It's 2025, and that means if you haven't already, it's time to get on board with smart home devices to make your life easier. If you've been dreaming of a smart robot vacuum and mop combo but the price tag has been a deterrent, you're in luck. Right now, you can get the SwitchBot S10 for $700 at Amazon, thanks to an on-page coupon that knocks $500 off the price. Just be sure to add the coupon to see the discount in your cart. See at AmazonCompatible with Alexa and Google Home, you can use voice commands to start and stop your vacuum and mop, or opt to control the device through the SwitchBot app. If you happen to already be part of the SwitchBot ecosystem, your products -- such as smart air quality monitors -- can all be linked through this app to really up your automated-home game.Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money.The SwitchBot vacuum and mop combo can switch between plush carpets and hardwood floors, and is effective on pet hair, dander, dust and more. However, the real beauty in this machine is its high-tech mopping function. It has a water station that can be connected to your home plumbing system, so it can refill and drain automatically without you needing to do any of the work. The mop cleans and then self-washes constantly, so it won't just spread muddy water all over your floors. Why this deal matters Regularly priced at $1,200, the SwitchBot S10 is on the pricier end as far as robot vacuums go. Saving a massive $500 puts this in the mid-range price category for these devices while still getting you a high-end machine. Looking for more options? Check out our roundup of best vacuum deals to see if there's another model on sale more suited to your needs. More shopping deals from CNET CNET is always covering a wide array of deals on tech products and much more. Start with the hottest sales and discounts on theCNET Deals page, and sign up for theCNET Deals Textto get daily deals sent straight to your phone. Add the freeCNET Shopping extensionto your browser for real-time price comparisons and cash-back offers. And peruse ourgift guide, which includes a full range of ideas for birthdays, anniversaries and more. See at CNET

A perfectly organized cooking area may seem like a myth, but it's never entirely out of reach. Smart storage and some savvy kitchen organization ideas can maximize efficiency and even save you precious meal prep time.Organizing kitchen cabinets by adjusting the shelves and using shelf risers takes patience, but being able to grab a dinner plate without moving the salad plates makes life so much easier, says Katie McMenamin Sabo, organization expert and co-founder of Pixies Did It in Cleveland, Ohio and New York City.Creating designated zones is what helps Shea McGee, home decor expert and founder at Studio McGee, keep the space organized. Shell sector off a prep zone near utensils and cutting boards and bundle dish soap, towels and sponges within arms reach of a cleaning station. By grouping items by function, the kitchen flows effortlessly, and everything feels intentional and easy to find, McGee tells AD.To help you free up pantries, kitchen cabinets, and other small spaces, we spoke with interior designers and organization experts about kitchen organization ideas that wont bog you down. Here are some step-by-step storage ideas and tips to help get you therealong with products that will make opening kitchen cabinets a dream.Step 1: Declutter the kitchenRemove packagingYoull be shocked at how much space all the boxes and bags of grain take up in your cabinets. Sorting food into airtight containers will clear shelving space, especially if youre a Costco fan and buy in bulk. Look for stackable storage containers and refill them after every grocery trip.Bentgo Pantry Airtight Food Storage Containers (10-Piece Set)Stackable storage containers can transform chaotic shelves into neat rows of pantry items.Designate spotsAll of our experts agree that creating zones and stations is crucial to having order in a kitchen. After all, knowing where napkins and towels belong makes it easier to keep them there. Geometric holders fit on countertops as seamlessly as they do on a dining table.Pottery Barn Tava Handwoven Napkin HolderA pretty rattan napkin holder sends a message that your kitchen is curated.Recycle old manuals and menusMany instruction manuals can be found online, and restaurant menus change too often to rely on a pamphlet from 2018. Recycle those papers after youve bookmarked the links or downloaded the files you need. If the menu is more nostalgic than usefulsay, a menu from the pizza place you and your partner loved in collegeit should be framed or otherwise displayed outside of a kitchen drawer anyway.Framebridge Georgetown Antique Fluted Gold FrameThis frame has all of the right touches to permanently house your heirloom ephemera.Take important files out of the kitchenWorking from home often becomes working from the kitchen table, but that isnt where you should be storing any important paperwork, like bills, neighborhood notices, or critical forms. Store those in any other room that isnt as prone to spills, liquids, and messes, and free up your kitchen counters or table. At the very least, pick up a file folder that will keep documents safe from spillage.Leather FolderA high-quality file folder will ensure that you know where your most important bits are at all times.Establish a needs-to-go bowlEvery trip to Whole Foods Market is another opportunity to see a slew of Amazon-approved sauces, snacks, and spices. But condiments and other fun foods can become a nightmare for pantry organization if you end up with a bunch of unopened or half-used snacks that arent on your usual rotation (looking at you, last three handfuls of Veggie Straws). Choose a bowl for the countertop and decree that everything in it has to be eaten up ASAP before anything new is bought.

