Creating an inviting outdoor living space is one of my favorite ways to extend our home during the warmer months. Over the years, I’ve learned that while outdoor furniture can last for many seasons, outdoor decor often needs to be refreshed and replaced more frequently. Here in Connecticut, we experience everything from humid summer heat and heavy rainstorms to harsh winter snow and freezing temperatures in the cold months. Because of that, I always cover my furniture when not in use and bring cushions and accessories indoors during the winter months. Those simple habits have helped my outdoor pieces last for years. Still, replacing some decor is inevitable, which is why I focus on purchasing quality, budget-friendly pieces. When it comes to adding comfort, color, and personality to a patio, deck, or porch, the best outdoor pillows can make all the difference and bring style and character to your space.

Before we jump into the best outdoor pillows, make sure to check out these other outdoor articles:

• My Budget-Friendly Outdoor Furniture–love these furniture pieces!
• Outdoor Dining Tips and Tricks
• How to Clean Outdoor Furniture

Here are a few things to look for when buying outdoor pillows:

Choose Water-Resistant Fabric

One of the most important features to look for is water-resistant or waterproof fabric. Outdoor pillows should also be made from materials that can withstand sun exposure and fluctuating temperatures. Even if your furniture is covered, moisture from humidity and unexpected rain can quickly damage indoor fabrics. nvesting in quality outdoor fabrics will help prevent fading, mildew, and premature wear.

Don’t Forget the Pillow Insert

Many people focus on the pillow cover and overlook what’s inside. A water-resistant pillow insert is just as important as the fabric covering it. Quality inserts help moisture drain and dry more quickly after a rainstorm, reducing the chance of mold and mildew. When shopping for the best outdoor pillows, always check both the cover material and the insert construction.

Coordinate Colors and Patterns

I love carrying the style of my home’s interior into my outdoor spaces. Pillows are an easy and affordable way to create a cohesive look between indoor and outdoor living areas. Consider selecting patterns, textures, and colors that complement your home’s design style while adding a touch of personality to your patio furniture.

Mix Pillow Sizes for a Designer Look

Layering different pillow sizes creates a more collected and polished appearance. My favorite combination is two 20″ x 20″ pillows paired with smaller 18″ x 18″ or 16″ x 16″ pillows. I also love adding a lumbar pillow, typically around 20″ x 12″, to bring visual interest and extra comfort. This simple layering technique instantly elevates outdoor seating areas.

Consider Storage and Seasonal Care

Even the best outdoor pillows will last longer with proper care. During the off-season, store pillows in a dry space such as a garage, basement, or storage bench. If you live in an area with harsh winters, bringing them indoors can significantly extend their lifespan. A little extra effort at the end of each season can save money and keep your outdoor spaces looking fresh year after year.

Outdoor pillows are one of the easiest ways to transform a basic patio set into a stylish outdoor retreat. By choosing durable materials, water-resistant inserts, and a thoughtful mix of colors and sizes, you can create a comfortable and beautiful outdoor space that feels like a natural extension of your home.

The post Best Outdoor Pillows appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

There is something about a coastal-inspired workspace that feels fresh and calming! We have been working on my office for quite some time with built-ins, paint and now wallpaper. But what happens when the piece you love most, like a large functional executive desk, feels too dark and heavy for your space? That was exactly my situation. I have a beautiful oversized desk with the perfect number of drawers, but the black finish was worn and no longer fit my style. I actually bought it from Pottery Barn years and years ago. It’s an old version of the Livingston Desk. I debated replacing it, but the truth is, quality furniture like that is hard to come by, and I do not like to be wasteful. Also, most of the desks I were looking at were from Pottery Barn! So instead, I gave my desk a new life with a DIY pottery barn finish furniture technique, and the result completely transformed the look and feel of my office. My inspiration was the seadrift finish of the Pottery barn furniture pieces.

If you have been thinking about updating a piece you already own, this step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to do it. But before we jump into the instructions, check out these other before and after painting projects:

• DIY White and Gold Painted Furniture
• Vintage Redo Dresser
• DIY Copper Pipe Rack

Before Desk and Why DIY Pottery Barn Finish?

