Hanging pictures and putting together the perfect gallery wall can be deceptively tricky. There are many elements to consider, such as lighting, spacing and layout. Overcrowding (or under filling), uneven gaps between artwork and lopsided alignment are pretty common mistakes. Not to mention the hassle of refilling and patch painting all those drywall holes from repeated attempts to get it looking right.

But once you find that perfect balance, a gallery wall can be a brilliant way to cohesively showcase family photos, meaningful art and special mementos simultaneously. So, to unlock this core decorating skill — and avoid turning your wall into a dartboard — take these tips to heart, and get it done right from the get-go.

Tools:
Measuring tape
Long ruler
Roll of newsprint or large cardstock paper
Level
Pencil
Frame hooks and hammer (or weight-bearing adhesive hooks)
Masking tape

Related: Style Your Home Like a Luxury Home Stager With These 10 Tips

1. Pick a Wall

Choosing which wall to use can be just as important as picking which art to hang. Ideally, look for a wall space with lots of natural light but without any windows or doors. If the space is on the darker side, consider incorporating wall sconces or a vintage reading light into the display to brighten it up.

The decorating rule of thirds also applies to gallery walls — aim to fill up two thirds, leaving a third bare. This open space works as a visual “frame” around the whole display. Also, don’t squash frames up too close to the ceiling — create a 10-inch buffer from the top of the wall.

If the gallery wall is going above a large piece of furniture, keep the frames contained within the length/width of the couch, table or armchair. Going beyond the border can make the gallery wall feel overbearing in the space. Get clear on what two thirds looks like by measuring it out and putting up a masking-tape border on the wall.

2. Gather Your Art

Collecting art is such a personal process that this tip is simple — put up what you like! Seriously. It could be a triptych of enormous, professionally framed art prints that stand alone in the space. Or maybe you’ve thrifted a cool oil canvas and you’d like to mix it up, mad-hatter style, with a cheeky embroidered message, your niece’s doodles and a collection of float-mounted train tickets.

Almost any combination of art and objects can work — it’s the attention to spacing and proportion that’s important here. That being said, if you prefer a more curated look to a gallery wall, select a colour palette or singular frame colour and stick to it. Picking pieces with a similar tone or intensity creates unity. For example, if black-and-white photos in simple black frames are a big part of the grouping, select other monotone or dark-framed pieces.

Having a mix of horizontal and vertical pieces will also make the gallery wall more interesting. Round or oval pieces in a group of straight-framed pieces is a welcome surprise; adding in woven or ceramic pieces brings texture. For bigger walls, make sure to have one to three big pieces to start — they’ll work as a visual anchor in the centre. For smaller a wall, have five to seven small-to-medium sized pieces on hand.

Related: How to Start a Junk Journal

3. Mix and Match

Measure out the total size of the “frame” of your gallery wall (reminder: two thirds of the wall, or the space above a piece of furniture). Use masking tape to mark it out on the floor. Now, here comes the fun part — figuring out what to put where.

Take all the frames, art pieces and mementos and test out different setups. Take a look at each from different aspects — when you step back, does it look balanced? Also, snap photos along the way so there’s a visual record of all the combos; this will help make the final decision.

Find the middle point of the frame, and place the biggest or most substantial pieces there (or slightly off centre). Then work out from that central point, spacing out each piece evenly. Try putting similarly sized frames together, grouping smaller ones into clusters, where possible. Grouping like with like helps balance out the bigger collection.

4. Lay It Out

When noodling around with layout options, there are a couple different formation formats to consider. A symmetrical layout uses similarly sized pieces, and places equal focus on each by using the same spacing across the board. It’s formal, structured and striking; its simplicity makes it easy for the eye to follow.

For a more laidback gallery wall, an asymmetrical layout uses a variety of differently sized pieces with varying spacing between. It’s casual and more free flowing, which makes it easier to add more pieces over time without too much hassle. To keep this more laissez-faire formation from feeling messy, line up the tops or sides of frames. This will give the collection some form without feeling too confined.

Related: Picture Perfect: A Foolproof Guide to Hanging Pictures Perfectly, Every Time

5. Spacing Is Everything

Getting the spacing just right is what separates a pedestrian gallery wall from a professionally designed one. Appropriate spacing makes the art stand out, and creates cohesiveness in a display that, by its very nature, is fragmented.

So, here’s a good standard to start with: for small-room walls, stick close to two inches; for medium-sized displays, two and half inches; and for larger walls, use up to three inches. Frame size is also something to consider — a larger frame can handle a bigger gap.

Now, these are just suggestions — how you’d like your room to feel also plays a part. For a cozy reading nook, you might want to tighten up the intermittent space; but for a large, open-concept dining room, more space might complement its airy aesthetic.

6. Wall Test

Use the newsprint or cardstock to cut out all the shapes of the final selection of frames and art pieces. Tape these templates to the wall in your favourite formation, working out from the centre and from biggest to smallest. Confirm the spacing is uniform and everything is lined up evenly with ruler and level. While this technical process can be tedious, front-end loading the work now will be worth it (promise).

Stand back — are you happy with the configuration? Consider sitting with the layout for a day or two. If there are any holes in the mix, fix them before pulling out the hammer and nails. With everything in place, hold up each frame to its corresponding paper template. To get the exact spot for the hanging nail or hook, measure the distance from the top of the frame to its hanging wire or bracket.

Rinse and repeat until the gallery wall is complete, and everything perfectly aligned the first time around — and with it, this well-earned decorating skill is now officially unlocked.

Humans are storytellers — and every antique and vintage decor piece has a story. Whether it’s a tiny, ancient heirloom writing desk or a bold, 1960s floral wall hanging, they’ve survived the passage of time to be here in your home.

While antiques and vintage can elevate a space, there’s the risk of over saturation — balancing old and new is key. Quality materials, interesting textures and inherent uniqueness are just some of the qualities vintage hunters look for.

So, let’s go antique hunting and see what scores we can find, shall we?

What to Keep in Mind

Time travel: One of the joys of decorating with vintage decor is shaking up styles, eras and materials to create a space that’s truly one of a kind. So, don’t be afraid to put together pieces from various periods — different is interesting!

To protect and serve: Unlike contemporary furniture, which is often mass produced, antiques were crafted by hand and require very particular care. Make sure you’re OK with the level of maintenance and cleaning required to keep a piece in good nick.

