Out of nowhere the other day, I was suddenly craving stuffed cabbage. I don't know why. Nobody had mentioned it, I hadn't seen it anywhere, it had been completely and totally off my radar so far this winter. That said, I was just about to go to the grocery store, when inspiration struck, and I had to change up my list to accommodate my craving.
I'm really trying to stick with my New Year's resolution to bring a lot more healthy into my diet (which seemed to fall apart over the holidays), so even though I was craving delicious, old-fashioned, comforting cabbage rolls, I looked for a recipe that might not be so heavy and sabotage all of the hard work I've done this week. I was excited to come across a Weight Watchers friendly recipe that looked authentic, and tasty, so I gave it a try.
I started by wrapping eight leaves of Savoy cabbage in some wet paper towel and microwaving them for a couple of minutes, just to soften them up a bit for rolling. As the cabbage was cooking, I mixed together my filling ingredients.
Into a large bowl went a half pound of lean ground beef, some uncooked white rice, seasoned breadcrumbs, a diced onion, a shredded carrot, a few cloves of minced garlic, an egg white, salt, pepper, and a dash of water.
I combined all of that, using my hands, and then it was time to start rolling! I took each slice of softened cabbage, and cut out the thicker, white part of the spine of each leaf, to help it fold a bit easier. Then, I placed about a quarter of a cup of the meat mixture in the middle of each leaf.
I brought up the bottom of the leaf over the meat, then folded in the sides as best I could (some leaves proved harder than others), and then tucked the top of the leaf over the little package. They looked like little cabbage burritos.
Once they had browned all over, I poured two cans of diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano over the top of the cabbage rolls. I scooted the rolls around a bit, letting some of the tomatoes fall around and under the rolls.
When the mixture came to a boil, I reduced the heat to as simmer, and popped the lid on the pan. The rolls cooked for an hour, and I checked them every fifteen minutes or so, just making sure they weren't sticking to the pan at all. They never did.
I remember having mashed potatoes with cabbage rolls as a kid, so that's always the side dish I think of serving with them. Creamy, rich mashed potatoes aren't exactly on my diet, though, so I substituted another family favorite…mashed cauliflower! If you're looking for a recipe for mashed cauliflower, check out this one. Mine was a bit less fancy, none of the cream cheese or Parmesan used in this recipe, but this one does sound delicious. I made two heads of cauliflower because one is never enough for my family!
Mission accomplished! These lightened up little guys certainly did curb my cabbage roll craving. They were a delicious alternative to the traditional, and my whole family enjoyed their comforting coziness on a chilly night.
LIGHTENED UP STUFFED CABBAGE ROLLS
Adapted from Weight Watchers
Lightened Up Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Recipe Type: Dinner
Cuisine: Healthy
Author:
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 4
8 leaves uncooked Savoy cabbage
1/2 lb. lean ground beef
1/2 cup long grain white rice
2 Tbsp. water
1/4 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 large carrot, shredded
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg white
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 tsp. olive oil
2 (14.5 oz.) cans diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano
Rinse off the cabbage leaves, and place them on a plate. Wrap the plate in damp paper towels, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, until the leaves are soft and pliable. Cut off the thickest white portion of the spine of each leaf, and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the beef, rice, water, bread crumbs, carrot, onion, garlic, egg white, salt and pepper. Mix well.
Spoon about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Bring the bottom of the leaf up over the meat, fold in the sides, and bring the top portion of the leaf over the top, wrapping the meat like a little package. Don't wrap them too tightly. The rice will expand as they cook, filling the rolls.
Heat the oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the cabbage rolls and cook until browned on all sides, carefully turning them over every minute or so.
Add the tomatoes to the pot, shift the rolls a bit so that some of the tomato goes under the rolls. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and allow to cook for 1 hour, until cooked through. Check on them every fifteen minutes or so just to make sure they aren't sticking to the pan.
Two rolls per serving. 7 WW Points Plus per serving.
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65 Delicious Sweet Potato Recipes You'll Want to Make Year-Round
This root vegetable is perfect for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Kat Wirsing
Fall is here, and that means it's officially sweet potato season. Whether you roast them, mash them, put them in a pie or stir them in a stew, there are tons of creative, yummy ways to prepare sweet potatoes. These sweet potato recipes are perfect if you're looking for a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving side dish or just some new additions to your weeknight meal roster.
In addition to being delicious, sweet potatoes can also be a healthy addition to your regular diet. According to Medical News Today, sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, potassium, and other essential nutrients. They can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and improve digestion. What's not to like?
Whether you're looking for dessert ideas or cozy soups and stews, there's sure to be a sweet potato recipe that fits the bill. So go ahead - light some candles, set the table, and try one of these yummy sweet potato dishes. When you're done, you can wash it all down with a fall cocktail or a good glass of wine.
