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Deb Goncalves

Deb Goncalves

Former Digital Trends Contributor
Author/Co-Author of 228 articles

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.

Black space heater with two knobs against unfocused background

Convection vs. radiant heaters: Which is best for your home?

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.
Clean kitchen countertop with containers

The best ways to clean kitchen grease from cabinets and appliances

Tackling stains is key to keeping your kitchen's surfaces in good condition. Here's how to clean grease off your kitchen surfaces without damaging them.
Woman welcoming friends at the front door

The dos and don’ts of adding a mirror to your entryway

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.
Clean bathroom sink with two mirrors

Shaving cream for bathroom smells: Does it really work?

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.
Modern and minimal Japandi styled room

Less is more: 15 minimalist living room ideas to try

If you are thinking of incorporating the “less is more” concept into your living room, check out these creative ideas to get you headed in the right direction.
Fairy lights hung with photos on a wall

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.
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.
Fall wreath and pumpkins on front door on porch

59 fall porch decorating ideas featuring all the colors of the season

If you’re stumped as to how to decorate your porch this fall, then look no further. We’ve found all of the most creative porch-decorating ideas.
Dining room with modern light

Stunning dining room ideas that’ll make every weeknight dinner special

Looking to make your weeknight meal-time a special occasion? These tips and tricks will make Monday through Friday feel like a weekend reservation.
Clean and organized bathroom

The 13 best bathroom cleaning hacks of all time

Bathroom need a good freshening up? Save time and get that sparkly clean look with these 13 easy bathroom cleaning hacks.
lawn mower

5 tips for managing your lawn on a busy schedule

How to care for your lawn the right way when you just don't have a lot of time
woman watching mounted tv

Everything you need to know before mounting your TV

Wall-mounting a TV is a tricky art, but this list helps walk you through everything you need to know before you start your project.
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.
Person fluffing a pillow on the bed

Here’s how to choose the right pillow for you

Learn how to choose a pillow that offers optimal support and comfort. Discover tips for selecting the best pillow for your sleep needs.
Family grilling out in the backyard

Pros and cons of gas and electric BBQ grills

Ready to get your barbeque on but unsure which type of grill is best for you? We discuss electric grills vs. gas grills so you can make an informed decision.
Woman scrubbing mold growth

How to clean mold from your kitchen and bathroom

Everyone knows that mold is gross and unhealthy. Here's how to clean mold by following the right steps and understanding how it forms and multiplies.
Peace lily plant in pot

Don’t have a green thumb? These 8 houseplants are hard to kill

Anyone can take care of these houseplants that are nearly impossible to kill. You can enjoy one of these eight plants at home or the office.
clean bathroom with a lot of light

5 incredible bathroom cleaning hacks you have to try

At the end of the day, we all want a sparkling clean bathroom. Here are safe and natural hacks you may not know about.
Microwave on a shelf with dishes

How to properly clean your microwave

Here's how to clean your microwave quickly, easily, and naturally. Keep your essential appliance sanitary and smelling fresh!
Garage storage and organization

13 clever garage organization ideas that’ll free up a parking spot

Having trouble finding room for your car in the garage? These useful tips will help you get organized.
Mother and father putting coats on children

How to decide between an entryway shelf and a wall organizer

When it comes to entryway storage, it's between an entryway shelf and an entryway wall organizer. One will best suit your needs and lifestyle
Bathroom with sink and toilet

The one quick change that will totally transform your bathroom

Decluttering your bathroom is a game changer no matter what. Just take three hours for a quick, easy-to-do bathroom refresh.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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 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.
Entryway with shelves

Entryway wall decor ideas for the traditional home

A few tips and tricks for making a boring entryway shine
how to decorate a rental indoor life portrait of young asian woman

How to decorate a rental

A rental isn't your property, but that doesn't mean you can't make it your home. Here's how to decorate your rental and make it your own.
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.
timeless kitchen trends woman in white

13 timeless kitchen trends

If keeping pace with the latest styles and trends aren't your thing, try these timeless kitchen trends that are always in style.