Calling all amateur gardeners! Your opportunity to shine has arrived in the form of chaos gardening, a carefree and versatile way to develop your green thumb. The new approach to landscaping has been gaining traction on TikTok, and the trend is sprouting up again this spring. 

Read on to learn more about this fresh approach to gardening, including the benefits and how to get started.

Related: How to Plan the Best Layout for a Vegetable Garden

What Is Chaos Gardening?

In its simplest terms, chaos gardening is a casual way of creating a beautiful garden without the restrictions of traditional gardening methods. The concept involves tossing a handful of assorted seeds onto the soil and waiting for the magic to happen. This unique process allows flowers, plants and vegetables to grow wherever they land, creating random patterns and patches to be admired by all.  

The Benefits of Chaos Gardening 

There are many benefits to chaos gardening. The most obvious is that it’s easy to start and maintain, but there are a few other highlights worth exploring. 

Save Time (and Money!) 

One of the top benefits of chaos gardening is higher efficiency. It saves you time building up your plant beds, while avoiding detailed preparation, planting and all of the maintenance that comes with it. You’ll also enjoy saving money on seeds, soil and food for your garden by leaning on less costly flower and veggie options. You can select those that require very little of you, such as herbs, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, marigolds, black-eyed Susans and assorted wildflowers. 

Related: 5 Reasons to Start Lasagna Gardening Now

Low Maintenance  

Perhaps the most appealing benefit is the promise of low-maintenance gardening. The word chaos may not immediately spark feelings of calm, but the idea hinges on the “set it and forget it” mindset. You won’t need to plot sections, rows or bunches; nor do you have to cater to lighting, soil and water specifications. Instead, select like-minded seeds, toss them, water them and return to them for regular watering as required. 

Encourages Biodiversity 

While it depends on the seeds you plant, chaotic gardening can promote biodiversity in your garden space. That’s especially true if you focus on native plants, which can quickly adapt to the environment. In addition, chaos gardening offers wildlife food and shelter, providing extra protection and nourishment for the winter months.

A Fun Conversation-Starter

The wildness of chaos gardening can also be a great talking point for guests, neighbours and admirers. The eccentric array of colours, patterns and the all-over vibe draws on-lookers’ positive attention and curiosity, allowing you to flex your skills and pass along the trend to others who might find it enjoyable. 

Related: The Easiest Vegetables to Grow in Each Canadian Province

How to Create a Chaos Garden

As we mentioned, chaos gardening is relatively simple without the rigid rules. However, some research will be required to ensure you’re selecting the ideal seeds for your outdoor project. Here are a few other considerations to get started.

Choose a Location 

If you don’t already have a space carved out for your garden, look to areas in your front or back yard that offer the best sunlight. Doing so will afford more options for vegetables, flowers and herbs that thrive in the light. Of course, some shady areas are acceptable to cover, but try your best to strike a balance so all seeds have a chance to flourish as needed.

Related: 5 Reasons to Start Lasagna Gardening Now

Select the Proper Seeds 

Not all seeds are created equally, so do your homework to confirm which plants and vegetables will play nicely together in your garden. A good start is to select plants known for their self-seeding ability, such as echinacea, poppies, cosmos, fleabane, verbena, nigella, coriander and more. 

Next, consider native wildflowers that can attract pollinators and much-needed insects — like bees and butterflies — to help them prosper in your garden. Companion planting is also an option, which promotes growing vegetables and flowers together that offer mutual benefits to each other’s growth, add shelter and deter pests.

Lean Into the Chaos

Remember: variety is the spice — or, in this case, the garden of life. There is little need to focus your attention on the size, volume and spread of the plants, flowers, and veggies you select. The real fun in chaos gardening is the variety and unexpected results of your attempts to build a beautiful space. Just get planting, water accordingly and see what magic begins to bloom in the weeks after. 

As the chaos gardening trend continues to grow, so will your inspiration and ability to transform your outdoor living space into an area that welcomes a variety of colours, textures and patterns. Toss the traditional rules aside, let go of your inhibitions, and allow the soil, sun and water to do the work for you.

Related: 10 Most Invasive Plants in Canada to Remove From Your Garden

There’s a giant list of things to consider when it comes to apartment hunting. Getting into a good area, finding the perfect amount of sunlight or knowing whether you can paint is just the start. There are finances, working appliances and safety features like smoke detectors to also worry about, not to mention cleanliness, space, vibes and dozens of others.

