11 Most (Sort Of) Controversial Celebrity Age-Gap Relationships—& They're Still Going Strong!

celebrity age gap relationships

What is it about age gap relationships that are so dang perplexing? Maybe it's the idea that someone can find love in a partner that's 10 to 30 years older than them. Maybe it's wondering if it's a red flag if someone only dates people who are way younger or older than they are. Whatever it is, from Sam and Aaron Taylor Johnson to Leonardo DiCaprio and literally everyone he's dated over the past two decades, we're clearly hooked. 👀

One thing worth noting is these kind of relationships are often mind-boggling even if you do root for them. Don't believe me? Take a look at the most (sort of) controversial celebrity age-gap relationships we've seen!

Scroll down to see some controversial celebrity age gap relationships!

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Mercury Studios

David Foster (75) & Katharine McPhee (40): 35 Years

I don't know if David Foster and Katharine McPhee is anyone's Roman Empire, but regardless of who's rooting for them, their 35-year age gap clearly doesn't hold them back. No, I'm not making that up. They both celebrated huge milestones this year because Katharine turned 40 while David rang in his 75th birthday with a concert.

Though they met in 2006 during the season Katharine was on American Idol, they didn't become a couple until the end of 2017. Even still, they didn't really address their relationship until their 2018 Met Gala red carpet appearance. So far the couple seems to be going strong — which is all that matters!

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

Sarah Paulson (49) & Holland Taylor (81): 31 Years

Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor have been dating a little over a decade, but that's not what's shocking. It's the fact this couple has a 31-year gap between them. According to People, they started dating in 2015 and have been happily in love ever since.

Appearing on the SmartLess podcast earlier in May, Sarah dished about what makes their relationship work so well. She said, "Yeah, we don’t live together. That’s the secret to it. We spend plenty of time together, but we don’t live in the same house."

Jeff Spicer/Getty Images

Michael Douglas (80) & Catherine Zeta-Jones (55): 25 Years

This is a couple I've known about since I was kid and it used to baffle me until it didn't. They didn't hit it off right away, but fate decided to do what it does best when it wants two people together (via People). They're one of the first celebrity age gap relationships that have lasted since the late '90s and it's amazing to see how far they've come.

As they near their 24th year of marriage (OMG), it's clear Michael and Catherine Zeta-Jones have figured out what it takes to not only sustain their marriage, but their lives in the public eye.

Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Sam (57) & Aaron Taylor Johnson (34): 23 Years

Despite their 23-year age gap, Sam and Aaron Taylor Johnson have been together for 16 years. They met some time in 2008, but it didn't take long for them to get engaged and welcome their first child together. They both know others have talked about their relationship, but they've let the comments roll off their shoulders. Sam told The Times UK, "When you're solid with someone in your own love, you don't think about it."

John Phillips & Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Gigi Hadid (29) & Bradley Cooper (49): 20 Years

I think I can understand this celebrity age gap relationship because I actually like Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper. I could've never guessed they'd become a couple, but life is full of surprises! They're not ones to talk about their relationship though. I suppose that's the best way to go when you're a celebrity, but us nosy fans are intrigued by the moments we do see them in the public eye.

Daily Mailwas one of the first few outlets to report their second sighting as an alleged couple which lets me know it would be hard for them to deny they weren't together.

Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

George (63) & Amal Clooney (46): 17 Years

George and Amal Clooney are probably my second favorite couple on this list because they make absolute sense to me. They're like two missing pieces of a puzzle that found each other and are happy to fit into each other's lives. As it turns out, Mr. Clooney is ever the romantic because he's been wooing Amal from the beginning.

From their sweet introduction in 2013 to the way George planned a romantic proposal and the amazing work they continue to do with their Clooney Foundation For Justice organization, this is one of those celebrity age gap relationships that's hard to be mad about.

Roy Rochlin/Getty Images

Matthew McConaughey (55) & Camila Alves (41): 13 Years

"All right, all right, all right," it's Matthew McConaughey and Camila Alves! These two met in a way that truly makes sense for them: at a club. How many of us can say we found the love of our lives in a club full of loud music and sweaty people? This lucky couple have been together since possibly 2007 and have added three kids to their family.

Camila recently took to Instagram to celebrate Matthew's 55th birthday with a moving tribute to the actor. She wrote, "Today we celebrate you! …. Well technically we celebrated you all weekend! Hoo you bring so much Joy Matthew… but I am stopping here before I get all sentimental…! To many more sleigh street rides celebrating YOU," in the caption.