As you can see, my desk didn’t look bad but needed some updating. Pottery Barn is known for its soft layered wood tones, think of finishes like their popular Sausalito and Seadrift style. The beauty of DIY pottery barn finish furniture is that you can recreate that same depth, warmth, and character at a fraction of the cost, while customizing it to your own space. Even better, you are repurposing something you already love.

Supplies

Chalk paint (tan or light beige)
Glaze paint
Dark antique wax
Optional clear or light wax for layering
Degreaser
Clean rags
Bristle brush for wax application and chalk brush

Optional tools for glaze texture:
Rough brush
Dry brush
Textured cloth or sponge

For the chalk paint and waxes, I love the brands Amy Howard, Annie Sloan, and Country Chic Paints

Instructions

1. Clean it–Before doing anything, clean your furniture with a degreaser. This step is essential. Even if the piece looks clean, oils and residue can prevent paint from adhering properly. A clean surface sets the foundation for a smooth long lasting finish.
2. Apply Chalk Paint–One of the best parts of using chalk paint is that there is no sanding or priming required. Apply your first coat of a tan or beige chalk paint. Let it dry since chalk paint dries quickly. Apply a second coat for full coverage. This base layer is what gives your piece that soft neutral tone commonly seen in DIY pottery barn finish furniture styles.
3. Add Glaze to Create Tone–Once your paint is dry, it is time to add dimension. Apply one coat of glaze. Immediately begin wiping it off using a clean rag or a rough brush (for wood streak effects) . This step is where the magic starts to happen. The glaze settles into the details and creates that layered slightly weathered look. For added texture you can use a rough brush to create subtle wood grain streaks. Try a dry brush technique for a softer effect. Use a sponge or textured cloth for variation. Play around until you achieve the look you love.
4. Apply Light and Dark Antique Wax to Seal–After the glaze dries, seal and enhance the finish with wax. Use a bristle brush to apply the light and dark wax. Start in the corners and detailed areas. Work your way toward the center, keeping the middle lighter. This creates contrast and depth, giving your piece that rich dimensional look. The lighter antique wax will soften the look and create even more variation and the dark antique wax creates depth and dimension.
5. Let it Dry and Cure–let it fully dry and to cure it takes a few weeks for the wax to get its shine and full look.

I love the finish of the desk! It came out so good!

See the Instagram Reel Video of the DIY Pottery Barn Finish Furniture

If you are on the fence about replacing a piece of furniture, consider refinishing it instead. Not only is it more sustainable, but it also allows you to create something truly custom to your home.

This project is approachable, forgiving, and surprisingly fun, and the end result is something you will appreciate every single day.

And the best part is you will look at that piece and think, I did that.

Enjoy it for years to come!

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This year’s Easter table was one of my favorites! There’s something about setting an Easter table that feels extra special each year. It’s not just about making things look pretty. It’s about creating a space that feels meaningful, layered with tradition, and filled with pieces that tell a story. So this year I decided to decorate with an Easter tree on the Easter Table. It turned out so pretty, especially with the gorgeous cherry blossom branches.

Before we jump into the post, make sure you check out my other Easter tablescpaces:

• Easter Table Coastal Setting
• Spring Easter Table
• Easter Table with Blue and White
• Garden Inspired Easter Table
• Easter Table Using Flower Branches

As you can see I almost always use these blue and white scalloped plates. They are the best and sold out. But I linked different options below.

Make sure to check out my instagram account on Easter Tree on the Easter Table.

I wanted to bring a little bit of our German heritage into our home by creating an Easter tree. In Germany, it’s a long-standing tradition to hang decorated eggs on branches as a symbol of new life and the arrival of spring. I’ve always loved the idea of it–simple, beautiful, and full of meaning—so I decided to make it the centerpiece of our table.

To decorate the eggs, I leaned into something I’ve been loving lately—decoupage. (Honestly, I’m on a bit of a decoupage kick right now and finding ways to use it everywhere.) I used paper napkins with soft patterns and delicate colors, gently layering them onto the eggs. It’s such an easy technique, but the result feels so detailed and custom. Each egg ends up slightly different, which only adds to the charm. I did a whole post on how to makes these beautiful DIY paper-napkin Easter eggs.

For the branches, I chose cherry blossoms. There’s something about their softness and movement that makes the whole table feel light and fresh, like spring has truly arrived. The combination of the blossoms with the hanging eggs creates this beautiful focal point that feels both organic and intentional.

