this holiday baking season, give the gift of The Ove Glove, a fan-favorite oven mitt that is heat-resistant up to 540 degrees. Unlike traditional oven mitts, The Ove Glove ($16) wears like a glove, so it offers much better grip while placing and removing pans in and out of the oven.

8. A Handheld Milk Frother

Zulay Original Milk Frother Handheld Foam Maker — $13.00

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Give your host the gift of delectably frothy beverages with a handheld milk frother immersion blender, like the best-selling Zulay Original Milk Frother ($11). The lightweight, battery-operated device comes with a stand and works wonders to create foamy lattes at home. Truly, I have one and use it every morning to whip up cafe-quality iced matcha or coffee lattes.

9. A Set of High-End Hot Sauces

Truff Original Black Truffle Hot Sauce — $27.00

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For the host that loves to cook—especially with a touch of spice and zest—look no further than the TRUFF Original Black Truffle Hot Sauce 2-Pack Bundle ($27), which is beloved by over 25,000 Amazon shoppers. In addition to a stellar flavor profile, the bottles are cute as can be, they’ll be happy to display them on their counter while hosting get-togethers and meals.

10. Delicious Chocolates Everyone Will Love

See's, Holiday Joy Box — $30.00

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I love gifting hosts some chocolates, because after a long day (and likely night before) of preparing food, your host can open up a box of chocolates and just enjoy some sweets. See’s has the most delicious fillings and flavors (that butterscotch square!), and this assortment comes in cute holiday packaging, too. And if your host is in the sharing mood, they can set it out for other guests to enjoy with the other desserts. It’s win-win all around.

11. A HomeGoods (Home Sense or T.J. Maxx) Gift Card

JP Glassware 4-pack of Luster Finish Coupe Glasses — $25.00

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Spark Plug Publishing 7-piece Charcuterie Board Gift Set — $25.00

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Cupcakes & Cashmere 50x60 Knit Leopard Patterned Throw — $25.00

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While some people will say that gift cards are the laziest gift around, when it comes to wowing hosts, few things elicit as much gratitude as a HomeGoods gift card. The reason? The homeware store has everything under the sun a host could hope for, including dinnerware, drinkware, platters, seasonal table decor, decorative throw pillows, and more—all for hard-to-beat prices.

That said, if you don’t want to solely slip your host an envelope with a $50 gift card inside, you could cut the card to $25 and pair it with a stunning set of coupe glasses (I personally own the JP Glassware 4-pack of Luster Finish Coupe Glasses, $25, and have received endless compliments on them), a high-end charcuterie board (like the Spark Plug Publishing 7-piece Charcuterie Board Gift Set, $25), or the ultimate Barefoot Dreams blanket dupe (seriously, the Cupcakes & Cashmere 50×60 Knit Leopard Patterned Throw, $25, is so good that I own three, as well as baby-sized versions for my pup, Cash. It’s my favorite blanket ever and I bet your host would agree).

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Whether you want to give your pal something practical, like some pots and pans, or a set of towels, or something they definitely wouldn’t buy for themselves now that they’ve got a mortgage to worry about, like a $165 backgammon set, keep scrolling for a selection of gifts that are sure to get you invited to all future house parties to come.

The best gifts for new homeowners, by category

We’ve got you covered, room by room.

Kitchen

Caraway, Cookware Set — $395.00

Whether the recipient is a kitchen newb or a five-star chef, they’re guaranteed to appreciate Caraway’s colorful pots and pans. Beloved by food bloggers everywhere (you’ve probably seen these bad boys on TikTok), they do a whole lot more than look pretty on the shelf: They’re nonstick and oven-safe, and the set includes everything anyone could possibly need to make their kitchen feel complete.

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Zwilling, Pro 6-Piece Ceramic Knife Block Set — $300.00

A knife set is one of those annoying home things that no one wants to buy for themselves, so why not do it for them? This one comes equipped with three chef’s knives, a pair of kitchen shears, and a sharpener, which are housed in a minimalist block that will look like a work of art on any countertop.

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West Elm, Textured Oil + Vinegar Set, White Dots — $32.00

There’s something that feels wildly grown up about having a coordinated set of oil and vinegar holders (though, I guess, so does owning a home). This chic white duo will match any kitchen decor, and make the recipient feel like Ina Garten any time they go to toss a salad.

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Mark and Graham, Large Wood and Marble Beveled Cheese Board — $79.00

There are few things in life that are more universally popular than personalized gifts and a good charcuterie board. Give the gift of both in one with this monogrammed piece. Made of wood and marble, this board is just as much a piece of art as it is a funcional serving platter.

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Chairish, Hugging Salt and Pepper Shakers — $25.00

Not only is this salt and pepper shaker set adorable (look at them! They’re hugging!), but it’s sure to be a conversation starter at any and all future dinner parties.

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Williams Sonoma, Brushed Stainless-Steel Spice Rack — $50.00

Consider this spice organizer the perfect gift for the friend who has watched The Home Edit on repeat ever since going into escrow. Featuring 20 spice jar slots, this revolving rack makes searching for spices a breeze. Not only will it help to clear up their counter (and cabinet space), but it will likely become the most #oddlysatisfying thing they own.

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Piano Piano, Pitcher — $72.00

If they can’t get enough The White Lotus, transport them to Italy with a stunning pitcher or serving platter from Piano Piano. Each piece in the brand’s tableware collection is individually handcrafted and painted by local artisans in the Amalfi Coast. And while they look delicate, they’re surprisingly microwave and dishwasher safe, so they can say ciao to annoying cleanup.

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Pottery Barn, Bleecker 5-Piece Bar Tool Set — $69.00

You’ll be the hero of the holiday (and all future house parties) with this set, which includes everything an amateur bartender needs to whip up fancy cocktails. The set comes with one- and two-ounce jigger cups, a strainer, a spoon, and a bottle opener and holder.

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Estelle Colored Wine Stemware (set of 6) — $185.00

These candy-colored wine glasses will be the centerpiece of any at-home event. Gift these to your favorite hostess, and reap the benefits when they have you over for their housewarming.

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Living room

Barefoot Dreams, Cozy Chic Throw — $147.00

This throw is so plush and snuggly, it makes it tough to get off the couch. As hibernation season approaches, it’s the type of gift that anyone will use every day and think of you.

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Voluspa, Baltic Amber Home Diffuser — $26.00

With notes of vanilla orchid, amber resin, sandalwood, this warm-scented diffuser is the perfect complement to snuggly winter nights. It lasts for up to six months, which means it will keep your pal’s living room smelling earthy and woodsy ’til spring.

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Main + Mesa, Decorative Resin Tabletop Photo Frame 2-piece Set — $55.00

You really can’t go wrong with a set of picture frames—especially if you make them more personalized with a few thoughtful photos. This duo works in any room of the house, which means the options for use are endless.

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A Sunday Painter Layla Vase — $68.00

Never again will your loved one have to wonder where the heck to put their farmer’s market flowers. This vase looks just as good with greenery in as it does without, which means it will likely be on full display at all times.

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Diptyque Paris, Set of 5 Limited Edition Candles — $95.00

This set of candles feels a whole lot more luxurious than its $95 price tag implies. It includes some of Diptyque’s most famous fragrances—including Baies, Rose, and Figuier—and the recipient will be able to add a signature scent to each room in their home.

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Williams Sonoma, Preserved Falling Leaves Bunch — $35.00

Unlike the standard dozen roses that only last a week, tops, this dried floral bouquet lasts forever. Which means that even during the darkest winter months, it will infuse any home with a little bit of springtime.

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Jonathan Adler, Elephant Match Strike — $45.00

Even if your loved one is the type of person who has everything, there’s no way that they have an elephant-shaped match holder. It looks endlessly cute on any coffee table, and will make the candle-lighting process that much more fun.

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Mark & Graham, Leather Backgammon Set — $179.00

If you’re looking for something failsafe, you really can’t go wrong with this leather backgammon set. Not only is it straight-up gorgeous, but it’s the type of gift that any recipient will use over and over again. It features poker chips, a chess board, and more.

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Home office

West Elm, Desktop Accessories Essentials — $100.00

Gold desk accessories aren’t exactly the type of thing you’d buy for yourself, which is what makes this set such a great gift. The stapler, tape dispenser, scissors, and calculator will make any WFH setup feel like a glamorous corner office.

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Canopy, Humidifer — $125.00

A humidifier can be ultra helpful in keeping your hair and skin hydrated (especially during the winter months), and this one fits beautifully on even the smallest WFH desktop. You can infuse it with one of the brand’s signature essential oils, which, in addition to keeping the air moist, will also make it smell amazing. 