1 of 65
Mashed Sweet Potato and Carrots
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Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallow Meringue
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Maple-Glazed Sweet Potatoes with Pecans
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Lemon-Glazed Sweet Potatoes
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Carrots
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Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Soup
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Roasted Sweet Potato Salad with Barley and Arugula
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Sweet Potato and Couscous Chicken Soup
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Sweet Potatoes with Crispy Rice Topping
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Honey-Baked Sweet Potatoes
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Sweet Potatoes Stuffed with Black Beans and Spinach
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Bobby Flay's Grilled Sweet Potato and Scallion Salad
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Apple, Sweet Potato, and Rosemary Flatbread
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Sweet Potatoes with Ancho-Maple Glaze
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Slow-Cooker Latin Chicken with Black Beans and Sweet Potatoes
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Spaghetti with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
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Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes
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Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary Pecans
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown-Sugared Pecans
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Coriander Roasted Sweet Potatoes
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Instant Pot Risotto with Sweet Potato, Lemon, and Sage
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Sweet Potato and Chorizo Pizza
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Cinnamon-Spiced Sweet Potato Soup with Maple Croutons
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Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Feta Salsa Verde
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Sweet Potatoes with Shredded Salad
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Coconut-Pecan Sweet Potatoes
Jamie BallardJamie Ballard is a freelance writer who covers news, lifestyle and entertainment topics, including TV, movies, health, pets, relationships, and personal finance.
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The Macrons, Merkels, Bidens and Johnsons feasted on local lobster, scallops, and grass-fed Moorland beef, as well as an array of plant-based dishes. In the run-up to the G7 event, Simon collaborated with over 150 Cornish artisans to serve up a supper fit for a world leader. The guests dined on the beach to the sounds of the surf at a table decorated with a custom-made live herb garden.
Noel Murphy
Recently, Country Living went to meet Simon to get the inside scoop on running the beachside bistro favoured by foodies from near and far. For more seaside stories, Country Living's Coastal bookazine is on sale from the end of this month. SUBSCRIBE
It's difficult to imagine this spot in anything other than dazzling sunshine, but of course it isn't always so. "We've had feasts in storms and during weather warnings. Once, horizontal rain was driving inside the hut and 45mph winds meant we couldn't put up any cover," Jemma says.
Noel Murphy
"It was one of my favourites, though," Simon adds. "We had creamed potato, steamed greens and a sticky rib of beef cooked over a coal pit. We were so excited, then the weather came in. But we couldn't cancel; whatever happens, we never cancel."
Still, the couple didn't hold out hope that all, if any, of the 82 ticket holders would show up. But they did. In fact, four extras came along in the hope there might have been cancellations. Even then, the pair had expected hungry feastgoers to dash over the hill bearing Tupperware before swiftly returning to the comfort of their cars to eat in the dry. But they discovered that guests come for the whole Hidden Hut experience, not just the food.
"We built a fire and sat around it with our umbrellas up, singing," Simon continues. That's the spirit of things here – community is at the core and everyone mucks in, including Jemma's mum Maggie, who lives around the corner in Portscatho and bakes many of the sumptuous cakes on offer at the counter.
Guildford-born Simon arrived in Cornwall 17 years ago to run a gastro pub kitchen. "The food scene here is amazing. That's why I came down," he says. "And that's why you stayed," laughs Jemma. "Nothing to do with me or anything." This is clearly a running joke – aside from Jemma, food is the love of Simon's life. Since the very first feast, with little more than some grilled mackerel, potato salad and a sign saying 'BBQ' at the top of the road, the hut has proven to be an extraordinarily popular destination, despite (or perhaps by virtue of) its hard-to-reach location.
For those who don't manage to get a coveted feast ticket, lunchtimes are open to all, with no need to book. Think rustic cardboard containers brimming with hearty seafood chowder, fragrant fish curry, mackerel, squid, crab – or whatever else the sea has to offer that day.
Noel Murphy
Fishermen delivering their catch straight from ocean to kitchen is a regular sight. "From corner to corner, the water here is prolific for fishing but really carefully managed," Simon says, looking out across the bay. "The small families who fish here do so under line and oar – you don't see any big trawlers coming through." From bream to beef, everything served at the hut is locally and ethically sourced. A "one-man band with a polytunnel" is responsible for the hut's vegetables. "We love it because he and his wife were picking courgettes yesterday and we had them in our curry today," Jemma says.
As dusk falls, Simon lights tall medieval-looking torches, while Jemma places thick woollen blankets onto the wooden benches. The obscured shapes of hungry customers emerge over the hill – all armed with wicker picnic baskets, crockery, bottled beer and blankets. Tables are communal and, once everyone is settled, inter-party chatter quickly commences. While diners break bread and talk animatedly, something unusual becomes clear – no one is on their phone.