And then there’s the tablecloth is one of my most treasured pieces. It was a gift from my sweet neighbor, who lived to be 100 years old. She gave it to me before she passed, and I think of her every single time I use it. It brings such a sense of warmth to the table, not just because it’s beautiful, but because of the memory tied to it.

I picked up the beautiful spring flowers from Trader Joes and do simple agreements. All the spring colors complement each other and tie in the decoupage easter eggs. Make sure to check out my instagram reel to see everything in action.

That’s really what I love most about setting a table like this. It’s not about perfection. It’s about layering in pieces that mean something. All the traditions, memories, a little creativity and creating a space where people feel welcomed and at home.

Shop the Post

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When we think about decluttering, we usually think of closets, garages, or overflowing pantries. But some of the most clutter-prone areas in a home are the ones we rarely see—which means they’re easy to forget and quick to get out of control.  These hidden spaces collect dust, expired items, tangled cords, and things we no longer need. Giving them a little attention to these overlooked areas in your home to declutter can instantly make your home feel cleaner, calmer, and more functional.

Check out these other organizing posts:

• 3 Tips to Prepare Your House To Sell
• 5 Tips for Spring Cleaning Closets
• 5 Tips for an Organized Pantry

Under Cabinets: Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Under-sink cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms are prime clutter zones. Between cleaning supplies, extra toiletries, and random items tossed in for “later,” these spaces can become chaotic fast.

Decluttering tips:

• Pull everything out and wipe down the cabinet—dust and residue build up quickly here.

• Toss expired cleaners, old sponges, empty bottles, and anything you haven’t used in years.

• Check for duplicates you don’t need.

Why clear containers help:
Clear bins make it easy to see what you have at a glance, so items don’t get forgotten or overbought. Group similar items together—cleaning supplies, backups, personal care—and label if needed. Bonus: clear containers make spills easier to spot and clean.  I love these clear drawer containers.  They work great for under cabinets.

Drawers That Become “Catch-Alls”

Junk drawers aren’t just limited to the kitchen. Bathroom drawers, office drawers, and even nightstand drawers often become dumping grounds and are an overlooked areas in your home to declutter.

What to look for:

• Expired medications or beauty products

• Old chargers, cords, or electronics that no longer work

• Instruction manuals for things you don’t own anymore

Take a few minutes to wipe out the dust and crumbs (you’ll be surprised what’s in there), then reset the space with drawer dividers or small clear containers to give everything a designated home.

Cords, Chargers & Old Electronics

Cords are one of the most frustrating types of clutter because they tangle easily and multiply without us realizing it.

Organizing tips:

• Test electronics and chargers—if they don’t work or you don’t know what they’re for, recycle them.

• Use cord wraps, zip ties, or small labeled pouches to keep cables neat.

• Store only what you actually use and need.

Many towns have electronic recycling programs, making it easy to responsibly get rid of outdated tech.

Expired & Unused Items

Hidden drawers and cabinets often house expired medications, old sunscreen, makeup, batteries, and household products.

Make it a habit to:

• Check expiration dates

• Safely discard expired or unused items

• Keep only what you realistically use

This not only reduces clutter but also keeps your home safer and more efficient.

Why These Small Spaces Matter

The beginning of the year is always a great time to tackle the overlooked areas in your home to declutter.  Decluttering under cabinets and drawers might seem minor, but these areas affect how smoothly your home functions day to day. Clean, organized spaces save time, reduce stress, and make your home feel more intentional.  Also well-organized storage areas make a home feel more spacious and cared for.  You don’t need to declutter your entire house in one weekend.  Usually I start small and have to complete the project before I move onto another project.  Also I like to make different piles–giveaway, toss, reuse.  I also like to buy new organizing supplies.  It always make it easier to keep a cabinet or drawer organized and clean when there is something to keep it in place.

