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Organizing 2m read
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The Smartest Way To Label All of Your Food Containers

Who doesn’t love the look of an organized pantry? Matching food storage containers paired with equally aesthetic pantry labels are the vision of Pinterest perfection many of us hope to one day achieve. But while they might be an organization lover’s dream in theory, those labels aren’t always practical. Perhaps you’re constantly swapping out pantry items and need to replace the labels, or you find they aren’t as waterproof and durable as advertised when it comes time to wash the containers. In either case, using pantry labels can become more of a hassle than a help. But of course, there’s a hack out there to resolve this dilemma, and we’re here to share it with you.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Who doesn’t love the look of an organized pantry? Matching food storage containers paired with equally aesthetic pantry labels are the vision of Pinterest perfection many of us hope to one day achieve. But while they might be an organization lover’s dream in theory, those labels aren’t always practical. Perhaps you’re constantly swapping out pantry…

A Simple Swap

So, what’s this easy hack, you ask? It’s very simple: Use a chalk marker. Rather than investing in overpriced, fancy-looking labels, reach for a chalk marker to label your food storage containers.

The Best (and Easiest) Way To Label Food Containers

To use a chalk marker to label containers, start with a clean, dry surface. If the marker is new, you might need to press it down a few times on a hard surface to get the ink flowing. Once it’s ready, you can write directly on the food container.

Why You Should Opt for Markers Over Labels

Chalk markers are incredibly easy to use. Just give them a shake, pop off the cap, and label to your heart’s content. You can get a classic white, or opt for more colorful labeling with a vibrant marker pack or one with more subdued (but still striking) vintage-inspired colorways.

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And let’s not forget the best part about using chalk markers over traditional labels: the cleanup, or rather, the lack thereof. Chalk marker easily comes off with a damp cloth or when the food containers run through the dishwasher. (Note: For effortless removal, chalk markers should only be used on nonporous surfaces such as plastic, glass, glazed ceramic, and stainless steel.)

Related: How To Get Stubborn Stains Out of Plastic Food Containers

This makes reusing the containers — whether for the same item or something else — significantly easier. And who wouldn’t want that?

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Pauline Lacsamana
Writer
Pauline Lacsamana is a freelance writer and editor who specializes in commerce, home, design, and lifestyle. She has bylines in The Spruce, Business Insider, U.S. News & World Report, Hunker, MyDomaine, Parade, and more.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Happy Kikky/ iStock | Updated  Jul 1, 2025 |
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Decorating 3m read
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This Paint Trend Makes Rooms Feel Twice the Size

Want to make a small space feel bigger without knocking down a wall? All you need is a gallon (or two) of paint. Color drenching — painting walls, trim, ceiling, doors, and built-ins the same color — provides a cocoon-like feel that’s equal parts intimate and expansive. 

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Want to make a small space feel bigger without knocking down a wall? All you need is a gallon (or two) of paint. Color drenching — painting walls, trim, ceiling, doors, and built-ins the same color — provides a cocoon-like feel that’s equal parts intimate and expansive. 

“Color drenching creates visual continuity, since your eye doesn’t stop to register contrast or hard edges,” Boston-based interior designer Sarah Cole says. This tricks your brain into thinking the room is bigger than its actual square footage.

Want to try the paint trend yourself? Read on for Cole’s tips for successful color drenching. 

Pick a Color Palette

It’s daunting enough to select a wall color you’ll love for years to come, let alone a shade for trim, doors, and possibly a ceiling, too. There’s no wrong answer, but Cole recommends midtones and earthy hues, which tend to be more forgiving than stark whites and primary brights. Consider colors with depth and softness, such as slate blue, mushroom, ochre, sage, or clay. For a dramatic statement, opt for a deep, moody hue.

Related: Create a Whole Home Color Palette That Looks Expertly Designed

“Keep in mind the color doesn’t have to be bold,” Cole says. “Color drenching works just as well with subtle colors and even neutrals.”