"There's no signal here – so it's an enforced digital detox," Jemma laughs. "It's enriching to stop for an hour or two and just be outdoors." Dinner is announced and diners follow their noses to where burly chefs are serving jasmine rice and Keralan curry – inspired by Simon's travels in India – as well as plenty of fresh fish. You can spot seasoned visitors by the size of their plates – novices hold modest breakfast bowls, while the experienced wield vast pasta dishes in which to fit the plentiful portions. The party is made up of an assortment of locals and those who have travelled far and wide to be here tonight – one couple has come from Exeter, another Manchester. There are students from nearby Falmouth University, young families, elderly couples and everyone in between. With prices starting at £14 for a smoky shellfish dinner, attendees are aware they're getting real value for money. Most say they'd be willing to pay a lot more, but Simon and Jemma want to keep it "inclusive not exclusive".
Night falls and with it sweeps in a chilly sea breeze, but spirits remain high with people still huddled together in the light of the fire, drinking wine from paper cups. Some tuck blankets round bare legs as Jemma ponders whether to hand out hot-water bottles. Simon smiles: "It doesn't look like anyone's going to leave tonight."
25 of the best picnic blankets for outdoor dining in style
So'Home Picnic Blanket in Green Floral
This pretty picnic blanket from La Redoute is perfect for a day out. It features a colourful flower print with waterproof backing and a carry handle to help you transport it from home to park.
H&M Striped Picnic Blanket
A striped picnic blanket that folds down flat, this one is ideal if you're short on space at home. It's made from woven fabric with a print on the front and a soft, water-repellent plastic backing. The carry strap has a hook and loop fastening for easy transporting.
Rubbastuff PACMAT Chilterns Family Picnic Blanket
Lightweight, waterproof and washable, this cool picnic blanket features a map of the Chilterns. It's the ideal rug for people who like to walk and is light, compact and folds away into its own stuff sack.
M&S Fold Away Picnic Mat
This cheap and cheerful picnic blanket from M&S is a soft, fold-up option designed in all-over nautical stripes. It features a durable, waterproof backing to keep you dry on damp or cold ground, and the square design folds easily into a neat shape. If it gets sticky you can just wipe it clean.
Decathlon Camping and Hiking Tartan Rug
Designed by Decathlon's team of campers, this picnic blanket comfortably insulates you from the ground when you're picnicking. It was made as a durable and compact rug, with a water-repellent coating that protects you from damp ground.
Eurohike Picnic Blanket
Want a cheap picnic blanket? This one is simple in design but is ideal for something affordable that does the job. It has waterproof backing, it feels comfortable to sit on and there's a handy strap for rolling it up and carrying from home to the park.
Dog lovers, this picnic blanket printed with elegant sausage dogs is for you! Whether you've got a pooch in tow or not, this picnic rug's sure to attract the attention of fellow animal lovers. When you've used it, the blanket folds up and has a carry handle for easy transporting.
Fortnum's Picnic Rug
Experts in tea time treats and alfresco dining, Fortnum & Mason knows how to make a quality picnic blanket. This one, in the luxury department store's signature eau de nil colour paired with navy blue, comes in wool mix material and is a stylish picnic rug for the garden, park or beach. There also leather handles for easy carrying.
Emma Bridgewater Picnic Rug
We're dotty for this spotted picnic blanket from Emma Bridgewater. It's smart, rolls up easily and looks beautiful laid out. If there are any spills, it's also easy to wipe clean.
Oliver Bonas Lemi Geometric Print Picnic Blanket
Squeeze some zest into your next picnic with Oliver Bonas' Lemi rug, decorated in a lemon and geometric print. The picnic blankets is finished with a waterproof backing and has a fabric shoulder strap and fastener tape so you can easily roll it away and transport to your favourite sunspot.
The White Company Lindos Outdoor Blanket
This large picnic blanket made from Turkish cotton is a luxurious option for families or a group enjoying a day in the garden, at the beach or on an alfresco adventure. It features a stylish nautical-inspired stripe design and the picnic rug is finished with a tassel edge.
The Blanquet by BLOOM Gin
Looking for something extra large? The Blanquet by BLOOM Gin is the perfect way to gather a large group of family or friends (when restrictions ease) around one big mat. It measures a huge 6.5 metres, giving you plenty of space to arrange a fabulous spread.
Sophie Allport Bees Knitted Picnic Blanket
Heading to the beach? This beautiful bee-print picnic blanket in is perfect for trips to the seaside. It has water-resistant backing and faux leather straps for carrying it around. The unique print and purse-friendly materials makes it one worth packing for days out.
Kate Spade New York Rainbow Plaid Picnic Rug
This lovely picnic blanket by Kate Spade has a beautiful multicoloured check design and is made of 100% cotton. The picnic rug is the perfect thing to pack for days out in the summer, bringing a vibrant touch to your picnic.