I’m sharing a few of my favorite organizing items below:

Updated 2/23/26 

The post Overlooked Areas in Your Home to Declutter appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

If you’re gearing up for winter and want women’s ski and snowboard clothing that looks great, feels great, and performs in serious mountain weather — you’re in the right place. Today’s technical gear goes well beyond oversized, unisex outerwear. The latest women-specific jackets, pants, layers, and accessories are engineered to handle snow, wind chill, and cold — while fitting the female form comfortably and functionally. Whether you’re chasing powder, cruising groomers, or charging backcountry lines, the right kit keeps you warm, dry, and ready to ride. So I wanted to share my ultimate guide to women’s ski and snowboard clothes that I love and are some of the best on the market.

Make sure to check out my guide to the best kid’s ski clothes!

What to Look For in Women’s Technical Outerwear

Before we jump into specific brands and gear, here are the must-have features for ski and snowboard clothing:

Waterproof + Breathable Fabrics — Look for tech like Gore-Tex, HellyTech®, or comparable high-performance membranes (20,000 mm+ waterproofing and solid breathability).
Women’s-Specific Fit — Tailored for women’s bodies with room for movement and layering.
Adjustable Weather Protection — Helmet-ready hoods, powder skirts, sealed seams, and watertight zippers.
Mobility and Comfort — Articulated joints, stretchy panels, and smart design so you can move freely.
Durability — Reinforced cuffs, robust fabrics, and quality construction to withstand wear, snow, and harsh elements.

Top Brands I Love for Women’s Ski & Snowboard Clothing

These brands deliver true mountain performance with cuts and features designed for women — from resort days to extreme conditions.

Helly Hansen–A favorite for serious conditions. Their ski/snowboard jackets and pants feature advanced waterproofing and breathable tech, plus thoughtful details like adjustable ventilation and powder skirts — perfect for deep snow and high winds.

Halfdays–Clean, modern fits with thoughtful technical features — whether you’re shredding resort laps or hiking for powder. I especially love their thermal base layers for moisture management and comfort.

Patagonia–Reliable, sustainable, and rugged gear. Their women’s outerwear and mid-layers hold up in wet snow and cold wind. I reach for the Patagonia R1 fleece for a perfect mid-layer — cozy, breathable, and versatile.

Arc’teryx–Premium alpine performance — streamlined, technical gear with excellent articulation and materials that withstand tough mountain days.

The North Face–Solid options across outerwear and layers, great waterproofing, insulation, and women’s-centric cuts for everyday and high-performance use.

Burton–A go-to for snowboarders — functional, stylish outerwear with good weatherproofing and mobility.

Roxy–Fun styles with dependable performance features — great if you want both warmth and personality.

Wardrobe Essentials (With Brand Picks I Love)

For the ultimate guide to women’s ski and snowboard clothes, you build a mountain kit that works from first chair to last run

1. Technical Outerwear

Jackets & Shells

• Helly Hansen women’s ski jackets
• Patagonia shells
• Arc’teryx alpine jackets

Look for: Waterproof/breathable fabrics, helmet-ready hoods, and powder skirts.

Ski/Snowboard Pants

• Helly Hansen or Burton insulated pants
• Arc’teryx or The North Face hard shells

Features: Articulated knees, adjustable waist, reinforced cuffs.

2. Base Layers — Start with the Foundation

• Halfdays base layers: lightweight, breathable, great for layering
• Alternatives: Patagonia Capilene, Smartwool

Base layers wick sweat and regulate temperature — choose merino or technical synthetics.

3. Mid Layers — Warmth + Flexibility

• Patagonia R2 fleece: my go-to mid layer (warm without weight)
• Other great mid layers: Arc’teryx Atom LT, The North Face fleeces

Pair these over your base layer for max comfort in cold temps.

4. Mittens & Gloves

Hands get cold fast — choose waterproof, insulated mitts.

Hestra mittens — a top pick for warmth, durability, and all-day performance.

Other great options:

• Black Diamond gloves
• Outdoor Research mitts/gloves

5. Helmets — Protect Your Head in Style

Safety + performance — look for adjustable ventilation, good fit, and compatibility with goggles.

Giro helmets — excellent fit and comfort.
Smith helmets — sleek design with great ventilation.

Both are mountain-ready and pair well with goggles.

6. Goggles — Visibility = Safety

You want clear vision in all light conditions and compatibility with helmets.

Wildhorn goggles with changeable lenses — I love that you can swap lenses for sun, flat light, or snow — huge difference at high altitudes.

