Decorating and Design

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    Reasons Your Dishwasher Is Clogged and How to Fix It Fast

    ByStan S.

    Credit: Volodymyr Bushmelov / Getty Images A clogged dishwasher can result in slow-draining or standing water in the dishwasher tub, foul odors, and dishes that never seem to get fully clean. If these symptoms sound familiar, you likely have a clog, but before you can fix it, you need to locate the clog, which is often the most challenging part of the job. Learn where to look for dishwasher clogs, how to unclog a dishwasher yourself, and when you should call a professional to inspect your appliance and plumbing. How to Clear Common Dishwasher Clogs The appropriate method for unclogging a dishwasher depends on the type of clog you’re dealing with. This list outlines the most common sources of dishwasher clogs and provides instructions on how to clear each type. Before attempting to unclog your dishwasher, disconnect or turn off the power supply to the appliance. 1. Drain Filter Clogs Drain filter clogs are among the most common dishwasher clogs. Most dishwashers have multiple screens and filters with different-sized holes to capture food debris and grime, preventing it from being washed further downstream. However, the dishwasher drain filters should be regularly removed and cleaned to ensure that dirty water can still drain efficiently from the appliance, as they’re prone to clogging. To remove the filter, follow these steps: Remove the dishwasher rack. Remove any standing water. Lift out the upper screen. Lift out the filter. Clean both the filter and the upper screen. Check for any clogs or food debris inside the filter housing. Reinstall the filter, upper screen, and dishwasher rack. 2. Drain Hose Clogs Occasionally, debris can make it past the dishwasher filter, potentially leading to a clogged dishwasher drain hose. This is even more likely to result in a clog if the drain hose is kinked, which is a common occurrence. To check the hose, access it beneath your sink. However, you may need to disconnect the hose and pull the dishwasher out of position to fully assess the hose. If the hose is kinked, redirect it so it flows freely. If you find a clog, disconnect the hose and flush it with hot water until the clog clears. Related 3. Spray Arm Clogs Sometimes, the dishwasher clog can be inside the spray arms. If this is the case, your dishwasher still drains as usual, but you’ll likely notice dirt, debris, or a greasy film on your dishes after the wash cycle because the clogged spray arms aren’t washing and rinsing as intended, leaving the dishes dirty. To clean the spray arms, follow these steps: Remove the spray arms. Most models unclip or twist out of their position. If possible, disassemble the spray arms. Some spray arms can be opened for better access for cleaning the inside. Use a toothpick to clean the small holes. Soak it in a warm water and vinegar solution to loosen up stubborn grime, then rinse until clean. Reassemble and reinstall the spray arm. 4. Garbage Disposal Clogs If you have a garbage disposal, check to ensure it’s not full of food debris, as this can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly, leading you to believe that the dishwasher itself is clogged. How to Clear Deep Clogs If you believe the dishwasher drain is clogged beyond the filter, you can use a drain snake to gently clear the clog. Follow this with a vinegar and baking soda rinse to clear any stuck-on debris. Use 1/4-cup of baking soda, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar, to produce a foamy reaction that helps loosen stubborn grime. Once it stops fizzing, rinse off the residue. After clearing the clog, run a dishwasher cycle without any dishes or detergent to clean the interior and flush out the drain. Add a cup of vinegar to the dishwasher to freshen the interior and help clear out the drains. When to Call a Professional If you’ve checked all the common dishwasher clog locations to no avail and your dishwasher is still draining slowly, it may be time to have a professional take a look. Plumbers will be able to rule out any clogged plumbing beyond the dishwasher, while appliance technicians can ensure the dishwasher is working as intended.

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    No, You Shouldn’t Run the Washing Machine While Showering. Here’s Why

    ByStan S.