Crafted in the Turkish city of Denizli, these plush bath towels are made of soft and downy 100% Turkish cotton and come in over 10 rich color options (were partial to the green!). The quality feels luxurious and stays rich to the touch over time, as one buyer notes in their review: They feel like towels from a posh hotel, they have worn well, looking as good now as the day we bought them. Another reviewer echoes the longevity of the towels, pointing out how the fibers dont ball up and that the seams hold steady through regular use.Other reviewers praise their size. Clocking in at a slightly oversized 27" x 54", this set of luxe Turkish towels pushes the real estate just over the edge into extra-large territory. One buyer wrote that its the optimal balance of big enough to swaddle yourself in post-shower, but not so big that they swallow you up.Best Budget Bath Towels: American Soft Linen Bath TowelsAmazonNashia BakerAmerican Soft Linen 100% Cotton Turkish Bath Towels (Set of 4)SpecsFive star reviews: 46,500+Size: Bath Towels: 27" x 54" inchesAbsorbency: 600 GSMUpsides & DownsidesUpsides: Typically on sale, available in 20 colors, plush feelDownsides: Might notice some discoloration over time with washesIve been using American Soft Linen bath towels for the last year, and let me tell you, they are the real deal, says AD senior commerce editor Nashia Baker. I bought the four-piece bath towel set in gray, and I immediately noticed how soft the towels felt as soon as I took them out of the packaging. Id recommend these for daily use, as theyre highly absorbent and come in 20 colors to choose from to match your bathroom design. These towels are made of 100% cotton for a plush feel, and theyre Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and made without any harmful chemicals, so those with sensitive skin can also rest easy.But dont just take our word for it. Washed well, and did not bleed, another reviewer adds. Used it and it is very soft and absorbent. Longtwo of us could wrap up in it. But, not so heavy that it was uncomfortable. I LIKE IT. Available for nearly 40% off, nows the time to shop these Amazon bath towels.Best Ultra Soft Bath Towels: White Classic Luxury Cotton Bath TowelsAmazonBlake BakkilaWhite Classic Luxury Cotton Bath TowelsSpecsFive-star reviews: 8,000+Size: 27" x 54"Absorbency: 700 GSMUpsides & DownsidesUpsides: Solid price point, High-quality feel, 14 different colors availableDownsides: Not as fluffy as some expectedThese luxury bath towels are Oeko-Tex certified and made from high-quality combed cotton, with that double-stitch edge we favor. My husbandand I registered for a set of luxury bath towels ahead of our September 2022 wedding, and experts say to swap them after two years, says AD contributor Blake Bakilla. With this deadlinein mind, and no wedding registry to lean on this time around, we ultimately decided to trust the thousands of happy reviewersabout these under-$50 best-sellers. We were surprised to see that these affordable towels were just as fluffy as our original set, and they've remainedplush after several washes.Perhaps the softest bath sheets on this list, their super-plush, luxurious feel also has other reviewers sold. One described their super-soft warmth as a calm to my perpetual existential crisis, while another compared them to luxury five-star hotel types of towels. And you can't really go wrong with basic white, can you?Best Luxury Bath Towels: Texere Organic Cotton Luxury Bath TowelsTexere Organic Cotton 4-Piece Luxury Bath Towel SetSpecsFive-star reviews: 500+Size: 58" x 13"Absorbency: 700 GSMUpsides & DownsidesUpsides: Unique patterns, super soft, absorbentDownsides: More expensive than other top picksIf you're looking for a little something more in terms of design, check out this loop terry pattern. It's available in more than 10 colors, Oeko-Tex certified, and you can choose between a diamond pattern (pictured) or a cable weave. Both patterns feature a low-twist terry cloth made of 100% organic cotton and a twill hem. They're a little pricier than the other towels on this list, but if you're looking for a specific aesthetic and this fits the bill, they're not too much of a splurge.Best Waffle Weave Bath Towels: Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Towel BundleCozy Earth Waffle Bath SheetsSpecsFive-star reviews: 70+ on Amazon and Cozy Earth's siteSize: 58" x 30"Absorbency: 600 GSMUpsides & DownsidesUpsides: Quick-drying, soft, aesthetically pleasing patternDownsides: Pricier than mostOur contributor Megan Wahn uses these bath towels and notes that they are a great all-around pick, especially because of their absorbency and versatility. The absorbency of the towel honestly felt abstract to me until I dunked a corner of it in a bowl of water to test how well it soaked up water, Wahn says. I could literally see as the parts of the towel that were not submerged soaked up the water, and it made me realize just how well this cotton could mop up liquid.Best Everyday Bath Towels: Brooklinen Super-Plush Turkish Cotton Bath TowelsBrooklinen Super-Plush Turkish Cotton Bath Towels (Set of 2)SpecsFive-star reviews: 34+ on Amazon, 2,400+ on Brooklinen's siteSize: 58" x 30"Absorbency: 550 GSMUpsides & DownsidesUpsides: Soft yet lightweight, held up well after several washes, larger than mostDownsides: Not the most absorbentAnother editor's pick coming at you! You might know Brooklinen for their legendary bed sheets, but they also make top-of-the-line bath towels from Oeko-Tex certified Turkish cotton that come in seven subtle shades. Now, onto the review. These are made from 100% Turkish cotton and feel very soft but not heavy, says Katherine McLaughlin, digital features editor. Id describe their plushness as overall average, but Brooklinen does have an extra plush option. I have the towels in white, so it really feels and looks like a towel you might find in a hotel.Best Patterned Bath Towels: Marimekko Unikko Terry Cotton Bath TowelMarimekko Unikko Terry Cotton Bath TowelSpecsFive-star reviews: 72Size: 59" x 28"Absorbency: 531 GSMUpsides & DownsidesUpsides: Energetic, playful