Target Just Released Its Holiday Ornament Collection (and They’re All Under $20!)

Which of these will you be adding to your collection? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo!

Which of these will you be adding to your collection? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo!

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

Which of these will you be adding to your collection? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo!

Which of these will you be adding to your collection? Let us know on Twitter @BritandCo!

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

(Images via Target)

The Easter Bunny is on the way — which means it’s time for egg decorating ideas, egg hunts (even if just the plastic variety), adorable kid chaos, and picky-eater-approved Easter dinner ideas. But I find getting creative with the Easter baskets to be my favorite part of the decorating. Ready to think outside the box?

Here are 14 ideas to give your kiddies the best Easter basket ever.

Amazon

Redify Upgraded Soft Beaded Jump Rope

Encourage those little feet to get outside and exercise with this springy, soft-beaded jump rope.

Green Toys Dough

All little fingers love making dough snakes and pizzas. Kids will absolutely adore this Easter basket filler.

Amazon

Easter Sidewalk Chalk

Make colorful hopscotch and more with these chalky small-hand-friendly eggs.

Vosges Haut-Chocolat

Vosges Fairy Bunnies

Elevate your kiddos Easter chocolate with these organic chocolates from Vosges, in sea salt milk chocolate and dark chocolate raspberry (or maybe just treat yourself;).

Meri Meri

Surprise Carrots

Kids can unwrap these crepe paper carrots to reveal a fluffy chick, two temporary tattoos and one joke.

Walmart

CrystaLynx Dragon Eggs

My dragon-loving daughter loves these fidget toys, inspired by 3D-printed dragon eggs. They can collect these twelve crystal dragons, each with its own vibrant colors and stunning details.

Amazon

Bunny Keychain With Tin

A soft, snuggly bunny keychain that makes them feel a little more grown up — while still wrapping them in that cozy, loved feeling.

Amazon

Fetti Easter Temporary Tattoos

Have you been wracking your brain over your tween's Easter basket? These temporary tatts solve that problem.

Maisonette

Rainbow Fairy Puzzle

Get their minds ticking with this 4-in-1 puzzle.

Musical Eggs

They can make music at home or in the car with these musical wooden eggs.

Chillin With My Peeps Onesie or Tee

Whether it's their first or fifth Easter this Etsy tee will make your IG Easter photos even cuter.

Amazon

Schleich Unicorn Toys

For the kid who is more in a unicorn vs. bunny phase.

Amazon

Butter Slime 4-Pack

Kids are obsessed with slime—and this 4-pack of DIY kits is the ultimate Easter basket win.

The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes

I'm in love with this empowering message from a classic Easter bunny book.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more Easter inspiration!

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

This post has been updated from a previous post; additional reporting by Theresa Gonzalez.

While plenty of fashion trends continue to come and go, there are some overarching rules that have dictated our outfits for years. But in my opinion, they aren't always fair.

Take the "never mix brown and black" rule, for instance. Avoiding this so-called fashion faux pas might've been drilled into you by your mother or even grandmother. Yet, today, younger generations are pushing back and showing that these two neutrals can be paired together (and look super chic).

That's not the only thing Gen Zers and even Millennials are calling out, either. TikTok, the go-to platform for beauty inspiration and tips, has also become a hub for creators to speak out against outdated fashion rules that simply don't make sense anymore. Here are five that I personally couldn't agree with more.

Scroll to see the outdated fashion rules TikTok is so done with in 2025!

1. You Should Never Mix Metals

Anthrolopologie

Gone are the days when you had to pick between gold and silver. The new rule is that there are no rules when it comes to selecting your jewelry. Finally!

Mixing metals isn't just acceptable in 2025. It's now a popular technique to tie together stylish and modern outfits. So, whether you prefer to stack rings, layer necklaces, or wear a bronze watch with a nickel bracelet, rock your contrasting accessories with pride.

The trick to pulling this off seamlessly is balance. Instead of stopping at just one piece in each tone, you can create harmony by repeating each metal at least once. When your mix feels deliberate, it becomes a fashion statement as opposed to a "faux pas." Just look at this Anthropologie necklace stack — trés chic!

2. Visible Logos Aren't Tasteful

Macy's

Remember when T-shirts with "Abercrombie" and "Hollister" plastered across the chest in large letters were "in?" Following this Y2K trend, the pendulum swung the other way, and the minimalist wave made us think we needed to hide any sign of branding.