Small but mighty: Side lamps, thrifted art prints and occasional tables are fun, low-budget items to begin experimenting with vintage decor. They’ll train your eye and help you figure out what you like (and don’t) without any major investment.

Switch it up: How an antique was doesn’t mean is has to stay that way now. If you love the shape of an armchair but the upholstery is not for you, replace it. If you find an ornate frame but the paint is peeling off, repaint it… whatever colour you like.

You get to add to its story too.

Related: 10 Ways to Bring Vintage Appeal to Your Basic Bathroom

What to Look for

Art
Looking for antique art is one of the most accessible ways to start on your vintage-decor journey. Since art is so subjective, if you like what you see, that’s all that really matters. Don’t worry if its frame is falling apart or if it’s not ready to immediately hang on the wall — anything can be framed or wired (at a cost). Also, don’t limit yourself by only shopping for wall art; consider a vintage sculpture or antique objet du art as your character piece (de résistance).

Chairs
Another low-stakes way to enter the antique market (so to speak) is with a vintage chair. Thanks to their pre-industrial construction, antique chairs are oftentimes higher quality than their modern counterparts. Even after a hundred years of wear and tear, they’ll still offer a solid seat. Look for benches and stools as well — they provide extra seating in a pinch, but also make sweet side tables.

Textiles
Vintage textiles are a category that may have been overlooked in the recent past. But thanks to the rise of maximalism and a revival of the arts and crafts movement, intricate prints, embroidery, and woven accents are having their moment again. Antique textiles tend to be rich in colour and texture, adding warmth and depth to a room, but use them sparingly. A vibrant tapestry on a bare white wall or a petite handwoven rug in an entryway can create a special little decor moment all on its own.

Anchors
Antique and vintage “anchors” are the big-ticket items — think dining table, credenza or dresser. A general rule: keep it to one show-stopping antique piece per room and balance it with more subtle, modern elements. For example, in a master bedroom, neutral walls and a solitary abstract painting act as a foil for a stunning, dark-stained antique dresser.

Related: How to Style a Coffee Table

Where to Look

In person: Local flea markets, antique shops, vintage fairs, estate sales, thrift shops
Not only can you confirm its condition with your own eyes and hands, but you can also get its origin story straight from the seller. Plus, there are no shipping costs, just your own transportation expenses.

Online: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, 1st Dibs, Etsy
The advantage of buying antiques and vintage online is the ability to search for exactly what you want. The downside is the risk you take in the quality and accuracy of the descriptions, and the potentially high shipping costs.

I have a complicated relationship with clutter, decluttering and establishing a cleaning routine — and I don’t think I’m alone. Thanks to my impulsivity and never-ending search for novelty, my living spaces go through boom-and-bust cycles. I’ll collect new art, antiques, shiny kitchen gadgets or thrifted clothes until there’s no more space, then I’ll clear it all out until there’s barely anything left.

For years, I’ve searched for ways to slow down this cycle. I’ve tried keeping only what “sparked joy” à la Marie Kondo and following The Minimalists‘ edict: “Love People, Use Things”. Now I’m super-skilled at minimizing… but remain terrible at maintaining. Same goes for my cleaning routine: great at the oh-so-satisfying deep clean, dismal at the boring maintenance cleaning.

I’ve tried chore charts, check lists, days-of-the-week tasks, and equitable household division with Fair Play cards, but nothing sticks (except grime!).

Finally figuring out the formula for keeping everything clean and living clutter-free holds an ever-present spot on my life-hack to-do list. Honestly, it’s a continued source of deep frustration (and possibly shame?). So, when discovering this new wave of trending TikTok creators, all gung-ho about decluttering and dispersing cleaning advice, I was keen to dive into their viral cleaning routines and try out some new methods for a week.

Related: How to Declutter Your Home Fast (in Under 30 Minutes)

#cleaningroutine TikTok Trend Deep Dive

There seem to be two main themes on #organizingtiktok — the decluttering process and cleaning routines. Creators, such as Canadian professional organizer Cassandra Aarssen (@clutterbug_me), break down the decluttering process room by room. In her videos, Aarssen sprinkles in bitesized bits of advice on how to get motivated (use a five-minute timer!) or where to start (toys!).

There are also lots of simple, meme-able rules, such as Aarssen’s “Four Hard Truths”:

1. Tidy people have less stuff
2. Tidy people do their dishes every day
3. Tidy people have homes for everything they own
4. Tidy people clean up for five minutes throughout the day

Another creator, who’s had a meteoric rise on the back of the viral #cleaningroutine trend, is American influencer Kylie Perkins (@sociallykylie). Her videos were getting around 15K views a year ago, but they grew quickly and exponentially. Her latest viral video, titled “What if cleaning your house really was the answer to everything”, received 3.9M views.

Perkins shout-talks to camera while speed walking her viewers through her morning, afternoon and nighttime #stayinmotion cleaning routines (which she purports to be life changing). Her videos are peppered with motivational “tough love” talk. Think Tony Robbins but a young, Christian mom of two in North Carolina with amazing hair and ADHD.

“It’s Monday, and I’m waking up and I have to come deal with this?” says Perkins, pointing to her messy work-from-home desk. “Absolutely not! Deal with it tonight — set yourself up for success so you can take care of the future you. Get it done.”

Related: How to Completely Declutter Your Home in Just Two Weeks

The Cleaning Routine Experiment

To avoid bringing “today’s mess into tomorrow”, I broke down Perkins’s three viral cleaning routines into steps and times. Then, I gave them a go for a week, with mixed success (and feelings).

1. #morningroutine (15-20 mins.)

1. Open curtains for morning light (“This one simple, simple, simple task that takes one second will change your mood, I promise you,” says Perkins. “Get up and open your curtains.”)
2. Open the windows for 5-10 mins… even if you live in a cold climate (Perkins is originally from Alaska.)
3. Make the bed (“Just get up and do it, no excuses!”)
4. Put away clothes from the dryer
5. Empty dishwasher

Results: The morning routine wasn’t life changing — as in it wasn’t much of a change from my regular life. I already open the curtains (that’s normal, right?) and make the beds in the morning. My husband empties the dishwasher as I can’t stand the sound of clean ceramic being dried or stacked (hi, sensory issues!).

Opening the windows in the morning was actually a tip from my parents’ German housecleaner I had forgotten about. Adding that back in did feel good and freshen up the space quite literally. I put away clean clothes at night, after the loads from the day are complete, so I kept that task for later.

