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Food & Drink 3m read
120

Are You Cooking With the Right Kind of Salt?

Every home cook stocks a different array of seasonings in their kitchen, but salt is a constant. It’s simply the most versatile ingredient; without it, few foods would taste right. Even cultures that don’t use refined salt often rely on salty fermented staples, such as soy or fish sauce, to get the same result. Of course, the plain white stuff in your shaker isn’t the only kind of salt a recipe might call for. Many specify sea salt, kosher salt, or a fancy finishing salt. Are you using the right one for the job? Let’s look at the three main types of salt and the specific role each one plays.

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.

Every home cook stocks a different array of seasonings in their kitchen, but salt is a constant. It’s simply the most versatile ingredient; without it, few foods would taste right. Even cultures that don’t use refined salt often rely on salty fermented staples, such as soy or fish sauce, to get the same result. Of…

1. Table Salt

Table salt is likely the kind you’ve known your whole life. It’s fully refined and produced with a fine texture so it can be dispensed easily from a shaker (or even the can), and sprinkled onto your food, chef-fashion, from your fingertips. When a recipe simply calls for “salt,” this is what it means.

Related: How To Choose the Right Cooking Oil, According to a Chef

Some recipes advise against it, however, because table salt is often iodized. An iodine compound has been added to certain varieties of U.S. table salt since 1924 to prevent goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland often caused by an iodine deficiency. It can add a faint bitterness to your food and discolor pickles or brines, which is why those recipes usually call for kosher salt. Noniodized table salt is easily available, though, if you prefer the fine texture.

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2. Coarse Salt

“Coarse” just refers to the size of the grains. It might be sold as kosher salt or even decorative pink Himalayan salt, which looks appealing in a grinder. Because it’s typically noniodized, it offers a cleaner flavor (sea salt being the exception, as the taste depends on its origins). Those big grains are sometimes used as a textural element on things like soft pretzels, focaccia, or margarita rims.

Coarse salt is the go-to for brines, marinades, and pickles, but be careful: Crystal sizes vary widely by brand, so swapping one for another can be a complication.

3. Finishing Salt

Finishing salt is a less obvious category than the others, though these gourmet varieties have risen in popularity over the last few decades. It refers to premium, specialized salts (usually sea salts) that you add at the very last moment as a garnish. Pyramid-shaped Maldon flakes or French “sel gris” and “sel de Guérande” are good examples. You’d use those on a dish like carpaccio, where their crunch or delicate flavor elevate the finished dish.

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Featured Image Credit:  AleksandarGeorgiev/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
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.
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.
Featured Image Credit:  AleksandarGeorgiev/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
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Gardening 3m read
87

The One Thing You Should Never Do to Houseplants in Winter

The best thing you can do for your houseplants during the cold-weather season? Leave them exactly as they are. While it’s tempting to use the slow, indoor months to repot your collection — perhaps as part of a seasonal reset for your home — the most caring thing you can do is exercise patience. Wait until the days are noticeably longer before making any big moves.

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.

The best thing you can do for your houseplants during the cold-weather season? Leave them exactly as they are. While it’s tempting to use the slow, indoor months to repot your collection — perhaps as part of a seasonal reset for your home — the most caring thing you can do is exercise patience. Wait…

Why Wait for Winter To Pass?

No matter where you live, winter brings shorter days and less of the sunlight plants need to photosynthesize carbon and water into glucose, aka natural plant food. Repotting when light is scarce can stress them out because they just don’t have the energy reserves they’d have in, say, early summer. Plus, with less sun to help excess water evaporate from the surface of your plant’s soil, even the most seasoned plant parents can accidentally overwater.

Related: 10 Easy Ways To Fix Common Houseplant Problems

Many plants go semidormant in the winter and uprooting during their hibernation cycle can send them into shock. Unless a repot is absolutely necessary, hold off until early to mid-spring or until you see the first signs of new growth. This way, your plants will have the best conditions for laying strong, happy roots in their new homes.

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The Right Time To Repot

Sometimes, waiting for longer, warmer days isn’t the right move, and emergency intervention is the answer. Root problems shouldn’t be put off. If your plant is severely rootbound, with roots peeking over the soil or pushing through the drainage holes, you’ll want to repot sooner rather than later. An even more urgent matter is root rot, caused by overwatering. If you spot yellow, wilting leaves on a plant with moist soil; mushy, dark brown or black roots; or a sour smell, you’ll need to act fast. Rinse and cut away the affected roots, then repot the plant in a clean container with fresh, well-draining soil.