Spoiler alert: some visible logos, like on your sneakers, sweatshirt, or bag (check out this adorable denim Coach!), aren't considered "tacky" anymore. With that being said, there's still an art to pulling off a logo-infused look.

The most important thing to keep in mind is moderation. You can let one or two branded pieces take center stage while keeping the rest of your outfit more understated. For instance, pair a Miu Miu sweater with neutral pants or a monogrammed designer belt with a crisp white T-shirt and jeans.

3. Sneakers Don't Go With Dresses

Now that summer is right around the corner, this outdated fashion rule couldn't be leaving at a better time. Who wants to spend scorching days walking around in a dress and uncomfortable sandals (or, even worse, heels)?

The dress-and-sneaker combo got kind of a bad rap after the early-2000s Disney Channel star style came and went. Back then, dresses, sneakers, and even jeans were somehow all mixed into the same outfit.

We're fine with leaving the dress-over-jean layering in the past, but sneakers with dresses? This pairing deserves the comeback that TikTokers are rooting for right now.

Not only is it comfortable, but when done right, it can make outfits look effortless and cool. Pair a sundress with crisp white sneakers or a slip dress with platform trainers. The secret is thinking about proportions and how your footwear balances the rest of your look. I mean look how adorable these Golas are with a skirt?!

4. Basics Are Supposed To Be Pricey

Amazon

It's about time we let go of the idea that your basics need to be expensive to look good. They are called basics for a reason, and in order to stock up on a variety of neutral garments, like T-shirts, tanks, and bodysuits, they sort of need to be more affordable.

Not to mention, no one can even tell how expensive your plain black trousers or white cami were! The truth is that you can build a timeless wardrobe on a budget, so invest where it makes sense for you.

If you know that you like to rock fitted tees every single day, perhaps you'll want to spend more money on high-quality fabric that will survive countless runs through your washing machine. Otherwise, you shouldn't feel pressured to splurge on every so-called "essential" when you can get something that looks the same for way less.

5. Outfits Need To Be Flattering

Anthropologie

Finally, we have to get one last thing straight: outfits do not always have to be "flattering." The very idea of what flattering even is remains subjective based on the person. Plus, at the end of the day, fashion is about expressing who you are, not achieving what anyone else deems acceptable.

So, forget the notion that you need to do things like "define your waist" or "make your legs look longer." If you feel more comfortable wearing oversized outerwear, a ton of layers, or baggy pants (look how cute this Anthro outfit is!), go for it. Plenty of celebs have already leaned into this (like Billie Eilish), and the result is still edgy and cool.

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

Whether you're celebrating with your significant other for the first time or the tenth, you've probably already given some thought to your Valentine's Day dinner ideas. You'll be hungry by the time the sun sets, whether you've spent the whole day together, or you've just come back from the best date night ever. These recipes are perfect for ending the night on a delicious note or they can serve as your date night — cooking together is a super fun way to spend your time.

You can show your favorite valentine love with DIY Valentine's gifts, pink cocktails, fruit salad, or you can whip up a fancy-schmancy (and romantic) dinner. You can try the same recipe until it's just right, or experiment with a different pick every night of February. No matter what your favorite cuisine is, there's something for everyone.

Here are our favorite Valentine's Day dinner ideas for a date night meal to remember.

​What is a good Valentine's Day dinner?

A good Valentine's Day dinner is anything that is delicious and romantic, and that will change for every couple (or if you're alone!). V Day is always a good excuse to cook up a steak if you and your partner eat meat, but pasta or seafood are also great ideas. Or go for a surf and turf dinner that incorporates all of them. You can also add aphrodisiacs into the menu, but whatever you pick, don't forget dessert!

What is the Valentine's Day menu?

Your Valentine's Day menu is totally up to you and your partners' tastes. You can check out what's local to your area if you want to have a menu that reflects this time of year in your state. In terms of courses, you can opt for dinner and dessert or go all out with an appetizer, entrée, drinks, and dessert.

What to make for a romantic dinner at home?

