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  • 6 “Smart” Kitchen Upgrades You’ll Regret Not Splurging on, According to Realtors

    6 “Smart” Kitchen Upgrades You’ll Regret Not Splurging on, According to Realtors

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    Unlike in other parts of the home, when it comes to smart tech in the kitchen, there can be a fine line between utility and gimmick. Several designers and real estate pros were quick to point out their least-favorite smart “upgrades” in the kitchen for everyday use, and as Laura Chappetto, principal designer at Element Design Network, sums up, “Much like anywhere else in life, some tech can bring ease and convenience … but too much can be overwhelming and remain unused.”

    So what’s the sweet spot? What appliances can you add to your kitchen that will actually enhance your aesthetic, simplify your life, and possibly increase your home value? I talked to design experts, Realtors (and real home cooks!) for the best kitchen upgrades you’ll regret not splurging on.

    “Hands down, smart lighting is the most popular and accessible smart upgrade,” says Angelique Kreller, an interior designer with Australian brand Yabby. Sebastian Jania, owner of Ontario Property Buyers, adds that there’s great bang for your buck on this investment, since “it’s relatively inexpensive and the kitchen experience can be greatly enhanced by this. Dimming, color adjustments, scheduling, and other capabilities are available with smart lighting, which can consist of switches, fixtures, and light bulbs that can be operated via voice commands or applications,” he says. 

    Ariel Baverman, a top Realtor for Coldwell Banker Realty, says she puts smart bulbs in regular fixtures so she can turn on all or some of the lights in a room without even getting up. “Also, I can turn them on and off remotely or by command, meaning if my hands are full carrying things at night, I don’t have to put them down and won’t be stumbling around in the dark.”

    While technically not a kitchen or cooking appliance, the washer and dryer can often be found in the kitchen due to the convenience of sharing a water line. If this is the case, having smart laundry appliances can add a lot of appeal and usefulness to its nook in the kitchen. 

    “The big draw on those is a remote start and being able to see if the cycle is complete,” Baverman says. “App connectivity lets you know where it is in the cycle. And if you go to work all day and don’t want your clothes to sit there wet, you can load it up in the morning and start it remotely to sync with the time you get home, then put it in the dryer immediately. Or, if you’re one of those people who just forgets that you put a load in the wash, the app will remind you!” Goodbye, mildewy rewashes!

    Built into your range or wall, smart ovens are conventionally sized ovens that allow you to control and monitor their functions through an app. Chappetto says they’re even the “most-loved smart appliance in our clients’ homes.” Sell My House Fast Owner and Founder Daniel Cabrera adds that the preprogrammed settings common to them “facilitate better results for home cooks — it’s an investment you’ll never regret, especially when the situation requires precision and convenience.” 

    Kreller confirms that preprogrammed settings can be particularly valuable for home cooks, taking the guesswork out of cooking by adjusting the temperature and time based on the dish. “It’s nice to be able to put your dish in the oven and trust it will be hot and perfectly cooked when dinnertime rolls around,” she says. Jania adds that it’s especially nice to be able to control and keep an eye on your cooking while running errands or being elsewhere. 

    Additionally, Baverman adds a spiritual note to the value of smart oven functionality. “Some people also like having a Sabbath feature on their wall ovens or ranges because depending on how observant you are, these settings can help you have hot food during Shabbat and other holidays where turning on and off a ‘fire’ or power is prohibited.”

    4. Countertop Smart Ovens

    If you don’t want to splurge on a high-end built-in smart oven, no worries. They come in countertop sizes, and Braverman says she “loves” hers. “They often have an air-fryer setting, and if you’re cooking for just one to two people, it’s the perfect size for my Le Creuset stoneware baking dishes for cooking or reheating.” She’s used the programs for chicken, fish, steaks, burgers, cookies, and mini pizzas, yet is impressed that “there are still dozens of settings I haven’t even yet explored on it, even though I’ve had it for years!”

    5. Digital Pressure Cookers

    “Anything with a timer to delay start is really great, especially for people who can prep the meal ahead of time like an in-appliance mise en place,” Baverman says. And best of all, they’re useful investments you can take with you into any home.  

    For instance, slow cookers do all the work of making dinner for you while you’re out during the day. You can program micro computerized rice cookers to start cooking or steaming your meal to be ready at a specific time, and digital pressure cookers cover nearly any kind of cooking. “There’s nothing better than setting things up in a cooking appliance so that it starts later in the day, and I can come home to a freshly cooked meal,” she says. 

    Some of us can’t go without our morning joe, and programmable coffee makers have been around for quite some time. Kreller enjoys the freedom of being able to have fresh-brewed coffee “before you even step into the kitchen,” and advanced technology has made it possible to go far beyond your old-school drip. For instance, different models like the KitchenAid KF8 fully automated espresso machine or the Spinn coffee maker can make espresso, Americanos, cappuccinos, cold brew, and a medley of other barista-level concoctions using centrifugal brewing tech via one tap, or even directly from an app.