designs in muted colorways and bolder hues, absorbent terry backing that gets softer with successive washesDownsides: May be too loud (in design) and thin (in fabric) for some shoppersMarimekkos graphic florals are an iconic way to dress up the bathroom. The cheery colorways (pink, red, beige, charcoal, and dark blue) are definite mood-lifters and wrapping up in one post-shower feels heavenly. Our associate commerce director Lori Keong vouches that the towels are on the thinner side but still absorbent, and that the plushy terry fabric feels exceptionally soft on skin. The patterns are ideal for anyone who doesnt like to dry off with boring towels. And there are also washcloths and hand towels, in case youre a fan of matching sets (though playing with different colors could be fun too, just saying).Oh, and just be sure to use the proper washing instructions, as one five-star reviewer found out the hard way. I made the huge mistake of washing the whole set (four towels) for the first time with a detergent that had fabric softener combined with it. I was soooooo disappointed when I took them out of the washing machine to find my towels [pilling all over.] I bought this towel (again) and washed it for the first time using a fabric strengthening detergent with cellulase enzymes. What a difference!6 Other Bath Towels on Amazon to Check OutCasa Copenhagen Ecstatic Towel SetSpecsFive-star reviews: 600+Size: 55" x 27"Absorbency: 600 GSMA classic striped design straddles that gray area between pattern! and ho-hum solid color. If you want something with a hint of personality thats not too polarizing, this super-plush towel set comes with two washcloths, two mid-size towels, and a pair of larger bath towels. The quality is fantastic, the drying time is no longer than [usual], and absorbency is great as long as you dont use fabric softener, says one reviewer. Every color Ive ordered has been spot on, and I have not noticed any real color fading after multiple washes. Sounds like these would have a nice, long life as your guest room go-tos.Tommy Bahama Bath Towel SetSpecsFive-star reviews: 300+Size: 54" x 30"We love waffle-textured cotton towels because theyre super absorbent and add some subtle pattern play into your bathroom. These Oeko-Tex Certified towels topped the list for many reviewers, but one in particular found a new perfect match: I read through hundreds of towel reviews until my head was spinning. I finally just bit the bullet and bought these, along with four other brands. These are tied for first place! the shopper exclaimed. In the end, these Tommy Bahama ones end up trumping some Brooklinen towels in the mix with their thick but not too thick texture.Bagno Milano Turkish Bath TowelsSpecsFive-star reviews: 1,700+Size: 57" x 27"Vibrant green can be just the pop of color a minimalist white space or nature-inspired powder room needs. This quick-drying, thick towel set feels downright decadent thanks to 100% Turkish cotton thats woven together using a spinning technology that results in an extra-plush finished product. They also offer a bit of a choose your own adventure design-wise, according to one reviewer, who said, The design is very modern and these look great hung up in the bathroomthe pattern is a little bit different on the other side so you can choose which look you like best (for decorative purposes). The shopper added that despite washing these countless times on a regular spin cycle, theyve held up well over the years with minimal wear and tear.Superior Egyptian Cotton 6-Piece Towel SetSpecsFive-star reviews: 3,000+Size: 52" x 30"Absorbency: 600 GSMA set of good quality white towels can be tough to come by, believe it or not. Each set comes with two hand towels, two face towels, and two bath sheets, all constructed with a durable and highly absorbent terry loop design. And if youre looking for a pop of color, this set comes in 14 other hues. Wow, I bought these towels because they were cheap and we have a towel-destroying parrot in the house. I wasn't expecting them to be so soft and fluffy and fabulous. Theres another cheap brand of towels I usually buy, but I skipped them to try these because theyre ivory and I am so glad I did, says one five-star reviewer. These are soooo fluffy, but theyre still absorbent.Utopia Towels Luxurious Jumbo Bath TowelsSpecsFive-star reviews: 35,000+Size: 70" x 35"Absorbency: 600 GSMIf you're of the bigger is better mindset, these are the ring-spun cotton towels for you. These large bath towels are the biggest on this list by far. In fact, they're not even bath towels, but bath sheets and live up to their jumbo name. Bought these for my 6'4" hubby because he can never wrap typical towels around himself comfortably. He absolutely loves them! one reviewer says. I honestly will probably replace all the towels with these eventually because even my kid loves how cozy they are. Available in 19 colors and made of plush viscose, you could use these at home or bring them to the beach in a pinch if needed.Sticky Toffee Cotton Turkish TowelSpecsFive-star reviews: 200+Size: 65" x 35"Theres a reason you see all of your most design-enthusiast friends packing a closet full of Turkish cotton towels. Theyre great for the bathroom, they make great beach blankets, and they stand up to pool chlorine. This towel has a dual design of sorts, as wellone side has a terry cloth texture for quicker drying. And on that note: Dries in [half] the time on the towel rack, says one five-star reviewer. Takes up less space in washer and dryer and dries quickly. Large and absorbent. Took a while to get used to a non-plush towel, but worth it.How We Chose These TowelsTo decide which bath towels were ideal for a wide range of shoppers, we considered a number of factors, below:

The pantry is a hot spot in any home. One no-fail way to keep this high-traffic area organized is by investing in the best pantry storage containers and organization systems that will both declutter and keep everything in its place.We do live in a world where choice is never-endingyou could spend literal days scrolling for the best options for your space. No one has time for that. Instead, we tapped five professional home organizers for expert advice and suggestions for storage solutions. We asked them how to keep everything in your pantry in order, including canned goods, condiments, cookware, spices, cereal, and more. Ahead, discover their pantry organization tips, hacks, and the pantry storage baskets and containers they rely on. And when your pantry is perfected, move right on to fridge organization, shoe storage, or any other area of your space that could use a tidy.Our Top Picks for Pantry Organization:Best Food Storage Containers: OXO Good Grips 8-Piece POP Container Baking Set, $66Best Turntable: Granny Says Wicker Lazy Susan Organizer, $20Best Large Capacity Storage Bins: Open Spaces Medium Wire Baskets, $72Best Door Organizers: Elfa Utility Large Mesh Over the Door Rack, $170Best Free-Standing Shelving System: Ikea Bror Shelving Unit, $80Best Clear Food Storage Container Set: The Home Edit Stacking Pantry Bins (Set of 4), $80We tapped five professional home organizers for expert advice on how to keep everything in your pantry in order, including canned goods, spices, cereal, and more. Ahead, discover their pantry organization tips and the pantry storage containers they rely on.1. Remove bulky packaging and place dry goods into clear containersTo immediately remove clutter and create a calm and collected aesthetic in your pantry, remove dry goods (like rice, pasta, and beans) and baking essentials (like brown sugar and flour) from the bulky boxes they came in. Once removed, Karine Bouganimthe owner of Karine OCDrecommends sorting these pantry items into tall glass canisters or other clear containers so you can see exactly whats inside. For increased uniformity put labels on the containers so you can easily identify each item.Gencywe Glass Storage Jars with Bamboo Lid (Set of 6)The bamboo lids on these glass jars make them look downright put-together. One of our favorite pantry organization ideas is streamlining materials to make a nice, cohesive scene.Laramaid 263 Minimalist Pantry Label SetYou can have that HGTV pantry of your dreams, and these chic labels are a big step in the right direction. Consider this an hour-long DIY project that will take your storage cabinets up 10 levels.OXO Good Grips 8-Piece POP Container Baking SetThe scoops in the larger containers make all the difference.2. Store individually packaged items in organizer binsRemove grab-and-go snacks from their packaging and place them in storage bins for easy access (and added texture) in your pantry. Fill these baskets with similar items, Jen Martin, founder of Reset Your Nest, advises. This will keep your pantry looking organized and make it easy to find exactly what youre looking for. Plus, its nice to see a touch of home decor behind closed doors.AOZITA Stackable Wire Basket with Bamboo Top (Set of 2)The bamboo tops on these baskets offer another (very welcome) surface for storage. Plus, the wire design makes it easy to see when youre running low on snacks or other necessities.Proland Recycled Wicker Storage Basket (Set of 4)Wicker has a delicious texture, and these baskets are perfect for packaged snacks that wont leave behind any mess.3. Use a lazy Susan to make everything accessibleA lazy Susan is the perfect solution for organizing bottled products, such as oils, dressings, and sauces in your kitchen pantry (and weve recommended these clever cabinet organizers before). The rotating feature makes everything accessible. Karine says, These will come in handy for so many loose items around the kitchen.Granny Says Wicker Lazy Susan OrganizerJust because its hidden inside of a pantry doesnt mean it cant sport some style. This wicker design could be pulled out for the table when youre serving a large crew.Auam Acacia Wood Lazy Susan OrganizerKeeping your lazy Susan low-profilemeaning there isnt a wall enclosing everythingmakes it easier to spot the thing youre looking for.4. Shelf risers help you maximize your shelf real estateInstead of stacking cans on top of one another on pantry shelves, utilize a shelf riser to double or triple the amount of space you have. Shelf risers are a game changer in a pantry, Karen Windholz, founder and professional organizer at Sort Toss Repeat, says. They allow you to see everything at glance, save space, and keep cans accessible in one location.Shelf risers are also super handy for storing spices. If you prefer to keep your spices out of sight, forego the usual countertop spice rack and try organizing your spices on a shelf riser inside your cabinet or pantry.YouCopia ShelfSteps Can Organizer, 3-ShelfThese will offer cute shelf at the vibey general store levels of style to your pantry.Songmics Cabinet Organizer Shelf (Set of 2)We fully stand behind giving your pantry organization system a color scheme.Greenbrier Kitchen Cabinet Organizer Rack (Set of 2)We like how these racks have the same vibe as industrial wire shelving. If youre working with a tiny pantry, these will melt into the background.5. Dont forget to also contain your back stockIf youre someone who likes to keep a back stock of kitchen items, youll definitely need a system of pantry storage containers. Annie Schmidt, founder of SOS Home Organization, advises using deep acrylic storage bins to house your back stock and immediately see what you have on hand. Theyre easily stackable, dishwasher safe, and keep you from purchasing too many of the same products.The Home Edit Stacking Pantry Bins (Set of 4)You could also use these to delegate different snacks to different family memberseach person gets their own bin, with a nice little label on front as a reminder.Hudgan Stackable Pantry Organizer Bins (Set of 8)These bins are also great for refrigerator organization if you want to stock up in one go.6. Use wire baskets for miscellaneous non-food itemsWire baskets are effective for organizing food storage products such as plastic storage bags, tin foil, and parchment paper. By placing not-so-aesthetically-pleasing storage items in baskets, youre able to keep the uniformity in your pantry and easily access