Other options:

• Smith goggles
• Oakley goggles

7. Accessories to Complete Your Kit

• Neck gaiter/Balaclava: wind/snow protection
• Thermal socks: merino or synthetic blends
• Gaiters: keep snow out of boots
• Backpack: with hydration and avalanche tool space (if touring)

The post The Ultimate Guide to Women’s Ski & Snowboard Clothing appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

I’m finally getting my 2025 Holiday Gift Guides up on the website — and this year, I had help from the experts: my kids! These picks are filled with the items teens are actually loving right now, which makes this guide especially fun and very accurate.

I haven’t created a children’s gift guide in quite a while, mostly because my own kids aren’t little anymore and I’m totally out of the loop on the “must-have” toys of the moment. But if you want to browse my older guides, there are still plenty of classic, relevant gifts that have stood the test of time.

For now, let’s dive into the 2025 Holiday Gift Guides — and they’re good! I kept things simple and broke everything into four categories:
• Gifts for Teen Girls
• Gifts for Teen Boys
• Gifts for Men
• Gifts for Women

Easy to shop, fun to scroll, and filled with ideas everyone will love. Happy gifting!

Holiday Gift Guide for Teen Girl–this year it is all about leather jackets, camera point and shoots and comfy matching sweatset.

Holiday Gift Guide for Teen Boy–my teen boys amaze me by how they want to eat healthy, workout and take care of their hygiene! They still love a good sweatshirt and sweatpants.

Holiday Gift Guide for Women–so many amazing products out there! But choose a few favorites from weighted pack to mahjong! All the rave.

Holiday Gift Guide for Men–just like my teen boys, its all about staying health and physically active!

The post 2025 Holiday Gift Guides appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

There’s something deeply comforting about the moment when the air turns crisp, the leaves shift toward auburn, and the days grow shorter. That’s when I know: it’s candle season! The glow softens corners, the scent wraps you in warmth, and the ritual of lighting a wick feels like turning the page on the mood of your home. So, I thought I would share with you six favorite candle brands that I love burning all year long and what time of year I love to burn them. I’m also sharing what makes each stand out (and their signature scents you’ll want to try). If you’re building your fall candle rotation, here are six brands I reach for again and again. I also LOVE to gift these!

Before we jump to the post, check out these other fall cozy home posts:

• Planting Bulbs Indoor Containers
• Three Ways to Make Your Home Cozy
• 7 Ways to Winterize Your Home

1. Linnea

Linnea is a Midwest brand grounded in simple, clean ingredients and a thoughtful, human touch. Their seasonal collections feel like they are written in poetry — Gather is one of their flagship autumn scents, described as “a tribute to autumn’s richest moments” with notes of nutmeg, amber, and vetiver. This is one of my favorite scents that I like to burn in the months of October and November. I also love their Cashmere and Belgian Linen scent. Their candles are small-batch pouring, natural/soy wax, lead-free cotton wicks, and scents free of phthalates or harsh chemicals.

2. Flamingo Estate

This is one of the more unusual but beloved candles in my collection. Flamingo Estate is a design-forward home fragrance brand that leans into garden and botanical inspirations. I discovered this candle brand after a homeowner was burning it while touring their home. Flamingo Estate’s top selling candle is Roma Heirloom Tomato which is an ode to that green, earthy, vegetal side of scent. What you’ll smell: a green, peppery, herbaceous blend of tomato vine, basil, and black pepper notes — like stepping into a greenhouse at dusk. It’s surprisingly complex and surprisingly cozy. I’m currently burning Climbing Tuscan Rosemary and it is one not to miss also. I loved burning this candle during the late summer months of August and September.

3. Nest

Nest is probably one of the most recognized “luxe but accessible” brands in home fragrance. Their packaging, throw, and seasonal drops make them a go-to gift and self-treat alike. One of their biggest hits is Holiday, which blends pomegranate, mandarin, pine, cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and amber. That scent has become almost synonymous with fall/winter for many. I love burning Holiday during the holidays. It brings that perfect scent into the home.

4. Diptyque

Diptyque is something of a legend in the luxury candle world. French, elegant, minimalist, and with that aura of prestige. One of their most iconic and best-selling candles is Baies (berries) — combining Bulgarian rose and blackcurrant leaf. It strikes a lovely balance: floral but also green and modern. I definitely feel Baies is a “signature” classic you should have on your shelf. I love burning this in the warmer months like beginning of summer in the months of May to July.

