In Nesting Mode? Here Are Easy, Low-Cost Home Upgrades You Can Do This Weekend

1. Waterproof Shoes

You might have kids who love to explore in their Crocs or dance in muddy puddles while wearing their rain boots. Or maybe you ran through a trail through the woods that really left its mark on your Cloud 5 Waterproof Running Shoes. Plus, plastic flip-flops, a staple in summer footwear, have a knack for accumulating sand, dirt, and other grime during the warmer months.

These waterproof shoes can safely go on your dishwasher's top rack! Just be wary of using detergents that have bleach, as it could lead to material damage or discoloration.

2. Plastic Hairbrushes

Hairbrushes don't only collect stray strands of hair. They can also accumulate dead skin, grease, and other grime.

If you realize your plastic brush or comb has seen better days, put it in your dishwasher's utensil container and let it go through a "normal" cycle. Just keep in mind that brushes or combs made from natural materials aren't safe for the dishwasher.

3. Children's Toys

Kids have no problem using and basically abusing their toys. They get tossed on the floor, chewed on, and even taken outside in the dirt. To get rid of germs, plastic items such as building blocks, pretend play kitchen items, bath toys, and even pacifiers and teething rings can be cleaned in your dishwasher.

However, any toys that have small pieces should be placed in a mesh bag. That way, they don't inadvertently damage your appliance.

4. Baseball Caps

Baseball caps are great for shading your face from the harsh summer sun, but they can quickly get dirtied from sweat. Thankfully, the dishwasher can help get them looking as good as new without ruining their shape.

All you have to do is loosely place your cap in the top rack and let it air dry afterward. Or, for those very concerned about their cap's shape, you can buy a cap frame.

5. Vacuum Attachments

From sucking up dust bunnies under our furniture to tackling crumbs between couch cushions, our vacuums (and, specifically, their attachments) go through a lot.

Instead of handwashing these often-gross items, allow your dishwasher to do the work for you. Plenty of plastic vacuum attachments tend to be dishwasher-safe, but before you throw all of your accessories in for a bath, double-check your owner's manual.

6. Toothbrush Holders

It's recommended that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months to maintain hygiene. But when was the last time you actually cleaned your toothbrush holder?

Moisture and toothpaste residue can accumulate inside or outside this item over time. Just like a cup, simply turn it upside down, place it on the top rack of your dishwasher, and let it run through a normal cycle.

7. Potatoes

Have you ever been tasked with making mashed potatoes or french fries for a large group only to realize just how many spuds you'd have to wash? You may be shocked to learn that you could've been saving a lot of scrub time all these years.

Potatoes can easily be placed on the top rack and washed on a rinse cycle! Never include any detergent, though.

8. Appliance Knobs

No matter how tidy of a cook you are, the knobs on your appliances, like your stove, are bound to get quite dirty after a while. They're constantly touched, often with sticky or oily fingers, and frequently forgotten about during kitchen cleaning sessions.

Give your appliances a simple refresh by disconnecting their removable plastic or metal knobs and sticking them in your dishwasher's utensil container.

9. Refrigerator Shelves

From spilled milk (literally) to crumbs and leaking leftover containers, refrigerator shelves can get sticky, grimy, and downright gross to handwash.

Luckily, you don't have to! They can be sanitized in the bottom rack of your dishwasher, along with your other dishware, for an effortless clean.

10. Gardening Tools

Regardless of whether you're a container gardener or prefer growing plants in garden beds, your tools are exposed to dirt, bacteria, and, sometimes, pesticides.

Those with plastic or metal handles can get sanitized on your dishwasher's top rack. Tools with wooden handles, on the other hand, should be washed manually.

11. Microwave Turntable

Similar to refrigerator shelves, microwaves take a beating. This appliance reheats everything from bubbling soups to greasy pizza slices, but you don't want your turntable to look like a graveyard of dinners' past.

Instead of going through the hassle of washing this large, awkward item in the sink, place it in your dishwasher alongside your other plates, bowls, and cups.

12. Shower Caddy

Unless you have a built-in shelf in your shower, you probably have a metal shower caddy that hangs over your shower head or door to hold your shampoo, conditioner, and other bath products.

Over time, mold and soap scum will accumulate on your caddy, giving it a dull or dirty appearance. To help this shower accessory become sparkly again, run it through your dishwasher, and remember to dry it off afterward to prevent rusting.

13. Pet Toys & Bowls

Last but certainly not least are plastic pet toys and bowls. The former is constantly chewed on, dragged around your floor, and sometimes even buried in the yard. Meanwhile, the latter is exposed to the bacteria in your furry friend's mouth, kibble residue, and slobber.

Rather than forcing yourself to hand wash these pet accessories, let your dishwasher handle it. Just check the bowl and toy labels to ensure they're machine-wash-safe and don't have any hollow areas where water can get trapped and grow mold.