Hand Embroidered Picnic Blanket
A round picnic blanket with a 'walking on sunshine' message, this one is ideal for folding up and taking wherever you go when the sun is shining. The hand-embroidered picnic rug is made from cotton and features white fringe all the way round.
Livehitop Fleece Extra Large Picnic Blanket
This extra large picnic blankets is roomy enough for up to eight people to enjoy. There's waterproof and sandproof backing, a comfy fleece surface and the 200cm x 200cm picnic rug folds up compact and is easy to transport to any beach or park.
Sol 72 Outdoor Round Picnic Blanket
Prefer a round picnic rug? We like this one that's waterproof and anti-fungal, while reversible too. It's made of high quality and lightweight polypropylene, plus the picnic blanket has an extended lifespan due to the UV treatment.
Joules Fleece Picnic Blanket
One you can choose as a small, medium or large picnic blanket, this roll-up picnic blanket is both practical and cosy. Made in Cornwall, it's one side washable fleece for you to relax in comfort. The Joules picnic blanket is washable and made from high quality materials, making it one that will withstand spills for years.
Kissing Hedgehogs Picnic Blanket
With enough space for six people, this large picnic blanket is fun, lightweight and portable too. The striking design is perfect for nature-lovers and it's made in Britain for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. We love the yellow hedgehog print on the bold blue background.
VonShef Blue Herringbone Picnic Blanket
Roll it up, carry it and lay it down easily - we love this beautiful herringbone picnic blanket that's affordable too. It's made from hardwearing fleece polyester for something that lasts, plus the picnic rug has waterproof backing to keep you dry while you tuck into your strawberries and cream.
Scion Mr Fox Picnic Rug
With its fun print making it ideal for the garden, park or beach, this picnic blanket comes with a waterproof backing and handy carrying straps. It features Scion's popular Mr.Fox design and is easy to roll up once you're done.
John Lewis & Partners Geo Picnic Rug
This lightweight fabric picnic blanket features a stylish geometric design and comes complete with a waterproof backing so you can lay it out on damp ground. When you're not using the picnic rug, it rolls up neatly and is easily carried with its durable webbing handle.
Regatta Matio Picnic Rug Strawberry Print
With its soft foam mid layer for extra comfort, this picnic blanket really is cheap and cheerful! It features a strawberry print and works brilliantly at home in the garden, for lunch in the park or for lounging on the beach.
Atlantic Blankets You, Me & the Sea Picnic Blanket
This picnic blanket for beach lovers is great for a romantic alfresco date and made in England using recycled cotton. It reads 'You, Me & the Sea' and is versatile for you to also use over your shoulders at the seaside or as something you can snuggle with on the sofa at night.
Atlantic Blankets Coral Wool Herringbone Blanket
This beautiful coral picnic blanket made from 100% British new wool shows off a classic herringbone design, with a cream edge and fringe. It's easy to wash in the machine and looks gorgeous for a colourful spread. We'd opt for cutlery and plates that are just as bright too.
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I'm back at it sharing some more furniture layout ideas and floor plans!
If you caught my last post like this, I shared some ideas for large living rooms, but this time, let's take a look at long and narrow ones. Think New York City, San Francisco style apartments, condos, and townhomes.
Yep, those.
I've had a couple of requests for this type of floor-plan, and I understand why… it can be tricky AF! There are so many different pieces of furniture to incorporate, and you want to make sure there's a good flow throughout the space without it feeling awkward.
But don't fret, I have some awesome ideas up my sleeve that I know you're gonna love!
First, let me just preface this post by saying that there are a hundred different scenarios for this type of room and I decided to focus on ones that have a staircase.
But…even if you don't have stairs, you can easily imagine each of these scenarios without them!
Images via Kaemingk Design & Kelly Hoppen
Before I get into the floorplans, I want to take a second and answer two frequently asked questions about arranging furniture in a long and skinny living room:
How do you decorate a long and thin living room?
Each room is different but in general…
Place the sofa on the largest wall.
Put side tables and lamps on either side of the sofa.
Place a narrow console table on the opposite wall of the sofa, if it's available.
Next, place accent chairs around the sofa and/or sofa table. If there's no room, try small stools instead!
Fill blank wall space with artwork, bookcases, shelves, and decorative tables.
And for those weird, empty spots that are leftover? Put a plant or decorative plinth there!
How do you make a narrow room look wider?
Place your sofa on the largest wall and place a mirror above it, it'll give the illusion of a bigger space.
Pick out furniture that fits the scale of the room. i.e. If your living room is narrow, don't buy a super deep sofa.
Opt for hanging as much as possible. Hang TV's instead of using a media cabinet, and use shelves for books and decorative items instead of tables.
For extra seating, place small stools under an open console table.