    Making Your Kitchen “Smarter”

    Other than lighting swaps, some of the brightest “smart” choices you can make for your kitchen are ones you can take with you, making them a doubly beneficial investment. For big buys, smart ovens might be the only major built-in kitchen appliance worth splurging on, unless your washer and dryer are also located in the kitchen and you plan on leaving them behind, according to the pros. Either way, the most important thing to keep in mind is how often you plan to use the features these appliances offer to justify the upgrade.

    Do you have a favorite “smart” kitchen upgrade you swear by? Let us know in the comments below!

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    Su-Jit Lin

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  • Joanna Gaines Just Released Owala Water Bottles in Two “Beautiful” Colors (I Need Both!)

    Joanna Gaines Just Released Owala Water Bottles in Two “Beautiful” Colors (I Need Both!)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    If you follow Joanna Gaines, you might find yourself getting lost in her Instagram, mesmerized by her elegant sourdough bagel-making or her beautifully decorated kitchen. The interior designer and host of Magnolia Table has built a dedicated following.

    Recently, she announced the launch of a new collaboration subtly on her Instagram stories, and shoppers are racing to get their hands on her latest drop. 

    The 24-ounce insulated stainless steel water bottle, priced at $27.99, is available exclusively at Target. It comes in two gorgeous fall-inspired colors: “Copper Bells,” a warm rusty brown, and “Peace Pine,” an earthy olive green. This bottle features a built-in easy-clean straw and a wide-mouth opening, allowing you to enjoy your water in two different ways. It can keep your drinks chilled for up to 24 hours and includes a convenient carry loop, ideal for attaching to your bag during those autumn hikes among the vibrant foliage.

    On TikTok, this collaboration featuring Owala water bottles is gaining popularity, with excited fans and shoppers rushing to Target to get their hands on the collection.

    One person commented on this clip detailing a shopper’s journey heading to Target to get the water bottle, “It’s so pretty!” While another person called out how empty the shelves were, saying, “Target, it’s time to stock up.”

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    Ashia Aubourg

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  • This Forgotten Detail Instantly Dated My Newly Redone Kitchen Cabinets (But the Fix Was Easy!)

    This Forgotten Detail Instantly Dated My Newly Redone Kitchen Cabinets (But the Fix Was Easy!)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    Painting cabinets and swapping out the knobs and pulls are always the easiest first steps when it comes to a no-demo kitchen reno. And fortunately, it’s a (relatively!) affordable and approachable way to dramatically change the look of your kitchen. With only swapping wall paint and one fixture, my 1950s kitchen got a whole new look by trading a black-and-white paint job on the cabinets for a dark green. But as soon as I was done, I realized I’d made a mistake. 

    These were the original cabinets, and I had failed to notice one little detail: The hinges were a shiny finish and style that screamed out-of-date. Now, if I were beholden to all things original all the time, I’d want to keep them as is. But in an effort to bring the kitchen into 2024, with just some fun nods to the era (hello, vintage pink wall oven!), my plan was to add some contemporary hardware to the cabinets. Realizing anything I liked would clash with the vintage chrome hinges stopped the plan in its tracks. 

    And I stayed frozen — until talking with a cabinet refinishing specialist. I wasn’t sure if it would be a huge lift to replace the hinges, as I was sure I wanted something hidden, or something that better matched the rest of the kitchen. Brandon Butler owns Louisville Cabinet Rehab here in my city, and he was kind enough to talk me through how to replace those old, dated hinges (which is easier than it sounds!). 

    He said what we most likely have here is chrome. Thanks to an electroplating process that made it easy to mass produce hardware, that was incredibly popular in the 1950s, and although it may not be quite as simple as popping off a knob or a drawer pull, it’s a simple enough project to DIY, Butler said. (Although preferably, it would have been done at the same time as painting the cabinets, but I digress.) 

    How to Replace Outdated Kitchen Cabinet Hinges

    If you’re an avid DIYer, you should have no problem making the swap. He recommends using a drill to carefully loosen the screws on each hinge, then remove the screws and hinges. Be sure to keep your cabinet doors in order, or even stick a piece of tape on each one along with the opening it goes to, identified with numbers so you’ll know which one goes to which when you’re done.

    It’s easy to find replacement hardware hinges; a quick search turned up a slew of options like these at Lowe’s, or these on Amazon, and for anyone with a heftier budget, these beauties at Rejuvenation. Just be sure you’re getting the same style, i.e. surface-mounted (although if yours are hidden, this may not even be an issue!). And remember to check that the size will more or less match up with the ones you’re replacing. 