5. Voluspa

Voluspa is known for combining strong scent throw, beautiful decorative jars, and a reputational “first luxe upgrade” for many candle lovers. I really love so many of Voluspa’s scents. But the The Baltic Amber scent is a favorite in cooler months: warm amber resin, woods, and a touch of incense or vanilla orchid to soften the edge. It’s rich and enveloping, ideal for fall evenings. But I also love to burn in the fall and then save and re-burn in January. Voluspa’s packaging (embossed jars, lids) is also a draw — it looks gorgeous even unlit and a perfect gift to give.

6. Glasshouse

Glasshouse is a new to me candle brand. But I am already loving what I have burned. Based in Australia, Glasshouse Fragrances has become known for bold, expressive scents and a wide catalog of home, body, and fragrance offerings. Their candles are described as “triple scented soy candles,” meaning they aim for maximum potency and layering richness. Among their bestsellers: I’ll Take Manhattan, St. Barts, Kyoto in Bloom, Forever Florence, and more. Kyoto in Bloom is what I have tried and I love burning in it in the spring months of the year!

Tips for Styling & Burning in Fall

• Layer textures: Pair a scented candle with a neutral pillar or a taper in a vintage holder for depth.
• Mind your first burn: Let the wax pool edge-to-edge so the candle doesn’t “tunnel.”
• Keep wicks trimmed (¼ in) for cleaner burn.
• Rotate scents slowly: Let one candle fully burn down before starting a drastically different one — your nose resets.
• Mix intensities: Use bolder scents (Flamingo, Glasshouse) in larger common rooms, softer ones (Linnea, Voluspa) in bedrooms.

As the nights lengthen and the air cools, lighting a candle isn’t just a sensory choice — it’s a signal that we’re slowing down, coming in, breathing more deeply. Each of these six favorite candle brands offers something different and are perfect throughout the year: from Linnea’s quiet craftsmanship, Flamingo’s garden-forward daring, Nest’s seasonal joy, Diptyque’s refined classicism, Voluspa’s decorative warmth, to Glasshouse’s bold expression.

Whether you’re building your fall ambiance or layering scents for holidays ahead, I hope a few of these join your must-burn list this season.

SHOP HERE

The post Six Favorite Candle Brands appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

Outdoor cushions make your patio or deck feel like an extension of your home, but after a season of sun, rain, pollen, and family barbecues, they can start looking dingy. My cushions are usually covered in dirt and they need a good scrub. So before I pack them away, I like to clean my cushions. I thought I would show you how to clean outdoor cushions that don’t require fancy cleaners or harsh chemicals to bring them back to life. The fall is the perfect time to clean your outdoor cushions. That way when I pull them out of storage in the spring, they are good to go! With a simple mix of Borax and dish soap, you can refresh your cushions and extend their lifespan.

Before we jump to the post, check out these other similar posts:

• Clean Floors with Bona
• Laundry Room Renovations
• Bookshelf Refresh

One of the main ingredients to use is Borax. Borax (sodium borate) is a natural mineral that’s been used for decades as a cleaning booster. It’s excellent for tackling mildew, mold, and tough stains—things outdoor fabrics are prone to. When combined with grease-cutting dish soap, you get a gentle but effective cleaning solution safe for most outdoor fabrics.

What You’ll Need

• ½ cup Borax
• 1 teaspoon dish soap (a gentle, clear one works best)
• 2 cups warm water
• Spray bottle or bucket
• Soft-bristle brush or sponge
• Hose with a spray nozzle
• Towels for blotting
• Sunny spot for drying

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

1. Prep the Cushions

Remove any loose dirt, leaves, or debris by giving your cushions a quick shake or vacuum. This prevents dirt from grinding deeper into the fabric during cleaning.

2. Mix Your Solution

In a spray bottle or bucket, combine warm water, Borax, and dish soap. Stir or shake until the Borax fully dissolves.

3. Apply the Cleaner

Generously spray or sponge the solution onto your cushions, focusing on stained or mildew-prone spots. Don’t be afraid to get the fabric a little wet—the solution needs to penetrate.