Images via Stephane Parmentier & Rafael De Cardenas
NO. 01
12' x 20' Narrow Living Room with a Fireplace
Since the fireplace is centered with windows on both sides, I tried to mimic that arrangement with the furniture. I placed the sofa on the largest wall and then put an accent chair on both sides. If I placed the chairs closer towards the sofa, I would have been left with a couple of weird spots behind the chairs. Instead, I scooted the chairs out a bit further and used footstools to make the chairs appear longer.
NO. 02
12' x 20' Open Concept Living /Dining Room
In this scenario, the living room is open up to the dining area, which then opens up to a kitchen (not pictured). I placed a sofa on the longest wall, facing the stairs, and then placed one armchair to the side of it. I opted for a round dining table to keep the flow as open as possible. You could also place a console table on the stair wall and put two small stools underneath (if you needed extra seating).
NO. 03
12' x 20' Narrow Living Room w/ One Window
I started by placing the sofa on the largest wall and then put two side chairs and a table on the opposite wall. This creates two pathways to get through the room. Since there's only one window, I placed a long bench below it, allowing the light to travel throughout the entire space. To finish, I filled in extra areas with plants and another small console table.
NO. 04
12' x 20' Long & Narrow Living Room w/ Two Windows
In this scenario, there are only two windows in the front of the room. I placed the sofa on the largest wall and balanced it out with two armchairs. To fill in the extra spots, I used side tables, bookcases, and lamps. Note: if the stair-wall was full-height, this scenario could also be mirrored, allowing more light to enter the room.
There you have it! Four floor plans and furniture layout ideas for a long and narrow living room.
I know there are so many variations and scenarios for long and narrow living rooms, but I hope that these floorplans gave you some ideas and a jumping off point for your own living room!
Savvy Room Planner
Discover the best layout for your space in a matter of minutes.
LEARN MORE >
If you still need help with your living room layout, be sure to check out the Savvy Room Planner! Or tell me about it in the comments below and I might feature it in my next post like this!
A small living space can still be stylish. All you need are the perfect products and accessories to liven up your studio or one-bedroom apartment, while maximizing your space. Of course, efficiency and comfort are important as well, and don't worry — we haven't forgotten your tiny kitchen and bathroom. Here are 30 products that will help you live large in your small space.
Get Creative with Storage Space in Your Bedroom
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
If you don't have a lot of closet space, you can always put things under your bed — unless, of course, your frame sits too low to the floor. If that's the case, it's time to place DuraCasa's bed risers under the legs to gain an additional boost of 3 inches of space for boxes, suitcases and anything else you want to keep hidden away. The risers are built to hold up to 2,000 pounds distributed across your bed.
"This is exactly what I was looking for," says one satisfied Amazon customer. Others praise the risers as "sturdy" and "nice and thick and strong." Something worth noting: A few people say the risers don't always stay put on hardwood floors.
Don't Just Throw Everything Under the Bed
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
StorageLAB's shoe organizer can help you keep shoes tucked away in an orderly fashion. With two of these containers, you can pack up to 24 pairs of shoes and adjust the size of the compartments to accommodate larger shoes or shoes with long heels. This handy organizer is also great for scarves, gloves and numerous other things.
"I wanted something that looks good and keeps its shape," says one reviewer. The firm siding on these containers ensures they hold their form, and handles make it easy to pull the unit out from under the bed. The clear zippered top allows you to easily find the shoes you want. "An A++ for design!" raves another happy owner.
When You Don't Have Room for a Nightstand
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
Sauder's Orchard Hills bookcase headboard fits a queen-size bed frame snugly or leaves a bit of space on each side for a full. Constructed of "very sturdy" particle board, the headboard attaches directly to the rails of your frame, providing additional stability while taking up minimum floor space.
It arrives unassembled, and although reviewers say it is "easy to put together," many also mentioned that the package is quite heavy and hard to move from the front door to the bedroom. Once the headboard is put together, however, you have plenty of room for an alarm clock, reading lamp, a stash of books (or a reading device) and stuffed animals or room decor.
The Extra Fancy Bed Storage Space Solution
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
If throwing boxes under a regular bed frame feels too basic, take a look at the Dakota platform bed with drawers from DHP. It sits on an elegant frame, with an upholstered headboard and two drawers on each side, allowing you to store just about anything in an orderly, efficient manner.
"We were concerned about the sturdiness," one reviewer admits, "but were quickly relieved once the bed was tested." Others praise the easy-to-follow assembly instructions, and one reviewer is particularly fond of the time it saves on cleaning, noting, "There's no space under the beds for dust bunnies to gather."
A Small but Powerful Vacuum Cleaner
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
The 2-in-1 vacuum cleaner from VonHaus is "not much larger than a broom," but it has more than enough power to keep your entire place clean. You can go over all your floors, just like any other vacuum cleaner, or you can remove the floor vacuum head to turn it into a handheld for cleaning furniture and spills on tables and countertops. When you're finished, just detach the container and throw away the dust and debris.