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Elago, Charging Hub — $30.00

Swimming in a sea of chargers can make any desk feel cluttered, and this dock can help streamline things. It’s got space to hold your phone, AirPod pros, and Apple Watch while they juice up, and keeps them all in one place so you’re never left wondering where the heck they’ve disappeared to.

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Ban.Do Week to Week Desk Notepad — $15.00

Google Calendar is great, but there’s something about a good, old-fashioned to-do list that’s pretty darn appealing—especially when it’s as cute as this one. Featuring 52 sheets, you can jot down your to-dos.

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The Nue, Co Anti-Stress Functional Fragrance — $95.00

This “functional fragrance” is made with stress-busting scents like cardamom and bergamot, and makes for the perfect room (or wrist) spray to spritz throughout the day.

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Well Told, Health Energy Supplement — $23.00

These energy-boosting adaptogen supplements make a great swap for a 3 p.m. cup of coffee, and give you a boost of energy without the usual “jolt” and jitters of caffeine. Do yourself a favor and snag one for yourself while you’re shopping for your loved ones.

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HoMedics®, 8-Node Shiatsu Massage Cushion with Heat — $160.00

The next best thing to a gift card to their favorite massage spot is this at-home massage cushion that comes with eight massages nodes that knead into your entire back, really working out those stressed muscles. While the nodes work their magic, the massager offers heat to further relieve tension and increase blood flow. This particular massager reaches the upper back and lower back.

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Poprun, Upgraded Desk Organizer — $20.00

This rose gold desk organizer helps keep all your pens, papers, and miscellaneous things that somehow end up in your office (nail polish? Remote control?) in one place.

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Bedroom

Casper, Glow Light — $129.00

Casper’s mini glow lights are a must-have for anyone who hates getting out of bed on the darkest of winter days. You can set them to brighten in the morning (and dim at night), and they work with your circadian rhythm to help make waking up (and falling asleep) more bearable.

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Loftie, Alarm Clock — $149.00

Help your friend finally break up with their pre-bed phone habits with this alarm clock. It features a night light, a built-in sound machine, and a Bluetooth speaker that links up with your streaming account so you can start (and finish) your day with any sound you choose.

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Apotheke, Hinoki Lavender Candle — $42.00

Arguably the best gift you can give to someone who is stressed about the new responsibilities of homeownership is a solid night of sleep, and this candle helps with exactly that. It fuses the relaxing scent of fresh lavender with notes Hinoki cypress, lotus flower, and sandalwood, which will make drifting off to dreamland a breeze.

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Bearaby, Cotton Napper — $199.00

Weighted blankets don’t exactly have a reputation for being “chic,” but this one breaks that mold. It’s made from chunky-knit cotton and comes in five colors and four different weights (ranging from 10 to 25 pounds), making it just as good a couch accessory as it is an anxiety reducer.

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Society 6, 57 Breathing dreams like air - F. Scott Fitzgerald quote Framed Art Print — $168.00

Wall art is usually the last thing people invest in when decorating their homes, so why not help speed the process along? This dreamy quote (courtesy of one F. Scott Fitzgerald) makes for a great bedside addition.

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Bathroom

Brooklinen, Super-Plush Towel Move-In Bundle — $231.00

Brooklinen’s towels are so plush, they’ll make any bathroom feel like that of a five-star hotel. The move-in bundle comes with four bath towels, two hand towels, four wash cloths, and a bath mat, which is enough to make any brand-new space feel like home.

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Glamcor, Riki Skinny Vanity Mirror with Lights — $230.00

This makeup mirror is a beauty blogger favorite, and makes it easier than ever to perfect your cat-eye (or just… properly blend your foundation). It’s got LED lights and 5x magnifying capabilities, plus a phone stand to help any aspiring influencers capture their looks.

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Lunya, Washable Silk Long Robe — $298.00

Sunday mornings (and Saturday nights) will never be cozier than with this silk robe. It’s light, yet long, making it perfect for any season, and is so chic, your recipient will be tempted to wear it outside the house, too.

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Esker, Restorative Bath Kit — $150.00

This bath kit is the perfect remedy to the stress that comes along with dealing with moving (and a new mortgage, to boot). It comes with a candle, a body wash, and a body oil, which means it can be used and enjoyed by both bath and shower lovers alike.

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Rebrilliant, Gardner Freestanding Bamboo Bath Caddy — $29.00

If rubber duckies made bathtime fun when we were kids, this bath caddy serves the exact same purpose now that we’re all grown up. It’s perfect for propping up a book, an iPad and—most importantly—a glass of wine to make the experience as relaxing as possible.

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Anthropologie, Tufted Bouquet Bath Mat — $78.00

Boring bath mats should be considered persona non grata in someone’s new home. Add a bit of flair to someone’s post-shower routine with this floral rug, which is basically a piece of art for your floor.

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Drunk Elephant, Trunk 6.0 — $450.00

Treat your loved one to a full set of Drunk Elephant’s hair and body products, which do more than just look great in a shelfie. The ‘Trunk” includes ten full-sized items, including an eye cream, cleanser,  serums, oils, and more. In other words? Everything any beauty-lover needs for the bathroom of their dreams.

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Uncommon Goods, Shower Steamer Spray — $22.00

Just a few spritzes of one of these aromatherapy sprays will make any regular old shower feel like a full-blown spa experience. Choose from five different scents—a “Breathe Easy” lemon and peppermint combo; a sleep-inducing lavender and orange blend; a stress-relieving lemongrass, eucalyptus, and orange scent; or a “Wake Up” spearmint and citrus fusion—or go all out and gift the entire set.

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From hand painted plates and whimsical coffee mugs to super soft knitted throws, handmade ornaments, and tree accessories, their extensive home catalog is rife with festive and cozy goodies you’ll want to fill your home with. Which is why it’s best to shop at Anthropologie prepared (to spend a lot of cash), or say, during a Black Friday sale.

Fortunately for us all, Anthropologie’s Black Friday Sale is happening right now. Through Sunday, November 27, you can shop the retailer’s entire home department for up to 30 percent off, and get an additional 30 percent off all their sale items for more savings. Which means there’s no better time to do a little seasonal redecorating. To help assist in your holiday home makeover (and find some A+ holiday gifts along the way), we rounded up the very best cozy and spirited decor you can snag at a discount during the Anthropologie Black Friday sale.

Check out the rest of our favorite Black Friday sales here for deals in beauty, kitchen, fitness, home, style, and more.

The best buys from the Anthropologie Black Friday sale

Capri Blue, Volcano Gold Jar Candle — $27.00

Originally $38, now $27

The Capri Blue Volcano Candle is an Anthropologie best-seller (it’s also the scent they use in every store) that smells like sugared oranges, limes, and fresh mountain greens. The crisp, fresh scent is one that virtually everybody will love—which also makes it a great holiday gift, hint hint—and the only thing better than the scent is the festive gold foiled vessel it comes in. When lit, the candlelight peaks through the candle’s speckled, sparkly exterior, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.

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Sophie Faux Fur Throw Blanket — $69.00

Originally $98, now $69

In a 5-star review (this blanket has over 500 of them on Anthro’s site, by the way), one shopper says this faux fur throw blanket is “the best blanket on the face of the earth,” and we can’t help but agree. In addition to being incredibly soft, the Sophie Blanket is perfectly weighted for warm snuggles on the couch. And when you’re not bundled up in all its cozy glory, the blanket’s luxe texture looks just as good slung over a couch or accent chair.

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Gingerbread Ornaments Set of 9 — $31.00

Originally $44, now $31

These gingerbread ornaments are cute enough to eat (though we don’t recommend it). The playful, wool felt ornaments make for a kitschy, yet classic add to your Christmas tree and stocking, an adorable gift topper, or a quirky piece of holiday decor. To really play up the gingerbread motif, checkout the matching gingerbread garland.

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Holiday Skate Embroidered Dish Towel — $15.00

Originally $22, now $15

Swapping out household accessories like your kitchen dish towels, for more festive alternatives is key for setting the holiday mood—and this embroidered dish towel is as cute as it gets. Dogs in shoes, birds with scarves, and penguins in ice skates? I mean, come on. Coupled with sweet, hand-embroidered holiday messages, this playful dish towel is so adorable, you’ll want to get one as a gift for everyone you know.

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Matilda Goad & Co., Scalloped Pillow — $55.00

Originally $78, now $55

The playful, ultra-feminine look of the scalloped trim on this Matilda Goad & Co. pillow immediately dresses up your couch or bedding. Something about the deep red color combined with the dotted white motif is giving us “snow day” energy while still being totally timeless. Just one small warning—once you get one you’ll be seriously tempted to collect all of their vintage-inspired patterns.