Finally, a swarm of fungus gnats could be a sign that your plant needs to be repotted. If you’re close to spring, you could try using sticky traps to catch the adults. If you have a bad case, however, you’ll need to target the larvae living beneath the soil. Toss that old soil, give the container a deep clean with hot soapy water to kill any lingering eggs, and start fresh with a high-quality potting mix.

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Cleaning 2m read
26

The Easy Way To Remove Stubborn Cooktop Stains

A cooktop stove, whether induction or electric, is a great way to save space in your kitchen, allowing you to install cabinets underneath and place the oven elsewhere. It also offers a sleeker, more modern look, and if it breaks, you only need to replace the cooktop itself, rather than an all-in-one range. These surfaces are also praised for their easy cleanup — especially when compared to open-flame burners or electric coils.

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.

A cooktop stove, whether induction or electric, is a great way to save space in your kitchen, allowing you to install cabinets underneath and place the oven elsewhere. It also offers a sleeker, more modern look, and if it breaks, you only need to replace the cooktop itself, rather than an all-in-one range. These surfaces…

To clean a cooktop, you can typically just wipe it down. For everyday messes, a spray bottle filled with equal parts water and distilled white vinegar will get the job done. Since the surface is completely flat, you don’t have to fuss over every nook and cranny. However, spills that happen midcooking can get baked-on since the glass is often too hot to wipe down immediately. Even after it cools, some cooktop stains remain stuck, no matter how hard you scrub. Thankfully, there’s an easy way to get that glass looking brand-new again.

Scrape Away the Stains

Start by spraying the cooktop with a degreaser, such as Dawn Powerwash, then scrub in circular motions using a nonscratch scouring pad. Wipe the surface with a clean, damp microfiber cloth to remove any excess product, then buff it dry with another clean cloth. You could follow up with a nonabrasive cooktop cleaner, but for particularly stubborn messes, reach for a razor blade scraper.

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Related: The Safety Tip Everyone With a Glass Cooktop Needs To Know

It’s important to use a fresh blade every time you do this, as a rusty blade can result in a scratched cooktop. You should also apply a mixture of dish soap and warm water to the cooktop for lubrication. Hold the tool at a 45-degree angle and gently scrape away any burnt-on residue. Remember to work slowly and use a light touch. Once everything is scraped off, give the cooktop one last spray with your cleaner of choice and wipe it away for a crystal-clear finish.

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Featured Image Credit:  FluxFactory/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
Jessie Quinn
Writer
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist with words published in PEOPLE, StyleCaster, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Byrdie, and more. She has a Bachelor's Degree in fashion journalism from Academy of Art University and her work spans across many categories, including style, beauty, home, health, crafts, and more.
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist with words published in PEOPLE, StyleCaster, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Byrdie, and more. She has a Bachelor's Degree in fashion journalism from Academy of Art University and her work spans across many categories, including style, beauty, home, health, crafts, and more.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
Featured Image Credit:  FluxFactory/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
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Home Improvement 4m read
56

Your Dryer Vent Needs a Leaf Blower, Not a Vacuum Attachment

When it comes to laundry room tasks, washing clothes isn’t nearly as bad as some of the more aggravating chores. Cleaning the dryer vent (not to be confused with cleaning the lint trap, which should be done after every use) is a bigger headache, but it’s a task you need to tackle every three to six months to help prevent fires and keep your dryer running smoothly.

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 laundry room tasks, washing clothes isn’t nearly as bad as some of the more aggravating chores. Cleaning the dryer vent (not to be confused with cleaning the lint trap, which should be done after every use) is a bigger headache, but it’s a task you need to tackle every three to…

Many people default to sticking a vacuum attachment down the dryer vent to suck up what they can, but this method isn’t always effective. A leaf blower is far more useful, as the high-powered airflow dislodges hidden dust your vacuum might otherwise miss. Let’s take a look at why this trick works so well and how you can try it yourself.

A Word of Caution

If you’re attempting this hack indoors, use only a battery-powered or electric leaf blower. You’ll want to avoid gas-powered models to prevent any dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

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Blast Away the Lint

First, a quick vocabulary lesson: The dryer vent hose is the Slinky-like tube connecting your appliance to the wall. The exhaust duct is a permanent pipe found in your walls, floor, or ceiling that carries hot air (and lint) away from your house. The exterior vent is the exit door; it’s usually fitted with flaps and a cover to block out pests and moisture.