    What’s even better news? The holes don’t actually have to line up — which would really narrow down your hinge options — according to Butler. His tip if they don’t: Get some thin, double-stick tape, place it over the hole you’re going to use to mount the new hinges, drill through it, and put your screw in. You might have to tap out new holes for the others, he says, but the plate will cover the old ones. 

    And that’s it! I wish I’d done it when the cabinets were being painted, but I feel confident enough now to pick out some hardware, then find hinges that will match and make the swap. Before long, without too much of a time or money commitment, we’ll have beautiful, original cabinets that don’t scream 1957.

    Buy: Berta Full Overlay Frameless Soft Closing European Hinges, Set of 6, $12.88

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    Dana McMahan

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  • If You Spot This “So Cute” Halloween Find at HomeGoods, Grab One for Your Kitchen

    If You Spot This “So Cute” Halloween Find at HomeGoods, Grab One for Your Kitchen

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    If the cooler weather and changing leaves outside make you excited for all things fall and spooky season, then you are going to want to make a trip to your local HomeGoods as soon as humanly possible. Shoppers are absolutely loving the latest baking find on HomeGoods shelves: cast-iron cauldron measuring cups. They’re perfect for anyone who loves all things witches and Halloween.

    You can now find a set of iron cauldron measuring cups at your closest HomeGoods. The retailer offers four tiny cast-iron cauldrons with different measurements that are often used while cooking and baking: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, and 1 cup. Each cauldron has tiny circle handles on each side, they stack together nicely so they don’t take up too much space in your cabinet. Or your countertop, because, hey, they would make for a cute spooky decoration in your kitchen.

    While HomeGoods does not sell its products online, you can grab the whole set in store for $14.99 — if you can find it, of course. With so much customer interest, we have a feeling these mini cauldron measuring cups are going to sell out fast. Better make a trip to HomeGoods before they fly off the shelves. You can also check T.J. Maxx and Marshalls for the item because the stores often sell the same or similar items.

    HomeGoods shoppers are loving this new find so much, they’re actually asking the original poster @bakedrizzledust on Instagram to take the video down so less people will discover them, giving shoppers a better chance of actually finding them at their local stores. “Omg, need this for my witchy kitchen,” writes an enthusiastic HomeGoods fan. “My ghouls! I need these,” jokes another.

    Now with the perfect spooky measuring cups, it’s time to bake all of your favorite Halloween treats, like these ghost cookies or this graveyard cake. Or for something with fall vibes that isn’t exactly Halloween inspired, we’re big fans of these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and these maple doughnut bars.

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • These “Gorgeous” $12 Cups at T.J. Maxx Are Already Flying Off the Shelves for Halloween

    These “Gorgeous” $12 Cups at T.J. Maxx Are Already Flying Off the Shelves for Halloween

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    Looking to upgrade your glasses for the spooky fall season ahead? Then you’re going to want to take a trip to T.J. Maxx soon. The discount retailer has adorable new sets of its popular icon glasses, with fall icons that are perfect for those spooky cocktails you can’t wait to make as soon as the weather gets colder.

    You can grab three different icon glasses at T.J. Maxx — pumpkins, ghosts, or bats — for only $12.99 a set. These old-fashioned tumblers hold 12-ounces of liquid, making them the ideal glass to have when it’s time to mix your favorite fall cocktails, like this autumn sweater cocktail, a Sazerac, or a black magic sangria. These glasses are clear, with hand-painted icons dotted around the glass.

    If you want something that’s even more colorful and on-theme, you can snag these dotted painted icon glasses, still $12.99 a set. There are orange glasses with black cats, and black glasses with white ghosts. The glass sizes are still 12 ounces, similar to the other icon glasses.

    Shoppers are excited about these new icon glasses, saying they “need” to snag a set (or a few sets) as fall and Halloween draw closer and closer. “They’re so good,” comments one eager shopper. “BRB going now,” says another shopper ready to make a trip to their local T.J. Maxx.

    If you can’t find these glasses at your store, don’t worry; there are other ways you can get your hands on similar spooky icon drinking glasses. Crate & Barrel has similar glasses with ghosts, pumpkins, spiders, and bats. These glasses are a bit pricier at $12.95 each, but with the different options this means you can mix and match your set. Want to buy one of all four? Crate & Barrel makes that possible.

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • The Simple Appliance Cord Solution We’re Using Everywhere

    The Simple Appliance Cord Solution We’re Using Everywhere

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    When you’re buying new kitchen appliances (especially ones that are as beautiful as they are functional), it makes sense that you’d want to keep them on display. After all, who has time to delve into the backs of their cabinets every time they want to make some toast or brew a cup of tea?

    However, one less-than-ideal thing that comes with having lots of appliances is that they come with cords that can quickly look messy. To solve this, a TikToker shared two creative hacks on how to keep them in order and (mostly) out of sight.