Here are some popular Valentine's Day foods you can consider making:

  • Steak
  • Seafood
  • Chocolate
  • Pasta
  • Sushi
  • Wine
  • Fish
  • Crème brûlée
  • Strawberries

Sous Vide Steak

Prepare to swoon over this simple sous vide steak. Pair it with a baked potato and steamed veg. (via Brit + Co)

Coffee Rubbed Steak With Chili Lime Butter

Nothing says high class quite like a well-cooked steak. Take it from the pros and cook it medium-rare for the most intense flavor. We love the classic steak and baked potato combo, but feel free to shake things up with a different side. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

Image via Half Baked Harvest

You know we love vodka cocktails, so we are all about some vodka pasta! It's a 30-minute recipe topped with basil pesto and loads of your favorite cheese and you can add some red pepper flakes for some extra spice if you want. Swap the vodka for broth or water if you don't want to cook with alcohol. It'll taste just as good! (via Brit + Co)

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

For charcuterie board fans or those of us who'd rather much on apps than have a full-blown dinner, these poke bites are cute, delicious, and have us dreaming of summer. Pickled ginger, avocado, and red onion take this recipe to a new level. Yum! (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

A soup that's delicious *and* features veggies, cheese, and pasta all in one? Count us in. Just put everything in your slow cooker and let it come together while you finish getting ready. (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Salmon Nicoise

This one-pot wonder is great for any day of the week. Salmon, potatoes, olives, and green beans (along with some other delicious ingredients) come together to create a flavorful combo that you'll daydream about until you can eat it again. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Butternut Squash

A healthy, colorful dish like this butternut squash recipe makes for a great dinner recipe for vegetarians and carnivores alike. Plus it makes for an awesome winter comfort food. (via Brit + Co)

Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon is a great Valentine's Day dinner idea for anyone who works long hours and doesn't want to spend hours upon hours in the kitchen. Plus it's healthier than your other frying options! Not a fan of salmon? Try chicken or potatoes for other yummy options. (via Brit + Co)

Apple-Onion Pork Chops And Cheesy Crushed Potatoes

This recipe from Rachael Ray has some of the most interesting and captivating flavors we've tasted in a long time, and with meat, fruit, dairy, and starches, you're eating a lot of the food groups. (via Brit + Co)

Red Sauce Rigatoni Recipe

All you need for this delicious date night recipe is sausage, canned tomatoes, and pasta. And don't forget your favorite cheese, of course. This is a great option for having a fancy dinner at the dining table or curling up on the couch for a romantic movie. (via Brit + Co)

Charcuterie Board

Image via SocietySocial and QueenBrieCLT/Photography Demi Mabry

There's something so sophisticated and stylish about having a charcuterie board anytime of year, but especially on Valentine's Day. You can make it a red, pink, and white color scheme with fruit, dried flowers, and cheese, or try your hand at a breakfast-for-dinner board with heart-shaped pancakes, berries, and chocolate. (Via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Indian Butter Chicken

Quick, easy, and delicious, what's not to love about this chicken recipe?! Tomato-y, buttery chicken goes great with flavorful naan and white rice. Sprinkle with cilantro before you serve. (via Brit + Co)

Zucchini Noodles

If you're avoiding regular pasta, try zucchini noodles instead of regular for a healthy take on your favorite dishes. Serve with pesto, olive oil and vinegar dressing, or Alfredo sauce to make a creamy pasta. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower And Burrata Valentine's Day Recipe

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

This dish might be geared for summer picnics, but it will also make a great option for your winter nights in. Change up the spices and seasonings depending on what your favorite flavors are, or make a couple different mixes and try them all! (via Brit + Co)

Baked Hot Chocolate Doughnuts

Photo via Half Baked Harvest

Okay so donuts don't technically count as an option for dinner but you can definitely make them for dessert! (Especially if you've already had your fill of lobster tails or pasta). You can even add some espresso to the chocolate glaze for a mocha taste. (via Brit + Co)

Cauliflower Rice Sushi

Not only does sushi make for a yummy Valentine's Day dinner for you and your S.O. but the actual construction of the sushi sounds just as great! Swap regular rice for some DIY cauliflower rice but feel free to keep your favorite fillings and sauces. (via Brit + Co)

Stuffed Avocado

Another great option for a smaller, finger food dinner, stuffed avocados make for a tasty and filling dish. You can also leave out the shrimp to make this an easy meat-free recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Crock-Pot Crispy Caramelized Pork Ramen Noodle Soup with Curry Roasted Acorn Squash