1. Parlor Palm

The Sill Parlor Palm

Native to Central and South America, the Parlor Palm is a resilient plant that thrives in low-light environments, making it perfect for spaces that don't get much natural sunlight. It also grows to a manageable height of two to three feet, meaning it doesn't take up a ton of space and is excellent for smaller homes. However, one of the best parts about the Parlor Palm is how little maintenance it requires. Just some occasional watering is enough to keep this plant happy.

2. Rubber Plant

CB2 Live Ficus Elastica Rubber Plant

As a fig tree variety, the Rubber Plant has become a popular choice for both homes and offices due to its beautiful appearance yet easygoing nature. Its big glossy leaves sometimes lead it to be mistaken as a high-maintenance jungle plant, which is why many people over-water it. In reality, though, this plant is fairly low-maintenance, and while it thrives in bright, indirect light, it can tolerate low-light conditions.

It also doesn't like to be moved around frequently, which is a major upside for people who don't have the time to fuss over their plants.

3. Golden Pothos

Costa Farms Golden Pothos Live Plant

If you want to dive into the world of vining houseplants, Golden Pothos is a stellar option. This stunning variety, featuring heart-shaped leaves in hues of green and yellow, is quite forgiving and resilient. Golden Pathos can grow up to 12 to 18 inches per month, so it's known as a fast grower. And while it enjoys natural light, it's also adaptable enough to do well under fluorescent lighting. So, it's great for offices or dorm rooms.

4. Jade Plant

The Sill Sunset Jade

The Jade Plant is a succulent that takes on a tree-like appearance as it matures, with a woody stem and thick leaves. It's this variety's leaves that help it retain water, too. That's why Jade Plant is perfect for people who tend to forget about their greenery from time to time. It's much easier to over-water it than under-water it.

5. Aloe

Costa Farms Aloe Vera, Live Succulent Plant

Featuring thick, dark green leaves, Aloe is a hardy succulent that's known for its impressive drought tolerance. This low-maintenance plant does best in bright light, so all you have to do is place it on a sunny windowsill. Plus, it's pretty adaptable and can handle partial light. Just keep in mind that these conditions might cause Aloe to produce longer, spindly leaves as opposed to compact and sturdy ones.

6. English Ivy

West Elm Live English Ivy House Plant

Another vining plant that thrives with minimal care is English Ivy. It looks stunning in a hanging container or trailing over high shelving. This resilient variety can go for weeks without any attention, which is why so many busy plant parents love it. English Ivy is easy to manage indoors and can serve as a great home decor statement piece. However, it's important to note that, in the United States, this plant is considered an invasive species when planted outside.

7. Snake Plant

The Sill Snake Plant Laurentii

Anyone looking for a tough and easy-to-care-for houseplant should consider the Snake Plant, which can go for weeks without water. This variety, which features stiff, upright leaves, is a large succulent that's adaptable and can flourish in a range of conditions. Whether in bright light, shade, dry, or humid environments, the Snake Plant will survive.

8. Spider Plant

Williams Sonoma Live Spider House Plant

Sometimes referred to as the Ribbon Plant, the Spider Plant is a super forgiving variety that can handle occasional watering and exposure to artificial light. Not to mention, it grows great in both hanging baskets and pots. Spider Plant features leaves with light green stripes and white, star-shaped flowers, too, meaning it's a striking home decor addition.

9. Eternity Plant

The Sill ZZ Plant

This variety's name couldn't be more appropriate since the Eternity Plant (AKA "ZZ" plant) is able to shine in less-than-ideal environments and endure neglect much longer than other plants. It's hardy, requires very little water, and does well in low to medium light. It's best to let the soil dry out completely in between watering, so sometimes, the Eternity Plant only needs a drink about once a month.

10. Peace Lily

West Elm Live Peace Lily Plant

Finally, the Peace Lily is a gorgeous houseplant that blooms white flowers when given enough light. Or, in shadier spaces, it still functions as an adaptable foliage plant. Peace Lilies are extremely drought tolerant as well, which is why it's best to water only when the soil feels dry to the touch. An easy way to tell if your plant needs a drink is by observing its leaves. When the foliage begins to droop, you can give it some water.

What's the easiest thing to cook for dinner?

In our experience, meals that feature a bunch of different ingredients thrown together (think poke bowls, burrito bowls, stews, and salads) end up being the easiest options to cook for dinner. Plus, they're a great way to clear out any leftovers you may have from the fridge!

What can I cook in 10 minutes?

Easy meals like air fryer salmon, scrambled eggs and toast, and our risotto cupscan be made in 10 minutes or less. You probably won't be able to make something like a chicken breast or casserole in 10 minutes, but that doesn't mean your dinner still can't be delicious!