Related: The Easiest Way To Clean Tower Fans

Before getting started, shut off the breaker for the dryer, unplug the appliance, and disconnect the dryer vent hose. Next, tape a 1-gallon resealable storage bag to the end of your leaf blower nozzle, securing it tightly so it doesn’t come flying off. Cut open the bottom of the bag; this will create a seal against the interior walls of the exhaust duct, forcing air through the pipe and out the exterior vent. Lastly (before you insert the leaf blower into the duct), feed a flex brush into the exhaust duct to dislodge any pesky dust that’s stuck to the interior walls.

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With the prep work out of the way, it’s time to power up the leaf blower. Insert the nozzle of the leaf blower into the opening of the exhaust duct and start on a low setting. Once you’ve confirmed the air is flowing, turn it to full blast to propel all of the loose dust through the exhaust duct and out of the house. This method is far better than using a vacuum, which often lacks the reach or suction to clear out debris trapped deep inside the piping. A gust of air from the leaf blower, conversely, handles those far-off dust bunnies with ease.

Contain the Mess

The one drawback to the leaf blower method is the potential mess wherever the exhaust duct empties out — like your backyard or driveway. To prevent dust from getting everywhere, have a helper hold a shop vac at the exterior vent (remember to remove the cover first) to catch the debris as it exits. You might have to seal the shop vac to the exterior vent to keep everything contained. While you’re using the leaf blower to push dust out, the vacuum will be there to swallow it at the other end. And just like that, you’ll have a clean dryer vent without a secondary mess to clean up afterward.

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Featured Image Credit:  Benjamin Clapp/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
Bennett Kleinman
Staff Writer
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Inbox Studio, 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.
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Inbox Studio, 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.
Featured Image Credit:  Benjamin Clapp/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
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Food & Drink 3m read
27

Stop Prepping Avocados the Hard Way — Use a Whisk

In the U.S., avocados have exploded in popularity over the last several decades. You can now find them on virtually any restaurant menu, used in everything from avocado toast and guacamole to sushi and salads. They’re versatile and delicious, with a creamy texture that’s rarely found in other produce. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, the fruit has become a staple on many people’s weekly grocery lists.

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.

In the U.S., avocados have exploded in popularity over the last several decades. You can now find them on virtually any restaurant menu, used in everything from avocado toast and guacamole to sushi and salads. They’re versatile and delicious, with a creamy texture that’s rarely found in other produce. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and…

The one downside to cooking with avocados is preparing them. You have to remove the pit, scoop out the flesh, and cut it into pieces — or mash it for guacamole. While it isn’t the most difficult process, it becomes tedious when you’re dealing with a large quantity of avocados. While many people use a knife to pit and slice, doing so can easily result in a nasty hand injury, especially if you’re trying to move fast through a large batch.

Related: Fruits and Vegetables You Should Never Store Together

A Hack That Will Whisk You Off Your Feet

That’s where this trick comes in. It uses a tool you almost certainly have in your kitchen drawer: a wire whisk.

To start, cut your avocado in half and remove the pit — you can do the latter safely using your fingers or a spoon. Hold an avocado half in your nondominant hand and a wire whisk in your dominant hand. Press the head of the whisk straight into the fruit until it reaches the skin, then gently twist in either direction.

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This clever hack achieves two goals at once: It scoops the flesh out of the skin and it cuts it into bite-sized pieces. The flesh will stay inside the whisk — all you need to do is tap it against the side of your bowl to release it. If you’re a visual learner, check out this helpful video tutorial.

Bonus Hack: Brush Leftover Avocado Halves With Lemon Juice

Cut too many avocado halves? Simply brush them with lemon or lime juice. The acidity slows the oxidization process, preventing the avocados from turning brown as quickly. You’ll still want to use them up within one or two days, though, before the texture starts to turn mushy.

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Cleaning 3m read
65

3 Hacks for Dusting Oddly Shaped Items

There’s something deeply satisfying about running a handheld duster over a smooth, flat surface. But honestly, how often does that really happen? With home decor clustered on shelves and tabletops, dusting is only ever that easy if you remove everything first. And while a deep clean calls for clearing surfaces, weekly maintenance requires something more accessible — especially since those oddly shaped items need dusting too.

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.