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Layer Lighting

When color drenching, it’s important to layer light sources. This will bring out the richness and dimension in the paint. Cole says warm bulbs often play better with darker and earthier tones, though it ultimately depends on the specific shade. Before committing to a paint color, she recommends testing samples on multiple walls and observing how they look at different times of day, both in natural light and with the fixtures you plan to use in the space.

Bonus Tip: Use Color Drenching To Camouflage Quirks

Rooms with odd angles or low ceilings are perfect candidates for this paint technique, Cole says, since the continuous color downplays architectural quirks, creating a more unified space.

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Consider Fixed Elements

One common mistake when color drenching is not taking fixed elements of the room into account. White vinyl windows are a notorious offender. “The whole point of color drenching is to create a seamless, uninterrupted visual flow,” Cole explains. “If you drench the room in a beautiful moody hue and then leave bright white vinyl windows exposed, those windows suddenly become the loudest thing in the room.”

It’s possible to paint vinyl window frames yourself, but it requires surface preparation and the right materials to ensure a lasting, professional-looking finish. If that’s not something you’re prepared to do, consider adding window treatments in the same color as the rest of the room to draw attention away from the window frames.

Start Small

To dip your toe into the color drenching trend, skip the living room for now. Instead, Cole suggests starting with a smaller, low-stakes room, such as a mudroom or powder room.

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Megan McCarty
Writer
Megan McCarty is a Los Angeles-based writer who covers the fun stuff: design, travel, wellness, beauty, and fashion. She has written for publications including Domino, The Spruce, MyDomaine, Bustle, and Rue Magazine. Her life rules include, but are not limited to, zipper when merging, contribute to your IRA, and do the nice thing.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Clay Banks/ Unsplash+ | Updated  Jul 1, 2025 |
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Cleaning 3m read
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How To Get Stubborn Stains Out of Plastic Food Containers

Tomato sauce, kimchi, chili — all the best red foods are typically made in large batches, meaning you’ll need somewhere to store them until every last bite has been devoured. Unfortunately, storing tomato or chili-based items in plastic food containers often results in stubborn stains that never seem to go away, no matter how hard you scrub.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Tomato sauce, kimchi, chili — all the best red foods are typically made in large batches, meaning you’ll need somewhere to store them until every last bite has been devoured. Unfortunately, storing tomato or chili-based items in plastic food containers often results in stubborn stains that never seem to go away, no matter how hard you…

But what if you could lift these stains without wearing down your dish sponge? We found a time-saving hack that lets you do just that.

No More Red Rings

You’ve probably tried scrubbing your plastic food containers the same way you would any other dish — with a sponge, dish soap, and plenty of elbow grease. While this tactic works well for ceramic, stainless steel, and glass, it just doesn’t seem to do the trick for plasticware. Fortunately, there’s a faster, easier way to get your favorite containers sparkling clean.

Related: How a Chef Removes Stubborn Stains From Wooden Cutting Boards

First, empty your container and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Then fill it about halfway with warm water. Rip off a full-size sheet of paper towel, fold it into a square, and place it in the container. Top it off with a few more squirts of dish soap, attach the lid securely, then vigorously shake the container for about 60 to 90 seconds, or until you see the stains lift. If you’re concerned about water leaking, wrap the food storage container in a dish towel as you shake.

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All that’s left to do is to pop open the lid and use the paper towel to wipe down the inside of the container — your plastic will look good as new.

Why Does This Work?

When we said to shake vigorously, we meant it. This hack works better and faster than conventional hand scrubbing or even a run through the dishwasher because of agitation. Shaking the container as hard as you can causes the paper towel to quickly scour the sides, and the paper fibers absorb any food particles rather than spreading them around the surface. If you have a particularly stubborn stain, repeat this trick a couple of times, replacing the soapy water and towel after each attempt.