What can I cook in 30 minutes?

In addition to the 10-minute meals mentioned above, there are plenty of recipes you can make in 30 minutes (some of them are right on this list!). You can also check out our Instant Pot Recipes and Air Fryer Recipes for some more quick and delicious meals.

What meals can I make for $5?

Meals like canned soup, frozen veggies, bagged salads, and other single-serve, pre-assembled meals usually fall under $5. Frozen pizza and spaghetti with marinara sauce are some other great hearty options!

Easy Dinner Recipes To Make Tonight

Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta

We love a good Instant Pot meal, and this creamy and delicious pasta dish does not disappoint. It's great for any day of the week, and the leftovers save really well to last you all week! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Heart-Shaped Pizza

20-Minute Vegan Nachos

Nachos that have no animal byproducts and only take 20 minutes? BRB — we're adding this to our easy dinner recipes lineup for the week. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Steamed Cod With Ginger Scallion Sauce

This easy Instant Pot-made dish can be on your table in roughly 30 minutes. From a frozen state, the fish only takes 5 minutes to pressure-cook! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Pressure Cooker Vegan Chili

Easy dinner recipes are supposed to be simple. Just dump the ingredients for this pick into your pressure cooker, and you'll have enough food to feed a family, all in less than 30 minutes. (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

10-Minute Vegan Trader Joe's Stir-Fry

Keep a bag of frozen stir-fry veggies and frozen brown rice on hand, and you have the base of a healthy, fast meal you can enjoy for dinner and beyond. (via Brit + Co)

Mango Shrimp Curry

A jar of mango chutney acts as the base of this flavorful shrimp stir-fry. Talk about summery goodness! (via Brit + Co)

Pancetta Pasta

This hearty, saucy, and salty pasta inspired by none other than Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis is the perfect easy dinner idea to whip up on chilly nights. You can make some easy swaps if you don't have pancetta or Pecorino on-hand, using bacon and Parmesan instead. (via Brit + Co)

Easy Dinner Recipes To Try This Week

Vegan Veggie Sausage Foil Packs

Whether you cook them on the grill or in the oven, these foil packets require no cleanup. That's why they're one of the best easy dinner recipes to keep in your back pocket! (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Thai Basil Stir-Fry

Punchy Thai basil, chiles, and garlic add a burst of flavor to this simple ground chicken stir-fry. Serve with sticky white rice, so you can soak up every last bit of sauce. (via Ashley Bare for Brit + Co)

4-Ingredient Vegan Baked Ziti

Bake your pasta without having to boil it beforehand by giving it a quick soak. You'll be surprised at how much time you save with this easy dinner idea. (via Brit + Co)

20-Minute Pizza

Trader Joe's ready-made pizza dough saves the day for this easily customizable pizza idea. (via Meredith Holser forBrit + Co)

Keto Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

A rotisserie chicken cuts a lot of the labor involved in assembling these lettuce wraps. You can even use canned chicken if a rotisserie is out of reach. Add blue cheese crumbles and walnuts for a meal that's a little more elegant than your usual chicken salad. (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Cacio e Pepe Chickpeas

Get the classic flavor of cacio e pepe in even less time than usual. Skip waiting for a pot of pasta water to boil, and swap your noodles for chickpeas instead. They have more protein, too! (via Audrey Bruno for Brit + Co)

Foil Pack Chicken & Broccoli

Seasoned with your favorite spices or marinade, these flexible chicken and broccoli packets can be changed up every time you make them for dinner. (via Jessi Devenyns for Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Tuscan White Bean Soup

We love easy dinner recipes that are hearty and perfect for winter! Start with this veggie-loaded soup, then add sausage, bacon, and Parmesan. (via Brit + Co)

Easy + Quick Dinner Ideas

Vegetarian Pigs in a Blanket

Three ingredients, 12 minutes, and vegetarian to boot — could it get any easier?! (via Melanie Burke for Brit + Co)

Sheet-Pan Lemon Chicken, Squash, and Green Beans

We love everything about this simple and fresh sheet-pan chicken and veggies. Swap out the veg depending on what you've got in the fridge for an easy dinner. (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Sheet-Pan German Sausage and Veggies

Hearty vegan cooking doesn't have to take forever. Whip out your handy sheet-pan, and you'll be eating this medley of veggie sausage, potatoes, and cabbage in about 45 mostly hands-off minutes. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Make These Fast Dinner Ideas Tonight!