"I can't believe how good the suction is on this little vacuum," says one buyer. Other owners are delighted with its light weight and small size for easy storage. Several, however, suggest the filters need to be cleaned more frequently than the once-a-month routine VonHaus recommends.
A Classic Modern Storage Solution
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
Over the door shoe organizers like the one from MISSLO have become classic features in modern home storage design — so simple and obvious, once you think about it. Of course, many people use them for more than shoes. "I have one in my linen closet that I use for medicines, lotions, extra toothpaste, special hair creams — you name it," one reviewer reports. "I've gained an entire shelf for towels."
The organizer is "easy to hang," with four metal hooks that fit most standard-sized doors. Once in place, "It doesn't slip or slide around," and the 24 large mesh pockets can hold 12 pairs of shoes easily — more if the shoes happen to be sandals!
Keep Your Drawers in Order
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
"No matter how neatly I fold my bras and underwear," one reviewer complains, "they always seem to become a big jumble in the drawer." The solution? Simple Houseware's organizer set comes with four cases designed to hold ties, scarves, underwear, bras or socks in individual compartments, allowing you to easily spot items at a glance.
No more losing a favorite pair of socks in the back of the drawer, where it could stay buried indefinitely. "My only complaint," one reviewer says, "is that I would like to be able to get another 24-compartment organizer without having to buy the whole set."
Create Shelf Space in Your Closet
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
The hanging closet organizer from Simple Houseware is "easy to set up and super lightweight, but extremely durable," according to a satisfied buyer. When hung on the clothing rod in your closet, the fabric drops down to reveal five shelves, with an extra three pockets on each side.
You can put a lot of weight on the shelves, including jeans, sweaters, bath towels, bed sheets and pillow covers. (The lower compartments can even hold heavy boots.) This organizer is "the hardiest I've seen," says one reviewer, adding, "It does not strain at all."
Store All Your Jewelry in One Place
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
Are you constantly hunting through several different boxes on top of your dresser to find the necklace or pair of earrings you need to match an outfit? Maybe you need AOOU's jewelry cabinet and dressing mirror combo. The full-length mirror on the front opens to reveal enough storage space (including hooks) for just about any jewelry collection, with additional shelves for makeup and perfume.
"It is made well, very sturdy and hangs very neatly on my closet door," one reviewer says. (It can be wall-mounted as well.) Magnets keep the door securely shut, and a set of blue LED lights along the top light up when the door opens, making it easy to find what you need.
Take All the Hassle Out of Laundry Day
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
When floor space is at a premium, a full-sized hamper can be a bulky eye-sore. Smart Design's pop-up hamper can sit unobtrusively next to your dresser or tucked away in the closet. The mesh siding allows damp and sweaty clothes to dry faster, reducing the risk of funky odors.
"These hold waaay more than I thought they would!" exclaims one reviewer — enough to do two loads of laundry in a single trip, in fact. Plus, when laundry day does come around, the sturdy handles make it easy to carry, and there are side pockets for detergent and fabric softener.
It's a Lamp! It's a Display Case!
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
The Etagere floor lamp with shelves from Simple Designs Home is the sort of thing you never think about until somebody points it out — then you can't get over what a great idea it is. It's a floor lamp that stands just over 5 feet high and features sleek, sophisticated lines, but it also sports three shelves perfectly spaced for holding a telephone, small planter, cherished figurines and more. In the bedroom, it could easily double as a nightstand and a reading light.
"It took me all of 15 minutes to assemble by myself," one reviewer reports, adding that you need to have a Phillips screwdriver on hand. "You can't go wrong with this one," another reviewer adds. "It really does bring the room together." Some owners, however, note that the electrical cord can dangle awkwardly down the length of the lamp stand.
You Can't Go Wrong with a Good Rug
Photo Courtesy: Amazon
Home Dynamix offers a variety of rugs that feature soft, Persian-inspired decorative motifs in neutral colors. The Royal Clover contemporary rug is one example that blends nicely with nearly any decor. Whether you're looking for an area rug to pull the living room together, a runner for the hall or a small round rug for the bedroom, the company offers the size you need.
Many reviewers are delighted with how easily these rugs can be cleaned, with many stains coming out using only a damp cloth and some spray. "They vacuum really well," a reviewer adds, even in a household with multiple pets.
It's Okay to Drink on the Sofa Now
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If you're watching TV and you want to enjoy a drink but don't have a coffee table, what do you do? Maybe it's time to consider the CoachCoaster, a gadget that fits easily over the arm of your sofa or armchair to provide a secure base for everything from beer cans to coffee mugs.
The sleeve is weighted on both sides for stability, and the drink holder keeps containers firmly in place — even if you accidentally brush it with your arm. (Although one reviewer did mention that it's still vulnerable to jumping cats.)
