Decor Tricks - Home Decoration Guide - Decor Article

$10 Tuesday: 11/10

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:33:00 GMT

This week we decided to take our $10 finds into the kitchen. I mean, a pancake pencil! Have you ever heard of such a thing? Got a go-to cooking gadget?

Shelf Life

The Nest Editors — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:27:00 GMT

Struggling with your sloppy shelves? Want to hide all those piled-up magazines? Need a sly spot to display the ugly vase your hubby’s mom gave you? Here are some stylish, yet smart, solutions.

$10 Tuesday: 11/3

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 06:01:00 GMT

This week we've got some cool items to share. What's on your wish list this week?

$10 Tuesday: 10/27

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 05:33:00 GMT

Ten bucks + Tuesday. Can you find a better pairing? Okay, don't answer that. Instead, look on the bright side and see all the fun stuff you can buy. Yep, even if you're on a tight budget.

From left: BORRBY lantern, IKEA.com; Doodles at Dinner, UncommonGoods.com; Sammy appetizer plates, CB2.com; pizza knife, MoMAStore.org

$10 Tuesday: 10/20

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 06:15:00 GMT

Since we’re already chowing down on the candy corn, we figured it was time to put a little Halloween spirit into Tuesday. On a budget? Yep, you can still haunt your halls.

$10 Tuesday: 10/6

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:01:00 GMT

How far can $10 really get you? We’d say pretty far. Check out our finds this week.

$10 Tuesday: 9/29

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:44:00 GMT

So many cool finds for the home this week. And big steals in the kitchen (thank you, IKEA!). Talk about bargains for those of us on a budget.

$10 Tuesday: 9/22

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 06:33:00 GMT

Hooray for Tuesday. This week we're dropping in with some fall-inspired finds. Wood-grain theme, to be exact. Know it? We're all about it.

$10 Tuesday:9/15

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 06:13:00 GMT

This week we're giving a special shout-out to coasters. The wordy ones. And the ones with the cool graphics. Yep, the circles and the squares. Hooray for home accents that cost under $10!

Nesties' Top 10 Laundry Tips

The Nest Editors — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:43:00 GMT

Take the time to shake the wrinkles out of jeans or anything else that holds wrinkles when you're moving it from the washer to the dryer. It saves lots of ironing time. –jcombs

Get someone else to do it. –GatorHightowers

I do it when I'm home alone, or when DH is busy with something else. I play some upbeat music on my iPod, and dance around the house while I load, fold, and hang it all up. It goes much faster that way. –kayci

Check all pockets before doing laundry. A forgotten pen once ruined an entire load of our clothes. --Mrs_P2007

I don’t iron. I use a spray bottle with about one teaspoon of liquid fabric softener and fill the rest with water. Spray on wrinkles and hang-dry -- works great! –Munchkinnx

Cheap dryer sheets work just ones -- don’t waste your money. –jesa 1313

I vacuum the laundry filter and areas around it to remove dust. It helps dry clothing better. –Pace33tl

I'll start a load while I'm getting ready in the morning before as well as the expensive work and then when it's time for me to leave, the washer is done and I just throw the clothes in the dryer. It’s great to feel like I've accomplished something early in the day. –lundgrenjl

Do all your own laundry! My husband washed my suede skirt and it came out like cardboard. --aiezzi

Always keep some OxiClean on hand; it takes just about any stain out!
--AbbyTownsend

>> Take a tour of real Nestie homes
>> Get more cleaning & organizing tips from the experts

$10 Tuesday: 9/8

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 06:31:00 GMT

So this week I've tapped into my quirkier side. But, come on, is there any reason anyone wouldn't need a cheese slicer? I mean, it is only $9.95.

$10 Tuesday: 9/1

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 06:42:00 GMT

Time to be honest. By week number three, I thought I'd be calling these $10 round-ups quits. How wrong I was. And there's no getting off the hook because we're (finally) lovin' Tuesdays. Hope you are too!

Price Patrol: Our Favorite Sofas Under $999

Krissy Tiglias — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 07:12:00 GMT

Just in case you missed any of our sofa picks from the last couple of days...here's our very own week in review.

Price Patrol: A Few More Sofas Under $999

Krissy Tiglias — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 13:32:00 GMT

It's Thursday. And we're still out looking for couches. Here's a few more of our favorites. Siena sofa, PureModern.com

Even More Sofas Under $999

Krissy Tiglias — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:44:00 GMT

Yup, we're back. We just won't quit until we can give you a week's worth of stylish sofas under $999. Got a style or color in mind? We'll help you find one that suits your space.

Price Patrol: More Sofas Under $999

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:47:00 GMT

Here’s your daily sofa fixe. Chocolate brown.Rich red. Decisions, decisions. What’s your sofa style? Do you play it safe with neutrals or play it up with color? Got any couch buying tips of your own you wanna share?

$10 Tuesday

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 07:30:00 GMT

Tuesday? Back so soon. Thankfully you've come with so many budget-friendly finds for the week. Candlesticks. Knobs. Tea towels. Sponges. My, oh my. Would you add any of these items to your weekly wish list?

Price Patrol: Sofas Under $999

Krissy Tiglias — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:30:00 GMT

Anybody shopping for a sofa? Hmmm, anybody out there shopping for a sofa under $999? Our mission this week: to drop in (on a daily basis) with some of our favorite couches on the market. (PS Stay tuned for Friday's grand finale!)

Ten Dollar Tuesday

Krissy Tiglias — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 19:21:00 GMT

Hello, Tuesday! Thank you for arriving with some good deals for the week. We've got side tables in so many fun colors (nope, this is not a typo), cute containers for organizing spices plus all you need for shucking some oysters. If you only had $10... which would you buy?

Ten Dollar Tuesday

Krissy Tiglias — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:39:00 GMT

Tuesday has always been my least favorite day of the week. Time to cut it some slack. From now on, it's the day for posting all of my favorite cheap (under $10) finds. Need another reason to love Tuesday?

Laundry Q&A: Powder vs. Liquid Detergent?

The Nest Editors — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:15:00 GMT

What's better to use on my laundry: powder or liquid detergent?

It all depends on the type of dirt you're dealing with. If you have mud stains or ground-in soil or dirt, then powder detergent will work best. Powder detergents are made with special ingredients that raise the pH of your wash, which makes for better cleaning. It's important to keep in mind, though, that powder detergents work best when they are dissolved and mixed around in the washer a bit before adding your clothes. This will help prevent those ingredients from reacting with and possibly fading your clothes.

If, on the other hand, you're working with more oily dirt, like food stains, you should use a liquid detergent. Liquids have a different cleaning component that keeps the wash pH neutral, meaning you don't need to dissolve them, you can use them to pretreat, and you can add them to loads with delicate fabrics and colors.

Laundry Q&A: "Dry-Clean Only"?

The Nest Editors — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:02:00 GMT

What happens when you wash "dry-clean only" clothes? What if I'm in a pinch?