Most renters come armed to a viewing with a list of questions. However, there are some sneakier things you should watch out for, too. From potential critters to positive maintenance signs, here are 10 things you should add to your checklist when looking for a new place to rent.

Working Electrical Sockets

No one wants to move into a new place only to learn about electricity issues. Avoid that potential problem by checking the outlets yourself during the viewing. Bring a small appliance or a lamp with you and test it out in every room. Be sure to test multiple outlets in each room, too.

Speaking of electricity, an apartment viewing is a good time to ask how you can access the breaker panel in case of a tripped wire or emergency.

Good Cell Phone Reception

Few people have landlines anymore, and you probably don’t want to be one of them. That’s why it’s important to check your phone reception in the apartment you plan on potentially living in. During the viewing, test out your phone by firing off a few texts, checking your email and making a phone call for good measure.

Related: These Are the Hottest Canadian Cities For Renters

Acceptable Noise Levels

Background noise can be a huge factor in your living space, so you should always assess ambient noises in a potential apartment. Furthermore, you should consider viewing the place several times and during different times of the day. That will give you the best idea of what the noise levels will actually be like while living there.

Good Air Quality

Another reason to schedule multiple views during different times of the day is to assess the air quality and what kinds of smells you may be dealing with in your potential unit, hallways and common areas. If you’re concerned about pollutants, humidity, mold or other issues, bring along a portable indoor air quality reader.

Clean Common Areas

You may not plan on spending a lot of time hanging out in the common areas of your new potential building, but how they’re kept can tell you a lot about the property management and overall care of the place. If there are ripped seats, cracked walls or floors, dead plants or other red flags, it may not be the place for you. Safety can be another issue, so take a look at how secure these areas are and whether they’re monitored.

Related: The Canadian Cities Expected to Grow the Most in 2025 

Investigate the Bug Situation

If you see a lot of bugs during your apartment viewing, that’s a clear red flag. But pests aren’t always so obvious. Bring a flashlight to inspect darker corners and look for stains, droppings, bite marks (especially on any furniture) and signs of nesting. If there’s a current renter, check the mattresses and headboards for any signs of bed bugs.

Good Water Pressure

Checking that the appliances, toilets and faucets are all in good working order is a must on any apartment-hunting checklist. But don’t forget to also examine the water pressure in the shower. Having a good stream of water every day can be a non-negotiable for some people, and you don’t want to discover that your shower is subpar after signing the lease.

Related: Where Are Canadian Renters Getting the Most Space for Their Money?

How Is the Commute?

If you work from home, you’re probably already looking for an apartment with enough room for a workspace or office. But if you commute, remember to look beyond location and really factor in those details about the commute itself. If you can, recreate the trek to and from work a couple of times during the week to test out what it’s really like. You may be surprised at what you learn.

Good Neighbours

You don’t need to pound on the neighbours’ doors to get to know them. When you’re viewing an apartment, take a bit of time to chat up anyone you happen to see in the halls, common areas or elevators. They can give you a sense of who lives there, but also what kinds of problems might currently exist.

Accessible Maintenance Staff

During your viewing, you should always ask to meet the person in charge of maintenance and get a feel for who might be fixing something for you if things go wrong. If you’re renting from a condo owner, ask them how they plan on handling any potential issues. The key is to foster good communication and a relationship from the beginning.

 

There’s no denying that living with other people can be challenging, especially when maintaining certain shared spaces like the kitchen. A communal fridge can bring out the best and the worst of us; but if you can agree on the specific way to organize the space, you may find that sharing a refrigerator isn’t so bad.

From roommates to partners and family, sharing spaces requires an open mind, good communication and a little compromise. To help in those efforts, we’ve whipped up some guidance on how to get your fridge in top shape, no matter who you’re sharing it with.

Related: How to Organize Your Fridge for Less Food Waste

Get Organized

The first step towards a harmonious shared fridge experience is organization. There are several ways to arrange a fridge to maximize space, and it’s important to keep in mind that some compromise may be required to land on the perfect system. Get everyone in the house involved to determine which tools you’ll use to keep everything in its place, such as clear bins, glassware, shelving and dividers. All you have to do from there is maintain the process you agree on, and it will be smooth sailing.

Divide the Fridge Space

Many housemates agree to divide the shelves by dedicating a specific spot for everyone. You could also split the fridge space in half, depending on how many people you live with. The same can be true for partners who prefer different diets and like to keep their items separate for easier access. In any case, an arrangement that ensures each person knows where to stock and access their goods will make fridge maintenance as seamless as it should be.