No More TV Dinner Trays
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Maybe you'd like to have something to eat while you're watching the big game. You could put your plate on the coffee table and bend over to eat, or you could hold your plate and risk spilling food on the couch. Sauder's lift-top coffee table offers a better solution. The table top is actually a lid that raises several inches and slides forward, allowing you to eat — or work — comfortably on the couch with the top in front of you. Underneath, the table has plenty of storage space that is perfect for stashing items you don't want out in the open.
Reviewers describe this coffee table as "very sturdy and heavy." They also recommend you have somebody on hand to help you put it together.
The Comfortable Way to Sit Up in Bed
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Do you spend a lot of time hanging out in your bedroom — reading, watching a movie on your tablet or checking on social media? You could jam a bunch of pillows against your headboard or wall to support your back — or you could get the ComfortSpa reading pillow. A comfortable 18 inches high, the foam pillow provides excellent back support.
"This helps me feel like I'm more laying on the couch than in bed," says one happy reviewer. "It's very comfortable, no matter how you lay on it!" The armrests even have pockets so you don't have to leave your glasses or smartphone on the bed, where they could be crushed if you roll over.
The Comfortable Way to Work on Your Lap
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They call it a laptop computer, but have you ever tried actually holding one in your lap? They sit uncomfortably, and you have to keep your head bent to read the screen, potentially causing back and neck pain. The adjustable laptop desk from Mind Reader takes care of several problems. It's cushioned along the bottom, so it rests comfortably and smoothly on your legs. The smooth plastic surface can be adjusted to eight different angles, accommodating whatever position you choose, from sitting up to lying on the couch.
Although it's designed to work with laptops and tablets — and comes with a clip to keep them from sliding off when the desk is angled — it also makes an excellent writing desk. "No more hunching over for long periods!" one buyer says. Many note the plastic material is thin but say it's more than sturdy enough to hold various electronic devices, even a thick hardcover book.
Start Your Wine Collection in Style
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Maybe you want to be a wine connoisseur — but you can't find anywhere in your cramped kitchen to store more than one bottle. Take a look at the Sorbus wall-mounted wine rack. Many customers describe the rack as "easy to install," although they also recommend that you use longer mounting screws than the screws that come with the product, especially if you're hanging it on drywall.
Once it's on the wall, people love the "clean, functional, simple design" of the metal rack, which holds up to nine normal-sized wine bottles securely. If you're not a wine drinker, you can also use it for cooking oils or set it up in the bathroom as a towel rack.
Plan Everything Out on Your Fridge
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"We have almost always had a white board on our refrigerator for grocery lists and messages," says one consumer. Another says the magnetic whiteboard from cinch! is "the absolute best one we have ever had." It comes in two sizes (17 inches by 11inches and 20 inches by 13 inches) and includes markers — also magnetized to stick to your fridge — in four different colors.
The dry erase board cleans easily, even if you leave something written on it for a month, and the thin design, with "clean and smooth" edging, means it blends seamlessly on a white refrigerator, an effect another buyer describes as "almost disconcerting!"
Declutter Your Pots and Pans
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Are you fed up with taking every pan you own out of the cabinet to get to the one pan you need? Maybe it's time to get rid of your frustration with the Simple Houseware pan rack organizer. Place the rack on its side to hold four pans in a row, or stack five pans horizontally without worrying about scratching them.
"You could not even see the bottom of my cabinet before," one reviewer says, but the unit still leaves rooms for pots in many cases. The racks are strong enough to hold heavy cast iron pans, although deep frying pans will only fit on top. It can also be screwed into the cabinet wall or the bottom for additional stability.
Give Your Pantry a Simple, Streamlined Look
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One of the biggest problems with keeping your kitchen organized is everything comes in different size boxes and bags, forcing you to create improvised pyramids on your pantry shelves. DRAGONN's 10-piece airtight food storage containers set offers an elegant alternative, with containers in a variety of sizes to handle everything from spices to spaghetti.
Shoppers praise the containers as "high quality and very durable" and note they also look great on the kitchen counter and are easily hand washable. The airtight seals keep everything fresh and dry and are an excellent deterrent against ants and other insects that could invade your kitchen.
Have You Ever Looked Under Your Sink?
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When it comes to kitchen storage, the cabinet under the sink is the space most people don't like to think about. It's easy to just throw all the bottles of different cleaners in there and slam the door, but the adjustable shelf organizer from STORAGE MANIAC offers a better solution. You can return order to the chaos and make it easy to find what you need when you need it.
Reviewers say this two-shelf unit is "very well made," noting that the length is adjustable to fit the size of your cabinet. The shelf's surface consists of steel panels, which can also be moved to make space for the sink's pipes. "Under my kitchen sink looks wonderful now!" one owner declares. It's also perfect for under your bathroom vanity.