A lot of the time when clothing manufacturers say dry-clean only, they mean it. Fabrics like silk and wool normally just don't do very well in an ordinary washer. Water can wreak havoc on your favorite silk blouse or shrink a cozy wool sweater beyond recognition. When washing dry-clean-only items you also run the risk of altering the color of the garment, distorting its shape, or wrinkling it so much that even the best iron won't help. If you want to chance it, use an at-home dry-cleaning kit like Dryel. It's good for freshening up your clothes and getting the stink out, but not so good at getting rid of stains, lint, or pet hair.

10 Kitchen-Cleaning Tricks

Grace Jidoun — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 18:02:00 GMT

When you think about it, you practically spend as much time in your kitchen as you do your bedroom -- and it can get just as messy. Follow our easy plan to keep it looking more fab than frat-house.

Clean Weekly:

Appliance faces: Use a mild cleaner or make a paste of baking soda and water to clean. Dissolve grease on the stovetop with a sponge soaked in white vinegar.
Microwave: Soak the turntable in sudsy water while you wipe up interior splatters. Or try a steam clean: Fill a microwave-safe glass with 2 cups of water and either 1 teaspoon of vanilla or a few slices of lemon. Run on high for 5 minutes and wipe the sweet-smelling interior clean with a paper towel. Here's some more expert advice on cleaning your microwave.
Countertops: Spray on an all-purpose cleaner (or run disposable wipes over the surface) and let it sit 10 minutes.
Sink: Pour down several quarts of boiling water to flush out grease. Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar and scrub the basin with baking soda.
Floors: Wash tile or stone floors with 1 cup vinegar and 1 gallon of water. For icky grout, mix 1 Tbl. bleach and 2 cups warm water. Scrub with an old toothbrush.

Clean Monthly:

Oven: If you don't have a self-clean oven, sprinkle salt on the residue while the oven is still warm. When it cools, scrape it up with a spatula and wipe clean with a cloth. Got stuck-on crud? Use a nylon scrubby sponge dipped in soapy hot water.
Fridge: Wash the interior with a solution of baking soda and warm water, about 1/2 cup of baking soda for every gallon of water. Clean the drain pan and vacuum underneath the refrigerator. Read more fridge-cleaining tips here.
Garbage can: Hose it down with hot water; then spray with a disinfectant.
Cabinets: Wipe them down with 1/2 cup white vinegar or a solution of 1/4 cup liquid oil soap and 1 gallon of warm water.
Dishwasher: Run a complete cycle with an empty machine (just detergent) for a clean, deodorized space.

Nestperts Jerri Farris, author of Home Improvement 101, and Donna Smallin, author of Cleaning Plain & Simple

Merge Your Stuff (Without Killing Each Other)

The Nest Editors — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 10:14:00 GMT

Face it: When you first move in together, the whole furniture-negotiation thing can get tricky. After all, you're doing more than just merging sofas and art -- you're blending two personalities and past lives. So how do you pull it off together? Read on.

Ditch That Baggage
Who you? Harbor junk? Admit it -- that floral comforter has gotta go. What isn't essential goes into storage, gets donated to charity, or sold on eBay. For can't-part-with-'em items, display them differently. His trophy collection may look a lot less heinous on brand-new mounted shelves than they do scattered on the bedroom floor.

Meet in the Middle
You dig clean and modern; he loves warm and traditional.There's a place for everything, just not necessarily together. Since mixing French scenes with football posters is a tall order, relegate each style to an appropriate room. If he spends more time in the den, add some touches that will make him feel cozier. If she's always hanging in your home office, let that be the streamlined space with splashes of color.

Shop Together
If only your style dominates the décor of your together space, it’s not going to feel like a married home. Joint purchases help represent both personalities, so suck it up and shop as a team. Start with small things like frames, place mats, and lamps. To find where your styles overlap, scan our decor galleries together.
Book a Facelift
Before you dump his black leather bachelor couch or he forces you to lose those cutesy checked chairs, give them a new life. Reupholster or slipcover pieces -- you'll save hundreds -- maybe even thousands of bucks -- instead of starting from scratch.

Maintain “Me” Space
Sharing a home doesn't mean you have to hang in the same room 24-7. Designate Zen areas to escape to (okay, from each other). Maybe yours is the porch and his is the kitchen table. Wherever your Zen zone is, make it comfy with your favorite items.

Don't Panic-Decorate
You don’t have to deck out your entire home overnight -- in fact, it'll totally look thrown together if you do. Getting pieces you both agree on is a process, so make it fun -- a travel piece here, a birthday gift there. If you wind up with an eclectic mix of stuff, all the better. You're not a cookie cutter couple, so why make your home look that way?

How to Clean a Fridge

Paula Kashtan — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 23:36:00 GMT

1. Scrub-a-dub-dub the inside of your fridge every four months. Clean by using a solution of half water and half white vinegar.

2. De-crud all those crevices on the door’s surface with a little liquid dishwashing detergent diluted with water.

3. Use a toothbrush for cleaning the gasket (aka rubber molding) around the door, and then coat it with a tiny bit of petroleum jelly to prevent sticking and tearing.

4. Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your crisper and cover it with a paper towel for extra odor protection (replace every three months).

5. If you know not to keep leftovers in the fridge for days on end, how do you explain that festering heap on the bottom shelf? Always get rid of old food, pronto!

Tired of mystery leftovers? Organize your fridge
Jamie Novak's kitchen clean-out
10 kitchen storage solutions for under $25

>>Back to the Organizing Challenge

Kill the Clutter!

Natalie Ermann Russell — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 17:08:00 GMT

Fight back against clutter chaos with these ten simple strategies.

Designate a Mail Zone
Make sure there's a garbage can nearby so you can chuck all of the unwanted stuff.

Use an Inbox and Outbox
These can be wall pockets, a leather box, or a pouch that hangs off a knob on the back door. Your outbox is for what goes out with you the next day.

Create an Entryway Catch-All
Place your keys, sunglasses, parking pass, subway pass, etc. here so they're reachable as you're heading out.

Have a Main Bin
You can put your bills, stamps, checkbook, and a pen inside, and place it on a bookshelf for easy access. Pop the lid on when guests come by.

Pay Bills Online
Download your credit card bills and bank statements and back them up on an external hard drive once a month to reduce the chance of identity theft.

Buy Mobile File Boxes
They'll keep your paperwork organized and handy. When mail comes in, either file it away or shred it.

Keep a Paper Shredder
It insures safe disposal of paperwork with personal identification information.

Don't Neglect Mail
Don't get overwhelmed every month -- look at your schedule and pick one day a week to spend half an hour going through it.

Do a Once-a-Year Purge
If you aren't sure about throwing away something, ask your accountant. The IRS has three years to audit you, so you can probably get rid of files older than that.

Make a Mag Space
Forgo the sofa-side bin and go for a wall rack. Your favorite mags can be affordable wall art, and more importantly -- contained!

Nestpert Amy Brenna of Brenna Consulting, the organization wiz. For more great ideas, visit BrennaConsulting.com.

File Cabinet 101

The Nest Editors — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 13:23:00 GMT

It's every procrastinting couple's nightmare: how to organize all those bills, papers, receipts, and more. Get the clutter in control with these simple steps:

Escape the Paper Chase
Set a box filled with hanging file folders on a desk or counter. Assign each folder an activity: To call, To file, To discuss, To read, To pay, etc.