Related: How to Organize Kitchen Cupboards to Optimize Your Storage Space

Lead With Kindness

It can be easy to bust out the label maker and slap your name on every item you’ve purchased. Instead, step back and brainstorm softer ways to identify your items. A few tried-and-true methods include colour coding items with stickers, or using coloured bins or rubber mats to carve out the spot where your items reside. Above all, avoid passive-aggressive attempts to claim ownership of things, and embrace mutual agreements on what works best for the household.

Create a Cleaning Schedule

Cleaning schedules aren’t the most glamorous part of living with others, but they can ensure consistency while limiting clutter and unwanted smells from the fridge. It’s also the perfect excuse to check expiration dates on dairy, sauces and produce starting to turn. All it takes is a little commitment and some elbow grease.

Related: This Is the Best Way to Clean Your Kitchen Sink Drain

Clear Communication Is Key

From expensive ingredients to your must-have faves, there will always be something in the fridge you’d rather keep to yourself. If there is an item you prefer not to share, you should make that clear with the other(s). Leading with positive communication could mean leaving a note or sending a message to let others know that the new sesame oil you bought from the specialty stores is off limits.

Sharing Is Caring

Delegate a spot in the fridge for communal items. Many folks who share a kitchen agree to share everyday fridge door items like condiments and butter. For items that turn faster than you can eat, a mutual location for everyone to partake can positively impact food waste and generosity in the home. Consider pulling items close to expiry to the front or in a specific spot, in order to encourage everyone to use them quickly.

Related: 10 New Home Appliance Trends You’ll Soon See Everywhere

A Shared Checklist for Grocery Shopping

Whether through an app or notepad, combining forces with a grocery checklist ensures no overlap on the things you agree to share. Not only will this small effort help you avoid spending more money than you have to, but it could also open the door to communicating about sharing food beyond the condiments door. For example, if you add an item to the group list that someone already purchased but can’t use up in time, you could use what’s available instead of running to the store.

When in Doubt — Freeze It

We often forget about how much space we can afford in the freezer. Decide which items belong in the fridge and what can fit in the freezer instead. For example, meat you don’t intend to consume right away can go into the freezer, so can leftovers you don’t think you can finish in time. For freezer items in bulky boxes and containers, remove access packaging to store items more efficiently while making room for other items.

Related: Everything You Need to Set Up an At-Home Coffee Bar

Make Meals Together

Our final recommendation comes straight from the heart: sharing a meal. Not only will you save time, money and fridge space, preparing meals together is also a great way for roommates and couples to connect. Make it fun by putting on a podcast or personalized playlist. For those feeling more adventurous, select a theme for the meals you intend to cook together and build a schedule to share related tasks. We guarantee it will bring the whole house together while filling your soul with good food – and even better company.

Pets bring joy and companionship into our homes. They offer unconditional love, and we treat them like family. But while they add so much to our lives, they can also contribute to poor indoor air quality in ways most of us aren’t aware of.

As Mike Feldstein, founder of the air purifier company Jaspr, notes, “Pets are amazing, but they bring along fur, dander and allergens that can seriously affect your air quality. A lot of people don’t even realize it until they start feeling the effects.” If you’ve been experiencing sneezing, congestion or other allergy-like symptoms, your pets may be part of the problem.

Related: 10-Minute Cleaning Routines: How to Clean a House Fast

How Dogs Affect Indoor Air Quality

While dogs are our best buddies, they’re also notorious for tracking the outside world into your home. Every time they go outside, they pick up pollen, dirt and even chemicals from lawns and sidewalks, bringing them straight into your living space. Even if you’re diligent about keeping your home sparkling clean, your dog may be introducing new allergens every time they come back inside. These contaminants accumulate over time, and that impacts the air you breathe.

Beyond external pollutants, dogs also produce their own allergens. Their fur sheds constantly, floating through the air and settling on furniture and carpets. There’s also pet dander; the microscopic flakes of skin that become airborne and can trigger allergies and asthma. These particles can linger in the air and settle in fabrics, leading to prolonged exposure. Even people who aren’t usually allergic to dogs may find themselves reacting at some point, thanks to the continuous presence of these allergens.

Another often overlooked factor is moisture. Dogs add humidity to a home through their breath and wet fur, creating an environment where mould and mildew thrive. If you’ve ever noticed a musty smell or condensation on your windows, excess moisture from pets could be a contributing factor. Mould spores, in particular, can be harmful when inhaled. This can lead to respiratory issues and worsen conditions like asthma.