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Anecdote Cocktail Candles, Harvest Hot Toddy — $22.00

Originally $32, now $22

If you’re getting tired of pine and pumpkin spice candles, allow us to introduce you to the seasonal candle you’ve been dreaming of—Anecdote’s Harvest Hot Toddy. Inspired by the beloved wintertime cocktail, the Hot Toddy candle smells of spicy warm cinnamon and fresh honeycrisp apples. And yes, it does in fact smell as comforting and delicious as it sounds.

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Waterfall Coupe Glasses Set of 4 — $45.00

Originally $64, now $45

Speaking of cocktails, you’re going to want to serve them up in classy, festive glassware designed for the occasion. These Waterfall Coupe Glasses feature a hand painted gold rim and a subtle gradient tint that gives stirred cocktails and champagne an effortlessly elegant look. According to reviewers, the glasses are on the larger side but we’re definitely not complaining. “I ordered 8 of the coupe glasses and they look absolutely stunning displayed on the shelves above my bar cabinet!” wrote one 5-star reviewer on Anthropologie’s site “I feel like these are versatile glasses and can be used for any drink and any occasion.”

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Brenn Garland — $48.00

Originally $68, now $48

Pine garland. For the holidays? Groundbreaking. No shame to pine, but if you want to experiment with new cozy textures in your holiday decor, this line of handmade garland totally fits the bill. Featuring fuzzy woven poms, soft knitted mushrooms, multicolored tassels and tiny bells, the Brenn Garland has a charming, eclectic look that brings warmth and festive feels to any spot in the house.

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Emily Maude, Twelve Days of Christmas Dessert Plate — $13.00

Originally $18, now $13

Anthropologie is known to dish out (no pun intended) hit after hit in the tableware department, and their best-selling Twelve Days of Christmas Dessert Plates are all the proof you need. Designed in collaboration with artist and illustrator Emily Maude, these gorgeous dessert plates bring the classic carol to your table, and come in 12 quirky and colorful designs. Collect them all for your holiday tablescape, display them on a shelf as a unified decorative statement, mount them on your wall, or treat someone special to the entire set.

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Tala, Muse Portable Table Lamp — $228.00

Originally $325, now $228

Take your classic camping lantern, but make it chic—and you’ve got the Tala Muse Table Lamp. The Muse Lamp is the perfect combination of a romantic, vintage aesthetic with elevated, modern-day touches like a sleek aluminum body and minimalist brass hardware. What’s more, the Muse Lamp projects a warm, ambient glow that epitomizes cozy, camping nostalgia. Plus, the convenient carrying handle means you can carry the cozy vibes with you anywhere in the house.

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Cozy Bobble Stocking — $34.00

Originally $48, now $34

To spruce up your stocking situation, check out Anthro’s Cozy Bobble Stocking. Made of a wool blend with a soft cotton lining, the Cozy Bobble Stocking is covered in adorable hand-knitted poms for a fun, textured look. Another plus is that you’ll never have to worry about it clashing with the rest of your home decor, due to its creamy neutral color.

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George & Liv, Light Up Holiday Village—Bakery — $27.00

Originally $38, now $27

To really commit to the holiday spirit, why not build a mini Hallmark movie set in your living room? George & Liv’s paper-made holiday village buildings can be set up on a shelf, a mantelpiece, or under your christmas tree for a fun and festive display that you’ll never want to take down. To complete the scene, sprinkle a little “snow” fluff and twinkle lights around this adorable bakery store-front, and collect the other buildings to complete the village.

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Snow Day Pillow — $62.00

Originally $88, now $62

Picture it: a winter wonderland you can cuddle with—that’s what you get with the Snow Day Pillow. The uber soft and squishy pillow comes in three different styles, each with unique embroidery and embellishments that capture a delightful scene on the slopes. According to reviewers, the pillows are larger than you’d think, which can only be a good thing as far as coziness is concerned.

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Embroidered Floral Tree Skirt — $111.00

Originally $158, now $111

This Embroidered Tree Skirt is the answer for folks who want to dress up their Christmas tree without overwhelming it in color. The black and white cotton skirt features friendly little forest dwellers—deer, rabbits, birds, and foxes—and whimsical florals, all beautifully embroidered for that charming, handmade look. The simple, yet spirited skirt makes for a beautiful backdrop for colorfully wrapped gifts, too!

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Georgie Cozy Knitted Throw Blanket — $83.00

Originally $118, now $83

For a blanket that’s as cozy as your favorite cable knit sweater, meet the Georgie Blanket. The plush polyester throw blanket boasts a geometric knit design that varies in width and texture—giving it a one-of-a-kind look you’ll want to keep in your living room all year round. Warm without being too heavy, the Georgie Blanket is surely going to be your cuddle time companion during the colder months.

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Can painting your ceiling to match the walls make a room look larger?

Interior designers Nina Gotlieb and Amee Swarz say a little paint goes a long way, but their opinions diverge when it comes to which color can take a room from cramped up to spacious. Gotlieb says that you needn’t shy away from color—painting the room in a single color (also sometimes known as color drenching) can offer visual breathing room. “It tends to make the surfaces recede,” she says, adding that “it makes the things in the space pop, so that the attention is focused more on the things in the room and less so on the shell of the room.”

For those unfamiliar with color drenching, it’s a painting technique that usually involves covering the entirety of the room (with the exception of the floors) in one bold hue or in similar shades of the same color. “You literally drench a room in color, meaning you pick either one single color or maybe just a few different tones that are close to each other and you paint everything—the walls, the trim, the door, and the ceiling,” says Gotlieb, whose own bedroom is painted all green.

Swarz, on the other hand, says that while color drenching can certainly add more interest to a room, she argues that it can make a space feel “cozy”—or, in other words, smaller—as opposed to opening it up. She is of the mind that white or lighter colors are ideal if you want to make a living space look larger. “A lighter color or painting [the ceiling] white would open it up more,” says Swarz.

In any case, Dr. Augustin says that the color you select for a room can have an effect on your mental state. She recommends selecting a lighter color or one with lots of white mixed into it, which can make you feel relaxed. Conversely, Dr. Augustin suggests avoiding overly saturated hues—she states “turquoise blue” and “pumpkin orange” as examples. According to her, these hues not only make a room seem smaller, but they also can make people feel stressed out.

How to paint your ceiling: a step-by-step guide

Whether the walls in your room are covered in color or all white, you might want to paint the ceiling to match—and if you are, check out the step-by-step guide ahead, and allow Tim Malcolm, a home care expert at Hippo, to walk you through the process.

Tools needed for painting a ceiling

1. Drop cloth

Drop cloth keeps floors and furniture paint-free. They are typically made of canvas, a material that can be washed and used repeatedly, or plastic, which is often less expensive than canvas but is more prone to rips or tears.

CCS Chicago Canvas & Supply, All-Purpose Canvas Drop Cloth — $18.00

With a 4.7-star overall rating on Amazon after more than 9,000 reviews, this canvas drop cloth is a worthy pick for a DIY paint job. It is machine washable so clean-up is easy, and it comes in nine sizes.

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2. Painter’s tape

Painter’s tape helps protect surfaces that you don’t want to paint while allowing you to achieve clean edges. When painting the ceiling, for instance, you might want to use it to mask off the trim and crown molding.

ScotchBlue, Original Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape — $3.00

A popular option among Amazon reviewers, this painter’s tape comes with a near-perfect 4.7-star overall rating after more than 19,000 shoppers chimed in. It has medium-level adhesion to mask off areas you don’t want paint on.

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3. Spackle

Spackle patches up small holes and hairline cracks on the ceiling, and Malcolm recommends using a lightweight spackling compound for the job. Just keep in mind that this formula is typically made for minor surface repairs.

Red Devil, Lightweight Spackling — $10.00

This lightweight spackling compound works to fill in holes and smooth out unsightly cracks. It dries within minutes of application too, so you can paint over it immediately. For a few more dollars, you can purchase it as a kit, which comes with a free putty knife.

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4. Putty knife

If you plan on using spackle, you might want to purchase a putty knife. A putty knife allows you to apply spackle where you want it and scrape off any excess. They come in a variety of materials (plastic, metal, or stainless steel) and blade widths, ranging from narrow to wide.

Warner, Plastic Flex Putty Knife — $1.00

If you’re looking for a low-cost putty knife, you can’t go wrong with this option. The blade is made of a flexible plastic, so you can really smoosh the spackle into holes and cracks. It comes in different blade widths, ranging from 1.5 inches all the way to 6 inches.