    TikToker @ash.tho often shares home and lifestyle content with their 267,000 followers. In a series called “Everything Has a Place,” they share small changes that can make a big difference when it comes to apartment living. In one clip that now has over 206,000 likes, they show how you can easily keep your countertops tidy for free with cable ties off of bread packaging, or for just a few bucks, cord holders that can easily be stuck onto the side of appliances.

    “You already know I love hiding things behind other things,” they began. “So that I never have cord showing, I’ve spent my whole life using these, like, twist ties that you get on bread.”

    While that’s a genius method in itself, it can get a little bit fiddly. In an upgrade from their twist tie hack, they have begun using special cord holders that make things so much easier.

    “They’re backed with adhesive, you can put it on the actual item or the outlet itself, “and you just wrap the cord around,” they explained.

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    Emma Kershaw

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  • The $3 Grocery I Never Leave IKEA Without (It’s the Most Underrated Item!)

    The $3 Grocery I Never Leave IKEA Without (It’s the Most Underrated Item!)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    More than Scandi-style furnishings, a BILLY bookcase, and plant-based wax tealight candles, what gets me excited on a shopping trip to IKEA is filling my shopping cart with sandwich cookies. Yes, that’s right. Give me a package — or a few — of these $2.49 Kafferep cookies over the Swedish chain’s Swedish meatballs. 

    What’s So Great About KAFFEREP Biscuits?

    These sandwich cookies actually come in two flavors: Rainforest Alliance Certified chocolate and raspberry. The fruit-based one is my favorite. Both flaunt a cute heart-shaped cut-out with the filling visible (and enticing!). It’s rare to find a raspberry-flavored cookie that’s not a sticky mess, but these fit the bill. The cookie itself is vanilla, much like a golden Oreo.

    Another aspect I love is the tidy roll they’re wrapped in — no plastic trays that just get tossed in the trash. 

    The story about how I discovered these cookies is like most grocery items: by accident. I’ve been shopping at IKEA for about two decades now, including when I lived in Southern California during my 20s and needed cheap-but-stylish furniture, along with kitchen items in my modest two-bedroom home near the beach. I used to beeline to the kitchen-gadget and closet-organizing sections and completely ignore the groceries.

    But when an IKEA store opened near me in Milwaukee a few years back, it was time to start peeling back the layers of this mammoth retailer. Now I didn’t have to shove everything in the car and then haul it back from the Chicago area. I could also visit as often as I like. One day I came home with one package each of the sandwich cookies — and I haven’t stopped doing this since. It helps that the groceries are near the check-out lines at IKEA … as a little reminder.

    What’s the Best Way to Enjoy KAFFEREP Biscuits?

     Swedes have a coffee-break tradition called fika where coffee is paired with cookies. If these cookies are in my pantry, they are on rotation with my afternoon cup of coffee, as I find it too sweet to be a morning snack.

    One winter I even stuffed these in my husband’s Christmas stocking, as they fit perfectly and I know he loves them as much as I do.

    Buy: KAFFEREP Biscuits with Raspberry-Flavored Filling, $2.49 for 6 ounces at IKEA

    What are your favorite IKEA groceries? Tell us about them in the comments below.

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    Kristine Hansen

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  • HomeGoods Is Already Selling the Most “Adorable” Pumpkin Wine Glasses That You’ll Use All Fall (for Only $10!)

    HomeGoods Is Already Selling the Most “Adorable” Pumpkin Wine Glasses That You’ll Use All Fall (for Only $10!)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    If you’re a lover of all things fall and pumpkins, then you’re going to want to make a trip to HomeGoods. The discount retailer now has sets of gorgeous pumpkin glasses on sale that you’ll want to get before they sell out.

    These glass pumpkin glasses feature a regular drinking glass design on the top with rounded edges that make the glass sparkle under the light. But the real draw for these drinking glasses is the stem. Instead of a traditional skinny stem, these glasses are settled on top of an orange glass pumpkin, complete with a decorated glass green stem in the middle. The rounded edges give this glass a classic look, perfect for anyone who loves fall decor that is subtle yet still chic.

    Shoppers are, of course, ecstatic about these new glasses, claiming that they are “going to be so popular.” A shopper writes, “These are so adorable.” Another exclaims, “I’m in love” and “I’m gonna have to run back for it!”

    Some are even saying that these glasses would work perfectly as tiny vases as well, perfect for mini floral designs on large tablescapes. For perfect Thanksgiving table settings, perhaps? Some even think a battery tea light would look cute in these glasses for simple centerpieces as well.

    These glasses are sold at $9.99 each, which means you can buy as many or as little as you desire. Want a set of six? Or maybe just one for your desk? These work for them all! But be sure to make a trip to HomeGoods as soon as possible; shoppers have a feeling these will fly off the shelves faster than you think. Or you can purchase a set online at T.J. Maxx!