Note: She also seems to have a fourth mid-morning cleaning routine that happens after breakfast and before she and her husband start work. This is where the real time suck happens! When I did this alone, it took more than an hour.

This includes: loading the dishwasher and cleaning the front, wiping kitchen counters and sink, sweeping the kitchen floor, clearing toys from the living room, sweeping the living room, brushing off the couch and its cushions, picking up clothes, and loading the washing machine. In one video, she did hand off the second half of this cleanup to her husband because she had to get to work before him.

2. #afternoonroutine (15-20 mins.)

1. Flip laundry
2. Clean and put away lunch dishes
3. Pick up toys (if kids are home during the day)
4. Sweep kitchen and living room (again)

Details: The afternoon “turbo mode” routine is all about prepping for the evening so that nighttime — especially with kids — doesn’t become overwhelming. She buzzes around, loudly talking a mile a minute and frantically throwing laundry and toys left and right. It perfectly illustrates her “stay in motion” catchphrase. One commenter posted: “Why are you yellingggg at us”.

Perkins does caveat that this protocol is for stay-at-home moms, work-from-home moms, or moms who have the ability to be home to do it. Yep, there are a lot of problematic assumptions about the division of labour here — and throughout her cache of viral, cleaning-routine videos.

She adds that if you’re working out of the house then no one’s home to make it dirty, so that’s easy! Or if your morning and nighttime routines are solid, you can skip the afternoon one too.

Related: How to Start a Junk Journal

Results: Yeah, I failed at this one. Flip laundry was the best I could do. I work from home and have limited hours to do so before picking up my kid from preschool. If the choice is spending precious solo time scrubbing soup bowls or finishing a story on deadline (it’s this one!), I’ll always choose the latter.

A few months ago, I talked to my husband about feeling overwhelmed during the day trying to keep up with maintenance cleaning and paid work. We decided (together) that he would take care of the dishes when he got home in the evening instead. (Neither of us volunteered to sweep.)

3. #nighttimeroutine (45-60 mins.)

1. Dishes in dishwasher (“Do not bring today’s mess into tomorrow,” says Perkins. “You need to build a good nighttime routine so when you wake up tomorrow, it’s a fresh new day.”)
2. Put hand-wash dishes away
3. Clean countertops and table
4. Wipe down fronts of cabinets, fridge, etc.
5. Sweep kitchen and living room
6. Toys away
7. Turn on washing machine (“It’s so freakin’ good and it’s so freeing,” says Perkins, after turning on that last load. “Then you get the rest of your night to just, like, vibe!”)
8. Mop floors

Details: In one of her viral nighttime-cleaning-routine videos, a commenter responds, “Wait we are mopping every night?!” My thoughts exactly. Is this what people do? Is this why my floors are the way they are?

Perkins affectionally calls this routine #closingshiftcleaning, which I appreciate as a former server/bartender who had to mop very sticky floors at the end of the night. Since the kids are asleep, Perkins and her husband split these tasks, which does help cut down the time. But this routine is a hefty one, taking up to an hour to complete… at the end of the day.

Perkins has some thoughts on that too: “No one wants to do this after a long day, no one wants to get up and have to reset their house. But the amount of mental clarity it’s going to give you, and how much it’s going to help you in your day-to-day life going forward, it’s so worth it.”

Related: 10 Hidden Spots That Need a Deep Clean in Your Bedroom

Results: Resetting the house for the next day is something I get. In fact, I’ve been doing it for years, but called it “clearing the decks”. As a naval-warfare term, where sailors would remove loose objects from the deck before a battle, it always seemed fitting. But for me, clearing is easy; the cleaning routine is my daily battle.

To help set myself up for success, I placed easy-to-use biodegradable wipes near the counter and in the bathroom — and I used them! I’ve moved the mop just a bit closer to the kitchen where I can now see it. But neither of us have used it as part of the nighttime reset — yet. As I move along on my cleaning/decluttering journey, I’m OK with taking baby steps.

We all only have so many minutes in a day, but using a few of them to chip away at household tasks can make an overall difference. And when future me is in need of some motivational shouting, I know where present me can get a dose of that TikTok cleaning #toughlove.

Part collage, part diary and part upcycling, a junk journal combines many crafting ideas into one sometimes-bursting book. This trending, multi-media journalling concept is all about self-expression and the freedom to create.

Photos, poems, pressed flowers — anything goes, and everything finds a place on these free-flowing pages. Here are the rules to making a junk journal (kidding — there are no rules!). Still, these guidelines will help you get started on your own journalling journey.

1. Got Junk?

What really differentiates these personalized pages from other journalling endeavours is the focus on repurposing materials. Have a pile of magazines marked for recycling? Tear out the images that call to you and stick them in! Remember those ticket stubs you couldn’t figure out what to do with? In they go!

Ribbon ends, receipts, paper scraps, stamps — anything that was on the way to the trash or recycling bin is up for grabs. Gather your bits and bobs, grab that glue and get sticking. The more layers, the merrier!

Related: Silent Travel is the Newest Wellness Trend

2. Materials You Need

When gathering materials to set up your first junk journal, you will need — you guessed it — a journal. Now, this could be a repurposed sketchbook, notebook, blank journal or even recycled paper that you bind with a tapestry needle and cord.

Tip: If you are planning on buying a fresh, new journal to start your practice, consider one with a spiral binding, such as these NOTA notebooks from Indigo ($4-$15). Their pages are looser, allowing more space for those special 3D pieces so they won’t get squished.

Scissors, glue, a marker that can write on any paper surface, and a storage box or folder for filler finds are also a must. But beyond that, if something is beautiful, sentimental or simply calls to you (and adheres to paper), it’s perfect. And if you’re looking for additional inspiration, here are some ideas to help turn on that “junk to jewel” radar:

• Plane, train and tram tickets
• Handwritten cards and notes
• Rubber stamps and metallic ink
• Washi tape and stickers
• Polaroid photos
• Fabric and lace scraps
• Restaurant menus
• Theatre programs
• Discarded wrapping paper
• Old family photos
• Feathers, leaves and pressed flowers
• Favourite quotes

3. Feel the Flow

While scrapbooks and dairies usually have a linear progression, covering a certain event or timeframe; a junk journal isn’t constrained by time. Make it a daily, weekly or random practice of mindfulness, sitting down and simply letting the creative spirit fill you — and your notebook.