Larry Busacca/Getty Images

Beyoncé (43) & Jay-Z (54): 12 Years

Beyoncé and Jay-Zshocked the music industry when they became a couple between 1997 and 2000. It was mainly because Beyoncé was only 19 years old when they started dating (via NBC). But somehow their love has prevailed through music collaborations, cheating scandals, and a certain elevator incident that no one'll ever forget. In recent years, the couple has been riding the waves of bliss as one of the more popular celebrity age gap relationships.

Mike Coppola / Getty Images Entertainment

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds

Blake Lively (37) & Ryan Reynolds (48): 11 Years

I said it once and I'll say it again: the best thing Green Lantern could've done was introduce Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds to each other. They both have the same dry and high key sarcastic humor that makes people love them so much, plus they way they love each other is so d*mn adorable. Did I mention I love the way they talk about their kids?

If there's a chance they're considered controversial, put me in pop culture jail because it's hard for me to turn my nose up at them!

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Nick Jonas (32) & Priyanka Chopra (42): 10 Years

Last but not least, Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra deserve an award for having the least controversial celebrity age gap relationship. They look amazing together — look at the material — and seem to speak each other's love language in a way that's kind of sexy. They too made a Met Gala red carpet appearance together in 2017, but Priyanka said they weren't even dating. I mean, that's if you believe her Jimmy Kimmel Liveappearance!

Whether they were or weren't dating then, Nick and Priyanka didn't waste time becoming love birds in 2018. Priyanka was even featured in the Jonas Brothers' music video for "Sucker." Are you kidding me?

From then on, the couple have been enjoying marriage and being parents which seems to be the case for a lot of the featured celebrity age gap relationships!

Monica Schipper/Getty Images & Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Vanity Fair

Leonardo DiCaprio (50) & Vittoria Ceretti (26)

Leonardo DiCaprio is well-known for dating models in their 20's, and Vittoria Ceretti is no exception to that rule. These two have been quietly together since around May 2023, and it seems like they're still going strong. Since they've been together, there have been plenty of engagement rumors swirling, but so far there's no ring in sight for Vittoria. Leo's never quite settled down, so it'll be interesting to see how this age gap relationship pans out! Wishing them both the best of luck!

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Architecture Digest's Open Door video series is a juicy peek inside the homes of celebs — and we’re a bit obsessed. From Emma Roberts' cozy, book-filled retreat to Kendall Jenner's serene and chic abode, these tours aren’t just about stunning interiors; they also give us a rare glimpse into their at-home personalities. Live with Kelly and Mark hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos’ recent upper East Side tour had me gushing, but also with a few pauses, like huh? Their five-story home felt like a love letter to their relationship as much as an example of their impeccable style. Here are 10 surprising moments from their beautiful AD house tour!

Scroll down to see all the surprising moments from Kelly Ripa & Mark Consuelos' house tour!

Eyeball Art

Architectural Digest | Art by Marc Quinn

The series of painted photographs by artist Marc Quinn outside Kelly and Mark's bedrooms were one of the bigger surprises. They feature a close-up and enlarged image of their three kids' eyeballs. "They don't live here anymore, but it still feels like they're still with us," says Mark. I'm not an empty nester yet, but I can't tell if he's joking here or not. "I can stare at my kids' eyes forever," adds Kelly. SAME.

TVs Behind Mirrors

Architectural Digest

As someone who really dislikes the look of TVs in any room except a room dedicated to bingeing, I love all of the hidden TVs in their bedroom (shown above), living room, and Mark's man cave.

Escargot Toothpicks

Architectural Digest

This actually has a sweet story behind it, and as an escargot/snail lover, this gift is actually pretty cute. The home was designed with AD100 Hall of Fame interior designer William Sofield, known for his modern luxury style, and he gifted this to them because their son loved escargot, surprisingly at age 9 (at the same time when Sofield was designing the home).

The Dark Cave (on The Fifth Floor)

Architectural Digest

The first surprise moment was Mark's Bar 5, which is where the tour begins. The dark interior was a bit of a surprise until you see the rest of the house in its luxe and neutral palette. It's called Bar 5, Mark notes, because it's on the fifth floor of their forever home, so basically the opposite of a man cave!

They Share A Bathroom!

Architectural Digest

Few couples would choose to share a bathroom and closet if they could afford a place with more than one. That was one of the more endearing parts of their tour. This couple still really loves each other and it's SO cute to see. Even with kids out of the house, they choose to share a bathroom and closet because it brings them closer. #relationshipgoals!