Related: 12 Stylish Dog Beds That Fit Any Home or Style

How Cats Contribute to Indoor Air Issues

Cats, despite their reputation for cleanliness (and general awesomeness), present their own challenges when it comes to indoor air quality. In addition to shedding fur and dander, their litter boxes can be a significant source of airborne toxins.

Clumping litter, in particular, can release fine dust that circulates through your home, causing potential respiratory issues. This dust settles on floors, furniture, and bedding, so even people without direct contact with the litter box may be affected. Over time, inhaling these particles can cause irritation in the throat and lungs, particularly in those with preexisting respiratory conditions.

Related: How to Keep Your Cats Away From Your Plants, According to an Expert

Another concern is ammonia, a compound found in cat urine. In high concentrations, it can irritate the lungs and worsen existing respiratory conditions. A poorly maintained litter box can cause ammonia levels to rise, leading to an unpleasant, funky smell and possible health risks. Even if you clean regularly, some of these volatile organic compounds can linger in the air, further reducing indoor air quality.

Additionally, because cats groom themselves so frequently, they ingest environmental contaminants that later get released into the air through their saliva and fur. When a cat cleans itself, allergens, dirt and other particles can become airborne, further contributing to indoor air pollution. This is especially problematic in homes with multiple cats, where the concentration of allergens tends to be much higher.

Related: How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?

What You Can Do to Improve Air Quality

The good news is that there are several steps dog and cat owners (parents!) can take to improve indoor air quality. The first step is regular grooming. Brushing your pets frequently reduces the amount of fur and dander circulating in your home. Bathing dogs regularly and using pet-friendly, non-toxic shampoos can also help wash away allergens and nasty pollutants before they spread.

Frequent cleaning around the house is equally important. Vacuuming carpets, upholstery and pet beds with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can trap tiny particles before they become airborne. Washing pet bedding and household fabrics on a regular basis can prevent allergens from accumulating. For cat owners, switching to a low-dust, natural litter can reduce airborne toxins and improve overall air quality.

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

Air filtration is another highly effective way to maintain a healthy home environment. Investing in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove pet dander, fur and other airborne contaminants like mould and bacteria. These devices work best when placed in areas where pets spend the most time, such as living rooms and bedrooms. Some advanced purifiers also tackle odours using activated carbon, making the home feel fresher overall.

Ventilation also plays a crucial role. Opening windows periodically allows fresh air to circulate, reducing the concentration of indoor pollutants. If weather conditions make this difficult, using exhaust fans and dehumidifiers can help regulate humidity levels and prevent mould growth.

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

A Healthier Home for You and Your Pets

Living with pets doesn’t mean you have to suffer from poor air quality. Simple adjustments like regular grooming, routine cleaning and using an air purifier can make a significant difference in the health of your indoor space. Understanding how pets impact air quality allows you to take proactive steps to make sure your home remains a clean and comfortable environment for both you and your furry babies.

Jaspr’s Mike Feldstein emphasizes the role of air purification in maintaining a healthy home. “We’ve helped so many pet owners create cleaner, healthier homes by tackling those invisible issues, and they tell us so! With an air purifier like Jaspr, you can enjoy the company of your pets without worrying about the air you’re breathing.”

Everyone knows it’s important to wash your bedsheets regularly, preferably once a week if you can swing it. Sheets can accumulate more bacteria than a doorknob within seven days, so keeping fresh bedding on the mattress is a good way to fight illness, allergies and skin problems.

But what about when it comes to washing a duvet? Sure, washing a duvet cover may be part of your regular cleaning routine, but as it turns out, washing a down duvet is equally important. If you want to sleep in a clean bed without ruining the down and fabric fibers, here’s what you need to know.

How Often Should You Wash a Duvet?

The good news is that you don’t need to wash duvets as regularly as you do your sheets and duvet cover. Unless you have an accident or a spill on the duvet, you only need to clean it once a year. That’s the same advice whether you have a down-filled duvet or a synthetic version.

If you only use your duvet during winter, wash it before you make the bed. Otherwise, consider adding the task to any significant yearly cleaning rituals, like spring cleaning, to remind yourself to do it.

Related: How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?

What Is the Best Way to Wash a Duvet?

It’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but if you can’t find them and have a washing machine big enough to hold the duvet, you can use that.