them when you need to without totally concealing what you might need.Neat Method Grid BasketThe acacia base is removable, but it really comes in handy when youre working with packages or foods that need some help standing upright.Open Spaces Medium Wire Baskets (Set of 2)Pack these full of non-food goods like napkins, paper towels, and extra dishwashing supplies.Ajioda Metal Mesh Steel BasketIf you find yourself toting some ingredients, snacks, or foods in and out of the pantry more often than others, consider housing them in a basket with handles like this one.7. Pour cereal and other dry goods into cereal containersAnnie recommends emptying cereal into cereal dispensers (with airtight seals) to keep it from going stale and to create a more uniform look on the shelves. By removing unnecessary packaging, youll be able to easily see each type of cereal, and the storage containers will add a pop of color to your now well-organized pantry.Honey-Can-Do Bamboo Cereal DispenserIf you really want to get fancy (and you have the space), go all in on a fun dispenser for your favorite cereal.OXO Good Grips POP Cereal Dispensers with Airtight Lids (Set of 3)The contoured lids made pouring easy, even when the dispenser is filled to the brim.8. Adding dividers between different types of itemsWhether its because theyre too big or too small, sometimes baskets just wont do when it comes to separating whats in your pantry. If you want to use up all the space your shelves have to offer, then dividers might be the way to go for you. Set up a few on your shelf to separate your canned goods and boxes of pasta from your snacks.Roufa Clear Acrylic Shelf Dividers (Set of 4)Acrylic shelves offer subtle divisions between snack types, ingredient zones, or food items and cooking supplies.SSAWcasa Metal Shelf Dividers (Set of 8)These dividers are super easy to adjust as your pantry organization needs ebb and flow. And if you have too manyor you love them so much you want to use them wherever you canadd some to your closet.9. Dont overlook the pantry doorGet even more storage with a storage rack. These utilitarian wonders create storage space out of thin air. If youre in a rental, youll be happy to know you dont have to mount them, but can steady them over the door.Elfa Utility Large Mesh Over the Door RackThis system is customizable, which is nice if youre working with an awkwardly sized space or youre looking to split your pantry goods in a very specific manner. Type A personalities, buckle up for some fun.Moforoco 9-Tier Over The Door Pantry OrganizerThis organizer packs a ton of storage space into a small price tag.10. Add a step stool so your top shelves are easier to get toMake the most of your vertical space by keeping a step stool inside your pantry, that way youll always be able to get to those top shelves. Without easy access, harder to reach shelves can get overlooked (and become untidy). But with a step stool, getting to the top shelf is a breeze.Hasegawa Lucano Step StoolIf youre in the mood for the most stylish step ladder on the market, this aluminum investment piece is well worth it.Handy Laundry Foldable Step LadderHandling up to 330 pounds, the anti-slip steps and pedal are essential for making sure you dont take a tumble.11. Short on space? Get more kitchen storage with a freestanding cabinet or pantry unitIf you live in a smaller apartment that doesnt have a designated pantry or food storage space, Lahni Carneyfounder of Clutterless Home Solutionsrecommends purchasing a freestanding cabinet or pantry unit to maximize empty wall space. They can be placed against or built in your walls and save space in your kitchen cabinets for other items.IKEA Bror Shelving UnitA nice middle ground between utilitarian and styled, the sage green structure will set a calming vibe for your snack situation. Plus, its super durable.HomCom Traditional Freestanding Pantry CabinetThis more traditional cabinet has a wild amount of storage inside. The drawer is great for cutlery (and theres plenty of room for a set of drawer organizers too).On an organization kick? Check out all of our pro tips:59 Home Organization Ideas for a Tidier Space: Banish clutter so you can actually show off your beautiful interior designs33 Best Closet Organization Ideas to Maximize Space and Style: Whether you have a walk-in closet or a small space, these storage solutions are proven to make dressing that much easierEssential Home Organization Tips to Follow When You Move Into a New House: A room-by-room guide to unpacking the smart way48 Desk Organization Ideas to Clear Up Your WFH Space: Learn how to hide tangled cables, organize scattered paper, and make your home office an island of productivity19 Jewelry Organization Ideas for Your Most Delicate Treasures: Experts help you declutter a messy bijoux box and find storage solutions for necklaces and other accessories7 Organization Hacks That Will Transform Your Messy Home: No need to get rid of clutterfind a good spot for it instead47 Kitchen Organization Ideas That Declutter Cabinets, Countertops, and More: Storage solutions that work for small kitchens and spacious open-concept spaces alike23 Fridge Organization Tips to Make Meal Prep a Breeze: Organization experts chime in with the best fridge storage on the market31 Garage Storage Ideas to Maximize and Organize the Space: You can store so much more than just your car5 Home Organization and Cleaning Tips for Hibernation Season: Because fresh starts arent exclusive to springtime