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5. Painter’s caulk 

Caulk can seal any gaps and cracks that inevitably develop between two surfaces, such as the drywall and crown molding of the ceiling. There are a wide range of caulk materials available, so it’s important to choose one that’s paintable.

Red Devil, Painter’s Caulk — $10.00

Paintable and resistant to discoloration, stains, and mildew, this caulk is safe to use for interior paint jobs. It goes on white and dries after two hours of application—a feature that many Amazon reviewers love.

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Red Devil, Extreme Duty Caulk Gun — $29.00

This tool is made for the precise application of caulk. Simply press down on the trigger to squeeze the caulk of its tube and to stop its flow, just let go of the trigger. According to Amazon reviewers, it’s made the process of applying caulk so much easier.

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6. 220-grit sandpaper

Sandpaper smoothens down rough spots, making it necessary if you want to achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish. While you’ll be inundated with options that range in terms of abrasiveness—typically measured in grit—Malcolm recommends a 220-grit variety.

Fandeli, 220-Grit Multipurpose Sandpaper Sheets (25-Pack) — $10.00

These 220-grit sandpaper sheets come in a pack of 25 for under $10. They can be used by hand, plus they’re safe to use on a variety of surfaces. If you are concerned about it being too abrasive to use on drywall, you can also find a 150-grit option by the same brand.

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7. Two-inch angled paint brush

Malcolm recommends using a two-inch angled paint brush to paint the perimeter of the ceiling when you apply primer and your first coat of paint. Angled bristles can reach into the nooks and crannies of the ceiling surface, ensuring that no inch is left unadorned.

Wooster Brush, Shortcut Angle Sash Brush — $4.00

With a 4.8-star overall Amazon rating after more than 10,000 reviews, this 2-inch angled brush is a popular choice. It is replete with a flexible handle and its synthetic bristles are ideal to use for most, if not all kinds of paint.

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8. Paint roller cover

A paint roller can quickly distribute onto large surfaces like the ceiling. Paint roller covers will typically vary in terms of material and the thickness of the nap. A nylon or polyester paint roller cover with a 3/8-inch nap might be ideal for painting drywall surfaces with ceiling or latex paint.

RollerLite, Polyester Knit Standard Roller Covers (6-Pack) — $13.00

Made out of a polyester knit with a 3/8-inch nap, these are a great (and inexpensive option) if you’re looking for a paint roller cover. As a bonus, it comes in a pack of six. Use them with a standard 9-inch paint roller.

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9. Paint roller extension pole

The ideal accompaniment to a paint roller, an extension pole allows you to comfortably reach the ceiling. They come in various lengths, but many are also extendable so you can adjust it to the height you need.

Shur-Line, Twist ‘N’ Reach Premium Extension Pole — $21.00

This extension pole is extendable, reaching up to three feet. It weighs less than half a pound too, making it incredibly lightweight. The cushioned handle keeps things comfortable while the paint roller at the end of the pole is compatible with standard 9-inch roller covers.

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10. Paint trays and liners

Paint trays—which are typically made of metal or plastic—hold the amount of paint you want, so you don’t have to dip your paint roller straight into the bucket. You might want to purchase a couple of trays (one for the primer and paint), as well as plastic liners to make clean-up easier.

Wooster Brush, Deluxe Plastic Tray — $5.00

Cheap and functional, this paint tray is ideal for holding your primer and paint. It can carry up to one quart of paint, and it even features a grooved surface so you can load an even coating of paint onto a roller cover—and never too much.

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Wooster Brush, Deluxe Tray Liner (12-Pack) — $12.00

If you want to extend the life of your paint tray and make clean-up a cinch, consider using a tray liner like these ones. They’re made of plastic, and they come in a pack of 12 for just $12. The disposable liners are compatible with the Wooster Brush paint tray featured above.

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11. Six-foot step ladder

When using a paint brush, you’ll likely need a step up to reach the ceilings—and a ladder will come in useful for the task. Malcolm recommends using a six-foot step ladder, which should allow you easy access when painting the ceiling.

Cosco, Signature Series Step Ladder — $170.00

Made of lightweight aluminum, this six-foot step ladder will give you a sturdy leg up when you paint the ceiling. It also has a tray to store paint and other materials that you might need in a pinch. When you’re done using it, the ladder folds up quickly for easy storage.

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12. Primer

Before painting your ceiling in the color of your choice, applying primer is necessary. According to Malcolm, a primer “helps to seal the wall and prevent mold.” Additionally, it can also mask more flaws and prevent any unwanted stains from surfacing after a fresh coat of paint.

Kilz, Multi-Surface Primer, Sealer, and Stain Blocker (1 Gallon) — $24.00

This water-based primer is low odor and leaves behind a mold- and mildew-resistant finish. It hides mild to moderate stains and previously applied colors, offering a clean canvas for paint. The primer takes less than or up to an hour to dry, too.

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13. Paint

When selecting paint, it’s important to select one made specifically for the ceilings or choose a latex-based formula. These will not only make the painting process easier, but also give you the best-looking results.

Benjamin Moore, Waterborne Ceiling Paint — $54.00

Both Gotlieb and Swarz recommend paint from the brand Benjamin Moore. “For budget projects, I always go with Benjamin Moore,” says Gotlieb. “They have so many colors to choose from, and they’re all really good colors.” Swarz echoes the sentiment: “I love the colors,” she says, adding,“I love that they are safe.” The option for ceiling paint featured above, like many of Benjamin Moore products, come in zero-VOC, low-odor formulas.

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Farrow & Ball, Modern Emulsion Paint — $130.00

If you’re willing to shell out more money for high-quality paint, Gotlieb and Swarz recommend Farrow & Ball paint. “The quality of paint is impeccable,” says Gotlieb, while Swarz says, “Their pigments are exquisite.” The paints from their Modern Emulsion line (featured above) come in a range of colors, from white to neutrals and bold hues, and in a flat matte finish. What’s more, you can use them for the ceiling as well as the walls.

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Instructions for painting a ceiling

1. Remove furniture

Relocate as much furniture as possible to another room.

2. Protect the floor and remaining furniture

Cover the floor and the remaining furniture, if any, with drop cloth because the job will be messy. Use painter’s tape over the frame of the door and windows, as well as the ceiling trim and molding to protect against unwanted paint.

3. Patch up cracks, holes, and imperfections

Cover cracks and small holes on the ceiling with a lightweight spackling compound and putty knife, and use caulk to fill any gaps between the drywall and crown molding for a clean finish. Use 220-grit sandpaper to lightly smooth rough patches and remove flaky paint.

4. Clean the ceiling

Wipe down the entire surface of the ceiling to remove dust and debris.

5. Apply primer

Using an angled paint brush, paint the perimeter of the ceiling with the primer. Pour the primer into a lined paint tray and cover the rest of the ceiling with the primer using a paint roller. Let it dry.

6. Sand the primer

Lightly sand the primer. Wipe away dust from the ceiling with a damp sponge and let dry.

7. Paint the ceiling

With a clean paint brush, paint the perimeter of the ceiling surface. Pour paint into a lined paint tray and lightly coat your roller with the paint and with slow and steady strokes, cover the rest of the ceiling. “Aim for multiple coats to cover the ceiling,” says Malcolm.

Frequently asked questions

How can you achieve a clean finish when painting the ceiling?

Malcolm recommends using the proper tools and technique. “Use a roller with an extension pole for more control over excess paint splatter,” he says. “Lightly coat your roller and take slow and steady strokes, aiming for multiple coats to cover the ceiling instead of one heavy coat.”

How can you paint a ceiling without making a mess?

“It’s important to always start by preparing your space,” says Malcolm. “This includes setting down drop cloths, covering furniture and taping exposed edges from moldings to protect them from unwanted paint.” Another pro tip from Malcolm? Use the right paint for the job. “Ceiling paint is thicker and less likely to splatter than wall paint,” he says.

What is the preparation required prior to painting a ceiling?

According to Malcolm, it’s important to inspect the ceiling for cracks, holes, and other imperfections, which a lightweight spackling compound can work to quickly patch up. He also recommends using caulk, which will fill in any gaps between the drywall and crown molding.

“The first thing I do when I wake up is light my candles,” says Aina. “And then sometimes I like to clean out the inside of the vessels when they get a little sooty. Just to make it pretty, keep it cute.” She considers candle maintenance non-negotiable. “One, it’s a flammable object. So you want to make sure you’re burning it and using it responsibly. But two, candles cost money. I don’t want people to pay and not get the full enjoyment out of the product that they have.”