I Want To Be Where People Aren't Pillow

Architectural Digest

Is Kelly Ripa actually an introvert? She spends her time writing at the desk in their bedroom and a split second reveals this cheeky needlepoint pillow. I love their sense of a humor, which really shines through in this video.

Lazy Susan Dining Table

Architectural Digest

I have a soft spot for round dining tables — I feel like they naturally encourage everyone to be part of the conversation. For Kelly and Mark, their dining table has a special feature: it actually turns 360 degrees like a Lazy Susan. Amazing!

Translucent Cabinetry

Architectural Digest

Kelly notes that their translucent cabinetry keeps them honest and forces them to be organized. When Mark talks about the decision-making that went around cabinet pulls, I felt SO seen. Every decision in my home came pretty easily except choosing the cabinet pulls! It felt ridiculous, but I labored over this major (minor?) renovation choice.

The Living Room Trap Door

Architectural Digest

Finally, the hilarious comment from Mark about trapping guests in the living room with a sliding door had me LOL. They are truly adorable and silly. Take a peek inside this totally fun and heart-tugging tour!

Watch Kelly Ripa & Mark Consuelos' Full House Tour Here!

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Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your dad, husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These stunning gift ideas will help you say "this made me think of you."

Our 50 favorite gifts for men for 2024:

Target

Epson EpiqVision Mini EF22 Portable Smart Laser Projector

Make movie nights even more epic with this mini portable projector. The Dolby audio sound is AMAZING and the full HDR picture quality is perfect, plus you can project as big as a 150-inch screen! Watch his (and your) favorite movies, shows, sporting events, Oscars?, gaming, and more anywhere, indoors and out. It comes with a Google TV setup with access to more 10,000 apps, including favorites like Netflix and Prime. It's super simple to set up and a great way to bring in a screen wherever you want. No additional supplies needed! Also it comes in a bunch of cool colors. This is a splurge gift that's totally worth it and will make cozy nights at home even cozier. We love it!

Amazon

RVCA Commonwealth Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season!

Apple Watch SE

Get him motivated to reach his fitness goals with features like fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring, plus he can send a text, take a call, listen to his favorite music and podcasts. You can customize the watch faces and bands to his liking too. It's the perfect gift for the active guy!

Amazon

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

Nike

Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit

Be his biggest cheerleader as he reaches his 2025 fitness goals in these best-selling Nikes, made with sustainable materials. We are loving this vintage green.

Target

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinema home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties!

Sunswell

Sunswell The R&R Pant

Made from recycled materials for rigorous wear, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

Amazon

Cosori Pour Over Coffee Maker

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Amazon

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Creem

Creem Magazine Subscription

For the music-loving man in your life, a subscription to Creem (the coolest rock 'n' roll mag) will really impress. The publication's covered plenty of classic names in the industry – as well as newer bands – so he's sure to soak up plenty of new knowledge about the scene. There's a handful of annual subscription tiers for the mag starting at just $79.

Amazon

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

Ties

Ties The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Amazon

Marlowe. Coffee Bar Soap

This manly bar soap is infused with coffee beans and cocoa butter butter that help tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch

Taylor Stitch The Workhorse Jacket

This jacket will hug his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout the season's cold weather.

Williams Sonoma

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's going to work, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set like this luxe leather one will please the most studious types of guys.

Nordstrom

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a soft robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status with your guy, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Etsy

Custom Soundwave Art Print

From a first dance song to the one you always blast together in the car, every guy has their favorite tune. Memorialize it for your music-loving man with this custom art print.

DUER

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

New Balance

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that stylish pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Amazon

Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

Uncommon Goods

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gifts for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more gift guides!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated. Former reporting by Kaitlyn Ingram and Lauren Black.

As much as I love celebrity couples, I love celebrity sibling relationships even more. And Elle and Dakota Fanning are two sisters I've grown up watching since I first saw Dreamer in 2005. Considering Elle Fanning is only five months older than me, and I have a sister of my own, this is one relationship that feels particularly familiar. And while Elle has also watched Dakota Fanning act since we were kids, Dakota just revealed seeing Elle onscreen is just as special for her.

Here's why Dakota & Elle Fanning get emotional seeing each other onscreen.

Elle remembers "sobbing" during one particularly emotional Dakota Fanning movie.