    Key Takeaways Running the washing machine while showering can reduce water pressure. Both the shower and washing machine draw from the same water line, creating a shortage of hot water. You can adjust your routine or upgrade your system for a better outcome. Doing laundry while showering knocks two things off your to-do list at one time, but is it a smart idea? We’ve all experienced the shocking temperature shift that happens when someone flushes the toilet during a shower—but what happens if you try to shower and do a load of laundry at the same time? We turned to experts for their insights and answers. It turns out, plumbers don’t always recommend multitasking. Here’s what they have to say. Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg Multitasking Can Cause Low Water Pressure and Temperature Drops Depending on how your plumbing system was designed, the washing machine and shower might share a water line. “When you step into the shower, and your washing machine is looking for hot water to fill its drum, you’re fighting for the same hot water at the same time,” says Chris Hunter, director of customer relations at ServiceTitan. This is particularly common in homes with 30- or 40-gallon water heaters that are drained quickly when multiple fixtures demand hot water at the same time, says Alex Atkinson, a plumber and HVAC technician at Super Brothers. If your water heater isn’t big enough, or your plumbing doesn’t regulate pressure well, you’ll feel it with cold water, pressure drops, or a totally uneven shower experience.  If this happens often, consider upgrading to a larger hot water heater or a tankless hot water heater; this way, you won’t run out of hot water. You can also consider a pressure-balancing valve in your shower head so that when other hot or cold knobs are turned elsewhere in the house, the pressure of your shower does not change as it equalizes temperature and pressure across all outlets. If you need to run a load of laundry, set your machine to cycle after your shower or run a load of laundry in cold water, which won’t affect your supply of hot water. It Can Also Raise Your Energy Bill “If the washing machine is on the warm or hot cycle, there is no doubt that it is going to be pulling from the same hot water supply that the shower is. That can noticeably reduce the pressure or temperature of the shower. Most importantly, from an energy savings perspective, your water heater is now attempting to recover two draws simultaneously, so it’s less efficient. It may also reduce the lifespan of the unit over the long run,” says Brandon Young, CEO at Payless Power. Related Credit: Greg Scheidemann Pictures What the Experts Recommend Here’s what the pros advise, including one simple fix. • Install a pressure-balancing or thermostatic mixing valve in the shower. That keeps the water temperature steady even when someone flushes or the washing machine runs, says Nick Hendrix, general manager at Kingdom Plumbing. • Install a smart hot water recirculation system with a booster pump to eliminate the waiting, end the waste, and enhance comfort at home. • Check your water heater size. If it’s undersized, you might just be running out of hot water too fast. A tankless unit can solve that for good. • Simply run the laundry after the shower, not during.

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    8 Patio Furniture Trends Designers Swear by for an Outdoor Escape

    ByStan S.

    Your outdoor space is a part of your home—and it deserves just as much thought and personality as your interiors. “Since the days of COVID, we’ve leaned heavily into outdoor living, and it’s changed the way we decorate our exteriors,” says home style expert Ursula Carmona. To help you bring the same level of intention and style to your backyard, patio, balcony, or porch, we tapped interior designers and experts at leading patio furniture brands. Read on for the patio furniture trends they’re seeing in 2025—and how to bring them to life in your space. Ursula Carmona is a content creator and home style expert. Sandra Smith-Fitzgerald is the senior vice president of merchandising at Frontgate, a home and garden retailer. Lindsay Schleis is a design expert and vice president of business development at POLYWOOD, an outdoor furniture brand. 1. Room Vignettes Think of your outdoor area as a true extension of your home—one with defined zones for how you actually live. “Start by considering the ‘rooms’ you wish to define and how you envision living within these spaces,” says Sandra Smith-Fitzgerald, senior vice president of merchandising at Frontgate. “Will it be a retreat? A place to host gatherings? Or an intimate spot for friends? Integral to outdoor living is the creation of distinct areas—like an outdoor living room, dining zone, relaxing retreat by the pool, or an outdoor kitchen for a complete alfresco dining experience.” Once the layout is in place, add layers of decor. “Don’t be afraid to bring the indoors out—cozy seating, layered textiles, styled vignettes,” says Carmona. 2. Elevate Small Spaces A sprawling patio isn’t a prerequisite for great outdoor design. A small balcony or backyard can shine with the right pieces. “We’re seeing a heightened demand for furniture solutions tailored to small or uniquely shaped living spaces,” says Lindsay Schleis, design expert and vice president of business development at POLYWOOD. “Limited square footage doesn’t have to equate to limited style. Consumers are getting creative to transform a tucked-away corner into a cozy nook with a deep-seated chair or find the perfect dining set to fit their balcony.” Finish the look with layered lighting, potted plants, and textured cushions to maximize comfort and visual interest. Related Credit: Rett Peek  3. Blend Modern with Traditional Modern design isn’t going anywhere—but now, it’s being softened with timeless touches. “New traditional style is about crafting a space that seamlessly bridges classic and modern aesthetics,” says Smith-Fitzgerald. “This results in an environment that is both comfortable and sophisticated, inviting yet cohesive, and—at its core—truly timeless.” Classics like Adirondack and rocking chairs remain evergreen staples, but when paired with streamlined forms and modern materials, they feel fresh and updated. “Blend classic silhouettes and colors with modern ones in furniture or accent pieces,” says Smith-Fitzgerald. “Then add layers of textiles, such as patterns and solids in rugs and pillows to infuse texture, comfort, and a dash of personality.” 4. Extend Patio Season with All-Weather Furniture Summer may be the official patio season for those who live in colder climates, but thanks to all-season furniture, patios and porches are becoming year-round destinations. “Our patios and porches are getting just as much love as our living rooms, which means durability and performance materials are a must,” Carmona says. Schleis is seeing the same: “Homeowners are extending their living spaces outside, where they can host friends and entertain at any time of year,” she says. “For that reason, all-weather dining, lounge, and fire pit table sets continue to grow in popularity.” 5. Design a Kid-Friendly Outdoor Space Outdoor design isn’t just for adults anymore. As more families invest in their exterior spaces, we’re seeing a rise in furniture collections made just for kids. “We launched our kids collection last year and it’s been met with enthusiasm,” Schleis says. “Parents are clearly eager to create comfortable and stylish outdoor areas specifically for their children, mirroring the adult spaces they’ve created.” Credit: Victoria Pearson 6. Infuse Nature into the Aesthetic Designers are embracing earthy tones and organic textures to help outdoor spaces feel grounded and serene. “Nature-inspired palettes and textures bring a sense of calm and relaxation to our busy lives,” says Schleis. “All shades of browns and natural, warm tones allow your furniture to both blend in with the environment while making a statement.” Look for woven accents, wood finishes, and stone-inspired materials that enhance the natural vibe. 7. Go Bold With Art Deco Decor The bold glamour of Art Deco is making a comeback—yes, even outside. Characterized by clean symmetry, curved forms, and metal materials, this iconic design style brings sophistication to patios and porches. “To incorporate Art Deco outdoors, opt for designs that provide a sleek foundation with refined details,” says Smith-Fitzgerald. “Introduce geometric patterns and colors through pillows and rugs and accentuate the area with brass items like lanterns and statuary for understated elegance.” Carmona has seen jewel tones trending both indoors and outdoors. To amp up the color when you’re entertaining, try emerald green cushions, sapphire blue rugs, or ruby red tableware. Credit: David Tsay 8. Play with Patterns Patterns are having a moment outdoors—from florals and stripes to geometric and global-inspired prints. “Seasonal motifs can complement any patio style, infusing fun and personality into your design,” says Smith-Fitzgerald, who says the key to adding pattern without overwhelming your space is balance. “Let these elements shine as focal points, ensuring they don’t