She takes scent very seriously, which is why she launched FORVR Mood, a fragrance-focused self-care brand, in August 2020. After over a decade in the beauty industry as a YouTuber and an influencer, Aina was expected by many to launch a makeup brand. But for her, fragrance made more sense.

“My first dip into beauty was actually through fine fragrance and perfume as a child, because I have hyperhidrosis, so I sweat more than the average person,” says Aina. She says fragrance helped her come out of her shell. “Oftentimes I was in these social scenarios at school and in public where I felt really embarrassed to be around people because I would sweat so much, and obviously sweats stinks and you don’t want to offend people with your body odor. And so I found myself getting to know perfume and fragrance, in general, a bit more because of that.”

After exploring perfumes with her mom, who also has hyperhidrosis (“I would use her perfume collection, and that was how we would bond”), Aina got into candles.

“When you’re hyper-aware of smells because you have hyperhidrosis, you’re also hyper-aware of the smell of your surroundings in general,” says Aina. “I never wanted someone to walk into my house and smell me. So I had to make sure my house smelled perfect too.” The deeper she got, she realized there was a dearth of affordable yet high-quality candles. “Everything is either really expensive and smells good…or you have candles that are very accessible, very affordable but don’t always necessarily have a great throw,” (candle-pro-talk for the distance that the aroma can travel) “and don’t really smell that great. I definitely felt like there was a lack of home fragrance brands that were right in the middle.”

FORVR Mood, which launched its holiday collection, Après Ski, last week, is Aina’s answer to that gap. She offers candles, room sprays, and candle-care tools all for under $40. Learn Aina’s tips for getting the most out of your candles below, because “candle care and maintenance actually does make a difference,” she says.

Forvr Mood Après Ski — $38.00 to $143.00

This collection comprises four new scents—State of Pine, Mallow Dramatic, Holly Berry, and Burr—each for $38. You can also get all four in a set for $143.

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Jackie Aina’s candle care tips to follow this winter and beyond

1. Never blow out a candle

“You can’t just go and blow these candles out,” says Aina. “Have you ever burnt a candle, and then you get halfway through and you’re like, ‘I can’t really smell it anymore?'” She says one of the main reasons that happens is because when you blow and that smoke drifts away, it’s taking fragrance with it. Instead, use a wick dipper to dip the wick into the wax for a smoke-free extinguish, or, use a candle snuffer, taking a few seconds to hold the snuffer over the wick once the fire is out.

2. Make sure your candles always burn evenly

“Have you ever seen when a candle doesn’t form a full burn pool and It starts to cave in the middle,” says Aina. “You don’t want that to happen because you don’t really get to maximize your throw when it’s not fully liquified.” To fix it, “you can use foil hacks to create an artificial tunnel cave to get it to reset.” Just take foil and put it on top of your candle, mirroring the areas where the wax isn’t burning. So if you have a wide wring of dry wax around your candle, use foil to make a tent rim around the rim that’s the same width as the ring. Then burn the candle until the excess wax burns down and the pool is even.

3. Keep the wax free of debris

“Whenever the wick starts to mushroom and peel off, and it falls into the wax, you don’t want to keep it like that,” she says. ” Before, years ago when I didn’t know any better, I would just not dig it out and just re-burn it. That’s affecting the smoke in the air. That’s going to affect the overall burn quality. So you always want to make sure the inside of the candle is clean. Using your wick dipper, you can clean out any debris.”

Forvr Mood Lil' Lit Kit — $32.00

Get everything you need to care for your candles the right way in this kit. “A lot of people don’t understand the candle-care kits and stuff,” says Aina. “They’re not a gimmick. You actually use them. And they’re there for a reason.” It includes a snuffer, a wick trimmer, and a wick dipper.

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“An organized space is my love language!” exclaims Suze Dowling, co-founder and chief business officer of Pattern Brands. “This holiday season, I’m looking forward to giving and receiving simple, well-made products that make daily life more enjoyable.” Below, Dowling and other neatniks share the best gifts for organized people (or, ya know, people that need help getting there, like me…)

The best gifts for organized people, according to experts

For the office

Poketo, According Pro Filer - Large — $48.00

A filing cabinet might not make the most exciting gift. Instead, Dowling recommends this colorful accordion filer that makes doing paperwork actually fun.

“The Poketo Accordion Pro Filer is a great tool to keep my bills, keepsake letters, and paperwork neatly organized thanks to its brightly colored pockets and a sturdy elastic closure to keep everything bundled together,” she says. “I love to give this to my work colleagues or friends who have an important life event ahead, like expectant parents or couples planning a wedding.”

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CB2, Acrylic Trays — $28.00

Katherine DiGiovanni, co-founder of the organization consulting brand, Neatnik, says to never underestimate the power of the tray. Acrylic trays, like these ones from CB2, make desk- and counter-top storage a breeze, while adding a touch of timelessness to the space. “It keeps items on a surface contained and provides a limit to the amount of things one can pile there,” DiGiovanni says. “These elegant and simple trays can be used in an entryway, vanity or dresser, coffee table, bar, or really anywhere you need a little help staying organized.”

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Mustard Made, The Midi Locker — $369.00

Mustard Made makes these adorable lockers you can use as filing cabinets, workspace storage, and more. Open up those doors and you’ll find ample room for stuffing away important paperwork, tools, electronics—really whatever you can think of can be neatly tucked inside. The Midi also comes with two adjustable shelves, hooks, and a cable hole, so you can organize it to your exact liking. And it’s not an eyesore, like so many ugly storage units tend to be. Each locker comes in a rainbow of pretty hues, so you can match your aesthetic seamlessly, or add a pop of color to make your workspace stand out.

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Courant, Catch: 3 — $100.00

By now, you’ve probably seen this linen charging pad somewhere on Instagram. It’s a wireless charging pad that works as soon as you plop your phone on it, keeping wires and cords tucked out of the way. The nest on the other side serves as a catch-all of sorts, perfect for keeping eyeglasses, pens, and other accessories out of the way while you work.

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Rifle Paper Co., Weekly Desk pad — $14.00

Not everyone loves Google Calendar and Gmail. If they prefer a traditional calendar, tuck this calendar pad under their tree this holiday. The floral blotter includes 52 tear-away pages where they can jot down meetings, notes, and ideas. Bonus: It doubles as a mouse pad.

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For the kitchen

Williams Sonoma, Hold Everything Lazy Susan — $35.00

Does your giftee have a hodgepodge of pantry staples in need of organizing (or re-organizing)? Dowling recommends this powder-coated lazy Susan for keeping kitchen things neat and tidy.

“This beauty from Williams Sonoma is worth the hype, ” she says. “From organizing my spices and cooking ingredients in my small cupboards to displaying essentials on the countertop, this is a product I keep using time and time again. It also makes a thoughtful gift for the holidays. Pair this Lazy Susan with your favorite cooking oil, dish towels and kitchen tools for a beautiful and practical present.”

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Messermeister, Acacia Magnetic Knife Block — $130.00

This sleek magnetic block gets prized cooking knives out drawers and off counters, so that they’re organized and close at hand. Made of natural acacia wood, the rounded arch fits neatly on cook spaces and counter tops, securely storing up to 10 blades at a time.

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Caraway, Food Storage Set — $245.00

Everyone’s favorite pan brand just launched the only food storage set you’ll ever need again. This 14-piece kit includes five easy-to-clean glass containers and lids free from any chemicals or harmful coatings you don’t want your leftovers near, plus four food dividers when you don’t want your mashed potatoes touching your chicken. And say goodbye to the avalanche of food storage containers and lids—it also comes with a handy storage organizer, keeping your set neat and tidy when it’s not being used.

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Yamazaki Home, Magnetic Kitchen Organization Rack — $52.00

The Swiss army knife of kitchen tools, this organization rack is the perfect gift for apartment dwellers or friends and family who live in small spaces. It’s a paper towel holder, spice rack, and utensil hanger all in one. Its magnetic design is made to be hung off the refrigerator, freeing up space on countertops and cabinets, no tedious installation required.

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Smart&Cool — Magnetic Cable Ties — $18.00

“Nothing gives organization fanatics quite the dopamine rush and sense of satisfaction of these magnetic silicone bungees,” says DiGiovanni. From hanging notes and photographs on the fridge, to sealing off chip bags and open cookie sleeves, they’re a convenient tool to keep around the kitchen. “You’ll find many ways to use these. A perfect stocking stuffer for the organizers and techies in your life,” she says.