Get a Hefty File Cabinet
Label folders by category (utilities, credit card bills, insurance, etc.). Then assign sub-categories (gas bills, water bills, electric bills, etc.). Assign a color to each major category for easy reference.

Create an E-File Cabinet
Why? Because if you pay online bills or have made any orders on the web, it's a lot easier than printing everything out.

Have a Backup Plan
Buy a fireproof safe and store essential documents like passports, your marriage license, wills, and tax returns in a closet. Back up your electronic cabinet every six months in case your computer crashes.

Purge Your System
Regularly remove unneeded documents in order to keep the stuff you do need close at hand. Do a major cleanup every year at tax time.

Nestpert Ramona Creel of RamonaCreel.com

Check out more organization tips from the experts at The Nest.

Functional Furniture

Caitlin Losey — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:01:00 GMT

This wall-mounted computer desk is perfect for small spaces and has convenient storage compartments for all your digital gear.

PS laptop workstation, $60, IKEA.com

Downloadable Household Worksheets

The Nest Editors — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:44:00 GMT

You want your home to look great from the outside, but also keep track of key info that keeps things humming on the inside:

Emergency 411 and Medical 411
It might not be your cutest decor item on your fridge, but it's key to keep an updated paper copy of all your emergency and medical information handy.

Click here to download the PDF file

Our Household Budget
How much are you spending on your home each month? Use this worksheet to detail your household expenses and figure out your bottom line.

Click here to download the PDF file

Insurance Inventory
In case of emergency, theft, or natural disaster, this worksheet will record your valuables and belongings. Supplement it with pics if you can.

Click here to download the PDF file

Key Purchases
What if your TV or stereo system goes beserk? Log warranty information and service records for all of your electronics and other purchases.

Click here to download the PDF file

Style File
Create a design plan for every room in the house, plus paint and fabric colors for repainting or repair.

Click here to download the PDF file

Get more organization tips from the experts at The Nest.
Take our quiz and find out how "House Handy" you are.

Nesties' Decor Emergencies

The Nest Editors — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 15:08:00 GMT

Painted Brick
"I hate our painted fireplace. We didn't paint it -- the previous owners did -- and it makes me cringe. Why ruin a beautiful brick fireplace? We can't remove the paint; it's permanent."
-- bluesmoothie

Themed Bathroom
"We have a Harley-themed bathroom! It took months before I could get my husband to agree to change it up! (He bought the house before we were married.) Oh, and the horrid money toilet seat -- clear plastic with coins and dollars embedded in it. He thought it looked good and made a unique statement. (Yeah, tacky!!!)"
-- MrsLeslie030405

Stenciled Walls
"The ugly stenciling in our bathroom makes me gag, but I can live with it for now."
-- brideofaussie

Gold Trim
"We had giant eight-foot-tall, gold-trimmed, mirrored closet doors in the living room. Gross! That and the filthy vertical blinds were the first things out the door."
-- Mrs_mam

Cheap Installations
"Somehow the previous owner managed to live in the home for eight years without making a single update to the cheap builder installations: matte white walls, ugly brass light fixtures both inside and out, and a rock pit where a patio or deck should be. You can bet fixing these are at the top of our priority list!"
-- ColoradoDomer

Permanent Fixtures
"Our house's previous owners had all of the bathroom cabinets, toilet-paper holders, mirrors, shelves, and coat racks permanently adhered to the walls." I had no idea until we moved in. If I want to take any of them out, I have to re-drywall the whole room!"
-- fizz6kitty

Kissing Swans
"My husband's bathroom had kissing swans and seashells; the master bedroom had gold cherubs and lacy frilly curtains."
-- sdkrlm

Monster Mural
"Our current home had a park mural painted in the bathroom. It was so gross! I would use the toilet while staring at a bird in a birdbath painted on the wall. There was a tree, a picket fence, tulips, and clouds. Even the vanity has flowers and butterflies. It took sanding, three coats of primer, and two coats of paint to finally get rid of it."
-- allobosc

Saloon Bedroom
"I don't know if this counts because I wasn't insane enough to actually let my husband decorate anything, but he suggested that when we redo our master bedroom we use a saloon theme. He thought hanging pistols over the bed would be cool. Oh yeah, and he wanted to install some swinging saloon doors in place of the bedroom doors."
-- oubrittany

Check out more decorating and organizing tips from the experts at The Nest.
Take a tour of fabulously decorated real Nestie homes.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

The Nest Editors — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:07:00 GMT

Click here to download the PDF file

QUICK CLEANUPS (1 POINT PER TASK)

Run lemons through garbage disposal to eliminate odor

Sweep and mop behind fridge and stove

Sweep and hose garage

Wash doorknobs and drawer pulls

Vacuum behind heavy furniture and other hard-to-reach places

Clean under sinks in bathroom and kitchen

Her points _______________
His points _______________

GET OUT THE ELBOW GREASE (3 POINTS PER TASK)

Clean curtains and drapes

Sort files

Clean microwave, toaster oven, and other appliances

Replace shower curtain liner

Wash windows inside and out

Vacuum and rotate mattress

toss expired dry goods

swap summer and winter wardrobes

designate piles for donation

Her points _______________
His points _______________

OH WHAT A PAIN (5 POINTS PER TASK)

Clean oven

Change batteries in smoke and carbon dioxide alarms

Throw away rarely used or expired toiletries

Clean gutters

Clean upholstery

Fertilize lawn

Tune up lawn mower

Her points _______________
His points _______________

HER FINAL SCORE _________
HIS FINAL SCORE _________
THE WINNER _____________

Get more cleaning tips and tricks from the experts at The Nest.

25 Closet Makeover Tips

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:02:00 GMT

Storage solutions
1. You both need a personal area so your dry cleaning and same-hued clothes don’t merge into one unisex mess.

2. Take advantage of floor real estate with clutter-busting catchalls for hair accessories, ties, belts, and other small items.

3. Closed storage keeps the closet well-dressed. Use overhead space for off-season items. Prevent confusion by labeling boxes “his” and “hers.”

4. There’s no room for avalanches in any closet, so never stack more than two boxes high. You’ll be able to hold one container while sifting through the other.

5. Squeeze in more storage space by adding a double rod. Measure the clothes you'll be hanging and allow another six inches of clearance.

6. Look for super-slim velvety hangers to keep your clothes in perfect condition and create more space.

7. In over your head with a collection of heels, flats, and flip-flops galore? Try stacking see-through shoe drawers. They fit together with a simple click.

8. If you have empty wall space, hang a bag rack at eye-level to keep all your accessories in line.

9. Give an old shoe bag a new purpose: Turn it into a centralized household hub for spare bulbs, batteries, flashlights, and cleaning products.

10. An over-the-door holder are perfect for linen and laundry room essentials. Store stain sticks, dryer sheets, and scissors (go-to items) in the middle area.

Get more decorating and organizing tips with our Decor Finder.

