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Deb Goncalves

Deb Goncalves

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Deb's work has appeared on Moms, Babygaga, and WorldAtlas. When she's not working (that's hard to say about a Capricorn), she is spending time with her three beautiful, independent girls. She is an empath and self-proclaimed spiritual advisor. Deb reads tarot cards on YouTube. Check her out at the Forgiving Tarot.

Laundry room next to mudroom

Get rid of gross washing machine smells with these simple tips

Does your washing machine smell and you can't figure out why? Use these tricks to have your laundry smelling fresh again.
Backyard cement paver patio with bench

Tired of your ugly concrete patio? Check out these phenomenal DIY improvement ideas

There are many easy and affordable DIY projects you can do to improve your cement patio. Use our simple tips to create the space of your dreams.
Young woman on stairs in a loft caring for potted plants.

25 stellar staircase ideas to freshen up the look of your home

Changing up your staircase can be one way to upgrade the look of your home. We’ve got 25 ideas ranging from subtle to dramatic to help you figure it out.
Woman welcoming friends at the front door

Know before you buy: These are the types of entryway ceiling lights you should buy

Our favorite entryway ceiling lighting ideas are inspired by modern and classical designs. Light up your home's entrance the with flare.
A white-covered bed sits against a white wall with exposed brick in the background.

9 refreshing bedroom paint ideas we love (and we think you will too)

If your bedroom needs a refresh, give some of these bedroom painting ideas a shot for your next weekend project.
Sponge in microwave oven

Does microwaving a sponge kill germs?

A clean sponge is important for cleaning your kitchen and dishes. We review the pros and cons of microwaving a sponge for a cleaner home.
man hanging framed wall art

How to hang a painting in your home the right way

There are a few things to consider so you can hang a painting in your home the right way. Learn how to plan your wall art so you get it right the first time.
Women Placing Flowers on Kitchen Countertop

Granite vs. marble vs. quartz: Pros and cons of kitchen countertop materials

Choosing the right material for your kitchen countertops doesn't have to be a daunting task. Here are the pros and cons of popular countertop styles.
Small laundry room with washer and dryer and potted plants

Gas dryers vs. electric dryers: Everything you need to know before you buy

Before buying a dryer, consider the pros and cons of gas dryers vs. electric dryers. Here's what you need to know.
Curtains in large living room

Blinds vs. curtains: Which should you choose?

Can't figure out the right window treatment for your space? We'll help you decide between blinds vs. curtains by walking you through the pros and cons.
Woman welcoming friends at the front door

An entryway mirror can enhance your space: When you should (and absolutely shouldn’t) have one

A well-placed mirror in your home's entryway can make it feel bigger and double the natural light. Here are the pros and cons of having an entryway mirror.
Couple painting a wall

How to fix bubbling paint and prevent it from happening again

Painting is fun and artistic, but for the best results, keep bubbles at bay. Here's how to fix bubbling paint and prevent it from happening again.
white space heater on hardwood floor in office

Is it safe to sleep with a space heater on? What you need to know

A space seater can be a savior in chilly weather. Here's how to determine if it's safe to sleep with a space heater on.
Folded and organized blankets

Convection vs. radiant heaters: What’s the difference?

There are some key differences between convection and radiant heaters, including cost and energy efficiency. Here's how to know which one you should buy.
white fairy lights gathered on table

Decorative fairy light ideas that work in any room in your home

You love the twinkle they create but aren't sure how to hang fairy lights. We've got the very best fairy light ideas to cozy up your home.
incense sticks in jar on coffee table in living room

18 scents that can make you happier at home

Studies have proven that scents can lighten up a person's mood. Here are eighteen popular scents that can make you happier at home.
organized and tidy kitchen

How to get rid of kitchen grease on cabinets, appliances, and more – the right way

No need to remodel the kitchen when degreasing can make it look new again. Here are some tips for how to safely clean kitchen grease from all your surfaces.
Several bottles of essential oils on a counter

How to make insecticide out of essential oils

You can get effective pest control results the natural way by making essential oil insecticide. We've put together the best tips.
Clean bathroom sink with two mirrors

Can shaving cream really get rid of gross smells in your bathroom?

From urine to mildew to a sewer smell in your bathroom, we've got the tips and tricks you need for a fresh-scented, clean-smelling space.
Woman sitting at desk in a work from home office

How to feng shui your home office for maximum productivity

In your home office, a little feng shui will improve productivity and peace — both of which you won't regret having more of.
Two people painting an interior wall

Sanding, primer, or both? This is how to prepare a wall for painting

Painting a room is one of the easiest ways to transform its character — here's your guide for all things paint prep so you have professional-looking results.
Three cushions on backyard bench

How to clean your patio furniture cushions the right way

Patio furniture cushions endure a lot of heavy use and damage from the elements. This is how to clean outdoor cushions effectively.
woman smiling while seated outdoors

DIY advice: Should you build a raised patio on your own?