Down duvets don’t always hold up against harsh chemicals or detergents, so select a mild or gentle detergent when you wash yours. Use warm water and a gentle cycle to protect the fabric, and set the machine to the extra-rinse function. That helps to remove any leftover detergent from the duvet at the end.

If you have a real duvet with goose down and a washing machine with a central agitator, consider sending your duvet out for cleaning instead. Otherwise, you could run the risk of rips.

How to Spot Clean a Duvet?

Stains are never fun, but they’re incredibly tiresome on a duvet. To remove them, fill a spray bottle with warm water and grab a mild stain remover. Push the filling away from the stained area and apply the stain remover to the outer fabric. Pat the fabric with a clean, white rag and let it sit for at least 20 minutes. If the stain is still there, try rubbing the fabric together or scrubbing it with a clean brush.

Once the stain is gone, spray the area with the bottle to remove any soap. You can now blow dry the area or wash the entire duvet following the steps above.

Related: 8 Cleaning Secrets From Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

Should You Soak a Duvet Before Washing It?

Some people like to soak their duvets in a giant container or bathtub overnight before washing it, but that isn’t necessary. However, to clean your duvet by hand, fill the container with warm water and a small amount of mild or natural detergent.

Push the duvet into the water mixture and make sure it’s thoroughly submerged. You don’t need to soak the duvet overnight; if there are no tough stains or spills, 10 minutes should be enough. After that, drain the water and begin rinsing the duvet with fresh water until all the soap is gone. Lay it flat on a drying rack in a well-ventilated room to dry.

How to Dry a Duvet?

If you’ve got a dryer big enough to handle your duvet, that’s your best bet to ensure it dries thoroughly (and quickly!). Place the duvet in the machine and select a low, air-dry setting. It may take a few hours, and you’ll need to stop the machine a few times to redistribute the duvet and ensure equal drying.

If you have dryer balls or tennis balls, throwing them into the dryer with the duvet can also help to redistribute the feathers and keep them from clumping as the duvet dries. Tennis balls will also create air pockets, which make the duvet fluffier.

Just remember that whether you have natural or synthetic down, both materials cannot stand high heat, so use the lowest heat setting.

If your dryer isn’t large enough to hold the duvet, dry it on a clothesline or drying rack.

How to Clean Other Down-Filled Items

If you’ve got other down-filled items to wash, like sleeping bags, jackets or pillows, always treat them gently. That means using warm water, mild detergent, a gentle cycle and no extra scents, which can break down materials over time.

Before washing, zip any zippers and empty pockets. Check for loose seams that tear easily during washing, and reinforce them if necessary. Always use the extra rinse option to ensure all soap is washed away.

In doubt? Just like with a duvet cover, you can always turn to a professional for a thorough clean.

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.

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.

TikTok trends have a way of making us rethink everyday things, and this one is no exception. Undoubtedly, the drawing on a table tablescape craze has taken over our social feeds, inspiring us all to turn our dining tables into works of art. This trend is a perfectly sustainable one that will help create a magical, custom tablescape for your next gathering without hurting the planet. In this DIY tutorial, we’ll show you how to create your own personalized tablescape that’s perfect for your next hosting gig, elevating the dining experience to a whole new level.

@thehomenet

Get creative with your table setting ✏️🎨 This DIY tablescape is perfect for personalizing your meal! @Hey Maca | DIY | Home Decor #tablescape #diy #placemats #holiday

♬ Christmas Lights – Kyrylo Zaplotynskyi

Materials Required:

• A roll of kraft paper
• White acrylic paint
• Paintbrushes (variety of sizes)
• Zigzag scissors
• Velvet lace (for the napkins)
• Napkins
• Candles in a matching colour palette
• Decorative seasonal elements

Step 1: Prep the Table

Start by rolling out the kraft paper across your table, ensuring it fully covers the surface. This will be your blank canvas.

Pro Tip: You can secure it with tape underneath to keep it flat and wrinkle-free.

Step 2: Design and Paint

Lightly sketch where your plates, coasters and names will go. Then, use a pencil to mark the areas with all of the details you’d like. This will create a balanced layout on your table.

Now, using your white acrylic paint, you can freehand draw scalloped plates, your guests’ names, coasters and any extra beautiful detail you’d like to see directly onto the kraft paper. Don’t be shy with adding fun shapes, too. For example, borders, stars and much more — just let your creativity shine for this step!

Step 3: Craft Napkin Bows

To complete this DIY, fold your paper napkins in three equal parts and then tie them with velvet lace to create elegant bows. Then, cut the edges with zigzag scissors and place them at each seating spot on top of your plates for a beautiful and elegant look.