SpaceX is significantly upping the ante of its Starship test flight program, with the next rocket launch expected to demonstrate payload deployment for the first time.The payload in question will be 10 Starlink simulators that will be similar in size and weight to the next-gen satellites SpaceX plans to use Starship to deploy in space. These model spacecraft will travel on the same trajectory as the upper stage, which is also called Starship, and splash down in the Indian Ocean.The operational version of these satellites, called V3, will likely be the first real payloads Starship flies. Indeed, bringing Starship online is the linchpin to SpaceXs plans to more rapidly deploy its Starlink satellite constellation and reduce the costs per satellite launched. SpaceX currently launches Starlink using its workhorse Falcon 9 rocket, but the next-gen V3 satellites are expected to be much heavier than the current V2 Mini spacecraft. Thanks to Starships incredible payload capacity, SpaceX has said it plans to deploy 60 V3 satellites per Starship launch, which will add 60 terabits per second of capacity to the Starlink network.Per satellite, that equals out to more than 10 times the downlink and 24 times the uplink capacity compared to the V2 Mini satellites.In a blog post ahead of the seventh test launch, which is expected to take place later this month, the company said it is also introducing a slew of upgrades to the rocket. These include improvements to the propulsion system, avionics, and heat shield, that SpaceX says will boost reliability and performance. During this test, SpaceX will also attempt to catch the Super Heavy booster, a feat that the company accomplished for the first time during the fifth test in October.Topics

Dara Khosrowshahi is resigning from the board of autonomous vehicle technology company Aurora Innovation, citing a desire to focus on his ongoing responsibilities as CEO of Uber and reduce external board commitments, according to a Friday regulatory filing.Khosrowshahis resignation was effective as of Tuesday. Aurora says Khosrowshahis decision to leave the board was not the result of any disagreement with the company.The Uber chief executive and Aurora Innovation go way back. In 2020, Uber offloaded its own self-driving unit, Uber ATG, to Aurora. The deal at the time involved Uber handing over its equity in ATG and investing $400 million into Aurora, giving it a 26% stake in the combined company.Khosrowshahi joined Auroras board as part of the deal. Through Uber Freight, Ubers freight brokerage platform that connects shippers and carriers, the ride-hail and delivery giant maintained its connection with Aurora. In June, Uber and Aurora announced a multi-year collaboration to put trucks powered by Auroras technology on the Uber Freight network.Ubers relationship with Aurora, however, is not exclusive. The company also has a deal with Waabi, the self-driving truck startup founded by Raquel Urtasun, who had previously served as chief scientist and head of R&D at Uber ATG.

Friday, December 27, was supposed to be the start of a relaxing holiday weekend.But it was chaos for thousands of small business owners who use Bench, an accounting and tax startup based in Canada that raised $113 million from investors like Bain Capital Ventures and Shopify.That morning, they found themselves unable to log into their accounts right as tax season was starting. Benchs entire website was offline except for a notice that Bench had shut down after 13 years of operation.Benchs hundreds of staff found themselves laid off effective immediately without any severance or notice, multiple ex-employees told TechCrunch. Emails TechCrunch sent to employees that day bounced back.The move was so sudden that one customer who kept years of data on Benchs website, and was even featured on its front page before it went offline, learned of the shutdown only when TechCrunch called him for a reaction.I was not aware of that, Justin Metros, co-founder of Radiator, said. Ive never seen anyone just shut down like that. Thats crazy.Benchs automation strugglesBench portrayed itself as a tech-forward bookkeeping and tax startup with an intuitive platform that any small or mid-size business could use. It claimed more than 12,000 customers by the time it shut down. One reason for the companys struggles was a push to embrace AI and other automation tools in recent years, according to some staffers.It turns out that its simpler to automate accounting tasks, like categorizing expenses, in theory than in practice, former staff told TechCrunch. One former employee claimed the only way Bench could scale was AI, but its execution was flawed and the tools it built didnt work properly. Overreliance on these tools, sometimes at the expense of human bookkeepers, caused delays, with books passed around different teams instead of staying with one staffer.Those delays caused some customers to quit. One former employee told TechCrunch some customers were still waiting for their 2023 books in September 2024, well past key tax deadlines.According to the former staffers, Bench went through multiple rounds of layoffs starting in late 2022. By the end of 2024, less than 400 people said they worked at Bench on LinkedIn, compared to almost 700 in January 2023.Tumult at the topExecution issues were compounded by tumult in Benchs executive suite. Benchs first CEO, co-founder Ian Crosby, left in 2021 a few months after Bench raised a $60 million Series C round. Crosby accused unnamed board members of forcing him out to be replaced by a professional CEO after he disagreed with strategic decisions.I hope the story of Bench goes on to become a warning for VCs that think they can upgrade a company by replacing the founder. It never works, Crosby wrote in a LinkedIn post after the sudden shutdown.Benchs second CEO was Jean-Philippe Durrios, who had previously served as CFO. He focused on making the company profitable, according to former staff. Automation could, in theory, make Bench rely less on costly human labor to service its many customers. But the gambit didnt work amid execution issues, customer churn, and waning investor interest in non-AI-related companies.Bench switched CEOs yet again in November 2024, bringing in Adam Schlesinger, an executive-in-residence at VC firm Inovia Capital, one of Benchs investors.By that point, a decision was made to sell the company, according to Schlesinger, a former Microsoft executive who also recently served as the president of a tequila company, Siempre Tequila.I was put in place by Inovia capital and then took the company through a process to go get acquired, Schlesinger told TechCrunch. They needed somebody to steer the ship through what is a hard