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Krissy Howard
Writer
Krissy Howard is a New Mexico-based writer. Her work has appeared in Byrdie, Hunker, and Simplemost, and she is the former managing editor of music satire website, The Hard Times.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Stanislav Sablin/ iStock | Updated  Jul 1, 2025 |
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Home Improvement 3m read
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How To Test Your Oven’s Temperature Accuracy

When it comes to baking something in the oven, accuracy is essential, as it can mean the difference between a perfectly cooked chicken and a bird that’s still raw in the middle. Unfortunately, not all ovens are 100% precise; the digital screen may not align with the actual temperature inside. But fear not, because science is here to save the day. Here’s how you can easily determine if your oven is operating accurately or if something is out of whack.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

When it comes to baking something in the oven, accuracy is essential, as it can mean the difference between a perfectly cooked chicken and a bird that’s still raw in the middle. Unfortunately, not all ovens are 100% precise; the digital screen may not align with the actual temperature inside. But fear not, because science…

Aluminum Foil to the Rescue

This hack comes to us from the TikTok account (@museumofscience) of The Museum of Science in Boston, Massachusetts. While it may seem like an experiment straight out of high school science class, it’s a simple yet effective way to gauge your oven’s accuracy. All you’ll need is some aluminum foil and granulated white sugar.

To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, tear off a sheet of aluminum foil and form two small, square-shaped pans with raised edges. They should be 2 to 3 inches square, or roughly the size of a Post-it note. Then fill each pan with 1 tablespoon of granulated white sugar.

Related: An Easy Way To Remove Baked-On Food in Your Oven

At this point, you might be wondering, “Why sugar?” Sugar contains a chemical compound called sucrose, which caramelizes at 367 degrees Fahrenheit. By setting the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, you can determine if it’s running warm. Once you’ve figured that out, set the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for a second test to see if it’s running cold.

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What the Sugar Test Reveals

Once the oven reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit, carefully place one sugar-filled aluminum pan inside for 15 minutes. (If you’re concerned about it falling through the oven rack, you can use a larger sheet of aluminum foil underneath.) Take the pan out when the time is up. At this point, the sugar should still be as white as it was 15 minutes ago; if it’s brown, your oven is likely running hot. Next, set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it reaches that temperature, place the second sugar-filled aluminum pan inside for an additional 15 minutes. This time, the sugar should be brown when you take it out, as 375 degrees Fahrenheit is above sugar’s caramelization point. If it’s still white, chances are your oven is running cold.

Let’s summarize the results. If the sugar retains its white color at 350 degrees Fahrenheit but browns at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, then your oven is probably calibrated just fine. However, if the pans stay white at both temperatures, your oven’s internal temperature is cooler than what’s listed on the digital screen. Conversely, if both pans of sugar burn, your oven is hotter than what the digital thermometer claims. If something seems amiss, contact an expert repair technician. Otherwise, you can rest easy knowing that your appliance is working accurately.

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Bennett Kleinman
Staff Writer
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Optimism Media, covering topics for several brands including House Outlook and Better Report. He previously contributed to television programs such as "Late Show With David Letterman" and "Impractical Jokers," and digital publications like The Onion. Bennett is also a devoted New York Yankees and New Jersey Devils fan, and thinks plain seltzer is the best drink ever invented.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  brizmaker/ iStock | Updated  Jul 1, 2025 |
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Gardening 3m read
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Use Leftover Cooking Water To Nourish Your Plants

Dietitians often emphasize the health benefits of steaming or lightly sautéing vegetables. Why? Because many of the nutrients in our foods are water-soluble, and boiling them can cause some of that nutrition to leach into the cooking water instead of your belly, where it belongs.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Dietitians often emphasize the health benefits of steaming or lightly sautéing vegetables. Why? Because many of the nutrients in our foods are water-soluble, and boiling them can cause some of that nutrition to leach into the cooking water instead of your belly, where it belongs.

Usually, those nutrients go right down the drain with the water they’re dissolved in, but it doesn’t have to be that way. One of the best uses for that cooking water, assuming you aren’t reusing it in the kitchen, is for watering plants. Here’s why.