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • Five Below’s New “Adorable” $15 Pot Will Make You So Excited for Fall Cooking (It’s Shaped Like a Tomato!)

    Five Below’s New “Adorable” $15 Pot Will Make You So Excited for Fall Cooking (It’s Shaped Like a Tomato!)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    If you need smaller pots because you’re cooking for one, then you’re going to want to get your hands on the newest adorable ceramic pot at Five Below in the shape of a tomato or a dumpling. Yes, you read that correctly. The store is selling pots in the shape of your favorite foods.

    These $15 ceramic pot sets are not only perfect for decorating your kitchen counter, but also serve well for your favorite easy weeknight dinners for one, tasty appetizers like hot honey baked Brie or vegan white bean artichoke dip, or even one-bowl desserts. These ceramic sets both come with round bottoms with handles for easy carrying, and are oven and microwave safe. The lids of these pots are what make the shapes unique and whimsical; one in the shape of a tomato, the other in the shape of a dumpling. with beveled edges and cartoon eyes. Both of these lids have handles for easy removal.

    Shoppers are loving these Cerla ceramic pot sets, as well as other clever new finds as families prep for the busy back-to-school season ahead. “Great stuff for dorm rooms,” one enthusiastic shopper comments on Instagram. “I need everything right now,” writes another.

    While these particular pots are not sold on Five Below’s website quite yet, there are other cute ceramic trinkets you can snag on the website that are perfect for decorating your kitchen space. This croissant-shaped trinket box is perfect for keeping small things organized, like holding chip clips. There’s also this oat milk ceramic container perfect for holding pens, or even a bouquet of fresh flowers!

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • I Used a Shoe Rack to Organize My Kitchen Bakeware and I Feel Like a Total Genius

    I Used a Shoe Rack to Organize My Kitchen Bakeware and I Feel Like a Total Genius

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    I’ve been in an organizational groove for a while now. Tackling closet clutter, turning an awkward pantry into functional space, and making surfaces sparkle (instead of overwhelmed with stuff) has been my jam lately. But there’s been one category in my home that’s consistently eluded me: kitchen bakeware. 

    What’s a lady to do with all those baking dishes, pie pans, muffin tins, and roasting pans? I scoured the internet and scrolled relentlessly on Amazon trying to find bakeware organizers that fit my needs. None fit the bill. I even purchased a couple racks and storage solutions and ended up huffing and sending them right back to the supplier. They felt flimsy, didn’t fit the space, and honestly just didn’t look that great. 

    I gave the conundrum some space for a bit, and then it hit me one day while organizing another area of my home: the shoe rack! A light bulb went off in my head as I realized that this might just be the perfect solution. It was the right size, had multiple shelves, was super sturdy, and looked clean. 

    I did a few quick measurements and then snagged this Bamboo Three-Tier Shoe Rack Bench. The day the product arrived I eagerly put it together, which wasn’t difficult at all. It came with the necessary Allen wrench, parts, and simple instructions. The whole process took about 15 to 20 minutes. 

    Once built, I pulled everything out of my lower cabinet — where bakeware dishes teetered dangerously on top of each other — and got rid of duplicates or unusable items. Then I popped the bamboo rack into the space and began giving every item its own place. I actually ended up only needing the lower two shelves (I repurposed the top shelf in another cabinet).

    Larger pans and dishes fit beautifully on the two shelves and underneath. The shoe rack was so effective at organizing my bakeware that there ended up being some additional space in my cabinet to the right side of the rack, which allowed me to set up an additional small shelf that I had lying around. 

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    Wendy Rose Gould

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  • T.J. Maxx Is Selling the Most Adorable “Cottagecore” $13 Kitchen Find

    T.J. Maxx Is Selling the Most Adorable “Cottagecore” $13 Kitchen Find

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    If you’re a fan of all things cottagecore, specifically the decor trend that focuses on whimsical mushroom tea mugs and serving trays, then you’re going to love the latest decor find over at T.J. Maxx. Head over the glassware section next time you’re at this popular discount store and grab these gorgeous glasses, sold in sets or separately, depending on your specific drinkware needs.

    This set of two Mushroom Engraved Double Old Fashioned Glasses are made of glass with beveled engraved mushroom icon accents dotted around the surface of the glass. They hold 12 ounces of liquid, perfect for your favorite happy hour cocktail like mezcal margaritas, whiskey sours, or even the classic old fashioned. They’re hand-wash only, so you’ll want to treat them with special care when you wash them. This set is available for $12.99 both on T.J. Maxx shelves, or you can order a set online for pickup or delivery. Don’t feel like buying a set? You can also purchase these glasses separately for $5.99 each.