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    Toothpaste Is the Secret to Perfectly-Hung Picture Frames (Yes, Really!)

    ByStan S.

    If you’re always up for learning a new home improvement hack, you may have come across this viral Instagram reel that shows how to use toothpaste to hang pictures. As stunning as a gallery wall can be, the process of hanging pictures is not always quick and easy—and sometimes results in countless nail holes that need to be patched up. The toothpaste picture-hanging hack promises a foolproof method that takes out the guesswork. Best of all, it only requires a cheap item everyone already has at home: a regular ole tube of toothpaste. Keep reading to find out whether the viral hack actually works, what type of toothpaste works best, and how to make sure pictures are level. How the Toothpaste Picture Hanging Hack Works The viral toothpaste picture hanging hack is designed to take the guesswork out of hanging frames on the wall. It starts with a basic tube of white toothpaste that will serve as a the marker for where you need to hammer or drill a hole. To start, take your picture frame and lay it face-down on a flat surface. Locate the hanging hardware first—typically there will be one or two pieces of hanging hardware on the back of a frame, depending on how large and how heavy it is. The most common types of picture frame hardware are sawtooth hooks, D-rings, triangle hooks, and keyholes. Take the toothpaste a squeeze a small amount of it on the hanging hardware. If it’s a sawtooth hook, squeeze a dot of toothpaste in the middle of the sawtooth hook where the nail will go. Pick up the frame with the hanging hardware facing the wall, position it where you want the picture to hang, then gently press against the wall until the toothpaste transfers onto the wall. The toothpaste mark (or multiple marks) now serves as a guide to show you exactly where the nail holes need to be. Install nails or screws, then wipe off the excess toothpaste using a clean cloth or paper towel. Related How to Make Sure the Picture Is Level The hack seems simple enough, right? But if there is more than one piece of hanging hardware on the back of the frame or if you are hanging a pair of frames, how do you make sure the holes are level? Because there’s nothing more frustrating than realizing a picture is hanging crooked or a pair of frames doesn’t quite line up. This is where a level comes in. The viral Instagram reel doesn’t show a level being used, but it’s easy to incorporate into the hanging method. You may just need an extra set of hands to help you out, especially if the picture frame is beveled or not deep enough to prop a level on. Here’s where the tool comes in: Before you press the picture frame with the toothpaste on the wall, place a level on top of the frame. If the frame is deep enough to hold the level, you can do it by yourself. If not, have someone hold the level in place for you. Make any necessary adjustments and once the frame is level, press it against the wall to make toothpaste marks. Alternately, you can use a laser level that shoots a perfectly straight line across the wall to direct where you should position the frame. What Type of Toothpaste to Use For anyone nervous about whether or not toothpaste can hurt painted walls, you don’t have to worry about it causing any permanent damage. Sometimes toothpaste is actually used to clean scuff marks off of walls, so it is safe to use on most walls and it will not strip the paint. As for the type of toothpaste that’s best to use for the hack, a basic white toothpaste is a good choice. There’s no need for any fancy whitening or breath-freshening toothpaste, since all you need it to do is make marks on the wall. The thicker and creamier the consistency of the toothpaste the better it transfers onto the wall, so try to avoid gel-based toothpastes that may be too thin and run down the walls.