Related: The Best Houseplants for Beginners

Houseplants, Garden Plants, and Cooking Water

Many of the foods we eat contain nutrients that are highly beneficial to the plants we grow. For example, the starches that cook out from rice, pasta, or beans provide the raw materials for plants to create their own carbohydrates. All those vitamins and minerals released from vegetables provide trace nutrients that can help nourish your plants and keep them flourishing. Even the modest amount of calcium that leaches from eggshells in the process of boiling eggs can be surprisingly useful, helping to prevent issues such as blossom-end rot in tomatoes.

Next time you’re boiling vegetables or pasta, here’s what you can do:

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• Drain the water into a heat-safe bowl instead of pouring it down your drain. 

• Set the bowl aside to cool completely to room temperature. 

• Water your houseplants with the cooled water, or take it outside for your garden plants.

You can also dissolve your ordinary fertilizer in it, just as you would when watering plants regularly, or use it to dilute a liquid fertilizer.

Two Things To Avoid

This hack is fairly simple, but there are two important things to keep in mind. First, do not use any broth or cooking water that contains meat or fats, as this will attract unwanted pests and smell bad. Second, avoid using heavily salted water. Salt can build up in your soil (especially in pots or containers) and eventually become toxic to your plants.

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Fred Decker
Writer
Fred Decker is a trained chef and former restaurateur. Since closing his restaurants over a decade ago he has been a prolific freelance writer, publishing several thousand articles on dozens of high-volume websites including Taste Of Home, Hunker, Tasting Table, Week&, eHow, and GOBankingRates. He lives on a rural acreage shared with a big garden, chickens, rabbits, and grandkids.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Blake Cheek/ Unsplash+ | Updated  Jul 1, 2025 |
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Food & Drink 3m read
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This Pantry Staple Will Make Your Grill Nonstick

For many of us, summertime is grilling season, and why not? Cooking outside is a social activity, it keeps your kitchen cool, and food just plain tastes better outdoors.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

For many of us, summertime is grilling season, and why not? Cooking outside is a social activity, it keeps your kitchen cool, and food just plain tastes better outdoors.

Of course, grilling comes with its own chores and inconveniences, from checking propane levels to cleaning grates between uses. One of the most frustrating issues is food that stubbornly sticks to the grates. This not only ruins the look of your food but also makes the next grill cleaning even more difficult. Fortunately, there’s a simple potato hack that can help keep your food from sticking.

Related: Potentially Dangerous Grilling Mistakes You Might Be Making

The Potato Tip You Didn’t Know You Needed

Say your meat and vegetables are prepped, and you’re ready to hit the grill. But how do you plan to keep everything from sticking? Cleaning your grill grates beforehand is crucial, whether you use a brush or lean into a hack like using an onion. Once the grates are clean (and perhaps subtly onion-flavored), it’s time to apply a nonstick coating using a potato. That’s right, a potato.

Choose a nice, fresh potato, ideally a starchy russet (though Yukon Gold and most others will work, too, as long as they’re fresh and juicy). Heat the grill to medium-high, then:

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• Cut the potato in half lengthwise.

• Spear the potato horizontally on the end of a long barbecue fork, cut side down.

• Using the fork to keep your hands safe, press the potato down firmly against the grill grates.

• Rub the cut side of the potato against the grates, covering the entire food-contact area.

If the grates are hot enough, the potato juices will rapidly sizzle as their water evaporates. The starches left behind will cling to the grates, forming a shiny, visible glaze. This glaze creates a nonstick surface, so now when you slap your meat on the grill, it won’t cling and tear when you turn it. As a tasty bonus, you can dice up the other half of the potato and enjoy it alongside your chosen protein. 