process.An unlikely revivalThat process didnt pan out. On December 27, Bench abruptly shut down without giving its employees any notice or severance, multiple former staff told TechCrunch. The move was forced by a bank calling in Benchs venture debt, The Information reported. Bench had continued making sales right up to the day of the shutdown, according to a former employee.The shutdown sparked a rash of media attention in the US and Canada. Ironically, its that attention which saved Bench, Schlesinger told TechCrunch.It was only after we shut down that all the P.R., including from you guys, basically made the world aware that we were for sale, and we had some great interest after that, Schlesinger said.I havent slept in 72 hours, Schlesinger admitted.The acquirers were unconventional. Jesse Tinsley, the CEO of Employer.com, an HR tech firm based in San Francisco, was on vacation in Florida when he saw the news about Bench a day after the public shutdown. Tinsley, who runs a host of HR and recruiting-related businesses, had only bought the Employer.com domain name for about $450,000 a month before, he posted on LinkedIn.Tinsley and his team spent the next 36 hours hammering out a deal. By Monday morning, Employer.com had officially announced its planned acquisition of Bench for an undisclosed price.I had never formally met anyone on the Bench team until Saturday afternoon, Tinsley later tweeted, sharing the infamous photo of Elon Musk carrying a sink into Twitter, only with his face and a bench photoshopped into the image. Nonetheless we saved hundreds of jobs and thousands of customers being left in a huge lurch.Uncertainty remainsEmployer.com is making big promises about reviving Bench. To start, it is re-extending job offers to a large number of former Bench staff, Bench Chief People Officer Jennifer Bouyoukos told TechCrunch.It also says it will honor customer contracts and fully service their accounts, Tinsley tweeted. Benchs initial shutdown notice recommended its clients file for a six-month extension with the IRS to find a new bookkeeper. Now, Bench isnt recommending extensions as long as customers decide to stay on.But there are uncertainties remaining around Benchs sustainability, given its last-minute fire sale.Acquisitions typically take months and require extensive due diligence, which would be impossible to conduct over a holiday weekend. Employer.com also had no direct experience in accounting until the Bench acquisition instead, it focuses on payroll, recruiting, and other HR-related fields. If Benchs downfall shows anything, its that accounting is its own beast.There are also concerns about whether customers will have access to the same quality of service, given the sudden firing of all of Benchs staff on December 27. Although many staff are being hired back, at least some are being offered only 30-day contracts, three former employees told TechCrunch.In response, Employer.coms Chief Marketing Officer, Matt Charney, told TechCrunch that while the deal happened quickly, it involved multiple legal firms and Employer.com feels very very comfortable with Benchs reputation and track record. On Employer.coms lack of prior accounting experience, Charney says that Bench was acquired for its people, experience, and customers, who can help us acquire that expertise very, very quickly. Employer.com declined to comment specifically on the 30-day contracts as of press time.

Gym Environment | Samuel Girven via UnsplashGyms are hotspots for germs and bacteria, meaning maintaining a clean gym can be the difference between attracting and losing clients. If you run a large commercial gym, the first important decision is who and how to clean your gym. Whether its the ceiling or the floor, each surfaces cleanliness is crucial to your businesss success. Below, well examine five expert tips for maintaining a pristine gym environment and a successful business.Choose a Reliable Cleaning CompanyInvesting in reliable, professional cleaning for gyms begins with defining your cleaning needs. Understanding what you want makes choosing the right company that aligns with those needs easier. For instance, if you want a company with some of its staff working full-time on your premises, you must define that need and go for companies that can deliver.Every cleaning company specializing in gyms and fitness centers follows a specific cleaning routine and offers specific services based on its capabilities and expertise. Besides experience, licensure, and good online reviews, check if the company covers the services you need, like vacuuming, gym sanitization, and any other extra services you may request.Give Special Attention to High-Traffic AreasDirt and germs thrive in your gyms high-traffic areas. To maintain a pristine gym, you must pay special attention to these areas to ensure members always have an inviting, clean exercise space. Ensure you describe the key target areas to the cleaning team during the first briefing and ask that they clean those spots with precision and thoroughness.Cardio zones, entryways, and weightlifting areas are the most common high-traffic areas to include in your list. Before the next cleaning, ensure the right cleaning products and sanitization methods are used in these areas to keep them clean and healthy for a long time.Declutter and Clean Locker Rooms and RestroomsDepending on how your gym is designed, every member gets a dedicated space whenever they come for their sessions. If their locker rooms are littered with clutter and disorganized items, members might lose interest in your gym and even cancel their membership. The situation worsens if the restrooms are not maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness.Ensure the locker rooms and restrooms are cleaned daily and any clutter is put in its rightful place or disposed of. Prioritize regular disinfection of handles, lockers, and benches to minimize the spread of germs. Decluttering lockers occasionally may also help eliminate unpleasant odors and maintain a fresh environment.Before opening the gym, ensure that soap dispensers, paper towel dispensers, and