“When Elle’s in anything, it makes me feel it deeper,” Dakota Fanning said at TheWrap’s Power Women Summit on December 3. “She never can fully disappear into a character totally for me as her sister. She obviously does an amazing job, but I’m always gonna see my little sister a little bit.”

And Elle is just as touched by Dakota's roles, and remembers "uncontrollably sobbing" after seeing Now Is Good, a movie where Dakota's character was dying of cancer. “Because it was my sister, I had a real traumatic reaction after that premiere and the screening,” Elle says. “Obviously the acting, but it was something felt on a deeper level.”

“I’m doing this job, I’m an actor because my sister started before me and I watched her,” Elle continues. “I wanted to do exactly what my big sister wanted to do.”

And their movies have also made an impact on everyone who watches them.

When Brit + Co caught up with Dakota Fanning at the world premiere of The Watchers, I had to ask about one of her most iconic movies: Uptown Girls. "I love it," she says of TikTok memes and edits giving the movie new life. "It's nostalgic for people who are kind of around my age, who grew up watching that movie, I think it's like a comfort movie for people. And so I love that people are still revisiting it and loving it. And maybe now that everyone's older [they're] understanding different things about it."

Dakota starred opposite Brittany Murphy, who also had roles in movies like Clueless, 8 Mile, and Girl, Interrupted. Brittany passed away in 2009 when Dakota was 15. "I loved Brittany so much and I still miss her," she says. "So anytime that she has, you know, a moment where people think about her is also nice."

You can see Elle Fanning in A Complete Unknown, in theaters December 25, and you can also stream Dakota Fanning's new show The Perfect Couple on Netflix now.

Since I just harped on all the dreary, outdated shoe trends for 2025, it's only fair I give you all the options you should wear in the new year! I also heard you when you said to let people wear what they want... Since I try to be a girl's girl, I want to give you as many exciting shoe trends that'll align with your personal style as well.

Instead of solely relying on my own wits this time, I reached out to Stitch Fix stylish Jessica Sockel; fashion expert and principal of The Curio, Maggie Gillette Sowislo; personal stylist Sarah Brandt of Shop the City; and Rusty Hall, CEO of Mephisto USA. Here's what stylists and fashion experts have to say about all the best shoe trends for 2025!

Scroll for all the 2025 shoe trends your feet — and outfits — will love!

Steve Madden

1. 'Mocha Mousse' Kitten Heel Boots

Don't fight it — this style is back and better than ever. "We have all seen that Pantone has named 'Mocha Mousse' [color of the year], cementing that brown has surpassed black as the go-to neutral," Brandt muses. As for why she believes kitten heels boots will be a popular style in 2025, she believes it's a "super wearable" choice "for the colder weather months."

Check 'em out:Steve Madden Stasia Taupe Suade Kitten Heel Boots

Thursday Boots

2. Elevated loafers and flats on par with 'Quiet Luxury'

Did you really think we were done with quiet luxury? This is a trend that "focuses on classic design and high quality materials," according to Hall. After the success of, well, Succession, people aren't ready to let this trend go — and I don't blame them! Hall says, "We’re seeing a movement away from runway and status brands of the past several years, and instead, consumers have been drawn toward the echo of vintage style."

Hall also feels like people are looking to add comfort instead of "overabundance" to their wardrobes. He explained that after the pandemic, "comfort has prevailed as a predominant factor in shopping for footwear." You'll want to steer clear of gaudy designs with this shoe trend, instead reaching for "shoes with premium construction and materials" that don't have "noisy logos."

If you want a little bit of height, Sockel says "chunky loafers became a go-to for achieving the 'Prep School' aesthetic." She also saw that "ballet flats were a top request, with 38% of shoppers seeking ways to style them."

Check 'em out:Thursday Boots Penny Loafers

Dolce Vita

3. Low profile sneakers

This year saw the rise of the 'errand' or everyday sneaker. Hall says, "In contrast to the chunky sneaker silhouette, low-profile sneakers have been trending in 2024, and expect to see that trend continue in 2025."He adds that they're "defined by the upper confirming closely to the foot and lack of support around the ankle" making them "exceptionally versatile".

Both he and Brandt agree that the "iconic Adidas Sambas" are the driving force behind this with the latter adding, "But as they can be hard to come by, I’m seeing some alternate sneakers take the stage — particularly the Adidas SL72, and Onitsuka Tigers, especially the Mexico 66s."

If you need inspo for how to style them! Hall has a couple of tips because "the timeless low-profile look isn't going anywhere." He feels pairing them with "bell bottoms or flare-legged jeans" because they "create a long, clean line."