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Fred Decker
Writer
Fred Decker is a trained chef and former restaurateur. Since closing his restaurants over a decade ago he has been a prolific freelance writer, publishing several thousand articles on dozens of high-volume websites including Taste Of Home, Hunker, Tasting Table, Week&, eHow, and GOBankingRates. He lives on a rural acreage shared with a big garden, chickens, rabbits, and grandkids.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Unsplash+ via Getty Images | Updated  Jul 1, 2025 |
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Decorating 3m read
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This Curtain Hack Adds Instant Drama (and Height) to Any Room

Curtains aren’t just for windows anymore. To completely transform the look of a room, design-savvy individuals are installing curtain track systems that span entire walls — or, to pack an even bigger punch, the full perimeter. Paint and wallpaper can add only so much drama to a space. Wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling curtains, meanwhile, not only are eye-catching but also provide depth, softness, and the illusion of higher ceilings.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Curtains aren’t just for windows anymore. To completely transform the look of a room, design-savvy individuals are installing curtain track systems that span entire walls — or, to pack an even bigger punch, the full perimeter. Paint and wallpaper can add only so much drama to a space. Wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling curtains, meanwhile, not only are…

A visually striking and surprisingly functional IKEA hack using the VIDGA curtain hanging system recently came across our radar. The components you’ll need are listed below. Rather than boring you with step-by-step installation instructions (here are a couple of helpful tutorials for both fixed and removable methods), we’ll focus on the many benefits of using a ceiling-mounted curtain track to elevate your space.

Related: A Renter-Friendly Way To Hang Curtains Without Drilling
IKEA Shopping List

VIDGA Single Track Rails (as many as needed)

VIDGA Gliders With Hooks (20 per curtain set)

VIDGA Wall Brackets, 4 3/4-inch (two per rail)

RIKTIG Curtain Hooks (20 per curtain set)

HÄLLEBRÄCKA Sheer Curtains (includes two panels)

Drywall Anchors and Screws (sold separately) or Heavyweight Command Strips

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Curtains Add the Illusion of Height

Full-length curtains that gently puddle at the floor draw the eye upward, elongating even the squattest of spaces. Vertically challenged rooms instantly feel expansive when dressed in tall, continuous panels. Multiply this effect by covering more than one wall and rounding off corners; suddenly, you’ll have a grand space fit for royalty.

Curtains Hide Eyesores

Beyond being pretty, full-wall curtains serve practical purposes, too. Not only do they provide privacy, but curtains can also conceal eyesores. Best of all, no renovations are required. Televisions can be hidden behind wall-to-wall curtains, and so can unwanted built-ins, outdated paneling, and nail holes you’ve been meaning to patch and paint.

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Curtains Create a Cocoon-Like Environment

Beyond aesthetics, there are positive psychological effects to wrapping a room in curtains. When a space is enveloped in fabric, it feels more intimate and insulated, transforming it into your own personal sanctuary. This makes it ideal for bedrooms or areas where you want to decompress (say, a reading nook or an at-home yoga space). Curtains also dampen noises and diffuse light, so a room fully draped in them will feel cocoon-like.

Bonus Tip: Fabric Matters

The mood of a fabric-draped room hinges on your fabric choice. Lightweight materials, such as linen or sheer cotton, will soften the space and allow light to filter through. Heavier fabrics — think velvet or wool — add a theatrical level of drama while blocking light and absorbing sound.

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Megan McCarty
Writer
Megan McCarty is a Los Angeles-based writer who covers the fun stuff: design, travel, wellness, beauty, and fashion. She has written for publications including Domino, The Spruce, MyDomaine, Bustle, and Rue Magazine. Her life rules include, but are not limited to, zipper when merging, contribute to your IRA, and do the nice thing.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Karolina Grabowska/ Unsplash+ | Updated  Jul 3, 2025 |
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Home Improvement 3m read
0

Turn Your Outdoor Light Into a Power Outlet

Whether you’re hanging in the backyard or camping in the backwoods, spending time outdoors is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature. But with that sense of serenity, we lose some of the creature comforts we’re used to. For instance, electrical outlets are less common outside than inside, meaning you may not have an easy way to charge your phone or power an oscillating fan. Rather than pay an electrician to come in and rewire your home, here’s a much simpler and cheaper way to get electrical power outdoors.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Whether you’re hanging in the backyard or camping in the backwoods, spending time outdoors is a wonderful way to reconnect with nature. But with that sense of serenity, we lose some of the creature comforts we’re used to. For instance, electrical outlets are less common outside than inside, meaning you may not have an easy…

Adapt to Your Surroundings

You’re probably familiar with that old animation trope where a light bulb appears above someone’s head when they have a great idea. So it’s only appropriate that you’ll need an actual light fixture to pull off this clever hack.