4. Scrub Gently

Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to work the solution into the fabric. Scrub in circular motions, paying attention to seams and creases where grime collects.

5. Let It Sit

Allow the cleaner to sit for about 10–15 minutes. This gives the Borax time to break down mold spores and stubborn dirt.

6. Rinse Thoroughly

Using your hose, rinse the cushions well to remove all soap and Borax residue. Any leftover cleaner could attract more dirt over time.

7. Blot & Dry

Blot excess water with towels, then stand the cushions upright in a sunny, breezy spot to dry completely. Avoid putting them back on your furniture until they’re fully dry to prevent mildew.

Bonus Tip: Prevent Future Stains

Once your cushions are fresh and clean, consider applying a fabric protector spray to help repel future spills, stains, and mildew. I really like this one! Also I do really like this mildew spray that works to remove mildew. Don’t use on color though! It will change the color.

Storing for the Winter

If you have the space, I would suggest bringing your outdoor furniture inside. This will help the lifespan of the furniture last for many years to come. But if you don’t have the space, then I suggest bringing your cushions inside or storing in an outdoor container. Then covering the furniture with a waterproof outdoor cover. You can get a universal outdoor cover.

Check out the Instagram Reel

Make sure to check out my instagram reel on “How to Clean Outdoor Cushions”. Give it a like and comment!

With just a little Borax, dish soap, and elbow grease, your outdoor cushions can look as good as new—without the need for harsh chemicals or expensive specialty cleaners. And how to clean your outdoor cushion, it will make this part of your seasonal patio clean-up routine, and you’ll keep your outdoor space fresh and inviting all year long.

The post How to Clean Outdoor Cushions appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

You know I always love a good summer crafting project! I have been wanting to make a DIY hand-painted monogram straw bag for so long after I saw a cute little shop at a local farmer’s market that was painting and selling hand-painted monogram straw bags. Although I love supporting small businesses, they were a pretty penny and I thought I could craft something similar. So glad I waited because this DIY hand-painted monogram straw bag is so easy to make and without the drying times, it will only take 20 minutes or less to make! There’s something timeless and effortlessly chic about a monogrammed straw bag. Whether you’re heading to the farmers market, packing up for the beach, or just running errands, a personalized straw tote adds just the right touch of style.

Before we jump to the post, check out these other summer projects:

• DIY Grasscloth Console Table
• DIY Terra Cotta White Washed Pots
• Backyard Playset Makeover
• DIY Table Top Scallop Canopy

Here’s how to make your own DIY hand-painted monogram straw bag at home. Make sure to also check out the Instagram video post for the complete breakdown!

Supplies

• A plain straw tote or basket bag. I used this straw bag.
• Acrylic paint (choose two colors — I used DecoArt Americana Coral Blush and Baby Pink.
• Painter’s tape or masking tape
• Small paint sponges (1 large flat and 1 fine detail brush)
• Stencil for your monogram (or freehand if you’re confident!)
• Paper plate or paint tray
• Optional: Sealant spray for extra durability

Instructions

1. Plan & Tape Your Vertical Stripes

Using masking tape, you will where your three vertical stripes will go. Place your first masking tape down the middle of the bag. Next place your next masking tape right next to the middle masking tape all the way down the bag. Follow with another masking tape on the other side of the first masking tape. Keep each tape close together. You will have a total of four vertical tapes. Then you remove the two middle tapes that are flanked by tapes next to each other. Make sure to press down firmly to prevent bleeding

2. Paint the Stripes

Paint in between the tapes with your accent color. Let it dry. About 10 minutes. You should have two vertical stripes. You may need two coats depending on the texture of your straw bag. Next peel the middle tape that is separating the two vertical stripes. You will paint that area with your boldest color. You may need two coats depending on the texture of your straw bag. Let each stripe dry fully before peeling off the tape. The tape on the sides.

3. Add Your Monogram with a Drop Shadow

Choose where you’d like to place your initial(s) — either centered over the stripes or slightly offset or between the stripes like I did. Tape down the letter stencils so it doesn’t shift.

Start with your base letter color (usually the lightest color). Once that’s dry, use a fine detail brush to paint the drop shadow in a bold shade (usually the darker color) just slightly offset — typically down and to the right. Or what I did was place the monogram stencil over the letters and just off center them just a few millimeters and than paint. Then I went back and defined the drop shadow with extra paint.