We're huge fans of ramen noodle meals and know this is one Valentine's Day dinner idea that can't be topped. Call us biased, but you'll find it hard not to be once you get a taste of this caramelized blend of pork, open face-egg, and jalapenos. (via Brit + Co)

Slow Cooked Lamb Shanks in Red Wine Sauce

Get your hands messy with this appetizing and flavorful recipe! With ingredients like tomato paste, garlic cloves, and red wine, your taste buds will be satiated. (via Brit + Co)

Creamy Cajun Mushroom Pasta

Looking for Valentine's Day dinner ideas that are healthy and won't put a dent in your budget? Try your hand at this creamy Cajun mushroom pasta! (via Brit + Co)

Puff Pastry Breakfast Egg Tarts

Eating breakfast for dinner seems to stir up our inner little girl, so we're sharing this delish recipe with you! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Piccata

Chicken is always a pretty safe option when cooking dinner, but this recipe dresses it up into something extra delicious. (via Culinary Hill)

Duck Confit Salad

Make your Valentine something extra fancy with this confit salad. Not only is this Valentine's Day dinner elegant but it also features pomegranates and avocados, so we can't say no. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry & Cream Croissant French Toast

Photo via Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest

Whether you're making brunch or having brunch for dinner, this is a great French toast-croissant hybrid. Swap the drizzle of maple with a chocolate drizzle to make it extra Valentine-esque. Serve with white wine or champagne. (via Brit + Co)

Crispy Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs

This recipe will be appreciated by couples who are trying to eat healthier in the new year. (via Brit + Co)

Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork

With classic Cuban flavors, this mouthwatering pork recipe is juicy and moist. Pro tips: Spring for a high-quality meat source from your local butcher or farmers’ market, and marinate the pork overnight to make this top-notch recipe even tastier. (via The Food Charlatan)

Shrimp and Gnocchi With Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

If you’re both eating garlic, then you won’t have to worry about dreaded “garlic breath” after. Shrimp and gnocchi are already amazing on their own, but put them together for a powerhouse meal that everyone will want. You'll want to grab some red wine to go with this one. (via Damn Delicious)

Beef And Lamb Shwarma Wraps

If you prefer something a little more casual (or just love handheld food), try out these amazing wraps. Make your own tzatziki if you're feeling adventurous. (via Forks and Foliage)

Soul-Warming French Onion Pot Roast

Nothing says love like pot roast. This particular iteration boasts the flavors of onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, fresh apples, thyme, celery, and bay leaf. (via Little Spice Jar)

Strawberry Ravioli With Balsamic and Basil

These naturally pink ravioli are packed with decadent flavors and topped with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and savory combo. Plus considering it's Valentine's Day, we'll take all the pink food that we can get our hands on. (via A Beautiful Mess)

One-Pan Cheesy Spaghetti Pie Valentine's Day Dinner Idea

Permission granted to have your own Lady and the Tramp moment while feasting on this dish. For a healthier version, feel free to sub turkey or chicken for ground beef and whole wheat spaghetti for the refined version. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Slow-Cooker Cassoulet

Don’t fear the cassoulet. It’s not as tricky to make it as you might imagine. Toss it all into the slow cooker for restful meal prep. (via Leite’s Culinaria)

Spinach and Three Cheese Manicotti

Pasta dishes have a certain sensuousness to them, and this indulgent, cheesy manicotti dish cries out for a cozy and lovey-dovey night in. Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own. Bring on all the bread and garlic butter. (via The Cooking Jar)

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

Have a busy Valentine’s Day schedule? Get a head start with this slow-cooker recipe. About a half an hour before mealtime, pop some veggies in the oven to serve alongside the dish. (via Plays Well With Butter)

Creamy Masala Mussels

Mussels are delicate, fleshy, and delicious and lend a hand to any full-bodied sauce. The beer base will require all the bread to sop up every last drop of goodness. (via Drizzle and Dip)

Fettuccine Alfredo Valentine's Day Dinner Idea

Forget lightened-up, pre-made sauces; fettuccine Alfredo is meant to be rich and delightfully naughty. It features Parmesan and heavy cream, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Butter Candles