It’s quick, messy and sometimes sticky (glue, remember). But junk journaling is also a surprisingly satisfying way to work through thoughts or memorialize a moment. The non-conformity of materials and the laissez faire nature of the process forces you to be OK with imperfections.

4. Set the Intention

While having the freedom to create whatever comes out sounds liberating, sometimes having a theme, a colour scheme or a goal can help get things going. Start with pieces that have varying shades of a colour that’s calling to you these days. Make it all about your world travels and those place you still hope to see.

Or perhaps this particular book will become one giant manifestation manifesto, filled with images, ideas and ideals you wish to call into your life. This is just the jumping off point; once you start snipping and ripping, who knows where it’ll take you!

5. A Multi-Layered Approach

When you’re ready to begin your mindful Mod-Podge-ian process, start with larger pieces first, working your way down in size. For example, a large fashion-magazine cutout makes an ideal first paper layer. Then add on those smaller scraps of fabric, dried flowers and metallic paint. With each new addition, the page grows in depth and your final image will start to emerge.

Related: 10 Craft Kits for Adults That Will Help Beat the Winter Blues

6. It’s Got Pockets

To add a little, surprise interactive moment to a junk journal, incorporate pockets throughout for treasured trinkets or special messages. A pasted-in envelope could hold a sparkly table topper from a friend’s wedding or a graduation note from your mom. If you’re feeling ambitious, test your hand at crafting these memento hidey-holes from decorative cardstock, velvet swatches or woven ribbons.

7. A Touching Transformation

So much of the joy gained from junk journaling comes from the tactile experience — feeling the ripple in a scrap of silk, the rip of the paper, the press of the postcard. Each action requires you to be very present in the moment, all while building something beautiful and deeply personal. Plus, what environmentally minded DIYer doesn’t like the idea of turning trash into treasure?

Yes, we absolutely accept that a coffee table has a serious, functional role to play in the living room — a solid, reliable surface for said coffee. But a beautifully styled coffee table has the power to stop us mid-scroll and think, “How do people do that? Can I be people?”

The fashion coffee table books are just-so, the objects du art ideal and the flowers seasonal and sensational. It’s not magic or money (mostly) or a major in interior design — there’s an equation to styling a coffee table, and you can solve it. So, let’s pull back the curtain, sharpen our pencils and take notes on how to style one like a pro.

1. What’s Your Deal

First, evaluate who the space is actually for and how the coffee table will be used. If it’s in the family room, it will have a different set of set-up criteria than one in a home office.

If kids are in the mix, heads up: They will break things and weighty tomes can break tiny toes. So don’t put out anything too precious or hefty. In an exclusively adult area, put out books and unique pieces that reflect your personal interests and personality.

Be conscious that, first and foremost, a coffee table needs to serve its purpose — hold cups, plates and sometimes feet — so hold back on filling up every inch. And definitely have coasters on hand because drink rings aren’t part of this design plan!

Parsons Reclaimed Oak Coffee Table, Restoration Hardware, $4,395.

2. Three’s Company

When styling any surface — be it a coffee table, bookshelf or even a floor — get familiar with the rule of three. This is the interior design trick of only using three objects in a grouping. Now, this works for three different items — say a vase, a book and a bowl — but also groups of items within those items. Huh?

Right, OK, so three flower stems in the vase, three books in the stack, or three precious stones into the bowl. You can branch out and have more of anything, of course, but try limiting each group of objects to an odd number and see the visual harmony that creates.

Related: 20 Tips for Arranging Furniture in Your Living Room

3. Growth Spurt

When choosing special objects for your display, select pieces that have a variety of heights and widths. Their contrasting sizes work as a visual foil, each one highlighting the other, taking your eye on a journey from the bottom up.

If all your chosen items sit within the same size zone, fear not. Utilize stacks of magazines, art books, or decorative trays to create elevated platforms and raise them up to where they belong.

Willy White Concrete Pedestal Coffee Table by Leanne Ford, Crate & Barrel, $1,599.

4. Textbook Texture

Let’s be honest; working with a limited neutral colour palette is the simplest way to make a table display feel cohesive. Whites, cream, browns, metallics and black are a lot easier to put together than pinks, greens and purples (at first, at least).

But that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun off the hop. Tapping into textures and mixing up materials is where that inner interior-designer comes out to play. An antique bent wood box, a chestnut-and-cream marble bust, or a tall handwoven willow basket are anything but boring.

5. Sectioned Off

To give the large, flat surface area of a coffee table some visual separation, divide it up into distinctive sections. This can be done with stacks of books or magazines, shallow baskets or decorative trays. Play around with their placement; use them alone, or as a base for smaller displays (remember the rule of three here too).

Plank Rectangular Coffee Table, EQ3, $1,199.

6. Tray Chic

If you were to buy one decorative item to begin your coffee-table-styling journey, it would be an eye-catching tray. A tray placed in the centre of the table provides the perfect physical border for more delicate decorative objects.

Limiting the styling to inside the tray’s edges allows for a quick display change as the season, or mood, changes. Try contrasting shapes, such as a round tray on a rectangular table or a square tray on a round table, and look for unexpected materials.

Square Weave Oak Tray, EQ3, $60.

Related: How to Copy the Tablescape Trend Everyone’s Talking About

7. Book Ended

Large, beautifully produced coffee table books continue to be a staple of interior styling for good reason — they’re big, they’re bold, and they speak volumes about their owners. Stacked up, they provide a sturdy pedestal for a vase or sculpture; flipped open, they tell a story about the resident’s personal interests and taste.

Books reflect what matters to us, and coffee table books have the ability to shout that out — in the prettiest visual way possible.

Malibu Rectangular Woven Coffee Table, Pottery Barn, $1,799 – $2,067.

8. One Thing Is Not Like the Other

The key to an intriguing coffee table display is to always have one unexpected object that comes with a story. This can be an unusual family heirloom, a souvenir from your honeymoon, or a miniature antique chess set that guests can play. The point of this piece is to get people talking and connecting in your home — the power of intentional interior design is real, people!

Related: How to Mix and Match Different Wood Tones in Your Home

9. Not-a-Table Coffee Table

The last tip on how to style a coffee table: You don’t always have to use a “coffee table.” An old steamer trunk, repurposed shipping palettes, or a traditional tufted ottoman all fulfill the coffee-table function brief. Thinking outside the box has always been encouraged when it comes to innovative design.