You can repurpose outdoor light fixtures to provide electrical power by adding an electrical socket adapter. Installation is easy: Simply unscrew a light bulb from any traditional outdoor fixture, screw in the socket adapter, and just like that, you have power.

There are various types of electrical socket adapters available for purchase. For instance, this single outlet adapter is among the most basic options; it allows you to plug in one device, though you’ll lose the light from that fixture. This double outlet adapter is far more versatile — not only are you able to plug in two devices, but you can also screw the light bulb back in for added light. Just be careful to limit the number of devices you plug in, as too much demand could cause the electrical circuits to fritz out.

A Note on Safety

Each adapter listed here can support up to 1250 watts. You’ll want to ensure the combined wattage of all the devices you plug in (including any light bulb) does not exceed this limit.

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This hack is incredibly useful, whether you’re sitting on your back deck or camping in a place with lights but no outlets. Either way, it allows you to charge a portable speaker to keep the tunes coming or run an electric bug zapper to ward off biting insects.

Related: This Outdoor Lighting Swap Keeps Insects Away

Bonus Hack: Let There Be Light

If your balcony or patio only has one measly light fixture and no outlets, you can still add ambiance with outdoor string lights. Rather than rely on rechargeable table lamps or LED candles, plug the string lights into the adapter and hang them throughout the space. Instead of a single light bulb, you’ll now have a much brighter, more inviting balcony or patio.

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Bennett Kleinman
Staff Writer
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Optimism Media, covering topics for several brands including House Outlook and Better Report. He previously contributed to television programs such as "Late Show With David Letterman" and "Impractical Jokers," and digital publications like The Onion. Bennett is also a devoted New York Yankees and New Jersey Devils fan, and thinks plain seltzer is the best drink ever invented.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  mixetto/ iStock | Updated  Jun 24, 2025 |
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Organizing 3m read
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This Simple Filing Method Tames Paper Clutter

Paper clutter has a sneaky way of piling up on kitchen counters, desks, and any other flat surface within reach. From unopened mail and receipts to bills and bank statements, managing paper in a digital world can feel overwhelming. But there’s a simple, effective method developed by organizing expert and TikTok creator Allison Weigensberg (@everythinginplace) to help you get it under control and keep it that way.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Paper clutter has a sneaky way of piling up on kitchen counters, desks, and any other flat surface within reach. From unopened mail and receipts to bills and bank statements, managing paper in a digital world can feel overwhelming. But there’s a simple, effective method developed by organizing expert and TikTok creator Allison Weigensberg (@everythinginplace)…

The secret? Sort everything into just two categories: “Action” and “To File.”

1. Action

This is where the magic starts. Create a designated folder, basket, or tray labeled “Action.” Here, you’ll place all paperwork that requires attention: bills to pay, forms to sign, invitations to RSVP to, or anything with a deadline. Consider this folder your physical to-do list. The key is to check it regularly, either daily or weekly, depending on your schedule. By giving these items a home, you’ll avoid lost paperwork and late payments.

Related: 6 Ways To Organize Your Home Without Buying a Single Thing

2. To File

Once a piece of paper no longer requires action — perhaps you’ve paid the bill or responded to the invitation — move it to the “To File” category. Think of this as your archive. These documents don’t need immediate attention but should be saved for reference, tax season, or general record-keeping. Use a separate folder or tray labeled “To File” and schedule a regular time (biweekly or monthly) to transfer these papers to their final filing spot. This could be a file cabinet, a labeled accordion folder, or a digital scan. It’s also a good idea to invest in a paper shredder to dispose of any documents you no longer need.

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Why It Works

What makes Weigensberg’s method so effective is its simplicity. Rather than overcomplicating your system with a dozen hard-to-maintain categories, you reduce the mental load. Every paper you encounter requires only one decision: Do I need to act on this, or just keep it?

