8 Hidden Costs of Buying a Home Experts Say You Can’t Ignore

Hidden Costs of Buying a Home

Beyond the asking price, the hidden costs of buying a home—from closing fees and property taxes to ongoing maintenance—can amount to thousands of dollars. Experts advise buyers to budget for these additional homeownership expenses to avoid future financial strain.

Nourishing Nature: The Science Behind Using Rice Water for Plants Growth

Rice Water for Plants

The practice of using rice water for plants is a popular trend among home gardeners, but experts caution that its effectiveness is often overstated. While the starchy liquid contains trace nutrients, its high starch content can lead to soil compaction and root rot if applied improperly.

New Efficiency Standards and Shifting Lifestyles Reshape the U.S. Mini Fridge Market

Mini Fridge

New U.S. Department of Energy standards are reshaping the mini fridge market, mandating higher energy efficiency by 2029. This regulatory push, combined with evolving consumer needs for home offices, is driving innovation in compact refrigerator technology and design.

8 Surprising Uses for the Magic Eraser, According to Cleaning Professionals

Magic Eraser

Cleaning professionals are using the Magic Eraser for more than just walls. The melamine foam sponge, an effective cleaning tool, is now being used by experts to clean and restore everything from car headlights and grout to stainless steel appliances and vinyl siding.

A Guide to Sourcing High-Value Furniture in the Secondhand Market

High-Value Furniture

The global secondhand furniture market is growing as consumers seek sustainability and affordability. A key skill is identifying valuable pieces of furniture to always look for at thrift stores, such as solid wood items, mid-century modern designs, and antique tables, which are indicators of quality craftsmanship.

The 2025 Pet Name Trends: What This Year’s Most Popular Pet Names Reveal

Popular Pet Names

The most popular pet names of 2025 reveal a fascinating blend of classic choices and pop culture influences. Data from TrustedHousesitters shows “Luna” is the top name, with names from shows like Wednesday seeing massive surges, reflecting the deep integration of pets into modern family life

Martha Stewart’s Halloween Special Issue Returns to Newsstands

Martha Stewart's Halloween

The special issue of Martha Stewart Halloween has been reissued on newsstands and online, re-releasing the highly sought-after 2024 edition. This move by Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia responds to consumer demand for the company’s classic print holiday content, highlighting the enduring appeal of physical media and timeless seasonal design.

11 Aldi Fall Finds Shoppers Are Rushing to Buy: A Consumer Trend Analysis

11 Aldi Fall Finds Shoppers Are Rushing to Buy

The annual release of Aldi’s limited-time 11 Aldi Fall Finds Shoppers Are Rushing to Buy has become a cultural event, generating significant consumer excitement and driving foot traffic to stores. This trend is fueled by the retailer’s unique “treasure hunt” model and amplified by social media.