10 Signs You Need to Get Organized

Caitlin Moscatello — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 10:13:00 GMT

1. Your wedding gifts are still taking over your living room.
Okay, so you haven’t figured out where to put your new china. No big deal. But add to that the bedding, kitchen appliances, and random gifts and it’s clear why you can't find the couch!

2. Your bathroom has more products than a CVS.
Do you really need six different facial moisturizers, four bottles of hair glossing spray, and a year’s supply of tampons on hand at all times? We didn’t think so.

3. You store your silverware in the dishwasher.
Holding out on buying a $10.50 plastic tray to keep your utensils separated in a drawer doesn’t exactly make you a budgeting pro. Besides, you have to be getting sick of wondering whether the fork you just picked up is clean or dirty.

4. You use the trunk of your car as a second closet.
It’s one thing to keep a pair of gym clothes in your car in case you’re inspired to hit the treadmill after work. It’s a whole other deal to wake up in the morning, grab a cup of coffee, and head out to the driveway to pick out what to wear for the day.

5. You own two copies of Reality Bites.
No matter how much you love watching Winona Ryder dance to “My Sharona”, multiple VHS copies are not necessary. Especially if you no longer own a VHS player.

6. You keep tax returns, X-mas ornaments, and college tees in a box labeled “Stuff.”
Throwing your swag in a box doesn’t mean it’s organized. Sorting out the W-2s from the holiday light strands isn't fun, but you'll be glad you did.

7. Your cabinets are packed with canned foods from the Y2K scare.
Storing cans, boxes, and bags of food in your pantry because you “might use them one day” for “that casserole thingy” doesn’t make much sense when the cans are topped with dust and you don’t own a casserole dish.

8. You can’t shut one dresser drawer without opening another.
Not only does a packed dresser make it harder to find what you’re looking for, it also leaves your clothes wrinkly (and, really, who likes to iron?).

9. Your closet is giving you a concussion.
Maybe that’s a little dramatic, but you’re a bit tired of getting clobbered in the head with a stiletto every time you open the door.

10. You have more things stored under your bed than in your garage.
Randomly tossing items under your bed because you don’t want to think about a better storage option is frustration waiting to happen (ahem, like when you’re looking for that cute yellow sundress you shoved under there last October).

Sound like you? It's time to get decorganized.

Fake a Clean Home in 30 Minutes!

Alonna Friedman — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:07:00 GMT

Company's company and no time to whip your house into tip top shape? No problem. Check out our quick and simple tips.

Turn Your Clutter to Cash

Caitlin Moscatello — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:27:00 GMT

When you pictured married life, bet you didn’t envision the pile of magazines in the bathroom or a closet so packed you’re afraid to open it. Well, roll up your sleeves—it’s time to sell your stuff.

Step 1: Do a Clean-Out
Place stuff you haven’t worn in the past year in a pile and decide what’s sellable (new or almost-new), what to donate (used but in good shape) and what to chuck (read: that shirt with a massive stain). Do the same with kitchen items, wedding gifts and movies.

Step 2: Start Your Research
See how much items that are similar to yours are going for. Think hard about what your stuff is worth to you -- if that vase your sister gave you fetches only $20 on a website but you’d hate to lose it for less than $50, hang on to it until you see the demand rise.

Step 3: Know What Sells

Labels are hot right now, from Banana Republic to designer vintage. Sunglasses, organic goods and wacky décor items, like antlers and funky lamps, are also flying off the cyber shelves. And remember: Sets sell. Say you want to sell a Fred Flintstone figurine or a teapot, you’ll get more eyes on it if you post it with the rest of its clan (i.e., Wilma and Pebbles or teacups and saucers).

Step 4: Get Your Item Camera-Ready
Press and clean any clothing or linens, make sure the lighting is good so the color is right, and also take a close-up shot of the label (especially if it’s a name brand). Same goes for your handbags, shoes and even dishes.

Step 5: Describe the Goods

You’ll fare better if you type luxury sectional sofa with chocolate-brown Italian leather rather than brown couch. Skip all caps and exclamation points -- uh, desperate! In your description, add your ZIP code in case buyers only shop locally.

Step 6: Suss Out Your Buyer

Websites like eBay allow you to use PayPal, where the buyer has to pay before anything is shipped. Craigslist, on the other hand, doesn’t have a pay system, so contact them by email and make your own arrangements.
Nestperts Constance White and Shawn Henderson of eBay; Susan MacTavish Best of Craigslist, Darren Dittrich of Sell.com

>> 10 clutter-busters for your closet under $25
>> 10 bills to cut today
>> Couple money wars

Vacuum Road Test

Lauren Le Vine — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 18:07:00 GMT

Tester: Nest Caitlin

She says: “It’s loud, but definitely worth the $97 price tag. It got the job done, and I didn’t have to move a lot of furniture out of the way because of its pivoting motion. It folds up for easy storage,but even when it’s standing vertically on its docking and charging station, it doesn’t take up much room.”

The verdict: 4/5 stars

Where to buy: Walmart.com, $97Read More

Top 10 Craft Room Tips From Nesties

Caitlin Losey — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 11:13:00 GMT

Mrs_Mam uses this cheery painted pegboard to store her stray bits and bobs.

10 Kitchen Storage Solutions Under $25

Caitlin Losey — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 16:35:00 GMT

We love the idea of letting your organized kitchen gear become a stylish display (plus, it makes everything readily reachable). This collection has lots of fun mix-and-match solutions.

IKEA.com, $3 to $20

10 Clutter-Busters for Your Closet

Caitlin Losey — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 17:04:00 GMT

Keep your accessories neat and tidy with this nine-compartment drawer insert. Now, instead of wasting five minutes searching for a belt in the mess, you can spend the time deciding what cute outfit to wear with it!

IKEA.com, $20

5 Easy Ways to Organize Wires

Lauren Le Vine — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 08:57:00 GMT

Constantly tugging on wires to figure out what device connects where? Follow cords to their outlet and label ’em with this sticker system that tells you which wires go with your laptop, printer, hard drive, and more.

ID PILOT identification labels, $6/set, SpoonSisters.com

Clean Out Your Fridge

Paula Kashtan — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 13:18:00 GMT

You just made a delicious meal in the slow cooker with plenty of leftovers. But when you open the fridge, you freak. It's packed to the brim with other containers full of leftovers and those eggs you really meant to use for breakfast last weekend, and the freezer's not much emptier. Click each colored item to see when it's past its prime.

Gifted & Talented

Krissy Tiglias — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:29:00 GMT

Missed the memo on how to do up a gift? No sweat. We asked Curtis Mann, a gift-wrapping guru at Macy’s Herald Square, to give us the inside scoop on how to create one helluva good-lookin’ gift box.

Step 1
Measure how much paper you’ll need to avoid excess: Place the box in the middle of the piece of paper and cover it completely.

Wrap It Up: Stylish Gift-Wrap Ideas

Lauren Le Vine — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 08:46:00 GMT

You wouldn’t go to a holiday party wearing sweatpants, so why would you give a badly-wrapped gift? Get your act together with our present picks.