hand dryers are refilled or functioning optimally. Disinfect and clean sinks, toilets, and restroom surfaces daily to maintain high cleanliness standards for an irresistible gym.Create Some Rules for Members Brett Jordan via Unsplash Labib Jaffar via UnsplashWhile its your role as the owner to ensure members find a clean gym for workouts, its the members role to keep it clean. Create basic rules for gym etiquette, including how members should handle litter in the gyms common and private areas. Remind them of the importance of using litter bins for waste disposal and create a list of things allowed and not allowed in certain gym areas.Even if your gym is spick and span, if members leave gyming equipment scattered on the floor after use, the place might look unsightly for members coming in after them. Remind each member to pick up items after use and return them to their rightful places to ensure order and tidiness.Incorporate Green Cleaning PracticesAny consistent efforts you make toward achieving eco-friendly cleaning practices will go a long way in reducing your ecological footprint. You can incorporate green cleaning practices in your gym in several ways:Implement green cleaning techniques such as energy-efficient equipment or microfiber cloths, which minimize water and energy usage during cleaning.Use eco-friendly cleaning products that are non-toxic, biodegradable, and derived from natural ingredients to offer a safer gyming environment for members and reduce environmental impact.Encourage recycling within your gym to minimize waste generation. You can install waste recycling bins categorized as biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste so members can help with the categorization and collection of waste for easy recycling.As a gym owner, your primary focus should be to provide a conducive environment for your members to work out and achieve their desired body and health goals. Maintaining a clean gym ensures they achieve their dreams with minimal strain while you gain higher returns on your investment. Use these tips to improve your gyms hygiene and start attracting more long-term clients into your business.GymnasiumsTips Leave a comment

Finlandia Hall, a 1971 concert venue designed by Alvar Aalto on the banks of Helsinki, reopens to the public this weekend. The ribbon cutting comes after a three year renovation helmed by Arkkitehdit NRT, a local office. The new and improved Finlandia Hall has features it previously did not: A restaurant and wine cafe, exhibition space, a design shop, and even two hotel rooms open for booking by tourists and Finnish citizens alike. The concert hall annually draws 200,000 visitors and this latest round of improvements is essential for helping the institution double that in 2025.The renovated concert hall can now accommodate double the number of annual visitors. (Tuomas Uusheimo)The building is owned by the City of Helsinki. Arkkitehdit NRT took special care upgrading Finlandia Halls white clad facade, and the Aalto interiors and furnishings. Where new construction took place, the renovation architects painstakingly stayed close to the original buildings qualities and idiosyncrasies.In the cafe large windows afford expansive views out to the surrounding landscape. (Riikka Kantinkoski)Soon, Finlandia Hall will host events, concerts, congresses and meetings of all sizes. And, for some tourists, theres a new opportunity to spend the night at Finlandia Hall. Two apartments, dubbed Finlandia Homes, inside the complex previously used for staff accommodation, have been restored for booking, replete with original midcentury artworks. Theres also Finlandia Bistro, a restaurant which pays tribute to Alvar Aaltos love for Italy, officials added. At Finlandia Bistro, the furniture selection and material palette pays homage to canonical project where it was built. Aalto used Carrera marble in Finlandia, as tie to Mediterranean culture.Finlandia Bistro pays tribute to Alvar Aaltos love for Italy. (Riikka Kantinkoski)Finlandia Homes were decorated in respect to Aaltos style and furnished with Artek classics and the buildings original furniture, making them perfect for admirers of design and cultural heritage, officials shared.Two apartments were restored at Finlandia Hall, which are now available for tourists to stay overnight. (Tuomas Uusheimo)This June, a permanent exhibition will be installed that experientially tells the story of Alvar Aaltos, Aino Aaltos and Elissa Aaltos architectural and creative diversity, Finlandia Hall added. The exhibition offers an opportunity to gain deep insight into Alvar Aaltos legacy and design principles, as well as their influence on modern architecture and Finnish design.The reopening comes amid a wave of excitement in Helsinki, after five shortlisted proposals for Finlands New Museum of Architecture and Design were shared with the public last month.

This large, brick gambrel-roofed Colonial home in West Goshen, Connecticut, was built over decades beginning before the American Revolution and has remained in the same family ever-since! In 1767, Captain Jabez Wright (1737-1813) married Martha Baldwin of Goshen, and began constructing this farmhouse of brick. When the war broke out, he fought in New York, he also served as captain of a company of Connecticut militia, turning out to repel the British forces at New Haven. He would largely complete the home by 1787, and ultimately died in 1813. After successive ownership of generations of the Wright family, the property was owned by Henry G. Wright (1831-1917), a farmer who represented Goshen in the state legislature and held many town positions. The first Methodist sermons in town were also held in the home. Henry Wright died at 86 years old on this property, after being attacked by a bull. When entertaining guests, he showed others a prized bull, and possibly fell into the pen, and was trampled and attacked. The Wright Homestead is unique for its brickwork with bonds and burned headers, resembling many Colonial-era homes in Virginia, but this house can be found on the back roads of Goshen, Connecticut!