There’s something deeply satisfying about running a handheld duster over a smooth, flat surface. But honestly, how often does that really happen? With home decor clustered on shelves and tabletops, dusting is only ever that easy if you remove everything first. And while a deep clean calls for clearing surfaces, weekly maintenance requires something more…

How To Dust Oddly Shaped Objects

Instead of struggling to pick up every speck of dust with a traditional duster, try one of these easy ways to clean oddly shaped objects — whether it’s a bookend, sculptural decor, or that collection of crystals scattered across your shelf.

Related: Dust Less Often With This DIY Cleaning Spray

1. Use Microfiber Dusting Gloves

Microfiber cloths pick up nearly everything, making them one of the best tools for dusting — and gloves made from the same material take it a step further. Microfiber dusting gloves give you more control when cleaning, which is especially helpful for delicate items, such as houseplant leaves, as well as odd-shaped tchotchkes and souvenirs from your travels. With these gloves, you can cover larger surface areas with the palm of your hand, reach into tight crevices with your fingers, and maintain a gentle touch that protects your valuables.

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2. Try a Paintbrush

A paintbrush is another great hack for dusting oddly shaped objects, especially those with lots of nooks and crannies. Since paintbrush bristles work more like a tiny broom than a duster, however, the dust doesn’t really cling to them. That’s why we recommend saving this trick for deep-cleaning days, when you can take items down, give them a good brush, and put them back without kicking up a bunch of dust.

3. Opt for a Lint Roller on Upholstery

Lint rollers are a household essential for pet owners. While these tools are typically used to remove fur and lint from clothing, they work just as well on upholstered furniture and decor. For bigger jobs, you can even find extra-large versions with extendable handles to use on your sofa, bed, and rugs.

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Featured Image Credit:  kaorinne/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
Jessie Quinn
Writer
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist with words published in PEOPLE, StyleCaster, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Byrdie, and more. She has a Bachelor's Degree in fashion journalism from Academy of Art University and her work spans across many categories, including style, beauty, home, health, crafts, and more.
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist with words published in PEOPLE, StyleCaster, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Byrdie, and more. She has a Bachelor's Degree in fashion journalism from Academy of Art University and her work spans across many categories, including style, beauty, home, health, crafts, and more.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
Featured Image Credit:  kaorinne/ iStock | Updated  Jan 13, 2026 |
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Organizing 3m read
368

‘Scary Hour’ Helps You Complete Tasks You Don’t Want To Do

There’s no shortage of clever productivity tricks floating around TikTok, but every now and then a hack comes along that actually sticks. Enter “scary hour,” a simple yet genius system created by TikTok user @tiredbutcozy to help you finally tackle the annoying, stressful tasks you’ve been pretending don’t exist. Think: paying that parking ticket you shoved in a drawer, rescheduling your dentist appointment for the third time, or responding to an uncomfortable email you’d rather leave unread forever. These are your “scary” tasks — small but dreadful — and scary hour carves out a dedicated window to confront them.

There’s no shortage of clever productivity tricks floating around TikTok, but every now and then a hack comes along that actually sticks. Enter “scary hour,” a simple yet genius system created by TikTok user @tiredbutcozy to help you finally tackle the annoying, stressful tasks you’ve been pretending don’t exist. Think: paying that parking ticket you…

The Premise

Dedicate one hour a day to handling up to three scary tasks, and then you’re done. No bonus tasks, no adding things at the last minute, and no spiraling into a four-hour stress marathon. To reiterate: one hour, a maximum of three tasks, and nothing more.

Related: This One Question Will Change How You Declutter

Why It Works

This approach works because it sets boundaries around the tasks you’d otherwise avoid indefinitely. Instead of letting dread snowball until a chore feels monumental, scary hour contains the discomfort inside a predictable, time-boxed window. And if you don’t finish? You simply carry the leftovers into the next day’s scary hour — no guilt and no pressure to power through. If a task is large (hello, insurance phone calls), you can split it across several days without feeling like you failed.

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A Surprising Bonus

The tasks rarely take the full hour. You might spend five minutes disputing a charge or 10 minutes making that doctor’s appointment you’ve been putting off for six months. This structure helps you realize that scary tasks are rarely as big as they feel; they’re just emotionally daunting. Once you face them, they shrink.

How To Get Started

To try it yourself, start by listing every nagging task you’ve been avoiding. Pick up to three for tomorrow’s scary hour, set a timer, and get to work. Keep the vibe low-pressure. Play music, make a cup of coffee, or light a candle — whatever makes the hour feel tolerable, even cozy. When the timer goes off, you’re officially done for the day, regardless of how much you finished.