So, go forth, style that table and see what sort of unexpected beauty you can bring into your own living room this year.

Large Square Tufted Linen Ottoman, Amazon, $592.

In a world filled with clamour and complexities, bedrooms can provide a safe sanctuary — so don’t ignore them when it comes to planning a spring deep clean.

Whether we live with roommates, a partner or on our own, the bedroom is the one place truly devoted to resting and recharging. A nicely made bed, a nightstand set up just so, and a sheepskin rug right where our feet meet the floor.

But look a little closer, and our peace is pierced — this space needs a deep clean, immediately. Here are the hidden spots in a bedroom that are likely in desperate need of soap, water and awareness.

1. The Headboard

Did you know there could be a dust-filled pathogenic trap located just inches from your head? That small, seemingly inconsequential area between your headboard and the wall could actually be harbouring untold numbers of microbial colonies. So do not ignore your headboard!

Regularly vacuum behind and under the headboard to reduce dust, which fosters microbes’ stomping ground. Use a microfibre cloth and a disinfecting spray cleaner on the headboard itself. If it’s an upholstered headboard, give it a good vacuum and then blast it with a steamer/steam cleaner (or a boiled kettle, in a pinch). The hot steam will instantly kill off any little dust-loving nasties.

Try to get behind there every two to three months, but up the regularity if those dust bunnies are getting too frisky too often.

2. The Mattress

If you can’t remember the last time you got up close and personal with your mattress on a routine bedroom clean, the time is now. Every six months, strip back the sheets and mattress protector (a must!) and deep clean.

Whether you use a steam cleaner or an upholstery cleaning machine, make sure you do both sides to take care of wayward dust mites, dead skin cells and dried sweat (yep). Air drying the mattress afterwards is also super important to prevent potential mold or mildew growth.

Related: Expert Reveals How Often You Should Replace Your Mattress

3. The Ceiling Fan

A dynamo at summertime cooling and circulating heat in the winter, it’s easy to be a fan of a bedroom-ceiling fan. However, its fan club goes beyond the human population — dust, pollen and pet dander are also active members. Before you go removing that sticky dust residue from its blades, make sure you put an old sheet or towel directly under it. We wouldn’t want that gunk to fall onto a newly cleaned floor or, gah, bed.

A long-handled duster moving from the centre outwards will capture the dust most effectively. If there’s more build-up than an expandable duster can handle, go in with a damp cloth or gentle cleaning solution. Aim to get all up in the blades every month, although regular weekly dusting will reduce the need for those monthly deep cleans.

4. The Tops of Wardrobes

Since we’re already looking up, let’s keep that momentum going and take a really good look at the tops of bedroom wardrobes. For such a large space, it’s surprising how it often gets ignored when whipping through the bedroom for a quick weekend clean. But ignore it not; when dust is denied, dust multiples.

Push through the annoyance of grabbing a step ladder or purchasing a duster with a pivoting handle, and take a peek. Once you’ve seen the grubby landscape, the wardrobe will go right back onto your bedroom deep-clean checklist.

5. The Nightstand

Unlike wardrobes, the tops of nightstands likely get included in that weekly bedroom wipe down. But what about the back, the bottom, the sides or inside the drawers or cubbies? When in deep-clean mode, tackle the problem from all sides… literally.

Pull the drawers out and use an appropriate cleaner on each side (wood polish for wood, etc.). As part of the bedroom deep clean, get specific with what goes back into those bedside cubbies. Make sure you have everything you need within arms’ reach, and remove anything that doesn’t belong there.

6. The Carpet/Rug

OK, a regular vacuuming is pretty standard care for a bedroom carpet or decorative rug. But we’re going deep here. After a thorough vacuuming or shaking out, liberally sprinkle the whole carpeted area or rug with a few cups of baking soda. Give it a good 15 minutes to magically absorb up any subtle smells that you may have become unknowingly accustomed to.

Whether it’s a wet (but beloved) dog, a (cranky) shedding cat, or wayward smoke vapours from that New Year’s Eve house party you hosted, hoover up that baking soda and breathe deeply.

Related: Cleaning Products You Should Never Mix Together

7. The Bedding

Yeah, this shouldn’t be included in a list of “hidden spots” but alas, bedding may need more cleaning care than it’s currently getting. Guess how often you should be washing bedsheets (that’s the fitted and flat sheet, along with any pillowcases or shams)? If you guessed anything over one week, this tip is for you!

An unwashed pillowcase alone can house up to three million bacteria after a single week of use. As a reference point, that’s nearly the same amount found inside a square inch of a toilet bowl. So, at a minimum, once a week, on a hot cycle and preferably with one cup of white vinegar added to the rinse cycle to really beat those prolific bacteria.

8. The Pillows

Sweat, sneezes and drool, they all soak into a pillow. So please give that pillow a good soak with suds every three to six months. Whether the pillow fill is cotton, feathers, down, or fibrefill, they likely can handle a cold wash on a gentle cycle.

Make sure you wash two pillows at a time — their weight will keep the washer drum balanced. Much like bedding, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to cut down on bacteria buildup.

Latex and memory foam pillows must be hand washed. Submerge them in a lukewarm bath or tub with a splash of gentle detergent and vinegar, and gently squeeze. Repeat with clean water, and air dry on top of a towel, flipping them for even drying.

Related: The Gross Reason You Need To Wash Your Pillows More

9. The Door Handles

E.coli and Staphylococcus are just two strains of bad, bad bacteria shown in scientific studies to be flourishing on doorknobs. Don’t get sick by skipping such a simple step of a bedroom deep clean — disinfecting the doorhandles. In fact, make it part of your weekly routine, and skip a very uncomfortable visit to the ER. Soap and water, a disinfecting spray or a 70 per cent solution of isopropyl alcohol are all effective at eviscerating those knob-clinging nasties.

10. The Curtains

The reason for a bedroom deep clean is to bring it back to a healthy baseline. Ideally, the floors and surfaces are now dust free, the bed is once again hygienic and the air is free from allergens.

If this is the goal, the curtains cannot be overlooked! Their very design is a dust trap — thick, woven material that touches the floor and the ceiling, swiping over both multiple times in 24 hours. Add in the proximity to poorly insulated windows (and the inevitable condensation), and mold is also a likely roommate.