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Bamboozle, Mixing Bowls — $70.00

Got a passionate baker on your shopping list? Get ’em these pastel mixing bowls that nest into each other, making storage easy peasy. Each bowl in the 7-piece set is made from sustainable bamboo fiber thats durable, food-safe, and best of all, dishwasher-friendly. All in all, they’re *chef’s kiss.*

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For the living room + bedroom

Open Spaces, Entryway Rack — $147.00

For the entryway or mud room that needs a little TLC, Nicole Anzia from Neatnik recommends this do-it-all rack from Open Spaces. “We love this shoe rack. It’s sleek, stylish, and versatile,” she says. “You can keep it by the door for shoes, but it can also serve as an end table or really to store anything. It comes in six colors and works with almost any decor or space.”

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Goodee, Makaua - Revistero Pinto — $100.00

Store throw blankets, decorative pillows, shoes, and more in this gorgeous woven basket that’s as beautiful as it is convenient and tidy. Hand-woven by Makaua’s team of artisan weavers in Mexico, the palm leaves basket makes storage a work of art, keeping whatever it is you want to store in it out of the way while doubling as decor. A portion of proceeds are donated directly to Makaua’s mission of employing families in low-income regions, making it a gift that gives back, too.

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"Minimalista" by Shira Gill — $22.00

A coffee table book about organizing that doubles as decor? Yes, please. Ashley Murphy, co-founder and CEO of the luxury home organizing company, Neat Method, suggests wrapping up Shira Gill’s latest book for the holidays. “Her newest book is a beautiful gift for anyone interested in learning about minimalism,” she says. Readers will enjoy step-by-step instructions and guides for trimming down their stuff and leading a clutter-free lifestyle.

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Neat Method, Closet Bundle — $190.00

If your giftees are constantly dodging an avalanche of boots and jackets each time they open their coat closets, this bundle has got them covered. Each kit comes with three sets of hangers, two sets of hanger clips, three medium bins, labels and a label holder. Tl;dr—it’s everything they need to streamline their closet and get tidy, even if it does live behind closed doors.

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Open Spaces, Underbed Storage Bins (Set of 2) — $148.00

Maximize bedroom space with these canvas storage bins that slide seamlessly under the bed. Designed like a suitcase, they make storing extra sheets, linens, sweaters, and more so simple. Since they’re soft, you won’t have to worry about them getting stuck under there, even when they’re brimmed. And if they do peak out, they’ll match your aesthetic thanks to the chic leather handle and neutral coloring.

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Vitruvi, Cloud Cool Mist Humidifer — $229.00

For the organized person who’s already tidied up their space so they can focus on ~aesthetics~. Vitruvi’s stunning humidifier will put your old machine to shame with both its looks and capabilities. With the push of a button, this baby adds moisture to your air in the prettiest way possible, giving you a litany of benefits including deeper sleep, better immunity, and nourished skin and hair. One happy reviewer sums it up quite perfectly: “I aspire to be as chic as this humidifier—I mean, can this humidifier design my house?” 

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For travel

Mark & Graham, Leather Charger Roll Up — $39.00

Looking for a stocking stuffer or compact present they’ll sure to love? You can’t go wrong with this luxe leather roll up that’s perfect for traveling with headphones, chargers, and other tech accessories. “Organized people love to keep all of those unwieldy cords contained,” DiGiovanni says. “This leather roll-up carrier keeps all of your small gadgets, chargers, and cords together in a chic and stylish way. And this carrier can be monogrammed for a personal touch.”

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Poketo, Large 13” Minimalist Folio — $58.00

Similarly, Dowling relies on this pretty vegan leather folio when she’s on the road and need to keep her personals neat and safe. The pretty, flat case is roomy enough to store a 13-inch laptop or table plus more, which folds up and stays tucked thanks to a magnetic clasp.

“I can store my laptop, phone, pens, notes and other important documents in one, beautiful packet that fits neatly in my tote or carry-on,” she says. “This is a great gift for those on the move, as well as people looking to elevate their work-from-home space (and isn’t that most of us these days?!)”

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Bag All, Packing Organizes (Pack of 8)

No jet setter should stuff their carry on without packing cubes—which Anzia dubs the “perfect gift for the traveler in your life.”

“Even organized people sometimes need help keeping their packing process and suitcase organized,” she says. Made from 100 percent cotton, she recommends this handy set from Bag All, which is a Neatnik favorite. Each kit includes three sizes of packing cubes and five different labeled bags, so nothing—not even a stray pair of undies—will get lost on the road.

 

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Dagne Dover, Remi Glasses Case — $75.00

For the friend who never leaves home without their sunglasses comes this convenient foldable case from Dagne Dover. Open it up to find three individual glasses cases stored neatly in a single, protective carrying case you, plus a mesh pocket for lens wipes or contact cases. Its compact design makes it easy to pack into bigger backpacks or suitcases, while its hard exterior protects your glasses from getting ruined. Plus, it hangs, making it easy to store in a closet or on a shower hook in your hotel bathroom.

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Anya Hindmarch, Baby Emergency Kit — $495.00

For parents who are hitting the road with their newborn, Neat Method’s Marissa Hagmeyer, says this Baby Emergency Kit is worth every penny. Inside each patent leather case they’ll find a changing mat and various labelled pockets for all of baby’s belongings, like diapers, lotions, and clean clothes. “While pricey, we think Anya Hindmarch’s Labeled line is so fun,” she says. “This would make a great gift for a new parent.” 

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For cleaning

Dupray, Neat Steam Cleaner — $170.00

For the friend who takes stress cleaning to a whole new level, the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner will give them their deepest clean yet. It heats up to a whopping 275-degrees Fahrenheit which is hot enough to kill germs and bacteria without any chemicals at all. It’s so powerful that 15,000+ Amazon customers have used it for cleaning their tile floors, kitchen appliances, carpet stains, furniture, and more. Your friend will love it.

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The Laundress, John Mayer Out West Gift Set — $39.00

Laundry day just got better, thanks to this detergent and fabric freshener duo recommended by Murphy. It’s made in collaboration with John Mayer (yes, John Mayer) and is formulated to smell what we can only imagine he smells like. Think: musk, black pepper, and rich neroli. Yep—that’s the gift that keeps on giving.

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Blueland, 1 Year of Hand Soap — $50.00

Why give one bottle of hand soap when you can give an entire year’s worth?! Blueland, which makes refillable cleaning and hygiene products better for the Earth, wants you to go into the New Year with clean, healthy hands. You’ll get 18 soap tablets and a forever vessel that swaps single-use plastic for glass. And they smell divine, with scents like zesty lemon, refreshing lavender eucalyptus, and flowery iris.

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Dyson, Pet Grooming Kit — $70.00

W+G’s senior commerce editor, Gina Vaynshteyn, wouldn’t call her house “neat” or “organized,” but the one thing she needs to have a handle on (otherwise her brain explodes) is all the dog fur. With two 90-pound furry dogs, her home gets a layer of black dog hair if she doesn’t vacuum every other day (her go-to is the Dyson Outsize+—the only vacuum she’s found to be able to handle that much shedding) or give her pups frequent spa days. To brush and vacuum at the same time, she uses Dyson’s Pet Grooming Kit (an attachment kit to your Dyson vacuum of choice), which gently brushes and detangles dog hair while sucking it up into the bin. This way, they shed less throughout the week, and she’s not left picking up wads of fur everywhere after brush time. “It’s been a total game-changer,” Vaynshteyn says.

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While there are numerous different low-light plants to choose from for your green-home needs, the following selections are some of the best—and most unique!—options to brighten up your space. Whether you opt for a flowing silver pothos or a wavy rattlesnake plant or one of the other options outlined below, you can’t go wrong with one of the low-light plants to keep you company all season long.

8 low-light plants perfect for fall and winter

Brighter Blooms monstera plant — $50.00

While monsteras grow quicker in bright indirect light environments, they still do really well in low-light situations.

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The Sill ZZ plant with planter — $88.00

ZZ plants love medium to low indirect light. And get this: You only need to water them every three to four weeks. Talk about low-maintenance.

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Bloomscape dracaena marginata open weave with planter — $199.00

This large plant is super eye-catching with its woven stems and spiky leaves. Extra bonus: It removes chemicals from the air.

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Costa Farms snake plant — $22.00

The snake plant is one of the easiest plants to take care of. Aside from being completely happy in low-light situations, it also doesn’t need much water.

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The Sill baby rubber plant with planter — $80.00

The Peperomia obtusifolia—aka the “baby rubber plant”—is pet-friendly, tolerates low indirect light, and sets itself apart from other houseplants with its unique thick green spoon-shaped leaves.

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Silver pothos with planter — $67.00

This isn’t a regular pothos. It’s a cool pothos. It’s fuller, has heart-shaped leaves with silvery-gray markings, and does great in low-light areas.