It’s simple, manageable, and honestly kind of freeing. With scary hour in your back pocket, that pile of dreaded to-dos suddenly feels a lot less … scary.

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Featured Image Credit:  Unsplash+ via Getty Images | Updated  Jan 12, 2026 |
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.
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.
Featured Image Credit:  Unsplash+ via Getty Images | Updated  Jan 12, 2026 |
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Home Improvement 3m read
1,067

Are Dents Ruining Your Hardwood Floors? Try This

Hardwood flooring is the pride of many homeowners, and its beauty and durability are well worth the investment. Yet, no matter how many rugs you lay down or furniture pads you use to protect the wood, dents are bound to happen over time.

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.

Hardwood flooring is the pride of many homeowners, and its beauty and durability are well worth the investment. Yet, no matter how many rugs you lay down or furniture pads you use to protect the wood, dents are bound to happen over time.

When they appear, you might assume a costly repair is the only fix. In reality, all it takes is a bit of water, steam, and elbow grease to make your hardwood floors look as good as new. Here’s how to erase those blemishes in just a few hours.

A Solution That’s Gaining Steam

The general idea behind this hack is using moisture and heat to swell the wood fibers back to their original shape. But before you give it a shot, you’ll need a few tools: a handheld steam iron, a water supply, shop rags, a clean cloth, and a box cutter or another sharp knife that’s safe to handle.

Related: Quiet Creaky Floors With This Household Item

Begin by locating the dent(s), using small pieces of painter’s tape to mark the affected areas. If your hardwood floors are sealed, use the box cutter to poke a few tiny holes within the dent, following the woodgrain pattern so they blend in naturally. The aim is to pierce the clear coating just enough for water to absorb into the wood. Next, tear a shop rag into small strips sized to the circumference of the dent(s) and submerge them in water. Once they’re soaking wet, wad each strip into a ball and dab the perforated areas so moisture seeps into the holes. Then, place one wad over each dent and let them sit for about five hours.

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When you return, you may see tiny, discolored spots in the wood. Don’t worry — this is just absorbed water that will evaporate in time, causing the spots to disappear. Turn the iron to its hottest setting, and as it heats up, soak another clean cloth in water. Lay the wet cloth over the dent and press the iron onto it for about 20 seconds. You should hear a lot of hissing as the steam is released; this is perfectly normal. After 20 seconds, remove the iron and set it aside. If the dent remains, you can repeat the process — just make sure the cloth is still damp, or you risk leaving an iron mark on the floor.

Ideally, when you lift the cloth, you should notice the dent has swollen due to all the absorbed moisture. In fact, it may be so swollen that it feels more like a bump than a dent. If this is the case, don’t fret; the wood will shrink back down as the water evaporates, leaving the surface nice and flush.

After 24 to 48 hours, once the water has fully evaporated, run your hand over the area. If there’s still a prominent bump, sand it back down with a high-grit sandpaper. To protect against dirt or future water damage, reseal the spots with a product (e.g., a water-based polyurethane) that matches your floor’s specific sheen. In the end, you won’t be able to tell that anything was ever amiss.

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Featured Image Credit:  Andrey Popov/ Adobe Stock | Updated  Jan 7, 2026 |
Bennett Kleinman
Staff Writer
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Inbox Studio, 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.
Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Inbox Studio, 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.
Featured Image Credit:  Andrey Popov/ Adobe Stock | Updated  Jan 7, 2026 |
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Decorating 3m read
17,773

This One Decor Item Is Always Worth Thrifting

Before you click “add to cart” on new — and probably expensive — pillow inserts, try this thrift-store hack from TikToker Carrie Anne Harmon of Moonlight Market Co. The home DIY creator has a true “Why didn’t I think of that?” tip: Stop buying brand-new pillow inserts and browse your local secondhand shop instead. High-quality pillow inserts, especially those filled with feathers or down, are notoriously expensive when purchased new. But there may be some hiding in plain sight at your local thrift store, tucked inside ugly throw pillows.