Cleaning them twice a year is must, but make it more if dust and odour are prevalent in your abode. Check tags for washing-machine instructions. Heads up: Dry cleaning or hand steaming may be the only option for their fabric composition. Yes, that could be expensive, but you’re worth it — as is the health of your lungs.

As we’ve entered 2025, our feeds are flooded with fresh design trends for kid’s bedrooms — and we’re selecting our standouts. Thanks to a wave of celebrity-designer collabs (and straight-up celebrity collabs), the kids-bedroom design world is getting a major glow-up.

Gone are the gendered room colours, clunky silhouettes, and the singular, heavy-handed themes. The new trends are pulling inspiration from the greater adult-design world, and translating it for tiny tastemakers in training. This year, while proportions and playfulness remain age appropriate, kid’s bedroom designs will grow up in a big way.

But since children’s spaces have such specific (yet ever-changing) needs, function has long outranked form. Babies need change tables, toddlers need toy shelves, and bigger kids need study stations. Thankfully, many emerging trends in 2025 will merge the two, giving parents what they really want — a space that reflects their personal style, but with lots and lots of hidden storage!

1. All About That (Neutral) Base

Looking at trending paint colours for kid’s bedroom design in 2025, it’s clear neutral is far from neutral — it’s a very active player. Whites, creams, greys, taupes: these barely-there tints provide a solid base, allowing for more creativity in the long run. In fact, by keeping the room’s walls, floors and furnishings colour-free, it’s easier (and more economical) to update the bedding, artwork or peel-and-stick wallpaper as your child’s interests change.

Jenny Lind White Wood Spindle Kids Twin Bed, Crate & Kids, $1,099.

Related: Display Your Kids’ Art Tastefully With These 6 Ideas

2. Fantasy Land

Now, if we were to pick one particular creature or animal that’s dominating the 2025 kid’s bedroom design trends, it would be the dragon. But unlike past trend cycles, skip splattering this au courant animal everywhere (we see you, hedgehog, fox and sloth!) and go subtle. Indeed, a simple, easy-to-remove wall decal here or a soft Jellycat dragon there is all you need to fulfill this dreamy, dragon-decorating fantasy.

Golden Dragon Wall Decal, Etsy, $63.

3. Bonker Beds

In 2025, children’s bed designs are levelling up. A basic twin tucked into the corner isn’t going to cut it anymore; these next-level kid’s beds are making a serious design statement. Leading the way is the Perch Twin Bunk Bed, which has been a best-seller since it debuted in 2009. This unique bunk bed can be modified for those who want to separate the beds into a loft and twin bed. There’s even the option to add a trundle to the lower bunk, making it the perfect choice for small spaces, growing families and of course, sleepovers!

Perch Twin Bunk Bed, Oeuf Canada, $2,100.

Related: You Won’t Believe These Bizarre Beds Actually Exist

4. Arch You Glad to See Me

An overarching (no pun intended) trend in kid’s bedroom design, furnishings and accessories for 2025 is the liberal use of the arch. For example, table corners are rounded, bed frames are curved and soft accessories are round and squishy. These gentle curves and soft arches create a visual sense of comfort and safety in children’s spaces.

Play Table, $495, and Bear Play Chairs, $395 (set of 2); both Oeuf Canada.

Related: 21 of Our Favourite Canadian Furniture Stores

5. Smart Design, Every Time

Many parents are maxed out — on time, money and energy. So when they invest in a new piece for their child’s bedroom, it needs to do a lot of heavy lifting. Author, parent and fashion tastemaker Eva Chen intrinsically understood this brief when she designed her kid’s room collection with West Elm. For this trend, each piece must perform multiple functions that go beyond its main purpose, such as her curved, Fair Trade Certified reading nook chair, which also has two built-in book displays.

Eva Chen Arched Reading Nook with Bookcase, West Elm Kids, $899.

Related: 10 Kids’ Room Bookshelves to Buy for Your Little Scholar

6. It’s Grow Time

Babies grow into toddlers, toddlers into kids, and kids into gangly teenagers. As their bodies change, so do the needs of their bedroom. As a result, transitional furniture is one way we can stave off spending a fortune on new furniture every few years. Dressers come with changing-pad inserts, nursing chairs turn into reading nooks and cribs convert to toddler beds. In 2025, look for well-designed transitional pieces that can extend right into adolescence. In fact, West Elm already has a number of cool crib styles (see above) that, with the purchase of a conversion kit and larger mattress, can be transformed into a fully functional double bed!

Mid-Century 4-in-1 Crib Conversion Kit, West Elm Kids, $200-$299.

Related: How to Design a Nursery That Will Grow With Your Child

7. Heritage Moments

In 2025, not only will kid’s furniture design aim to stand the test of time, the materials themselves will also invoke a sense of nostalgia. Heritage materials, such as rattan, quilted fabrics and raw linen, absolutely add natural texture. Nonetheless, it’s their raw, timeless quality that sparks the storyteller. It’s easy to imagine the hands that stitched a vintage bed throw, or reflect on the tenacity of rattan harvester, climbing up towering palms. Each piece was touch by human hands, connecting us through time-honoured crafts and throughout time, with no concern for trends.

Rattan Kids Collection, H&M Home, $75-$124.

Related: Nursery Trends for 2025 We Can’t Get Enough Of

8. The “Fifth” Wall

Break the “fifth” wall of bedroom-design conventions and look straight up — the ceiling is an under-utilized canvas on which creativity can flow. So, keep the walls simple and let the ceiling pull focus, or directly integrate it into the wall-treatment plan. No matter which way you cut it, ceilings will be a big part of the big picture when it comes to kid’s bedroom design productions in 2025.

9. Flexspace Flex

With more than a third of Canadians living in apartments, earmarking rooms for one specific purpose isn’t always an option. Furthermore, kid’s rooms must be many things: bedroom by night, study after school, playroom/library/storage space in between.

In 2025, this trend turns kid’s bedrooms into fun flexspaces, where organization, functionality and flexibly are all high priorities. Fashion (and now family) tastemaker Eva Chen’s reading-focused capsule collection for West Elm Kids perfectly encapsulates this modern move. That is, most pieces can be flipped, switched or swung around to perform another task or support another stage in a kid’s life.

Eva Chen for West Elm Kids, West Elm Kids, $29-$3,749.