    These particular glasses feature little red and white mushrooms, but there are other designs you can find in T.J. Maxx as well. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or the classic cottagecore decor, you could also purchase these icon glasses with flamingos for more of a tropical vibe. Some locations may also have beveled cherries around the edges, perfect for sparkling cherry rosé sangria. Or buy a set of four glasses with white daisies on them for $14.99.

    Shoppers are loving these glasses, calling them the “viral icon glasses” on social media. People are excited to grab these “adorable” glasses at their local T.J. Maxx and buying multiple sets at a time.

    Buy: Set Of 2 Mushroom Engraved Double Old Fashioned Glasses, $13

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • The Kitchen Hardware That Makes Your Home Look Instantly Dated (and What to Do Instead!)

    The Kitchen Hardware That Makes Your Home Look Instantly Dated (and What to Do Instead!)

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    The kitchen isn’t just a place for cooking and eating — it’s the central hub of the home and a great place to show off your personality. However, outdated hardware can easily tarnish the aesthetic, both metaphorically and literally. From worn-out cabinet handles to old-fashioned faucet designs, these seemingly minor details can make a big impact, turning a once-trendy kitchen into a very dated space.

    To be sure your kitchen is up to date (and stays that way), I talked to top interior designers to learn about which kitchen hardware will stay on trend for years to come — and, just as importantly, which ones make your space look instantly dated.

    Outdated Kitchen Hardware

    I hate to break it to you, but crystal knobs are out. According to Joyce Elizabeth Huston, cofounder and lead designer at Decorilla, “not only do they look dated, but they look out of style and cheap at the same time.” While these kinds of knobs were once loved for their glamorous appeal, they’ve fallen out of favor. Most have intricate designs that often clash with the sleek, minimalist style that characterizes contemporary kitchens. 

    2. Highly Decorative Cabinet Handles

    As the saying goes, less is more, and highly decorative cabinet handles can be too much for the space. Their elaborate patterns and ornate detailing don’t complement kitchens like they used to. “Handles that have intricate designs can look beautiful, but they will also make your kitchen feel and look less contemporary,” explains TileCloud interior designer Courtney Cole.

    Plus, practicality plays a role in why they aren’t as popular; the complex designs can make them hard to clean, letting dust and grime accumulate in the crevices. As Huston says, “They definitely were used in the 1800s, but not anymore.”

    “If you want your hardware to be modern, then ceramic knobs are out,” Huston says. Their colorful and unique patterns, while adding a touch of rustic or vintage charm, now seem out of place in modern kitchens, which more often highlight clean lines and minimalist design. “[Ceramic knobs] are pretty common in older homes, but because they were so popular decades ago, they’ll make your home feel a bit stuck in the past,” Cole adds. What’s more, ceramic knobs can be fragile and prone to chipping or cracking, making them less durable than other hardware.

    4. Overly Industrial-Themed Hardware

    Overly industrial-themed hardware was once a top choice when it came to adding a rugged, edgy flare to kitchens, but it has started to feel dated in recent years. “While it became popular during the ‘farmhouse’ era, the pieces will instantly date your space,” says Will Zhang, director of design and product innovation at Emtek. “With the kitchen being a place we spend so much of our time, it’s better to avoid anything too trend-focused and instead opt for timeless pieces.”

    These overly industrial hardware pieces often feature heavy, bulky designs with raw finishes like exposed screws, dark metals, and rough textures, which can make a space feel more like a factory than a home kitchen. While industrial elements can add character, when overdone, they can overwhelm the space and make it feel less warm and welcoming.

    Timeless Kitchen Hardware

    Don’t worry, I also asked the experts what you should opt for instead of the dated features above. “If you want your kitchen to look more contemporary and modern, you should look for products that are more streamlined and polished in the way they look,” Cole says.

    “When it comes to kitchen hardware, the simpler the knob or the pull the better,” Huston explains. “This Kela Matte Black Metal Cabinet is a great option because it has a sleek, simple, contemporary design. Black is my favorite because it’s sophisticated yet very versatile.” Additionally, one of the best things about simple knobs is that they’re minimalistic, making them timeless even if other parts of your kitchen change. “This Center to Center Bar Pull is another classic yet modern option that is great for the more traditional person but also has a very sleek aesthetic,” she adds.

    2. Brushed Nickel Hardware

    Without a doubt, brushed nickel hardware has a classic appeal. “Hardware in a brushed nickel colorway will make your kitchen look timeless and elegant, but without the dated feeling that sometimes comes with timelessness,” Cole says. Plus, brushed nickel can seamlessly hide fingerprints and smudges.

    “Another modern option is to go for chrome hardware,” Cole says. “The shine of chrome makes a kitchen look more clean, and because it reflects light, will make the space look more open and warm. This is one of my favorites in the kitchen, particularly if you want an über-modern aesthetic.” What’s more, the polished surface of chrome hardware creates a clean, contemporary look that complements a variety of kitchen styles, from minimalist to industrial. 

