What Do The Different Colors On Extension Cords Mean?
Extension cords come in a myriad of different colors and types. If you're curious what they mean, the answer might surprise you and help you avoid safety risks.
Read MoreNancy Schaffer
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House Digest uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the always-evolving conversations surrounding design and home trends, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert takes and tutorials from our talented team.
As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By Nancy Schaffer
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What Is The 4-2-1 Rule For Mixing Concrete?
The 4-2-1 formula for mixing concrete is simple enough to follow for DIY home and garden projects. But the way you add water can make or break your efforts.
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Goodbye Traditional Bird Baths — Turn A Thrifted Frying Pan Into A Basin They'll Love
It's quite easy to DIY a thrifted frying pan into a bird bath alternative. However, its depth, placement height, and color are important factors to consider.
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Home Depot's 15 Best Deals On Tools For May 2026
If you're looking for some new tools or household gadgets for a DIY project, take a look at these highly-rated options available in Home Depot's May 2026 sales.
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The Compact Tomato Cultivar That Was Meant To Be Grown In Containers
You certainly don't need lots of garden space to grow tasty tomatoes. If you have a sunny spot in your yard or balcony, this compact cultivar might be perfect.
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Simplify Plant Care With Highly-Rated Self-Watering Hanging Planters From Amazon
Tired of dumping dead, dry plants into the compost at the end of every summer? These popular self-watering planters may help with your summer watering routine.
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The Hydrangea Companion Plant That Protects Their Beautiful Blooms From Hungry Pests
Hydrangeas are beautiful flowers that come in all sorts of different sizes and colors. Protect them from pests with another complimentary bloom.
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Not Hostas, Not Coral Bells: The Annual Flower That's Great For Your Shaded Garden
Shade gardens are often heavy on the interesting foliage, while flowers are forgotten. Reverse that pattern with this long-blooming and heat-loving annual.
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Everyone Had It In The '70s — Bring This Trend Back Home With A Groovy Amazon Find
One colorful furniture trend from the '70s is returning to modern homes with transparent designs that feel both retro and surprisingly futuristic.
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Why You Should Rub A Potato On Your Grill Grates
Some backyard grillers are rubbing fresh potatoes on their grill grates to make outdoor cooking a little easier during summer family cookouts.
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Use An Old Rubber Doormat To DIY Budget-Friendly Pavers On The Cheap
Add a little bit of whimsy to your garden on the cheap with these decorative stepping stones given an ornamental touch with just an old rubber doormat.
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Don't Forget The Garden Task Your Sedums Need In May
While sedums are relatively low maintenance plants, performing this chore before their bloom time in summer can help to create a more lush display.
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Make The Cutest Mini Hanging Jute Planters That Only Require 3 Affordable Items
Finding new, creative ways to decorate your home can be a real joy, so you'll definitely want to read about these adorable DIY jute planters.
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Refinish Patio Concrete With An Option That's Low Maintenance (No, It's Not Pavers)
If it's time to update your concrete patio, this finish is an easy, affordable, and low-maintenance option that will give the surface a durable new look.
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Neither Storage Bins Or Under The Sink: The Only Way To Store Cleaning Products
Don't store your cleaning products under the sink or in a plastic storage bin -- here's the safest option for your cleaning products instead.
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Plant This Container Flower In May & Attract Pollinators All Summer Long
This flower has all the delicacy of Queen Anne’s lace without the invasiveness, and May is the ideal time to get it started in a container. Here’s what to know.
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The Shrub With Pretty Pink Flowers All Season Long That Hummingbirds & Butterflies Love
Tired of flowers that only last a week or so every year? Consider planting this gorgeous shrub that will repeatedly bloom with gorgeous pink blossoms.
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Not Fences Or Retaining Walls: The Yard Feature That Can Increase Your Home Value
There are plenty of ways to make your home more appealing to potential buyers, but this yard feature is a must if you want to add privacy too.
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Forget Flimsy Asphalt Shingles: This Durable Roofing Alternative Will Stand The Test Of Time
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roof materials available, but there is a much more durable option that can last the better part of a century.
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If You Plant One Tree In A Pot This Year, It Needs To Be This Colorful Beauty
These trees feature feathery foliage in a range of colors, and dwarf or semi-dwarf cultivars stay well under 10 feet tall, making perfect container trees.
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The Often-Returned Type Of Costco Kitchen Item You'll Want To Reconsider
There are plenty of reasons to take a trip to Costco, but after you read this, there are certain items you may never buy from the chain again.
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Not Paint, Not Trim: The Quick & Easy Way To Give Door Frames An Upgraded Look
Door frames don’t have to stay plain, and one creative approach is giving them a fresh look without relying on paint or traditional trim upgrades.
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Turn An Old Nursery Pot Into A Mini Pond That Supports Pollinators And Frogs
Even small ponds will attract a wide range of wildlife to a garden, so long as they contain a good balance of aquatic plants, substrate, and fresh water.
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The Type Of Allium Ground Cover You Don't Want Taking Over Your Lawn Or Garden
We love a robust ground cover, but not those that are invasive and will take over your entire yard. You're better off avoiding this one from the allium family.
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What To Do If You Find Cow Killer Ants In Your Yard
If you spot a large, red and black ant in your yard, it may be a cow killer ant — but this name is misleading in more ways than one. Here’s what to know.
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What To Do If You Find Blue Utility Markings On Your Curb
Blue utility markings indicate work is occurring nearby your area. Whether you need to do anything or even remove them yourself depends on various factors.
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Homeowner Makes Replacing Sliding Glass Doors Look Easy, But Is It?
If you have a sliding glass door that needs replacement, you may have seen videos of DIYers. It is really as easy as they make it look, though?
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