Click through for some of our favorite wrapping paper ideas.

Wrap It Up: Stylish Gift-Wrap Ideas

Lauren Le Vine — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 08:46:00 GMT

You wouldn’t go to a holiday party wearing sweatpants, so why would you give a badly-wrapped gift? Get your act together with our present picks.

Click through for some of our favorite wrapping paper ideas.

Laundry Q&A: Why Use Bleach?

The Nest Editors — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:29:00 GMT

My friend never uses bleach because she says it wears down clothes. Is it true?

There is no real evidence that shows bleach thins or deteriorates clothing if it's used properly (but add too much and those towels will begin to shred). Aside from being one of the best products to remove dirt, stains, and body soil, regular bleach is also a disinfectant (it kills 99.9 percent of common household germs), making it particularly good for underwear and other garments prone to bacteria and other nastiness. And if it's an "EPA registered bleach," it will also break down the gunky bacteria buildup in your washer that may be left from previous loads. So even if you don't use bleach on your clothes, you should run an empty cycle biweekly or monthly (depending on how much you do laundry) with it just to clean your machine.

Laundry Q&A: Washing Printed Sheets?

The Nest Editors — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:27:00 GMT

I just bought new cream sheets with a beautiful navy trim and print. How should I wash them so the colors don't bleed?

Nothing is better than a new pair of sheets, so we understand why you want to keep them looking their best. Your best bet to avoid color bleeding is to wash them in cold water with a mild detergent, and if you must iron 'em, use a very cool setting. And use color-safe bleach occasionally to get extra grime out.

Laundry Q&A: Tennis Balls in the Dryer?

The Nest Editors — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:26:00 GMT

My MIL puts tennis balls in the dryer with towels and sheets. Is she crazy or is there some benefit to doing this?

Sometimes moms do know best, and this is one of those times. Adding a few tennis balls to the dryer helps fluff up towels and sheets, and decreases lumping in items like comforters, down jackets, and pillows. The tennis balls bouncing around in the dryer knock out the lumps you would otherwise need to pat out by hand. Bonus: It can also reduce drying time (and energy spent).

If you're going to try this trick, allow us to offer these cautionary notes:

Set aside tennis balls for this specific purpose. Do not play doubles with the same balls you throw in with your bed linens.

Brace yourself and warn your mate. Tennis balls in the dryer are very loud.

Laundry Q&A: Smelly Towels?

The Nest Editors — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:05:00 GMT

My towels have a really bad odor after I wash and dry them. What could be the cause of this?

Ooh, we can see why this would be a problem. The most likely source of the odor is that you're waiting too long to remove your towels from the washing machine before putting them into the dryer. Because towels are so heavy, it doesn't take very long for them to sour when they're wet. Another cause could be that you're just not using enough detergent. Try using a bit more (especially if you have hard water) to really get the towels clean. Also, wash your towels in hot water with a bleach (obviously, a color-safe version if they're not white). This will help rid of bacteria and mildew that cause odors. An extra dryer sheet or two also will help give your towels a fresher scent.

Laundry Q&A: Keeping Colors Bright?

The Nest Editors — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:46:00 GMT

No matter which type of detergent I use, my clothes always begin to fade after a couple of washes. What are some tricks I can use to keep my colors bright?

The moment you toss your turquoise tee into the wash, you've already started it on a course to becoming blah blue. The simple fact is that all dyed garments experience some fading when they're washed. There is hope, though, for slowing the process. First, try washing your clothes inside out -- this will limit the direct abrasion your clothes experience in the washer. Wash like color sets together in cold water, and use detergents made for dark-colored clothes. Another trick is to try air-drying your clothes. You may have to do a little more ironing, but keeping your clothes out of the dryer will reduce fading. And lastly, if you're using a powder detergent, try switching to a liquid. Powders contain ingredients that clean dirtier clothes better but are more likely to reduce brightness.

Laundry Q&A: Getting Rid of Lint?

The Nest Editors — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:02:00 GMT

Whenever I wash my dark clothes, they come out with lint all over them. Is there anything I can do?

You're in luck because this dilemma actually has a really simple solution: Wash and dry your towels, washcloths, and other fleecy fabrics separately. Often, these are the items that leave lint on darker clothes and fabrics. Check your pockets before washing, too, because tissues and napkins left in there will produce a whole lot of lint that can be deposited on your clothes. When you're drying, use fabric softener sheets -- they work wonders at helping to reduce lint. And of course, regular cleaning of your lint trap is not optional. Removing that fuzz will make a world of difference.

Laundry Q&A: Chapstick Stain?

The Nest Editors — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 08:57:00 GMT

A chapstick in the laundry bag left a big oil stain on my pants. Can I get it out?

Salvaging the pants really depends on how long it was before you discovered the Chapstick. If you only washed the pants (meaning you didn't put them in the dryer or allow them to air-dry), there may still be some hope. Use a grease-fighting agent, like Spray 'n Wash Grease 'n Grass Stain Remover, and follow the directions on the bottle. Then wash in the hottest temperature safe for the fabric, and let the pants air-dry. Stain still there? Try again. The oil spot may never go away completely, but it may become more subtle. But if the pants already hit the dryer, it's probably time to cut your losses and buy a new pair -- they're likely stained for good.

Laundry Q&A: Bleach on Light Colors?

The Nest Editors — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:26:00 GMT

Can I wash very light colored clothes (like pale blues, pinks, and yellows) in bleach, or is bleach only for whites?

Though it's probably better to use a color-safe bleach on your color loads, we've often gotten away with using regular bleach on light-colored fabrics, especially since it's so good at getting out stains. But don't use bleach in every load of your lights or whites. Only use it when you need to get out stains. And by all means, check the care label; if it says "no bleach," it's not lying.

Home Q&A: Go With a Neutral or Bright Color?

The Nest Editors — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:52:00 GMT

I want to paint my living room walls, but I am not sure if I should go with a neutral or bright color because we have sliding glass doors.

It's good that you're thinking out your color scheme considering you have a lot of glass. At a certain time of the day, your sliding doors are going to shine lots of light on your walls, making your paint look completely different during the day than at night. So buy a few samples of paint and create a square of each color on the wall that gets the most light exposure. Check in on them during different hours of the day to see which hue looks the best with artificial and natural light.
Here are some cool colors to try:
Neutrals:
Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White
Benjamin Moore China White
Benjamin Moore Cloud Nine 2144-50
Benjamin Moore Mt Rainer 2129-60
Color:
Benjamin Moore Sweet Pear 390
Benjamin Moore Blue Belle 782
Ralph Lauren Relay Red 1B59
Benjamin Moore Wolf Gray 2127-40

Home Q&A: Buying a New Vacuum?

The Nest Editors — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:09:00 GMT

I need a new vacuum; do you have any recommendations?

First, ask yourself what surfaces you’re going to be vacuuming, as each area has different needs. These tips can get you started.

Hardwood floors: You will need lots of suction to get into the crevices of the floor. Also look for a smooth underside nozzle to avoid scratching.

Thick pile carpets: Go for pretty big wheels and a lesser level of suction (you need air flow to pick up the dirt). But if you have any carpet at all, you will need an upright.