    The Final Verdict on Kitchen Hardware

    ​​“When making selections, it’s important to ask yourself if this is a decision you will still agree with in five-plus years,” Zhang says. “Additionally, I always recommend considering if the hardware works outside of the kitchen by taking into account the home’s theme and architecture. Finding continuity between your kitchen hardware and the home’s overall aesthetic typically leads to decisions that work better and last longer.” With all of these considerations in mind, now you’ll know exactly what to pick when you opt for kitchen hardware.

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    Lauren Harano

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  • The Gorgeous $10 HomeGoods Gem That Shoppers Say They “Absolutely Need”

    The Gorgeous $10 HomeGoods Gem That Shoppers Say They “Absolutely Need”

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    After years of cooking and baking in my kitchen, I have come to appreciate the art of mise en place. It’s the French culinary practice of “putting in place,” or gathering your ingredients before working on your recipe, which makes it easier to grab what you need without having to worry about scrounging in the pantry or fridge in the middle of cooking. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve messed up a recipe simply because I needed to grab an ingredient and something overflowed in a pot or deflated in a pan. Needless to say, I prepare everything beforehand, and I love to make the process an aesthetically pleasing experience. And thankfully HomeGoods has just what I need to perfect the art of mise en place.

    The discount retailer is selling a set of ceramic measuring cups that are perfect for anyone who loves adding a little color to their kitchen. No, they’re not normal measuring cups or simple bowls — they’re in the shape of produce! That’s right: You can snag measuring cups in the shape of strawberries, lemons, oranges, and peppers for just $9.99 a set. Each set comes with four cups: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, and 1 cup.

    Not only are these cups great for your baking projects and your mise en place, but they also work well as cute serving bowls for small snacks when you have guests over. Olives, nuts, or even a homemade snack mix would all fit perfectly in these cups. Unfortunately the cups are not available online, but Amazon offers a similar product on its website.

    The measuring cups from HomeGoods are made of ceramic, which means they can withstand hot foods if needed. However, to keep the intricate detail without any chipping, it’s probably best to use these measuring cups with room-temperature or cold foods, and to wash them by hand.

    Buy: Lemon Shaped Measuring Cups, $23

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • Five Below Is Selling the “Most Beautiful” $5 Kitchen Find (It Doubles as Decor!)

    Five Below Is Selling the “Most Beautiful” $5 Kitchen Find (It Doubles as Decor!)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    Attention, lemon lovers! If you adore all things citrus decor during the warm summer months, then you’re going to want to make a trip to Five Below as soon as possible. This discount retailer is now selling a gallon-size ceramic drink dispenser that is in the shape of a lemon slice, and shoppers are very excited about it.

    This lemon dispenser holds a gallon of your favorite cold beverages. It has a glass dispenser and spigot that makes it easy to dispense drinks into cups during your next summer get-together. The top of this dispenser has a twist seal to keep the drink protected, and the dispenser is BPA-free. You can find this Lemon Glass Dispenser in Five Below stores, or you can purchase it for $5.

    The dispenser is only meant for cold beverages, but we don’t think it will be a problem when there are so many great batch cocktails and beverages you can fill up in this dispenser to serve to your family and friends. We particularly love making batches of this sparkling watermelon sangria, Peruvian pisco punch, and grilled pineapple mojitos. Or for something nonalcoholic, you can’t ever go wrong with a batch of green tea lemonade. Or how about something unique like this creamy strawberry lemonade? Speaking of strawberries, the drink dispenser also comes in a berry shape that is available for in-store pickup.

    Now that you have the perfect drink dispensers for hosting this summer, you might as well get some festive fruit drinking tumblers to match. These strawberry-shaped tumblers come with lids and straws for just $3 each, or grab these fruit tumblers with handles and straw toppers for $5.

    Shoppers are so excited about this new addition to shelves they’re commenting they “need” to grab it this summer, and plan on making a trip to the store as soon as possible to pick up all of the fun lemon-themed goodies currently at Five Below.

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    Kiersten Hickman

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  • We Gave Two Interior Designers $50 to Shop at HomeGoods— Here’s Everything They’d Buy

    We Gave Two Interior Designers $50 to Shop at HomeGoods— Here’s Everything They’d Buy

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    It’s a well-established fact that HomeGoods is a go-to spot to get unmatched deals on everything from home decor to kitchen tools and furniture. But don’t let the rock-bottom prices fool you — while HomeGoods may not be the first store that comes to mind for high-end interior design, that isn’t necessarily the case among professional interior designers.