Add a little bit of ~mood lighting~ with these candles that are literally made out of butter. They make the perfect addition to any dinner and are like 2023's version of butter boards. (via Brit + Co)

Galentine's Day Sweet Treat Board

If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with your girlfriends, or even going stag, make this colorful and sweet dessert board. You might spoil your dinner but honestly, it's worth it. (via Amanda Wilens)

Paleo Pot Roast

This healthful, Whole30-approved pot roast doesn't skimp on yum factor even though it's made with completely clean ingredients. (via Noshtastic)

Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry

This curry recipe is *bursting* with healthy proteins and fats. Bonus: Your leftovers will be easy to reheat and use up throughout the week. (via The Endless Meal)

Creamy Vegan Tomato Sauce

This plant-based tomato sauce blends cashews, roasted tomatoes, and onions. It is so good, the non-vegans in your life won't mind eating it too. (via Fit Foodie Finds)

Raspberry Almond Crumb Cake

Let this moist raspberry almond crumb cake help set the tone for sexy activities after dinner. It's full of ooey-gooey goodness that'll leave you and your date's mouths watering. (via Cozy Cravings)

For more Valentine's Day dinner ideas follow us on Pinterest and check out our online cooking classes!

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

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Additional reporting by Chloe Williams and Jasmine Williams.

Amazon's book saleis a week away and I can barely contain my joy. If you snag discounts on your TBR picks every year, you've probably already made a list of what's going in your cart. I support this behavior 100% and may even jot down my top historical fiction and gothic horror titles in the notes app on my phone. But for now, let's talk about when the sale is and what can save money on right now!

Scroll for all the details about Amazon's book sale!

When does Amazon's book sale start? 

Amazon

Amazon's book sale starts April 23 and ends April 28.

What kind of discounts can I expect to see during the sale?

Olivia Hutchinson/Dupe Photos

It depends on your vibe! If you're an e-book reader, expect to save up to 80% off titles. But if you love the smell and feel of print books, you'll see savings of up to 65% off!

See Everything We've Buying During Amazons' Book Sale

Amazon

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)

Isn't it ironic that Emily Henry's Great Big Beautiful Life hits shelves the same week as Amazon's book sale? Aside from the cheeky excerpt we shared a couple of weeks ago, this has to be a great sign that it's going to be a great read!

As a refresher, the novel focuses on writers Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson's race to gather as many facts about the mysterious Margaret Ives as they can to be coined the famed author of her biography. There's immediate tension between them, but it's not until later that they realize they're not only looking at each other as competition. Plus, there's the gnawing feeling that Margaret may not be telling them the entire truth...

Amazon

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo continues to be high on my must-read list because it's that good. Taylor Jenkins Reid put her heart and soul into making Evelyn Hugo a believable character. Whether you actually like her or not is up for debate because she made choices that hurt others or caused scandals. However, her biggest secret impacts the very writer she hired to tell her story — Monique Grant.

Amazon

Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe

Margo's Got Money Troubles is such an awesome read that it's coming to a TV screen near you. Readers are introduced to Margo Millet, a young college student whose short-lived affair with her professor results in a surprise pregnancy. She doesn't look at it as the end of her life though. Determined to make better decisions, Margo keeps her baby and quickly devises a plan to help them survive after giving birth. What better way to do so than turn to OnlyFans as a way to boost her income? It's not like she planned to become so successful that she'd catch the eyes of those willing to deem her an unfit mother.

Amazon

The Do-Over by Lynn Painter

Emilie Hornsby just had the worst Valentine's Day, so she hightails it to the one place she can find comfort at — her grandmother's house. But she's perplexed when she falls asleep and wakes back up at her place...on Valentine's Day. It's like the terrible love-sick version of Groundhog Day and she wants off the ride that keeps reminding her of her boyfriend Josh's cheating ways.
There's also the recurring situations where she runs into Nick, the last person she wants to see. But what if there's a reason she keeps reliving terrible days where his presence makes itself known?

Amazon

Legendbornby Tracy Deonn

Bree Matthews is hurt after her mother dies and chooses to cut off her family in favor of building a new life for herself at UNC—Chapel Hill's residential program. Being on campus feels like a relief until she sees something magical she wasn't supposed.
Thrust into a new world where "Legendborn" students protect others from demons that seek to steal humans' energy, Bree's inner powers are unleashed and she's able to see what happened on the night of her mother's death. She knows someone is aware of what happened, so she does whatever it takes to align herself with the "Legendborns." But Bree's bitten off more than she can chew because she's just scratched the surface of the magic world.