Stairs: Make sure you have a detachable nozzle and a long hose or a model designed to vacuum stairs.

Drapery: Often forgotten, you will also need a long hose, a drapery attachment, and the ability to vary the suction level.

One last hint: Lift the appliance around the room (imagine going up stairs, too) and empty the cup or filter (it'll tell you how hands-on you have to be).

Home Q&A: Where to Store My China?

The Nest Editors — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:57:00 GMT

If I don’t have a formal dining room, so where should I keep my china?
If your living room doesn’t have room for a china cabinet, you have two good options: Store it in a closet or in your kitchen cabinets. To protect these pieces in a closet, use padded zipper pouches designed to secure all edges and sides. If you keep your china in your kitchen cabinets, place these foam sheets in between your plates and bowls so they don’t clank against each other and chip. Feeling creative? Remember that you don't have to tuck everything away. Hang a few of your fave plates on your wall for a cozy-chic touch.

Home Q&A: Linoleum Painting Tips?

The Nest Editors — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:16:00 GMT

We are putting in a new kitchen and we can’t afford new floors -- can I paint and polycoat the existing linoleum?

This is a big project, so it’s important to make sure you know what you are getting into, especially considering the upkeep. If your home is old, and you’re trying to preserve the original flooring, then painting can be a good option. But otherwise, the recurring upkeep of this project might just be more expensive than getting new floors (there are affordable options at Lowes).

But, with all that said, if you are going to paint the old tiles, first strip off the wax with a "stripper" (found at a specialty store). Watch out, this is a harsh chemical, so you should have lots of windows open and leave the house so you don’t breathe too much in. Then scrub the floor until it’s sparkling clean.

Once you’re ready to paint, use floor paint (there is such a thing) and grab a wide roller with a long pole -- you don’t want to be on your hands and knees all day!

Decor Q&A: Handling His Stuff?

The Nest Editors — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:16:00 GMT

What can I do with my husband's sports memorabilia?

Besides throw it away? Whoops -- did we say that out loud? We know your husband loves his sports paraphernalia, and although it might've been fabulous decor when he lived alone, a shot of the Red Sox winning the World Series doesn't need to go over your bed. (We know, the curse was reversed. It’s still not going in the bedroom!)

The new plan: Create a nook or room where he can proudly display his favorite sports moments. Maybe it’s a home office, a downstairs bathroom, the staircase going to the basement, or the basement itself. We love the idea of having a “guy’s hangout” room in every house. This is where he and his friends can watch games and tell old stories without messing up your peaceful routine (and decor). Now if only you could stop your mother-in-law from giving him new sports crap every holiday.…

Decor Q&A: Bedroom Storage?

Amy Spencer — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 11:02:00 GMT

How do I get the most storage space in my bedroom?

Head to the Container Store and stock up on items that are bedroom-friendly; if you buy pretty new hangers or cool woven baskets to store your items in, you’ll actually want to use them. To really maximize your options, put a storage bench at the foot of your bed as well as under-bed storage. Have a junk-filled corner you just can't clear out? Hide it with Chinese folding wall dividers to cover. Another trick: If you have drapes over your windows but space on one or both sides of the windows, add some narrow shelving or bookshelves there. Then stretch the curtain beyond the window to cover up the items you'd rather not see.

Nestpert Travis George, interior designer and design consultant for Space Modern in Atlanta, Georgia; Grace Bonney of Design Sponge

Decor Q&A: Arranging Pictures?

The Nest Editors — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:20:00 GMT

We have more photos than we know what to do with! How can we arrange them?

You’ve got photos. He’s got photos. And now there are wedding photos to add to the mix. The key is to start grouping them by theme. Select your faves from each group and develop a visual “story," from your dating days to your wedding to your respective families. Another area, say, a home office, can be devoted to more random shots of friends and travel pics. Pull each group together with coordinating frames and mats.

Before you put holes in the walls, figure out your layout. Cut out the shapes of the frames in newspaper and tape them to the wall. Experiment with different configurations until the display feels right.

Because all of your pics probably won’t fit on the wall, stylish floating shelves or shallow picture ledges are another hip way to display pictures (and allow you to rotate photos on a whim). Also be creative: Try a virtual headboard with a wall of pictures behind your bed or a coffee table with special picture slots.

Cleaning Q&A: Stove Stains?

The Nest Editors — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 09:20:00 GMT

Our stove has really bad stains on it. Have any secrets for getting it clean again?

No one wants stove stain crusties ruining a sparkling-clean kitchen. Specialized stove cleaners really work best, so buy one at your local home supplies store. Make sure to follow the exact directions on the back of the bottle. For example, it does make a difference whether you wipe it down with a wet or dry cloth. If you’re using a regular cloth and the crud won’t budge, use a scouring pad on tougher stains.

If your cleaner still isn’t working, try using a straight-edged razor to lift the caked-on food. Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle so you don’t scratch the stove’s surface, and scrape away at the grit.

One last suggestion: Don’t let stains set. If you spill something on the stove, wipe it up right away. And try to make a habit of wiping down your stove and countertop with a wet sponge or dishcloth after you’re finished cooking. This way, residue will never have the chance to build up and stain your kitchen surfaces.

Nestpert Donna Smallin, author of Cleaning Plain & Simple and founder of Unclutter.com

Cleaning Q&A: Microwave Stains?

The Nest Editors — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:18:00 GMT

My microwave is full of gross cooked-on stains. How do you get the gunk off?
Steam clean your appliance by placing a mixture of 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a few slices of lemon (this helps it to smell better), in a microwave-safe container and zapping it on high for five minutes. When it's done, remove the container and wipe down the interior of the oven, and the gunk should glide right off. Bonus tip: Cover everything you nuke from now on with a damp paper towel or plate to suppress any splatters.

Nespert Donna Smallin, author of Cleaning Plain & Simple

Décor Q&A: Folding a Fitted Sheet?

The Nest Editors — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 18:17:00 GMT

How do I fold a fitted sheet? They never come out right.
Here's an easy four-step solution: Spread out the sheet with the elastic facing up and all edges folded in. Next, fold the sheet in half (bottom to top) and place the two bottom corners inside the two top corners. Then smooth out the sheet so that it resembles a semicircle. Fold the sheet in half horizontally, turning it over so the elastic corners are on the bottom. Your last step: Fold the sheet into thirds, horizontally. Then fold it in thirds lengthwise. Voila -- You should have a perfect square!

What's Your Organizing Style?

Krissy Tiglias — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:02:00 GMT

I have to admit, Nestie Katie#'s style is amazing. And one thing we share in common: our love for containers. (Although I think she puts them to work better than I do!) What kind of organizer are you? Maybe you're super motivated and signed up for our organizing challenge? Maybe you just like getting new tips and tricks for clearing clutter? Or maybe you're like me and just love all the cool products that can look good full - or empty!

Yard Sale Shopping Secrets

Mararget Winslow — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:45:00 GMT

Step 1: Strategize
Scan the classifieds section of your local paper or search Craigslist for upcoming sales. Cross off ads hawking children’s items and collectables like Beanie Babies. If those goods are what a seller’s using to reel you in, it’s unlikely they’ll have any hidden treasures, so save your time and money.