This two-part system can be implemented in minutes and maintained with ease. It works for entryways, home offices, and even kids’ school papers. Best of all, it creates an easy habit loop: Papers get sorted when they come in, actions get handled, and files get stored without ever becoming a mountain of clutter.

If you’re tired of chasing piles of paper around your house, give the Action/To File method a try. It’s proof that a simple system is often the best one.

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Jill Layton
Writer
Jill Layton started writing professionally when she realized her emails and texts were kinda funny. She’s an affiliate shopping writer and lifestyle contributor for Scary Mommy, Bustle, Mic, and Best Products. She’s the mom of two alarmingly witty kids and the world’s most perfect dog.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Anete Lusina/ Pexels | Updated  Jun 24, 2025 |
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Cleaning 3m read
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3 Squeegee Cleaning Hacks That Go Beyond the Shower

Squeegees are as fun to use as the word itself is to say. But did you know they serve a useful purpose beyond cleaning glass shower enclosures? Here at House Outlook, we’ve already done a deep dive into how great squeegees are for removing pet hair from carpets. And that’s just one example of the squeegee’s surprising versatility. Let’s explore three more uses that go far beyond the shower.

All featured products and deals are selected independently and objectively by the author. House Outlook may receive a share of sales via affiliate links in content.

Squeegees are as fun to use as the word itself is to say. But did you know they serve a useful purpose beyond cleaning glass shower enclosures? Here at House Outlook, we’ve already done a deep dive into how great squeegees are for removing pet hair from carpets. And that’s just one example of the…

1. Wipe Down Refrigerator Shelves

It’s a good idea to wipe down your refrigerator shelves about once a month to clean up any spills or food remnants. But if you leave behind excess moisture, that condensation may lead to mold growth and musty odors, negatively impacting freshness. After washing the shelves (we recommend a mixture of warm water and dish soap), use a squeegee to remove excess condensation. Doing this lessens the risk of mold and prevents shelves from fogging up. You should also consider buying a dedicated kitchen squeegee to avoid potential cross-contamination between your food and the bathroom.

While you’re in the kitchen, grab that squeegee and wipe down ceramic cooktops or any spills on countertops, too. Both granite and marble are particularly porous materials, so it’s in your best interest to take care of spills sooner rather than later. A quick squeegee job can keep your countertops looking fresh and durable for years to come.

2. Tidy Up Shattered Glass

Not only do squeegees keep glass surfaces looking clean, but they also come in handy when glass shatters. Unlike a broom — which has gaps and bristles that shattered glass can easily pass through — squeegees have a solid rubber stopper that catches every last broken shard. Much like you would with a broom, simply glide the squeegee across the floor and push the broken glass into a dustpan before safely disposing of the mess. To protect your back, opt for a silicone broom with a telescopic handle to effortlessly clean broken glass, liquid spills, pet hair, and more.

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3. Remove Air Bubbles

Squeegees are a fantastic tool for removing air bubbles from recently applied wallpaper and other sticky household materials. Let’s say you’ve just applied some wallpaper, only to discover an unsightly air bubble smack-dab in the middle. Take a squeegee and lightly press it against the wallpaper, being careful not to press too hard or you risk causing damage. Then, in repeated fluid motions, press the air bubble toward the edge until it’s gone.

Related: The Best Amazon Cleaning Products Under $10

This hack can also be used to remove air bubbles from heat-blocking window film, contact paper drawer liners, vinyl wrap on cars, or any other material where air bubbles or wrinkles may develop.

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Bennett Kleinman
Staff Writer
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Optimism Media, covering topics for several brands including House Outlook and Better Report. He previously contributed to television programs such as "Late Show With David Letterman" and "Impractical Jokers," and digital publications like The Onion. Bennett is also a devoted New York Yankees and New Jersey Devils fan, and thinks plain seltzer is the best drink ever invented.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Featured Image Credit:  Elis Cora/ iStock | Updated  Jun 24, 2025 |