Use Your Kitchen Wall to Establish Mise en Place
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Great chefs run their kitchens with an impeccable sense of mise en place — the principle that positions everything exactly where you need it before you start so you can prepare any dish smoothly and efficiently. An empty kitchen wall provides a big opportunity to pull essentials together in one easily accessible spot — with the help of Wall Control's pegboard organizer.
It's the same kind of metal pegboard you might use to hang tools on the wall over a workbench, which ensures the board is sturdy enough to hold even your heaviest pans. "If you want something that will last a lifetime," says one reviewer, "then I highly recommend Wall Control boards." You can choose from a range of colors.
A Colorful Foundation for Food Prep
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A well-stocked kitchen needs an assortment of mixing bowls and measuring tools.
Joseph Joseph's nine-piece set features all the basics, including four measuring cups and a tablespoon. The set is made of colorful plastic that will brighten up any kitchen, and the bowls don't lose their sheen, even after multiple trips through the dishwasher.
The mixing bowls are extremely sturdy, with no-slip bottoms. "On family movie night," one reviewer reports, "three bags of microwave popcorn fit in the large mixing bowl." The small mixing bowl can hold a dozen eggs at once, with no problem.
Get All Your Spices in Order
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The hard part of becoming a more adventurous home cook isn't finding unique ingredients — it's keeping track of them once you pack them away in your pantry. YouCopia's Chef's Edition SpiceStack has drawers that slide out from their frame and tilt forward so you can view the contents at a glance. There's enough room for up to 30 regular-sized spice bottles.
Reviewers call the SpiceStack "a total dream," praising the "sturdy plastic drawers" for their "amazing spice storage." It even comes with blank and preprinted labels for the front of the drawers if you want to take immediate stock of your inventory.
You've Got to Hide Your Knives Away
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When you've got a small kitchen counter, a chunky knife block can take up a lot of valuable space. Wusthof's under-the-cabinet knife block is the perfect solution, giving you easy access to eight knives (and a honing steel), then swiveling out of the way when you're done.
The beechwood block screws into the underside of a kitchen cabinet with just three screws, and many reviewers describe it as "very solid" and "excellently detailed with a smooth finish." They also note that the knives are held in their slots magnetically, but "they will fly out if you're not careful." Then again, you would always be careful with knives, right?
No More Fumbling for the Conditioner
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"This shower caddy is epic!" raves one user who bought Simple Houseware's hanging shower head organizer. It has a deep basket for shampoo, conditioner and other bottles, with a shelf beneath that can hold razors, sponges and bars of soap, plus hangers for a loofah or a back brush.
When you don't have a window ledge next to your shower or space in the corners of your tub to hold stuff, just hang this caddy over your shower head to keep everything in reach. Other customers praise it as "super sturdy" and "very stable... exactly what my husband and I needed."
Making Bath Time Lots of Fun
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If you don't feel comfortable hanging a caddy on your shower head, you can always try the mesh shower curtain organizer from Yihoon. It hangs securely on your shower rod or towel rack and has mesh pockets big enough to hold everything you need, from washcloths to shampoo bottles.
"We have a small shower, and I hate the look of bottles all over the place," says one reviewer. This organizer offers an ideal solution. The mesh pockets dry quickly, and you can always throw it in the washer if it gets a little funky.
Keep Your Cool — and Your Quiet
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In a small room, every inch of floor space counts. Bulky fans take up too much room — and usually make too much noise. Lasko's oscillating tower fan stands discreetly in a small space and boasts a woodgrain finish that blends in with most decors.
More importantly, as one reviewer observes, "It's quieter than any tower fan I've ever owned," even at its highest speeds. A remote control allows you to change settings without getting up, and a nighttime mode allows you to slowly taper from high to low while you drift off to sleep.
So Many Cables. So. Many. Cables.
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The TV, the cable box, the DVD player, the video game console, the high-speed modem, the base for the wireless phone — you've got tons of devices to plug in and very few outlets. Belkin's 12-outlet power strip and surge protector can help you keep everything up and running.
The power strip has six outlets running down the middle and another three on each side, especially designed to hold those oversized power adaptors that always cause you to lose the adjoining outlet on normal power strips. The internal circuitry can even gauge how much power each device is using and spread the voltage accordingly. "If I need more power bars in the future," says one satisfied reviewer, "these are what I will buy."
Get All Those Cords Out of Sight
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Even if you have a power strip big enough to handle all your electronic devices, you still have to deal with all those cords and cables, which can create an unsightly mess along your floor and walls. A few cable concealers from SimpleCord can take care of that problem. The plastic units are designed to blend with most wall colors, leaving a streamlined path from devices to an outlet.
Reviewers praise these concealers as "easy to install" and "very sturdy." Once you have your wires laid down in the raceway containers, slide the plastic cover on, and you're all set. Add-on units allow you to turn corners easily, and you can even lock them into place along your baseboards with adhesive strips or mounting screws.
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