Step 2: Rise 'n Shine
All yard sales have posted start times, usually in the 7 to 9 a.m. range. You may notice some ads with the admonition, NO EARLY BIRDS! Truth is, if you snooze, you lose. Nine out of 10 times yard sales open early. Sure, some sticklers refuse to budge, but at least you can sneak a peek and decide if it’s worth coming back.

Step 3: Partner Up
Two is better than one when it comes to grabbing yard sale goods. If you have trouble getting your better half to go, tell them about all the good finds out there to get their butt in gear (an Air Hockey table for him; a vanity for her).

Step 4: Don't Forget Estate and Tag Sales
Estate and tag sales are the entire contents of a home, so with that much inventory, you’re practically guaranteed to find something. These mega-sales usually have a high antique quotient, as downsizing seniors tend to hold them. This means those mid-century modern chairs will be priced to move.

Step 5: Search High and Low
At estate sales, basements and attics are great places to unearth forgotten accent pieces like mirrors, paintings, and lamps -- and don’t forget classic kitchen items.

Step 6: Know When to Say When
We all hate to pass up a bargain, but if a larger piece isn’t something you absolutely love, leave it for the next person and head to another sale. And never buy older appliances -- they’re more likely to be obsolete than antique.

Step 7: Make an End-of-Day Sweep
Sure, there's less inventory, but the bonus to revisiting a yard sale before closing is having more negotiating power (after all, they'll be a lot more likely to sell you that sofa for $20 if they only have 15 minutes to get it off their lawn).

>> Get more decor tips
>> Read more cleaning & organizing advice

Create the Perfect Entryway

Christa Vagnozzi — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:20:00 GMT

It doesn't take much to turn an entryway from a stark space into an inviting zone for everyone who sets foot in your pad. Get started:

Light It Up
Dramatic lighting, whether it's a chandelier, pendant, or sconces, totally sets the mood. If you don’t have high ceilings, try pinspot lighting over artwork.

Hang Something
Don't save all of your cool art for the living room. Hang a single painting, a series of small prints, or a decorative mirror, which will make the room look bigger.

Give Life
A flower or plant eases the transition from outside in (and green always looks good). If your space is small, place potted blooms on a side table.

Add Color
Paint the walls a rich color, such as deep rust or teal, or paint the ceiling, depending on how it might work with your color scheme. If the ceiling is under eight feet tall, paint it a shade or two lighter than the walls; if it's over eight feet, paint it a shade or two darker. Like neutral walls? Add color with a vibrant rug or artwork.

Keep It Clean
Designate a semi-hidden spot for weather-ridden accessories. Cubby holes beneath a console work well for shoes, and a tall (at least 18 inches) galvanized planter will catch your umbrella’s drip -- and still look nice.

Don’t Forget The Mats
A washable doormat will keep you from tracking in mud. If you don’t want to leave it out all the time, store it in an oversize bin.

Get Pegged
Pegs are great for hanging coats and jackets. Space them six to eight inches apart.

Leave Room
Give yourselves around three to four feet of room to walk by one another. When buying furniture, remember to think small, like an eight-inch-wide table or shelf.

Have a Seat
A simple chair placed against the wall instantly gives the room a cozier look and makes taking off those trendy rain boots that much easier.
Nestpert Chayse Dacoda of HGTV’s Get It Together

10 Easy Laundry Tips

Alonna Friedman — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:10:00 GMT

1. Get the Temp Right
Cold is for fine fabrics, items that might shrink, and sensitive dark colors. Warm is for moderately soiled stuff and man-made fabrics. Hot is for whites, really dirty clothes, and colorfast items.

2. Keep Whites Bright
When your whites start going gray (or yellow), it could be because the water temps might be too low. Or, you could be piling in really dirty clothes that make the mildly soiled clothes dirtier!

3. Prevent Fading
Turn dark-colored clothes inside out before washing to avoid abraision and dulling.

4. Prevent Shrinking
The best way to avoid turning your large shirt into a small is using a cold water setting and either hanging the item to dry or turning the dryer down to its lowest setting.

5. Avoid Bleeding
Keep whites separate so dark dyes don't ruin them. To find out if something is colorfast, drop a little water on an inside corner or seam, and see if the dye runs.

6. Do the Delicates
Toss bras in a mesh lingerie bag and use the delicate cycle. Or fill the sink with cool water, add a capful of Woolite, swish it around, and let it soak 10 minutes.

7. Limit the Detergent
Too many suds at one time can trap soil, redepositing it on clothes. Escape from a sudsy overflow by running a short rinse and spin cycle without detergent.

8. Find the Right Detergent
Powder works for general loads; liquid detergents are good for pretreating stains and removing food.

9. Keep Stains From Setting
Act now! Rinse or soak the garment in cold water, apply a stain remover, and get it to the washer. Stain still there? Pretreat, wash, and repeat.

10. Nix Static Cling
Throw in a softener sheet to sedate the sparks and select the lowest temperature setting possible that will still get the job done.

>> Get more cleaning & organizing tips

An Easy Guide to a Sparkling Bathroom

Grace Jidoun — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:41:00 GMT

Tackling bathroom grit and grime may not be how you like to spend your weekend, but hey, it must be done. Here's how to do it fast:

The Routine:

Shower: Spray shower/tub with a scrub-free cleanser. Let it stand 10 minutes.

Mirrors: Use glass cleaner and wipe with newsprint.

Countertops: Wipe down the vanity and counters with an all-purpose disinfectant.

Toilet: Spray all outside surfaces and lid with a disinfectant spray; then squeeze in bowl cleaner and let it sit 10 minutes. Flush.

Sink: The faucet and fixture can be polished with a microfiber cloth. For the basin, a cloth dampened with white vinegar will do the trick.

Floors: Mop with 1 gallon of plain water mixed with a squirt of dishwashing soap.

Medicine chest: Toss what's old or expired and wipe down the shelves.

Showerhead: Fill a zip-top bag with white vinegar and attach it to the showerhead with a rubber band. The next morning, clean it with a toothbrush.

Tricks of the Trade:

Before you go to bed, pour 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. When you wake up the next day, brush and flush.

Let the hot water run in your shower for a couple of minutes before you dive in with your scrub brush. The steam will loosen dirt and grime.

Mix 1 part chlorine bleach with 10 parts water, brush it onto moldy grout with an old soft-bristled toothbrush, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scour with the brush.

Prevent stubborn water spots on your shower door by coating the glass with Rain-X. The water will bead up and roll off.

Got ring-around-the-bowl? Rub a pumice stick around the porcelain.

Throw moldy shower liners into the wash along with an old towel to loosen soap scum; run with hot water. Hang to air dry.

Nestperts Jerri Farris, author of Home Improvement 101, and Donna Smallin, author of Cleaning Plain & Simple.