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Costa Farms mass cane with pot — $70.00

This easy-to-grow mass cane plant, also often known as a corn plant, has pretty green leaves with a golden center, thrives in low-light areas, and comes in a cute sea grass basket.

The Sill calathea rattlesnake plant with planter — $86.00

This unique plant has long, wavy leaves that look look like snake markings. Also cool? Every leaf has a pretty purple underside.

 

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With a big investment like a new couch, you want to make sure it checks all your must-have boxes: comfortable, stylish, easy to clean, and made from materials that will help—not hurt—the planet. Throw quality-made and affordable into the mix and it might start to seem impossible that you’ll find options for sustainable couches that will meet all your criteria.

Helping people check all those boxes was the ethos behind the launch of Designer Looks Furniture‘s new Eco-Performance fabrics made from REPREVE fibers, which are created from landfill-bound plastic bottles and used to cover the brand’s signature style of built-to-last, designer furniture without the designer prices. (P.S. Lots of the sectionals are lookalikes for popular sofas at high-end retailers, but made from sustainable materials for a fraction of the cost.)

“REPREVE collects and retrieves plastic bottles from landfills and from waste areas all over the world and then cuts [them] up into small plastic flakes,” says upholstery merchant Rachel Anderson. “These plastic flakes are then processed, melted, and formed into resin, which is then re-melted in a secondary process to create fiber that will then be spun into yarn.”

This yarn is used in at least 30 percent of the fabrics used in the Make-It-You Eco-Performance collection, Anderson says, which means a three-piece sectional is responsible for upcycling up to 319 plastic bottles.

Plus, Anderson notes that the collection contains more than 20 stain-resistant, eco-friendly fabrics to choose from, so it’s easy to find a texture, color, and design that will fit your decorating aesthetic, no matter which style boxes are on your checklist.

Scroll down for 6 sustainable couches you’ll want to add to your living room ASAP.

Plush 5-Piece Sectional in Liv Arctic, Basket Weave Eco-Performance — $4,800.00

If your idea of a perfect day is sinking into a squishy sofa and cocooning yourself in a blanket with a good book or a rom-com, this lounge-y sectional is for you. The style is reminiscent of the iconic cloud couch (sustainable dupe? Yes please!), while the moisture-repelling, eco-performance fabric makes it easy to clean so you don’t need to worry about dropping crumbs during your movie marathon.

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Bowery 3-Piece Sectional in Broderick Indigo, Woven Eco-Performance — $3,000.00

This cushy, jewel-toned piece makes an automatic statement in any room. Its modern look and curved arms create a flawless mix of elegance and comfort, plus you can customize the seat depth and fabric color to meet all your comfort and style requirements.

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Jasper 2-Piece Sectional in Argo Tropic, Velvet Eco-Performance — $2,160.00

This simple-yet-classic sectional is the perfect pop of color in any small to mid-sized space. Not only can you decide if you want it oriented right- or left-facing, but there are also two cushion options: foam comfort for medium support or hybrid comfort for a soft, memory foam feel. Either way, this sofa will retain its sleek shape after sitting (which means no sagging in sight).

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Haven 2-Piece Media Sofa and Ottoman in Liv Dove, Basket Weave Eco-Performance — $2,520.00

Kick your feet up on the matching ottoman to the couch of your dreams. With extra deep seats and cozy, padded sides, this will be the sofa everyone grapples for during movie nights. Plus, it comes with six accent pillows (each of which equates to 16 upcycled bottles) for max comfort from every angle.

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Winston Sofa in Broderick Flame, Woven Eco-Performance — $1,080.00

Looking for an effortlessly fashionable couch in a stunning, earthy-tone? The clean-cut Winston Sofa will look good in any room. Not to mention, the reversible cushions can easily be flipped to extend their life, ensuring this homey couch will stand the test of time.

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Bowery Chair and a Half in Sublime Cream, Corduroy Eco-Performance — $960.00

After a long day, can you think of anything better than flopping into this thickly cushioned chair? This gorgeous seat will give your space the refresh you’ve been looking for, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that it’s made with up to 65 recycled plastic bottles, making your relaxation time work double time.

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Why you shouldn’t bother with majesty palms

Majesty palms have earned themselves a difficult reputation on TikTok and beyond. While they’re undoubtedly gorgeous, they tend to do this thing where they perish right when you’re getting attached, so we asked Bryana Sortino, co-founder and COO of Horti—a plant subscription service—why majesty palms are such heartbreakers.

“Most indoor palm plants typically require a lot of sunlight and humidity, but are often touted and sold as medium to low light by many plant stores,” says Sortino. “To thrive indoors, majesty palms need six to eight hours of bright light per day and the soil should never dry out completely.” And thus, if you’re living in a little apartment with only a handful of windows and/or your locale only gets a few hours of bright sunlight per day, your majesty palm is bound to die in protest.

According to Sortino, this learning lesson is part and parcel of one of the golden rules of plant care: “One of the most important rules in caring for indoor plants is to try and understand, and then replicate, their natural habitats,” she explains. “In this case, a beautiful Madagascar oceanside.”

The best indoor palm plants to buy

Luckily, there are plenty of indoor palm plants to buy that won’t cause emotional turmoil. “Cat palm, Areca palm, Parlor palm, and Bamboo palm are all great choices,” says Sortino. “They are all palms and require similar care to majesty, but can truly handle indirect bright light—just avoid direct sun.”

The Best Palm Houseplants

Ponytail palm — $24.00

“Ponytail palm—not a palm, but in fact a succulent—needs full sun and is drought-tolerant,” says Sortino. “These creatures are super low maintenance and as long as they’re getting enough sun.” The description of this plant notes that this palm loves a very, very bright room—so make sure your home is up to the task before you order.

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Dracaena Marginata Open Weave — $199.00

This low-light beauty is four to five feet tall and notorious for its air-filtering qualities. Since it’s a little heavy, Bloomscape sells a little saucer on wheels so you can roll it around your home effortlessly until you find that right spot.

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Neanthe Bella Palm — $14.00

Put this plant in indirect sunlight, and it will grow and grow and grow. Make sure to let the top two inches of soil fully dry out before watering this baby.

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Areca palm — $42.00

This Feng Shui-friendly plant is said to foster unity in a household. It prefers indirect sunlight (but not too much) and waterings when the soil has dried out completely.

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Cat Palm — $45.00

Native to southeastern Mexico, the cat palm is a laid-back plant that will thrive in a bright room. Like the Dracaena Marginata, the cat palm is great for boosting air quality.

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Cleaning expert Katrina Keith, owner of Molly Maid of DFW Metro Northwest, a residential cleaning company in Dallas-Fort Worth, says having some tricks up your sleeve will help you keep a neat home with minimal time and effort. All it takes to clean your home quickly is planning ahead and doing the small things that make a big difference. Here are some of her top tips for how to clean your home efficiently.

How to clean your home quickly, according to a professional cleaner

1. Multitask to the max

If you only want to clean your home for 10 minutes a day, the key is to multitask. “Figuring out which chores can be done semi-simultaneously is worth the effort,” Keith says. For example, vacuum or clean out the fridge while your clothes are in the washer or dryer. You can also multitask as you’re going about your daily routine. “While you’re in the shower, for instance, take a squeegee to the shower door or scrub the grout,” she says. “Organizing your to-do list to enable multitasking will allow you to get more done in the same amount of time.”

2. Clean as you go

Another simple way to cut down on how much time you spend cleaning is to tidy up as you go—especially in the kitchen, which tends to be one of the messiest places in your home. “Nothing is worse than baked-on, caked-on food stains in your microwave and oven and on your dishes and counters,” says Keith. “Rinse pots and pans and load the dishwasher while dinner is in the oven.” If you take a few minutes after you eat to wipe down fresh surface splatters and spills before they become stains, it’ll save you a lot of time in the long run.

3. Put things away

Every night, tidy up before you go to bed. Spend a few minutes putting away things that were left out during the day. Straighten up the living room, clear off the bathroom counters, and put away clothes in the bedroom. Cleaning goes a lot more smoothly when you can sweep, vacuum, and wipe down everything quickly without having to put things away first. Plus, you’ll wake up to a tidy home rather than being bombarded by a pile of laundry or products scattered around the bathroom.

4. Assign a day of the week to a particular room

Cleaning your entire apartment or house is going to take some time, so Keith recommends assigning a day of the week to a particular room. “Staying mentally organized is sometimes half the battle when it comes to cleaning and maintaining your home,” she says. “If the only pressure you have on a Monday night is to wipe down the bathroom and tidy up for 10 minutes, it won’t seem so bad. On Tuesday, you can change your sheets and vacuum your bedroom, and so on.”