10. For Kids, Not Kitsch

This sophisticated kid’s bedroom design trend is all about making the space feel youthful but not juvenile. So, dark-wood foundational pieces, such as the Rachel Hazelnut Wood Kids Canopy Bed by Jeremiah Brent for Crate & Kids, rich materials and substantial window treatments are its grounding features. But the playfulness is there in the wall treatments, textiles and accessories, which abound with pretty patterns, unexpected colours and nods to nature.

Rachel Hazelnut Wood Kids Canopy Bed by Jeremiah Brent, Crate & Kids, $3,299.

Over a lifetime, we’ll spend close to 230,000 hours sleeping — so, about one third of our lives is spent lying on a mattress. If you hadn’t clocked the importance of knowing when you should replace your mattress before, now may be the perfect time.

Over time — and way sooner than our accumulated lifetime of 9,496 days of sleep — dust mites, mould and mildew build up, and mattress materials lose their integrity and begin to sag. Besides the health implications of sleeping on a “mature” mattress, throughout our lives our sleep needs will change, our living situations shift, and our bedroom budgets rise and fall.

It’s clear we need some guidance on when we actually need to swap out our sleeping surface — and if there’s anything we can do prolong its limited life. Laura Di Lorenzo is the founder and CEO of Sunshine Mattress Co., with more than a decade’s experience in the organic mattress industry, mastering everything from customized mattress design to premium material sourcing. Di Lorenzo is dialled in to the details needed to determine how often you should replace your mattress.

Related: The Gross Reason You Need To Wash Your Pillows More

1. What Are the Telltale Signs?

“A few key signs make it pretty obvious when it’s time for a new mattress,” says Di Lorenzo. “If you’re waking up with allergy [or allergy-like] symptoms or feeling persistent back pain, it’s a good indication that your mattress isn’t doing its job anymore!”

Another giveaway that it’s time to replace your mattress is sound. If your mattress squeaks and groans with every micro movement, that could mean the materials are breaking down. Weight is also a factor to keep tabs on; if the mattress is heavier than when you first bought it, that could be from moisture build up. And when a mattress gets damp, dust mites, mould and mildew aren’t too far behind.

2. What Happens if You Ignore Said Signs?

Di Lorenzo confirms that, over time, mattresses loose their ability to provide proper support, with memory foam and spring mattresses being especially prone to this. “If you wait too long to replace your mattress, you might notice a few issues… it can cause your body to feel misaligned or uncomfortable during sleep.” Persistent back pain, sore hips and joints, or general unexplainable fatigue (from unconsciously tossing and turning throughout the night) can also arise.

3. What Contributes to a Mattress’s Wear and Tear?

“If you toss and turn a lot in your sleep, that constant movement can wear down the materials quicker,” says Di Lorenzo. “Using the mattress for things like watching TV or reading instead of just sleeping, [also] puts additional strain on it.”

She also points out that a person’s weight can be a factor, as well as improper frame support, such as using an old box spring or an ill-fitting foundation.

4. How Can We Lengthen the Life of a Mattress?

By rotating and flipping a mattresses regularly, you’ll avoid sleeping in the same spot and wearing down a small, specific area. A solid support system, such a slat base (rather than flexible slats or a box spring), makes sure pressure is evenly distributed throughout the mattress. A mattress protector is always a must, shielding the mattress’s material from spills, stains and dust.

“Lastly, controlling the humidity in your room helps,” says Di Lorenzo. “Open the window in the morning and pull back your sheets to let your mattress breathe and dry out any moisture.”

5. Which Mattress Materials Hold Up the Best?

“Latex is hands down the most durable material out there,” says Di Lorenzo. “Organic latex mattresses can last 20 years or more if treated well, which makes them an excellent long-term investment.”

She believes that when combined with moisture-wicking wool, you get the ultimate mattress-material match. “The wool helps control moisture, which is key for maintaining a fresh and dry mattress… these two materials together give you the most long-lasting, comfortable sleep.”

Related: This Viral Sleeper Chair From Amazon Is a Must-Have

6. What Are the General Time Guidelines for Replacing a Mattress?

“It used to be that you’d replace your mattress every 10 years, but with the rise of mattress-in-a-box options, people are replacing their mattresses much sooner these days,” says Di Lorenzo. Memory foam softens and thins over time and spring mattresses lose their spring. So, depending on how well you take care of them, a conventional mattress will maintain its form and function anywhere from one to eight years.

7. What Should We Look for in a New Mattress?

Before even looking at available mattress options, Di Lorenzo suggests getting a clear picture of your own sleeping patterns. How do you usually sleep: back, side or front? What are your pain concerns, such as sore hips or back? Do you like the feeling of sinking down or would you prefer a firmer surface?

“Testing in person is ideal so you can feel the mattress for yourself, but if that’s not an option, I’d suggest scheduling a video consultation with the brand you’re considering.” And if you’re worried about having to dig deep for a new bed frame to accompany the new mattress, you can rest easy. A new frame is only necessary if you’re changing mattress size or if your current support system is letting you (and your mattress) down.

When hunting down the best carry-on luggage for international travel, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Durability, dimensions and weight are the most important factors to consider if you want your trip to go as smoothly as the wheels attached to your new carry-on luggage.

Will your luggage be travelling through multiple airports (and multiple baggage systems)? What are the overhead bin and carry-on bag limits on your airplane? How much weight can you comfortably lug around with you, especially after a long day in transit?

Once you’ve got a handle on those parameters, it’s time to play with print, colour and those fun extra features that make sense to you and your travel style.

1. The Heavy Hitter

Drop it, lug it, toss it, smash it — whatever you throw at this lightweight, easy-to-maneuver bag, it can take it. The tough exterior of the Bigger Carry-On is made from 100 per cent polycarbonate shell, a super durable material designed to go the distance.

The Bigger Carry-On, Away, $390.

2. The Principessa

When a limited-edition terrazzo print — inspired by the ancient palazzos of Italy — pops up on an award-winning carry-on suitcase, globetrotting design lovers take note. And then they take flight, toting this sleek, stylish, superbly made carry-on case with them.

Terrazzo Carry-On, Monos, $325.

3. The Allrounder

Loaded with traveller-friendly features such as a water-resistant toiletries’ pocket and external USB A & C ports, Travelpro’s Platinum Elite lives up to its lofty name. Factor in the aluminum corner protectors, leather trim and a patented telescopic handle, and it’s clear why this is one of the best carry-on luggage options around.