Check 'em out:Dolce Vita Notice Stitch Sneakers

Dolce Vita

4. Colorful shoes

The world already feels like a mess sometimes — why not be bold and have fun with your outfits?! While you continue leaning into the red and burgundy shades that continued to trend this year, Hall feels that "turquoise, fuchsia, and yellow tones will brighten up this spring from the past couple of seasons of neutrals."

Another outfit tip he has is to "opt for white and soft ecru shades in the rest of the outfit" as this will "help these bold colors speak for themselves."

Check 'em out:Dolce Vita Kanika Mid Heels

Net-a-Porter

5. T-Strap Shoes

If you're still watching The Great Gatsby, you may be familiar with what Gillette Sowislo calls the "new shoe profile." In other words, she feels they're "an update on the Mary Jane trend we've been seeing for a few seasons."

We couldn't get enough of the revival of this that trend so it's going to be exciting to see you and other shoppers rock them with your 2025 outfits. Honestly, Sowislo is sure that "this versatile design can be found in flats, heels, and wedges."

Check 'em out:Manolo Blahnik Assala 105 Leather Point-Toe Pumps

Dansko

6. Wooden Platform Shoes

Wooden platform shoes are having their comeback moment; more notably clogs. Sowislo says, "Since Chloe designer Chemena Kamali decked out the front row of her show in matching wood-bottomed platform sandals, the trend for boho-inspired shoes has risen. These can look like the playful platforms she debuted or be a more practical pair of everyday clogs."

Sockel added, "Looking ahead, we [Stitch Fix] predict a shift toward heeled shoes—think chic booties, clogs, and sandals—that pair seamlessly with oversized jeans and a simple tee for an effortlessly polished Easy Street look."

Check 'em out:Dansko Professional Clogs

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Cleaning your house can be the most stressful part of hosting guests. But the cozy, happy feeling you get when you have a spotless home is literally priceless. (I actually think hiring a house cleaner is an essential form of self care.) That said, all your effort can be overshadowed by unexpected dirt or grime in hidden nooks and corners. To help you avoid this, here are a few commonly missed spots to tackle before guests arrive!

Here are all the spots you (probably) missed cleaning recently!

Kaboompics.com

Sink Drains

A spritz of cleaner around the sink and faucet can be satisfying, but do you ever notice how gross a drain can get? Look out for mold and hair just under the drain cover for a truly clean sink.

Kaboompics.com

Behind the Toilets

Guests will likely notice dust buildup in these spots as they reach for their TP, especially in small bathrooms. Make sure to mop or wipe with a cloth behind your toilet for a fresh, clean space. You'll get to enjoy after they leave too!

Lauren Pressey

Your Entryway

It can be easy to get lost in cleaning the main part of your house that you forget the most important part! Make a good first impression with a tidy and organized entryway. Hide to mail, dust and clean, and add fresh flowers or a candle to make it more inviting.

Michael Oxendine

Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures

Ever look up and find yourself horrified by the black dust building up on your white fan? Ditto. Grab a chair or ladder and dust the blades to keep dust from spreading all around the room.

Element5 Digital

Door Handles and Knobs

Given it's flu and Covid season, this is also a respectful and hygienic choice.

Kristyna Squared.one

Inside and Outside Your Fridge

This is a good time to use up food that's about to expire and reduce clutter in the fridge. But don't forget the outside too. Smudges and old reminders can be an eyesore.

Kira auf der Heide

Under Couch Cushions

Crumbs or debris can show up as soon as a guest sits down. As you vacuum the floor, give your cushions a quick clean up too. You may even find some change or items you've been missing.

Megan Nixon

Front of Kitchen Cabinets

Grease and fingerprints can make cabinets look dirty. We often overlook cleaning these and shelves, but having guests over is a good reminder!

Lisa Anna

Inside Your Microwave

Guests warming food may be grossed out by splatters and stains inside the microwave. Don't forget to clean the inside and outside!

Kelly Sikkema

Windowsills

Dust and dead insects often gather here, especially in warmer months. If you haven't cleaned them since summer, now is a good time to vacuum them up and wipe them down.

SHVETS production

Trash Cans (Inside and Out)

Even with a liner, odors can linger in trash cans. Hose them down or clean them in the sink to refresh your bins.

Taryn Elliott

Remote Controls and Electronics

These are high-touch items that guests may use, so a quick disinfecting wipe is a good idea this flu season!

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more home organization ideas!