Congratulations! You’ve just transformed an ordinary dining table into a stunning work of art, personalized to each guest and your home decor.

This DIY tablescape isn’t just decor — it’s definitely a conversation starter and creates an unforgettable experience for your friends and family.

Happy crafting, friends!

Food waste is a staggering problem in Canada with 46 per cent of all food in the country going to waste each year, according to Newswire. And what’s worse is that of that waste, 41 per cent can be avoided. With almost half the food in Canada going to waste, and expiry dates being the leading cause, it’s time that we look inside our hearts — and fridges — to figure out how to do better in 2025.

Most food waste is not born out of ill intention. It’s simply the result of overbuying and forgetting what we actually have (or to use it in time). The easiest way to start tackling the problem is to give your refrigerator a new year clean and reorganizing to make the most of your space and prevent waste.

See More: How to Organize Kitchen Cupboards to Optimize Your Storage Space

First, Take Stock Before You Shop

It’s harder to use up the produce in your fridge if it’s overstuffed and you can’t see or easily shift items around to access everything in it. So, avoid overbuying by taking a few minutes to assess your inventory before you pop to the shops. Perhaps this will involve a shifting of habits, like scheduling a regular grocery shopping day instead of spontaneously dropping in to grab last-minute items on your way home. It’s also important to establish communication with the other members of your household to avoid doubling up on a shop. Set a schedule or make it a habit to send a text when you’re picking up an item on the grocery list so you don’t end up with duplicated food items in your fridge.

Seeing Is Believing (and Eating)

It’s all too easy to skip spending the time to unload and organize groceries and opt for the quicker option of putting new stock at the front of the fridge. But that’s exactly the opposite of what you should be doing to minimize food waste.  Instead, take the time to pull older food items, particularly produce, to the front of your fridge so it’s in your eyesight each time you open that door. This will help you monitor the freshness and encourage you to think about using up the ingredients that are on the verge of spoiling — before you end up tossing them out.

Keep Things Clear

If your household has trouble using up items before they spoil, another tip to ensure visibility is to remove excess packaging. Cleaning TikTok loves clear bins for a reason — they’re great to keep the contents of your fridge organized and uniform, while ensuring that you can see exactly what you have in stock. Remove excess packaging that prevents that, especially on items like fresh produce, eggs, drinks and yogurt. Plus, keeping your food in airtight containers will help seal in the freshness for longer, giving you more time to use up your goods.

Try it: 10-Pack Fridge Organizers and Storage, BPA-Free Stackable Bins with Lid, $50.

Related: This Is the Best Way to Clean Your Kitchen Sink Drain

Map It Out

Okay, you don’t need to become a cartographer. But having a general sense of where things live in your fridge can make it easier when you’re taking stock, and make you less likely to miss using up an item. Designate areas for certain groups of food. Keep dairy in one section and deli goods in another. Meat and seafood are best put on the bottom shelf to avoid any drippings that might contaminate other foods and potentially lead to you throwing anything away. Read our space-saving fridge hacks for more tips.

The Not-So-Lazy Solution

Another tip for ensuring that you’re seeing and using everything in your fridge is to optimize the visibility of smaller items by using a lazy Susan — a round, rotating tray. Instead of condiments or jars getting shoved to the back, you’ll be able to turn that waste into want by easily accessing every item.

Properly Store Your Produce

Half-used produce is quick to spoil. Without the natural protection of their outer layer, fruits and veggies can be quicker to oxidize, meaning they’ll get brown and be susceptible to molding at an increased speed. Slow down the speed at which produce goes off with airtight containers (like the ones above) or silicone produce savers.

 

Try it: Silicone Reusable Fruit and Vegetable Storage Containers Set, $18.

Try These Herb-Saving Tips

If you prefer fresh to dried herbs (and we don’t blame you!) but struggle with the waste that comes with buying a package of a single herb for one recipe and then slowly letting them wilt away, try this. Trim the ends of leafy herbs like parsley and cilantro and place them in water to increase the time they’ll stay fresh. Alternatively, chop and freeze leftover herbs into ice cube trays so you always have them at the ready — without any tossing away.

Don’t Forget the Freezer

Our final tip is not to forget the freezer. Create organization in your coldest space by employing freezer baskets and clear freezer storage bags for storing food. Don’t forget to label and date items so that you know exactly what and when you’re storing things!

You Might Also Like: 10 New Home Appliance Trends You’ll Soon See Everywhere

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