Looking for DIY tips about building a raised patio on your own? It's not as hard as you may expect, so long as you know the basics. This guide has you covered.
home deco apps

Best home design and decorating apps

Looking for the best design and decorating apps? We've got you covered!
Woman sitting at a table with friends during party

How to host a party in a small house or apartment

If you live in a place where space is limited, learning how to host a party is a skill that's mastered easily. Here's how you can do it
evening with string lights on patio

Year-round lighting: The best all-weather outdoor string lights we’ve seen yet

The warm glow of all-weather outdoor string lights creates a charming mood. Create a relaxing haven in your own home for all seasons.
Corner bench seating on patio

The ultimate guide to midcentury modern patio furniture

Midcentury modern is a favorite design aesthetic for a reason. Here's what you need to know about midcentury modern patio furniture.
Coffee in glass cup with bowls of butter and MCT oil nearby

Bulletproof coffee: The benefits and drawbacks of this morning trend

Bulletproof coffee is becoming a popular drink, with many benefits and potential downsides. We list its advantages and disadvantages
A close-up video of someone washing a fork in a sink.

Dish scrubbing brush vs. sponge: Which is better for cleaning dishes?

When deciding whether a dish sponge or brush is better for cleaning your dirty dishes, here is everything you need to consider.
Wife and husband painting a wall

Painting 101: The best wall-painting techniques everyone should know

Here are great DIY wall-painting techniques, tips, and tricks that are sure to make the process more efficient, fun, and effective.
Woman at home on bench taking shoes off

Incredible shoe storage rack ideas for your living room

Try these shoe storage rack ideas if you're looking for a way to organize your shoes without adding any clutter to your living room.
fireplace mantel decorating ideas items unsplash

These fireplace mantel ideas will make your living room the coziest

You can outfit the mantel with creative, personal, and fun touches to reflect your style. Explore our favorite fireplace mantel ideas.
modern kitchen paint

These are the best paint colors for your kitchen in 2021

Kitchens remain one of the most popular home remodels of all time. These are the best paint color ideas for yours.
framed pictures mounted on wall

How to hang pictures like a pro

When it comes time to hang pictures on your walls at home, these tips will yield the best results and have everyone thinking you hired a professional.
organized garage

Declutter your garage with these 5 easy steps

Undertaking a decluttering project this weekend? Tackle your garage with these simple steps
Two couples using a backyard firepit at night

This cozy firepit is the perfect accent piece for your patio

Bring some warmth to your outdoor space with this charming fire pit
kitchen sink setup

How to organize under your kitchen sink

The kitchen sink is notorious for falling into disarray. Here's how to counter that.
blackout curtains for living space

Blackout curtains only sound hideous — these four options are gorgeous

Beautiful blackout curtains sound like an oxymoron, but these options are stunning and practical
Green bedroom with headboard

How recessed lighting can illuminate your bedroom

Recessed lighting can be a smart home lighting option -- here's how it can work for your bedroom.
living room remodel

5 living room remodel ideas that pay off

Real estate expert Shelton Wilder offers tips on how to best invest your living room remodeling budget in order to maximize value.
Clare Whipped

Entryway wall decor for the rustic home

Weathered wood, antiqued and distressed decorative accents as well as a rustic bench and table are great decorating ideas for a welcoming rustic entryway.
reusable produce bags

Are reusable produce bags really worth it?

Are reusable produce bags worth investing in? According to a top environmental expert, the answer is yes.
Abstract Art and Lighting

5 contemporary bedroom furniture ideas you’ll love

We reveal five contemporary bedroom furniture ideas to help you create the room of your dreams. We’ll cover large pieces, plus smaller accents.
Woman welcoming friends at the front door

How to light an entryway so guests feel welcome

Guests form opinions about the rest of your home when they walk into your entryway. Check out these lighting options that add style and function to your space.
outdoor furniture treatment care patio treat

Treatments that help outdoor furniture last longer

To ensure your wicker furniture and patio tables have a long life, follow these tips.
is eco friendly furniture worth the spend 1

Is eco-friendly furniture worth the spend?

Eco-friendly furniture is becoming more and more popular - but is it worth it? Here's everything you need to know about eco-friendly furnishings.
Woman on patio holding a leaf and mug with checkered blanket on lap

How to create a cozy patio space for fall

Get into the spirit of fall and prepare your patio. This guide will help you put together a cozy patio space from seating to heating
Home security keypad

Do home security signs really work?

Home security signs are very popular - but are they effective? Here's out guide to security signs, and how to secure your home.
Living room with fancy furniture, fireplace, and crown molding

Traditional interior design ideas that don’t look dated

Not sure what style you want in your home? We discuss traditional and traditional-modern design and offer ideas to improve your home's style
Woman setting thermostat with her smartphone

Smart thermostats to help keep your home a perfect temperature this fall

A smart thermostat keeps your home at just the right temperature during those brisk fall days. Here are some smart thermostats we recommend.