>> Get more expert cleaning tips
>> Get more home decor solutions

Kristine & Hanks's Apartment Makeover

Anja Winikka — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:40:00 GMT

The Couple: Kristine and Hank
Their Place: A one-bedroom apartment in New York City
Their Style: Clean and modern

1. Pick a Color Palette
Think of two colors that make you feel at home, then pair them with neutral hues for balance. To suit Kristine and Hank’s contemporary taste, we went with an earthy olive and cool gray-blue (blue is Hank’s favorite color), complemented by cream and chocolate brown.

2. Consider Scale
The couple’s large sectional was swallowing their teeny coffee table, so we switched out the small chest for a glasstop coffee table. The glass makes the table look bigger than it is, making it a good match for the couch. At almost $200, this pillow was definitely worth the splurge because it instantly livened up the living room.

3. Curb the Clutter
Group frames on a shelf, toss old mags, and invest in a few eye-catching accents, such as this flower pitcher and eco-friendly wood bowl. We replaced the existing lamp with a table lamp from Pottery Barn we got on sale for $99.

4. Perk Up Hand-Me-Downs
Hank’s grandmother painted this still life, so it had sentimental value. But how did they work it into their clean, eclectic look? By arranging short cut white roses (inspired by the art) in a modern square glass vase set in a modern rattan tray.

5. Bring in Botanicals
Plants are a cheap way to perk up a space, but the trick is to match the greenery to your style. We stayed away from anything too floral or feminine and stuck to big geometric-like leaves and organic shapes like this Money Tree.

6. Reclaim Bare Walls
You don’t have to blow your budget on a piece of modern art the size of a postcard. Hank and Kristine had a globe wine holder and a couple maps of France, but they also discovered they had a number of rolled-up maps. We framed them and arranged them together on a bare wall (grouping always makes a stronger style statement).

7. Make Your Bedroom Bold
Kristine and Hank’s king-sized sleigh bed was beautiful, but it was covered up by a bland white comforter. Add one duvet bedding set plus one stylish accent pillow in a similar palette (a must for small spaces), and voilá! Instant style. Don’t be afraid to mix and match bed patterns for instant pop.

>> Get more expert decor tips
>> Take a tour through more real Nestie homes

Bedding Basics

The Nest Editors — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:10:00 GMT

Familiarize yourself with these bedding terms and you'll be able to choose your linens like a pro.

Bed Skirt
An outer bed accessory that covers the box spring and hangs to the floor, also known as a dust ruffle

Duvet/Comforter Cover
An easy and affordable way to change the look of your bed or protect a down comforter

Euro Sham
A square pillow sham that is larger than the traditional sham and sits directly behind it on the bed

Flannel
Often all-cotton, with a napped surface that produces a soft, fuzzy sheet

Knit
Plain cotton linens that are also known as Jersey or T-shirt sheets

Neck Roll
A small, cylinder-shaped, decorative pillow

Matelasse
A lightweight, woven fabric with a quilted look that is often used for coverlets or bedspreads

Percale
A fabric with at least a 180-thread count, with a plain weave

Pillow Sham
A decorative pillow cover with a ruffled or tailored outer edge that is placed over a pillowcase

Pima Cotton
The highest quality of cotton available, with fine, extra-long fibers create a soft fabric

Sateen
A unique weave that gives sheets a lsheen and silky feel that resembles satin

Thread Count
The number of threads woven into each square inch of cloth. The higher the count, the softer, finer, and more luxurious the fabric. Quality linen thread counts start at 200.

Universal Fitted
A fitted sheet large enough to cover a mattress up to 15" deep with elastic sewn around the entire bottom of the sheet

>> Take a tour of real Nestie homes
>> Get more decor ideas for your home

Make Cash With a Yard Sale

Margaret O'Malley — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 08:51:00 GMT

Chances are you both have clutter you'd like to unload. Turn it into a money-making venture right in your own front yard with these tips.

Set a Date
Yard sale season starts in June and runs until October. Take out a classified ad in your local paper, post a notice on a local Internet message board, and canvass the area with flyers. Identify the date of the sale plus the start and end times.

Share the Wealth
Enlist friends to join in a block party-style tag sale or rent a space at a local church or other organization’s rummage sale. The more people, the more traffic.

Price to Sell
Just because it pains you to part with your precious (and well-loved) Pearl Jam T-shirt collection, it doesn’t mean it’s a collector’s item and worth $200.

Keep the Change
Have a variety of bills and coins available to make change -- consider changing out $200 in various denominations. Keep a calculator and a change belt on you (you won't win any style awards, but it'll keep your money close to you at all times).

Get Up Early
Yard sale devotees and antique hunters are notorious for showing up at the crack of dawn to be first in line. If you said your sale starts at 8:00 a.m., be ready to start at 7:45. This way, both early birds get the worm.

Set the Stage
Place furniture -- particularly antiques -- front-and-center so they can be seen from the road. If you’re selling clothes, hang them from a clothesline.

Sweat the Small Stuff
Buyers tend to overlook small things like small kitchen items, and jewelry if they aren’t organized properly. Group items in Ziploc bags -- you’ll sell more of the little stuff faster.

Slash Prices at the Halfway Point
Everyone loves a bargain -- you'll boost sales with afternoon price cuts.

Designate a Free Pile
Not everyone will love everything you’ve set out. Create a free pile and start adding items to it every half hour or so. You’ll get rid of stuff faster.

Keep the Salvation Army on Standby
Inevitably, you won’t sell everything at your yard sale. But don’t commit an organizational sin by dragging all of that stuff back into the house. Arrange a pickup by your favorite local charity and have the remaining stuff hauled away.

>> Get more money-saving tips

How to Dust Like a Pro

Alonna Friedman — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:43:00 GMT

Make It Easy
Let's face it: Cleaning stinks. Make it easy on yourself by leaving a dust cloth in a cabinet in each room you dust frequently. Buy microfiber cloths for all-over dusting.

Dust-Proof Your Lair
Seal windows and doors with a sealing caulk so they're airtight. Keep the furnace clean and change the filters; the same goes for all AC units.

Get a HEPA Filter
A High Efficiency Particulate Absorption (HEPA) air purifier with allergen filters will reduce dust. And invest in a vacuum with the same type of filter.

Get a Mat
Eighty percent of the dirt in a typical house is from what we track in on our shoes. Clean the mats periodically and let them dry before putting them back.

Make a Date With Dust
On a weekly basis, dust furniture and electronics. On a monthly basis, dust your ceiling and ceiling fan, window treatments, windowsills, baseboards, and bookshelves.

Don't Forget Fabrics
Fabric items like curtains should be dry-cleaned periodically. Encase your mattress in zippered, allergen-proof covers. Also schedule an annual professional rug cleaning.

Be Creative
Products you have around the house can do double duty when it comes to dusting. Here are some of our favorites:

A lint roller on your lampshades, paint-brushes for hard-to-reach crevices, or a putty knife covered with a dusting cloth.

A spray-treated sock worn on your hand makes cleaning mini-blinds a breeze.

Dryer sheets clean computer and TV screens because they zap static electricity.

>> Get more cleaning and organizing tips

Submit Your Home Tour!

The Nest Editors — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 18:22:00 GMT

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