Platinum Elite Carry-on Expandable Hardside Spinner, Travelpro, $500.

Related: The Best Hotels for Solo Travelling in 2024

4. The Light Weight

Weighing in at just 1.8KG, July’s Carry-On Light may be easy on the scales but is a heavyweight when it comes to the best carry-on luggage. With a 32L capacity, this small-but-mighty bag’s exterior is made from aerospace-grade German polycarbonate, YYK Japanese zippers and four sets of double wheels for smooth rolling.

Carry-On Light, July, $245.

5. The Golden Child

Sporting a newly developed, finely-brushed texture, this sophisticated gold-coloured carry-on case proudly takes its place atop the best carry-on luggage podium. Equipped with shock-absorbing wheels, double layered anti-theft zippers and an integrated TSA-approved lock, it’s clear why the Evoa Z Spinner is the gold standard.

Evoa Z Spinner Carry-On, Samsonite, $495.

6. The Eco Warrior

With its mega 42-L capacity, easy-to-lug 3KG weight and easy-on-the-eyes ombre design, Heritage Hardshell Large Carry-On already has a lot going for it. But its the company’s dedication to using post-consumer waste that deserves the added accolades. The hard-as-they-come exterior shell is made from 70 per cent recycled road barricade material, while the inner lining is completely made from recycled water bottles.

Heritage Hardshell Large Carry-On, Herschel, $300.

7. The Innovator

Active listening is an admirable skill, and one that Briggs & Riley has baked into its company’s ethos. The Torq International Carry-On Spinner is stuffed full of customer-requested features. The hinged, easy-to-access gusseted front compartment and the wrinkle-reducing, formal-wear foam roll bar are just two examples.

Briggs & Riley Torq International Carry-On Spinner, Amazon, $645.

8. The Health Nut

At first blush, this classic carry-on spinner is all about looks (hello, vintage-inspired leather details!) but look a little deeper and you’ll find a luggage collection with heart. The interior lining of each Chatelet Air 2.0 piece has been treated with antimicrobial technology to eliminate nasty bacteria that can not only kick up a stink but also make you sick.

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Spinner, Amazon, $410.

9. The Colour Lover

Béis cases are stacked with cool features one would expect to find on a list of the best carry-on luggage bets. There’s an exterior bag hook, a super cushy handle and a built-in over-weight indicator, to name a few. But what sets this luggage line apart from others is the size of the colour range and the fleet of matching accessories.

The Carry-On Roller in Maple, Béis, $319.

Related: 8 of the Hottest Travel Trends for 2025 Revealed

10. The Quiet Luxury

Yes, the durable, all-over aluminum shell and chic “dark denim” metallic blue firmly put the Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-On into the “luxury luggage” category. But it’s the leather-wrapped handles and monogramming option that march it right up to Business Class.

Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-On, Amazon, $1,239.

Let’s be honest — the holidays can be a maelstrom of impulsive purchases and massive overconsumption. So, to make the holidays more sustainable (both economically and environmentally), it’s time to examine everything through a sustainability lens. From garlands and groceries to gift wrapping and guest rooms, the goal this holiday season is to cut our carbon footprint contributions while also curbing credit-card debt.

Decoration DI-Why

There are two points to consider before blowing a paycheque on pretty glitter wreaths and oversized mercury glass balls. First: can you do it yourself with supplies you already have or bits and bobs you can pick up for pennies? The two main components needed for sweet Christmas Village DIY project are scraps pieces of 2x4s and white paint. These five Christmas table centrepiece DIY ideas don’t require a florist consult or a fortune to pull together.

When thinking about how to make holiday home decorations more sustainable, the second consideration is reusability. Make sure what you do end up buying is going to stand the test of time and can be used season after season. Surprisingly, artificial Christmas trees could actually be more sustainable than the real kind thanks to their longevity. Home Depot’s Grand Duchess Balsam Fir Christmas tree went viral on TikTok thanks to its thick foliage and 2,000 colour-changing LED lights.

But if you can’t do without that sweet pine-sap smell and do opt for the real thing, here are some eco-friendly solutions for your Christmas tree post holidays.

Wrap It Up

If we truly want the holidays to be more sustainable, we can’t ignore the scattershot of shredded wrapping paper strewn across the floor post presents. The super shiny (and oh-so-pretty) holiday wrapping paper is often not recyclable, meaning those paper piles are predestined for the landfill. Let this year be the year sustainability sways you in a different direction when it comes to gift wrapping.

Since the demand for reusable gift bags is on the rise, so too are our choices. If you have a specific holiday motif or particular holiday colour palette in mind, you’ll have a greater chance of finding it this year than any previous holiday season.

But, if you still can’t spot the perfect pattern, you could also explore furoshiki, the Japanese art of gift wrapping. This ancient art utilizes fabric squares to securely fold around and protect the present within. Pick up fabric with a print that suits your taste, or even better, head to a thrift store to scoop up some unique vintage swatches or scarves.

Related: 16 Gift Ideas for the Women in Your Life

Good for Guests (Good for You)

The holidays are a prime time for hosting house guests — but is your home up to snuff (or sniff)? Sustainability is more than swapping out single-use plastic shopping bags for cloth ones (but that is a good start!). It’s rethinking our spaces, what we put in them and how we care for them.

If you’ve ever walked into your home office/guest bedroom and thought “Does mould have a smell?” it’s time to tackle that potentially harmful hunch head on. These are the 10 most common household odours — and how to eradicate them. Keeping our spaces clean and in good knick means reducing the need to replace damaged items or repair neglected areas.

The same goes for guest bedding — there is a really gross reason you need to wash those pillows more. But before you toss them into the washing machine, make sure you’re not making any of the five big laundry mistakes. Avoiding rips, tears or bleach stains while washing guest sheets and towels prolongs their use and diminishes the need to repurchase them as often.

There is also something to be said about the sustainability of investing in quality guest-room pieces upfront. Opting for the cheaper (and possibly less comfortable) mattress can, at first, seem like a frugal choice. But when it starts to disintegrate under the in-laws on night two and you have to shell out for an emergency replacement, the regrets are real. Look for an organic mattress that uses sustainable eco-friendly materials such as natural latex, wool and cotton (the Silk & Snow organic mattress ticks all the boxes).

Related: The Best Bed Sheets for All Canadian Seasons