Take on this home-improvement project with help from a paint pro. A fresh newpaint colorcan makeover the space and bring boring cabinetry back to life. Then determine the pop in of paint that will work best in a high-traffic, splatter-prone kitchen. Credit:Laurey W. Glenn Navigate the paint store with the help of a pro. Plus, we provide inspiration that will help you snag the best color for your cabinets. Rick Watsonis the director of product information and technical services atSherwin-Williams....

It also compliments a variety of architectural styles, and works especially well on historic structures. And you cant talk about fiber cement without talking aboutJames Hardie. With the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, brick siding is suitable for most environments and climates. Credit:Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Lindsey Ellis Beatty That said, engineered wood siding performs well in most environments and across architectural styles. Stucco Erica Dunhill I love stucco, says Dillard....

We’re laying down the rug rules. Having a clear path will help you stay on track and not get overwhelmed with the options. There aremachine-washable rugslike those from Dash and Albert. Credit:LAUREY W. GLENN; STYLIST: MATTHEW GLEASON There are rugs with a cause like those by Georgia-based Enkay. There are monogram rugs like those from June St. George in Raleigh. And there are traditional rugs like those from Birmingham’s Hazel House....

An expert answers all your coffee table questions. According to interior designer Ellie Christopher, its more of an art. However, there is certainly a wrong answer: A too-small coffee table is a major home decorating woe. Credit:HECTOR MANUEL SANCHEZ STYLING BY: HOLLY SMITH When in doubt, an oversized coffee table is preferable over an undersized one, Christopher says. Be careful not to go too big or your coffee table may become an off-scale island anchoring your room....

Will it be a family affair, or just the two of you? A small group of friends, or a large,multi-generational groupwith grandparents, kids, and extended family? Knowing who will be setting sail will help you chart the right course for your voyage. The luxury cruise ship the Silversea Silver Muse.Credit:Silversea Cruises If youre looking for a romantic getaway, an adults-only cruise might be the way to go. River cruising allows guests to see multiple points of interest without having to pack and unpack at each stop....

This quick lesson on ham will help you in your selection. What Is Ham? Ham comes from the back legs and rump of a pig. Credit: Helen Norman; Styling: Carrie Purcell Ham is sold both boneless and bone-in. The three most common cuts of ham are the butt end, ham shank, and center slice. If you get a bone-in ham, remember to keep thehambone to flavor soups, stews, and greens....

ROBBIE CAPONETTO; STYLING: BUFFY HARGETT MILLER A firm handshake and a timely arrival. A well-turned out appearance. A thoughtful host gift or a prompt thank-you note. Credit:ROBBIE CAPONETTO; STYLING: BUFFY HARGETT MILLER Confidence or a kind smile. There are lots of ways for a person to make a good first impression. Do you match your siding for a cleaner, elegant look? Credit: Carmel Brantley; Styling: Matthew Gleason Or perhaps a dose of high contrast is in order?...

Learn from an expert just how to remove those tough tub stains. However, cleaning your bathtub is crucial to maintaining a good bathing experience. Though it may feel like it, cleaning your bathtub doesn’t have to be an exhausting task. Credit:Getty Images Ahead, a cleaning expert explainshow to clean a bathtub. There are certain chemicals and materials you do not want to use on each of these, she explains. Bleach, for example, can damage acrylic materials....

Learn how to clean a Blackstone griddle after every use so it maintains a pristine finish. The griddle surfaces are made of steel, which requires regular care to prevent rust. Learn how to clean a Blackstone griddle properly so it’s always in top cooking shape. Credit:Kailey Whitman/Dotdash Meredith If you dont, it can deteriorate or rust. The same is true of your Blackstone griddle. (This is different from theinitial seasoning process....

With these expert instructions, your couch will look good as new. LAUREY W. GLENN For the most part, couch deep-cleaning should be left to the pros. However, theres no need to call up an expert to rid the cracks in your couch of crumbs. Credit:LAUREY W. GLENN Still, professional upholstery cleaners advise proceeding with caution. If you put the shampoo or cleaner on, it has to come out. If moisture isnt properly removed, the result may be a moldy, mildewy couch....

Getty Images Adding a dehumidifier to your home can be a great way to reduce excess moisture. Before Getting Started According toDr. Before cleaning your dehumidifier, you want to take a few safety precautions. Credit:Getty Images Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these could do damage to the dehumidifier. Step 2: Remove the water collection container or reservoir in a well-ventilated room. Step 3: Empty and clean the water collection container....

Mine has five years of grime, but there’s hope for me yet. My disgustinglygrimy dishwasherhasn’t been cleaned since it was purchased over five years ago. The problem is that it doesn’t smell. Credit: AndreyPopov/Getty Images That sounds a little strange, but the one good thing about a stinky dishwasher? It serves as a reminder to give it a good deep clean. Many experts recommend cleaning your dishwasher once a month to keep it sanitary and running efficiently....

Luckily, they’re pretty easy to clean. If that scenario sounds familiar, it’s time toclean your dishwasher. I have a confession to make: I’ve never once cleaned my dishwasher. Credit: AndreyPopov/Getty Images “But don’t let it go without a cleaning for longer than six months.” Cleaning a dishwasher is a key preventative step in home maintenance. “Over time, it will become less effective, compromising its effectiveness over time.” “spin up the hottest cycle on the dishwasher....