Before you click “add to cart” on new — and probably expensive — pillow inserts, try this thrift-store hack from TikToker Carrie Anne Harmon of Moonlight Market Co. The home DIY creator has a true “Why didn’t I think of that?” tip: Stop buying brand-new pillow inserts and browse your local secondhand shop instead. High-quality…

What To Look For in Thrifted Pillow Inserts

Next time you’re wandering the aisles of a thrift shop’s home section, skip the novelty mugs and head straight for the pillows. Pick up each throw pillow and give it a solid squeeze. If it feels soft, springy, and slightly weighty — rather than lumpy or lifeless — there’s a good chance it’s filled with feathers or down instead of polyester fill.

Next, look for a zipper on the pillow. Decorative pillows are often designed with removable covers so the insert can be easily reused. Unzip the pillow and check for a tag; that’s the key to verifying the fill content. Feather and down inserts are preferred because they hold their shape far better (and far longer) than synthetic alternatives.

Related: How To Make Your Throw Pillows Extra Fluffy

When bought new, feather inserts can cost a pretty penny — and the bigger the pillow, the higher the price tag. Thrift stores, however, often price entire pillows — inserts and covers — for just a few dollars. Discard or donate the outer cover if it’s not your style and keep the high-quality insert for your own covers at home.

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Why You Should Buy Feather or Down Inserts

You can’t see an insert, but you can definitely feel the difference. Compared to polyester fill, feathers and down are more durable, breathable, and long-lasting.

How To Wash Thrifted Pillow Inserts

Much like thrifted clothing, secondhand pillow inserts require a deep clean before use. Wash them on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and warm (not hot) water. Run an extra rinse cycle to ensure all the soap washes away. Dry the pillows thoroughly on low heat with a couple of clean tennis balls or dryer balls to help restore their fluffy shape. To prevent mildew, make sure the inserts are completely dry before putting them back in their covers.

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Featured Image Credit:  Alex Potemkin/ iStock | Updated  Jan 7, 2026 |
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.
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.
Featured Image Credit:  Alex Potemkin/ iStock | Updated  Jan 7, 2026 |
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Cleaning 2m read
1,140

One Little Trick That Makes Changing Sheets Faster

Wrestling with sheets — specifically the stubborn fitted kind — is one of the worst parts of laundry day. Whether you struggle to get that last corner over the mattress or can never seem to figure out which side is the short one, it’s frustrating enough to make you wonder who invented fitted sheets and if they did it out of pure malice.

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.

Wrestling with sheets — specifically the stubborn fitted kind — is one of the worst parts of laundry day. Whether you struggle to get that last corner over the mattress or can never seem to figure out which side is the short one, it’s frustrating enough to make you wonder who invented fitted sheets and…

As it turns out, Bertha Berman patented the fitted sheet in 1959 as an improvement to flat sheets, ensuring the corners would fit snugly around the mattress every time. And while fitted sheets can be frustrating to deal with, you only need one trick to get them on the bed correctly on your first try.

Related: The Secret to Luxuriously Soft Bed Sheets

Locate the Care Label

When it comes to distinguishing the short side of a fitted sheet from the long one, there’s a secret indicator most of us have completely overlooked. While some manufacturers make it easy for you by including tags labeled “top” or “bottom,” many do not. In those cases, look for the interior care label — it’s almost always intended for the bottom right corner of the mattress, making it easy to align the sheet every time. For a total cheat, opt for a patterned sheet (such as a vertical stripe) so you never have to second-guess the direction again.

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More Tips for Taming a Fitted Sheet

If getting that last corner onto your mattress is the bane of your existence, YouTube creator Clean That Up recommends the U-shape method. Start by putting the fitted sheet over the bottom-right corner, then move to the top-right, followed by the top-left, and finally the bottom-left. This prevents it from popping off and undoing your hard work. To secure that tricky final corner, use the bear claw technique: Pin the sheet against the mattress with one hand while using your other hand to pull the elastic edge over the corner.

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Featured Image Credit:  penkanya/ iStock | Updated  Jan 7, 2026 |
Jessie Quinn
Writer
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist with words published in PEOPLE, StyleCaster, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Byrdie, and more. She has a Bachelor's Degree in fashion journalism from Academy of Art University and her work spans across many categories, including style, beauty, home, health, crafts, and more.
Jessie Quinn is a Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist with words published in PEOPLE, StyleCaster, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Byrdie, and more. She has a Bachelor's Degree in fashion journalism from Academy of Art University and her work spans across many categories, including style, beauty, home, health, crafts, and more.
This article is for general informational purposes only.
Featured Image Credit:  penkanya/ iStock | Updated  Jan 7, 2026 |