Spreading out your to-do list over the course of the week will make each task feel less monumental. And if you keep up with it, you’ll never be confronted with a list of cleaning tasks so long that you need an entire weekend to complete it.

From now until September 6, you can save up to 70 percent off(!!!) on home goods that’ll spruce up your space and make it feel like the sanctuary you deserve. For example, I’ve spotted Luxora’s Reversible Quilt Set for just $55 and $69 slashed off a lounge chair that’ll transform the nook of your living room into a reading oasis. Even more, Sealy’s Hybrid Mattress with cooling technology is 47 percent off. From supportive mattresses to ergonomic desk chairs to comfy lounge chairs, there’s a cozy home item that’ll meet every budget and lifestyle.

Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best furniture, appliances, and mattresses from Wayfair’s Labor Day sale to outfit your home. Shop the rest of Wayfair’s Labor Day sale here.

The best of Wayfair's Labor Day sale

Luxora, Microfiber Reversible Quilt Set (3 Pieces) — $55.00

Originally $75, now $55

If your autumn plans include Netflix or Hulu in bed, you’re not going to want to miss a deal on this comfy (and IG worthy) quilt set. What’s included? It comes with two microfiber pillow shams and a quilt, so you can bury yourself under and keep warm as the temps drop.

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Mistana, Ronaldo Upholstered Lounge Chair — $360.00

Originally $429, now $360

Transform the nook of your bedroom into a reading oasis with this upholstered lounge chair. Crafted from solid rubberwood and neutral upholstery, the Mistana chair is as comfy as it is stylish, and blends in nicely into any space. Grab a cup of coffee and commence your fall read.

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Zipcode Design, Baber Desk — $120.00

Originally $150, now $120

If you live in New York, you know the struggle of having to live in an apartment the size of a box (literally me, lol). Instead of downsizing on items, you can buy small space-friendly furniture, including the Baber Desk. Measuring 39.4 inches wide, this desk was designed to fit in the corner of your room while fitting all of your work essentials: laptop, cup of coffee, desk lamp, and all. Whatever doesn’t fit, you can store in the built-in double drawers. Yay for space-saving furniture!

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Lodge, Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven — $67.00

Originally $94, now $67

Fall translates to stew season, and this Dutch oven will help you chef up something hearty in the kitchen. Holding up to 7.5 quarts of liquid, this cast iron distributes and retains heat evenly to boil up stews, veggie soups, and braised beef, and it’s suitable for all stove types. Hand wash to preserve the enameled interior.

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The Twillery Co, Abigail Home Office Ergonomic Chair — $200.00

Originally $300, now $200

More and more people are working remotely, so it’s not a bad idea to invest in an ergonomic chair. This one has lumbar support, back angle and seat adjustment, and an adjustable arms rest to promote good posture. Plus, it comes with a five-wheel base that’s compatible with a variety of floor types (no more floor scratches). Your Zoom meetings got a whole lot comfier.

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Dyson, V8 Animal Cordless Vacuum Cleaner — $400.00

Originally $450, now $400

Got furry friends at home? Chances are, they’re shedding up a storm. That’s why it’s essential to have a good vacuum on deck, and luckily, Dyson’s worth-the-hype Animal cordless vacuum is on sale. With a built-in HEPA filter, the V8 sucks up pet dander and other allergens like dust, dirt, and hair, expelling clean air with each inhale. It’s also lightweight and does double-duty as a handheld vacuum to get hard-to-reach areas (trust me, it’s worth the price tag).

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Sealy, Medium Hybrid Mattress with Copperchill Technology — $579.00

Originally $1,099, now $579

Of all the Labor Day deals, mattresses are where you can save big, and Sealy’s hybrid mattress is 47 percent off. Engineered with a layer of memory foam and cooling gel, Sealy’s mattress molds and supports the unique curvature of your back while cooling you down if things get sweaty. To start snoozing, simply unbox and let the mattress inflate.

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Bissell, Myair Air Purifier — $78.00

Originally $95, now $78

Dustier air is inevitable. For the days when your sneezing or coughing is out of control (or if you live in California and you enter fire season, unfortunately), turn on the Bissell air purifier. Using an activated carbon filter and pre-filter, the purifier captures 99.7 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns like smoke, dust, pollen, and dander. What’s more, it’s ultra-quiet and has an optional night light, making it ideal for bedroom use.

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For the past three years, Cozy Earth—the company behind some seriously dreamy snooze-wares—has earned Oprah’s esteemed seal of approval. Its bamboo sheets, in particular, have won her heart, as she dubbed them, “the softest EVER” in 2019. Now, those sheets (and a smattering of other luxe sleep and home essentials) are up to 25 percent off the normal price, and we’re stocking our carts ASAP.

True to its name, Cozy Earth bedding is the definition of cozy. Its sheets, comforters, and linens are all made using premium viscose from bamboo, giving them a cool-to-the-touch texture while still keeping you warm when the autumn air turns a bit brisk. Its loungewear is just as dreamy, too, perfect for snuggling up with a mug of cider to watch all our favorite harvest Hallmark movies.

Cozy season just got cozier. Save on your new favorite bedding and loungewear essentials below.

Save up to 25% off on these Cozy Earth sale must-haves

Cozy Earth, Queen Linen Bamboo Sheet Set — $166.00

Originally $369, now $166

Cozy Earth launched these sheets earlier in the summer, and they’ve already sold out once. Good news is, they’re back in stock and are worth every penny. At 20 percent off, these bamboo linen beauties are going to put you in a sleep so deep, you’ll be able to cozy up all autumn long.

 

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Cozy Earth, Queen Linen Bamboo Duvet Cover — $153.00

Originally $339, now $153

Does your current duvet need an upgrade? This one is made from the same, linen-bamboo blend as the sheets, giving your insert ultra-cooling, durable protection. (And a beachy look, too boot, so you can carry summer vibes through the fall.) Same as the sheets, it’s already sold out once, but you can add it to your cart now before it does again.

 

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Cozy Earth, Queen Bamboo Sheet Set — $295.00

Originally $369, now $295

These are those sheets Oprah can’t stop raving about. They’re made from viscose from bamboo, so they’re free of any dodgy chemicals that might disrupt your sleep. They’re also super breathable and moisture-wicking, perfect for hot sleepers who want a good snooze sans the night sweats. Now available in four new colors: light gray, charcoal, driftwood, and oat.

 

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The Plush Lounge Sock — $38.00

Originally $48, now $38

Arguably one of the most important autumn accessories, plush socks are always something you want in your arsenal. These ones are pretty much perfect, ideal for padding around on cold mornings when you don’t want to catch a chill. And the colors are so cute, neutral enough to wear season after season.

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Cozy Earth, Stretch-Knit Bamboo Kimono Robe — $104.00

Originally $130, now $104

Hello, luxury. This gorgeous robe makes a perfect gift for the cozy-lover in your life (or, ya know, you.) It’s stretchy without being baggy, and cozy without being too hot or stuffy, so you can sit and sip your coffee in comfort. Paired with the bamboo PJs, and you’ve got yourself a luxe lounge set you’ll never want to take off.

 

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Cozy Earth, Queen Silk Comforter — $671.00

Originally $839, now $671

Chilly season is here, which means it’s time to ditch the super-light quilt with something with a little more ‘oomph. While other comforters can get heavy and stiff, this medium-weight blanket is soft and filled with silk, perfect for snuggling up under whether the temps dip or spike. Here’s your chance to buy the closest thing to a cloud.

 

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Cozy Earth, Women’s Rib-Knit Bamboo Boyfriend Sleep Dress — $69.00

Originally $125, now $69

Meet your new favorite pajama dress. It’s like your favorite college T-shirt, but way better (and probably less beat up). Instead of jersey, it’s made from a rib knit for extra texture and style. Expect the same supreme coolness as the bamboo sheets and long pajamas set, all packed in a chic oversized tee.

 

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Cozy Earth, Standard Silk Pillow — $191.00

Originally $239, now $191

If you and your partner tend to run hot, break up with your memory foam pillows and sleep on cool, crisp silk. It’s technically made from the same bamboo viscose as the sheets, but you’d swear you were sleeping on the real thing. Trust me—you’ll never want to sleep on anything else again. Also available in king sizes.

 

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Cozy Earth, Cloud Knit Throw — $135.00

Originally $169, now $135

Like hoodies and yoga pants, you can never have too many throws. Cuddle up with this Cozy Earth blanket that’s currently on sale. When the inevitable fall rain rolls through and you’ve got more nights on the couch to savor, this dreamy blanket is a must-have.

 

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Shop the rest of the Cozy Earth Presidents’ Day Sale here.