Drop Shadow Tip: Think of the light source coming from the top-left — your shadow will go bottom-right. Keep it subtle for a classy finish.

4. Optional: Seal the Paint

To protect your bag from smudges, weather, or wear, apply a clear acrylic sealant spray over the painted area. Let it cure for 24 hours before use.

The post DIY Hand-Painted Monogram Straw Bag appeared first on Darling Darleen | A Lifestyle Design Blog.

Laundry day just got a major upgrade! I’m so excited to share the before and after of our laundry room renovation—a project that turned a cramped, outdated space into a bright, organized, and functional hub for our family. Simple changes have made a huge impact on space and keeping everything organized! I shared our Laundry Room Inspiration a few months back, and it turned out better than I could imagine!!

Before: A Room That Just “Did the Job”

Like many homes, our laundry room was purely utilitarian and an afterthought: beige walls, poor layout, cheap finishes, and not nearly enough storage for a family of six. The machines worked, but the space didn’t feel efficient—or inviting. Laundry for a big household should feel streamlined, not like you’re entering a cluttered utility cave.

Our laundry room is located on the second floor, and I love the convenience of it being close to all the rooms. But is it located in a small room with no windows. What we needed was to maximize our space and to add more storage and a design that made the space feel like a natural extension of the home—not an afterthought. The two clothing rods took up way too much space. The top clothing rods was too high to even hang anything! We had these empty spaces between the washer and dryer and I didn’t have anywhere to put a laundry basket.

The Vision:
I wanted this room to feel clean and calm but also work hard for our family. The goals were:

• Maximize Space: Move the cabinets, add more storage, move the washer and dryer together
• Brighten It Up: Fresh paint, new lighting, and a countertop that reflect light.
• Add Personality: Install pretty wallpaper because why shouldn’t a laundry room feel beautiful too?

After: A Functional & Stylish Laundry Retreat

Our laundry room renovation checks all the boxes. We had a budget to stick by but also wanted to make it look custom. So we moved the upper cabinet over the sink and placed it on the wall where the machines were located. I had my contractor put fillers in so the two cabinets looked like they where built in. In replace of the cabinet, I had my carpenter build me a cubby shelf over the sink for baskets. That is where I also put my new clothing rod, and it works great because it hangs over the sink. Perfect for wet clothes! We pushed the washer and dryer together, which left an empty space. I was thinking of putting a laundry basket on wheels there but get a really pretty finish looked I had my carpenter build me a dirty laundry pull-out drawer. It is the best and hides all the mess! A quartz countertop above the machines created a perfect folding station, and a deep utility sink now makes hand-washing and soaking easier. I LOVE the backsplash detail that we installed at the last minute. It really adds so much pretty detail to the laundry.

For the floors, we chose a durable checkered tile, which gives the room charm and texture without overwhelming the space. Then we added a fresh coat of paint (we went with Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray) makes the whole room feel light and airy. Last but not least, the floral vintage-style wallpaper brings all the finishes together! From the floor to the cabinet paint color to the cabinet knobs, this wallpaper is one of my favorite and I just love it so much!

To finish it off, I added a few personal touches—baskets for sorting, labeled glass jars for detergent, and a small art print to make it feel like a finished room, not just a workspace.

See Other Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray Projects:

Kitchen Renovation Project

Final Thoughts

Our laundry room renovation reminded me how much impact a well-designed utility space can have. It’s not just about pretty finishes—it’s about function and feeling. We now have a space that works with our busy lifestyle instead of against it.

Before I end, there are a few design elements I wish I did change. Pretty much everything is perfect in our laundry room, but I would have put in the extra dollars and added a finished turn on/turn off faucets for the washing machine for a really nice look. We went slightly over budget so I skipped on that feature, but it hides the water hoses and then we would of had a really finished look without the water hoses being exposed. The other design element is I would have chose a different light fixture. My mistake for not measuring the light fixture. I feel like it hangs too low and should be above the cabinet top. My contractor installed in before I saw it and I couldn’t return it. So, it’s with us for the next little while!

If you’ve been thinking about tackling a similar renovation in your home, my advice? Go for it! Even small updates like cabinetry, lighting, or smart storage can make a big difference.

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