Amazon

The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory

It's not often that you get stuck on an elevator with an attractive person, but Alexa Monroe and Drew Nichols find themselves in a predicament that leads to a fake dating scam. Ironically, they find it hard to resist each other even though they have to go back to their busy professions. As far as they're concerned, there's a 0% chance having a long distance relationship will work in their favor. But stranger things have happened...

Amazon

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

Panem's in a state of trepidation because the Quarter Quell's being honored and requires even more tributes to participate. But, Haymitch Abernathy isn't too worried about being chosen because he he's focused on the sweet girl in his life. It's precisely why he's heartbroken when he becomes one of the tributes selected to participate in the Hunger Games. Not only that, but he's also aware someone wants him to fail on purpose.

Amazon

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter will always be the greatest boy who lived, but it's nice to revisit where his story began. From experiencing tragedy that lands him in the care of snobbish family to being selected to be a student at Hogwarts, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone tells the tale of the young wizard's introduction to a world that's beyond his greatest imagination.

Amazon

Matriarchby Tina Knowles (April 22, 2025)

The world may know her daughters Beyoncé and Solange, but Ms. Tina Knowles is ready to tell her story. First thing's first: her full first name is Celestine and long before she was the world's greatest mom, she was a young girl who was taught the stories of her ancestors.
Having grown up as the youngest daughter in Galveston, Texas, Ms. Tina recalls her carefree days that overlapped with the first memories of being a Black girl in the south. However, she never let her circumstances limit her imagination and allowed it to take her further than she ever imagined.
Through heartache and triumph, Ms. Tina's seen a lot and she's not afraid to talk about it.

Amazon

Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrowby Gabrielle Zevin

Sam Masur and Sadie Green have always been close, but their creative partnership is what intertwines their fate. From being the masterminds behind Ichigo to dealing with the consequences of rapid success, these two friends experience the highs and lows of figuring out life in the midst of figuring themselves out.

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

Ever since I adopted a puppy three years ago, rugs have been my biggest home regret. Don’t get me wrong — I love rugs. As a home decor enthusiast, they’re one of my favorite ways to cozy up a space. But during those chaotic puppy months, my rugs took a serious beating. Even my go-to professional carpet cleaner couldn’t save my favorite one.

Now that my dog is house-trained, things are much more manageable. I rely on Rocco + Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator for the occasional accident — it’s been a lifesaver for removing lingering smells (the worst!). I also picked up a Wirecutter-approved Bissell Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner to handle any messes and give my rugs a fresh spring clean.

But you don't have to splurge on a carpet cleaner or sprays for most everyday stains. From spilled drinks to tracked-in mud, here's a simple solution you can make right at home.

Here's a tried-and-true way to treat stains with household items.

Shutterstock

First, Don’t Rub It In

No crying over spilled milk, or wine or soda. As soon as a spill happens, gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Rubbing only spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the fibers.

Shutterstock

DIY A Vinegar-Soap Solution

This solution is great for most household stains. Mix 1-part white vinegar with 2 parts water and a drop of dish soap in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the stain, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.

Amazon

Add Baking Soda for Odors and Grease

For stains that leave behind an odor or grease, sprinkle baking soda directly onto the stain. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for tough odors), then vacuum it up before spot-cleaning.

Shutterstock

Use Cold Water for Protein-Based Stains

Blood, dairy, or egg-based spills? Use cold water in your vinegar solution to treat these as hot water can set the stain. Blot gently and repeat until it lifts.

Amazon

Add Bubbles For Wine or Juice Stains

Pour a bit of club soda over red wine or juice stains, then blot immediately. The carbonation helps lift the stain and keeps it from setting. You can finish off with your vinegar-soap solution.

Amazon

Use a Soft Brush for Dried Stains

For older or dried stains, apply your vinegar-soap solution and gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush. Let it sit, then blot and rinse with a damp cloth.

Shutterstock

Test Before You Tackle

Always test any cleaner or solution on a hidden spot first to make sure it won’t discolor or damage your rug or upholstery.

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