Mexican-Style Hot Dogs in Lettuce Wraps

A jumble of veggies and black beans put a much fresher spin on traditional hot dogs. (via Patricia Conte for Brit + Co)

20-Minute Tahini Salmon Salad

The rich and nutty tahini dressing is the key to transforming this salmon salad into an scrumptious easy dinner recipe you'll actually get excited about eating. (via Brit + Co)

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio With All-O the Parsley

You will always have something to eat when you bust out this recipe, which calls for all pantry staples: spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, anchovy, red pepper, and whatever herbs you have. (via Where Cooking Begins)

Easy Chicken Piccata

Whip up your this easy dinner recipe in just over a half hour with a cast iron pan! A side of pasta or mashed potatoes completes the meal perfectly. (via Munchkin Time)

Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Sneak in some veggies by sandwiching them in between slices of cheese and chicken. (via Primavera Kitchen)

Baked Greek Chicken Wings With Tzatziki

Chicken wings don't have to be a labor of love — this recipe bakes them on a sheet tray for easy clean-up. Tangy tzatziki dip on the side is a fresh alternative to ranch dressing! (via My Modern Cookery)

Tasty Easy Dinner Ideas

Bean Stuff Casserole

Cheesy bean casserole will please the whole fam any night of the week. (via Crazy for Crust)

15-Minute Spam Fried Rice

This quick fried rice dish is savory, salty, and protein-filled, thanks to the addition of Spam. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Pizza

You won't think twice about adding more Brussels sprouts to your meals after you taste them in this smoky, cheesy pizza. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry

This stir-fry will please those on paleo, low-carb, or gluten-fee diets. Plus, it's thrifty in time and cost of ingredients. (via Wholesome Yum)

Chicken Scallopini

This classic pasta dish stars a few secret convenient ingredients you probably have in your pantry already. (via The Cozy Cook)

Chorizo Scallop and Kale Stir Fry

Spicy chorizo and sweet scallops cook up quickly in this kale-flecked stir-fry. (via Neil's Healthy Meals)

Garlic Butter Salmon in Foil

Cooking this buttery salmon in foil means you've got an easy dinner recipe that has a very seamless cleanup. (via Primavera Kitchen)

Greek Chicken Sheet-Pan Dinner

Sheet-pan chicken gets a big boost of flavor with lemon, feta, olives, and roasted veggies. (via Laughing Spatula)

Hearty Easy Dinner Ideas For You!

Grilled Hawaiian Pork Chops

Using the grill for these pork chops adds another nice layer of unexpected flavor. (via The Life Jolie)

Easy Dinner Recipes For Every Season

Honey Ham, Gouda, and Apple Quesadillas

This unique spin on the quesadilla is the tastiest answer for nights when you can't bear the thought of eating yet another grilled cheese. (via Simple Seasonal)

Kale and Shrimp Tortellini

Keep frozen tortellini on-hand for when you need to whip up some filling dinners in a flash. (via Goodie Godmother)

Lemon Chicken Quinoa Bowls

Loaded with veggies, these protein-packed lemon chicken quinoa bowls fill you up while fueling your body with good stuff. (via Foodal)

Margarita Chicken Quesadillas

Make your quesadillas into a more substantial meal by filling them with tequila-lime chicken. A dollop of sour cream on top, and dinner is served. (via Life as a Strawberry)

Mexican Shrimp Skillet

This savory Mexican shrimp skillet can be on the table and ready to eat in 20 minutes tops. (via Family Food on the Table)

Pasta With Peas & Ricotta

Creamy ricotta and Parmesan cheeses transform this pasta dish into a grown-up version of macaroni and cheese. (via Mindy's Cooking Obsession)

Quinoa Taco Salad

Skip the fried tortilla bowl, and add extra nutrition to your taco salad by including a healthy dose of quinoa. If you're still craving some crunch, sprinkle in a handful of pepitas. (via Fannetastic Food)

Coconut Lime Shrimp

Zesty shrimp cooks up in minutes for a seriously ideal meal any night of the week. (via Salt & Lavender)

Spicy Vietnamese Salad With Garlic Shrimp

This is not your average salad. Garlic shrimp, avocado, rice noodles, and lots of herbs combine for a hearty bowl with quite the kick! (via The Rustic Foodie)

Spinach & Feta-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Bake these rolled chicken bites in the oven for a surprisingly easy and satisfying meal. (via Primavera Kitchen)

Tortellini, Pesto, and Asparagus Soup

A cozy soup featuring pasta and veggies is the fastest way to sate your comfort food cravings. Pesto contributes to the bright, herbaceous flavor of this easy dinner recipe. (via The Freelancer's Cookbook)

Tuna Panzanella

Adding a little protein to your favorite Italian bread salad makes it into a full meal. Use oil-packed Italian tuna for a luxurious touch. (via Inside the Rustic Kitchen)

Za'atar One Pot Chicken & Rice

Za'atar, a blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame, puts a Middle Eastern twist on this easy, one-pot chicken and rice dish. (via Living Sweet Moments)