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The best way to help a family member or friend declutter their home is to hire a professional organizer or cleaner to do it for them. However, you can also help them make a plan to tackle the clutter. Sit down with them and sort through the items, making piles of what to keep, toss, and donate. Focus on one area at a time to avoid overwhelming them. If they have trouble letting go of some items, ask them when they last used each item, what its purpose is, and whether it has sentimental value. The answers to these questions can help you advise them on handling clutter.

To keep small appliances in good working order, clean them regularly, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines, inspect connections for wear, and avoid overloading circuits.

You can remove stubborn stains from your toilet by scrubbing with a store-bought cleaner appropriate for the toilet’s material. If you’re looking for a homemade solution, you can also use vinegar and baking soda—just pour 2 cups of white vinegar around the edges of your toilet. Once the bowl is wet with vinegar, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of baking soda, concentrating on the stains. Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and flush to clean the mixture. 

Just a note: While combining baking soda and vinegar is OK, never mix that solution with any other cleaners.

Whether a scullery is worth it depends on how much you like to cook and entertain. If you frequently host gatherings—a scullery is likely worth the money. If you’re looking for ROI, it’s not so clear. It may not add significant value to your home, as it doesn’t increase square footage and may repurpose space that a buyer would have preferred to remain as-is (like a laundry room).