    “$50 at HomeGoods can go a long way in transforming your space,” says Ayten Nadeau, founder and interior designer at i-Ten Designs. Keeping Nadeau’s declaration in mind, we put her and fellow interior designer and design consultant Amanda Foster up to the task of deciding what they’d buy at HomeGoods within a $50 budget. 

    “By carefully selecting these items, you’ll create a stylish, cohesive look that feels like a million bucks — all without breaking the bank,” Nadeau says. Check out their picks below — keep in mind that inventory and pricing differ at each store, so your basket might look a little bit different!

    A trip to HomeGoods should always include a visit to the candle section, which is where some of the best deals can be found. “Imagine walking through your front door to the warm, inviting scent of a high-quality soy candle,” Nadeau says. “These beauties come in stunning containers and usually cost less than $8 each. Talk about instant ambience!” Aroma and lighting are some of the most frequently neglected aspects of home decor, and a few carefully selected candles can make a big impact on the look and feel of your space.

    Everybody loves houseplants, but if you are looking for a more low maintenance way to liven up your space, faux greenery from HomeGoods is your friend. “Add a dash of nature to those shadowy nooks and crannies,” Nadeau suggests. “Faux plants in chic vases are perfect for brightening up darker kitchen corners, bookshelves, or bathrooms. They cost $9 or less for small ones.”

    Foster’s next pick? “A geometric wall mirror that’ll not only reflect your fabulous self but also add a touch of modern flair to your space.” Even a small mirror can add depth and dimension to a room and make it seem larger than it is, which is a powerful trick for cozy homes.

    “Imagine the angles, the shapes, and the way it catches the light — this mirror is a true work of art that’ll elevate any room to new heights of coolness,” Foster says.

    Decanters abound at HomeGoods, and they are an easy and affordable way to make any room feel more sophisticated and cohesive.

    “Elevate your everyday essentials with stylish glass soap dispensers,” Nadeau says. “Whether it’s for your kitchen or bathroom, glass dispensers can make even the humblest soap feel luxurious. Say goodbye to tacky packaging!”

    For just $10 or less, this quick swap is one that professional interior designers consider a nonnegotiable.

    Just because HomeGoods is budget-friendly doesn’t mean the quality isn’t on par with luxury retailers, so don’t underestimate the essentials.

    “I have a confession: I stock up on hand towels here for myself and my clients. You simply can’t beat the prices,” Nadeau shares. “Investing in a couple of high-quality hand towels for about $8 to $10 each can make any powder room feel like a five-star hotel.”

    This post originally appeared on Apartment Therapy. See it there: We Gave Two Designers $50 — Here’s What They’d Buy at HomeGoods

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    Nina Derwin

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  • These Adorable Pasta-Shaped Plates at Michaels Are Selling Out Fast (“Need ASAP!”)

    These Adorable Pasta-Shaped Plates at Michaels Are Selling Out Fast (“Need ASAP!”)

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    We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

    Michaels might be the store you go to for all of your crafting supplies, but secretly, it’s also the best spot to get the cutest home decor — especially when you get a look at its Italian Kitchen collection! From charming baskets and wall decor to jars that look like tomato-sauce cans and tomato-shaped bowls, the collection is not one you’re going to want to miss. While everything is utterly adorable, it’s the pasta plates that we can’t seem to get enough of — and neither can other Michaels shoppers.

    Michaels is now selling assorted ceramic pasta plates at $6.99 a piece, and they’re perfect for snacks and dips, or hey, even your favorite pasta dish. There are three different plate shapes to choose from: bow tie (which seems to be the most popular), ravioli, and macaroni. Each of these plates are around 5.5 inches in width. Keep in mind if you decide to grab one (or all three), these dishes are hand-wash only and are not advised to go in the microwave, oven, or dishwasher. So treat them with the care they deserve.

    Shoppers are ecstatic about these new plates. “OMG stop, I’m running there tomorrow,” writes one shopper. “The pasta plate is serving,” jokes another. These plates are available in store only, but you can check the Michaels website to see if they are available for store pickup near you.

    Along with these pasta plates, Michaels is also selling adorable shallow pasta bowls for those bigger dishes, like caramelized tomato paste pasta or asparagus pasta with lemon and Parmesan. They’re sold at $12.99 a piece, made of ceramic, white on the inside and yellow on the outside. But it isn’t the simplicity of the design that shoppers are loving; it’s the cute graphic inside the bowl that really makes it adorable. Each bowl features a fork swirling pieces of spaghetti wrapped around the utensil, which drags off to the bowl’s edge. The store is also selling cute tomato-shaped plates that are perfect for summer and available to ship.

    Needless to say, this Italian Kitchen decor might inspire you to have an Italian-themed summer party, with all of your favorite pasta dishes (or a fried ravioli appetizer!) served in pasta bowls. How on theme!

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    Kiersten Hickman

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