myHOMEBOOK

myHOMEBOOK Editorial Team Reports: These 5 Things You Don’t Need in a Nursery

Laura Kästner — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 03:19:00 -0400

]]> For expectant parents, the first child is a truly special adventure. It’s understandable that they want to consider everything and ensure every detail is thought through. Especially when it comes to the baby’s room and equipment, parents want to get everything right—from the right clothing for the child to care products and furniture. The moms from the myHOMEBOOK editorial team name five products that are initially unnecessary in the baby’s room.

Plant Knowledge: 11 Ground Covers That Thrive in the Shade

Katharina Petzholdt — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 07:31:00 -0400

]]> Even shady spots in the garden can be attractively planted, for example, with ground covers. These low-growing plants fill open spaces, suppress weeds, and ensure that even challenging locations under trees, shrubs, or on the north side of buildings look appealing. Which types are suitable depends primarily on the light and soil conditions. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Katharina Petzholdt presents eleven ground covers that green shady areas in various ways, depending on whether the soil is more dry or moist. This way, you can find a suitable and low-maintenance solution for almost every shady garden corner.

Little Money, Big Impact: How to Design a Balcony That’s Both Affordable and Cozy

greta.muelverstedt@axelspringer.com — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 09:43:00 -0400

]]> For many, the balcony is the most important place in the apartment. As an extended living room, it offers space for relaxation, gardening, or social summer evenings. However, furnishing it doesn’t always require expensive concepts. myHOMEBOOK shows how to design the balcony affordably and comfortably.

Weekly cleaning: Most People Forget to Clean These 4 Spots in the Bathroom

Lena Hackauf — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 05:07:59 -0400

]]> The bathroom is used daily and is also a place where moisture, lime deposits, and germs can easily accumulate. Even if everything appears clean, numerous bacteria can gather on surfaces, in joints, or hard-to-reach corners. A thorough cleaning once a week is therefore recommended. Not only should the toilet, sink, and bathtub be considered, but also other areas and items that are often forgotten.

Consulting the Experts: These 4 Renovations Can Negatively Impact Home Sales

Laura Kästner — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 00:47:00 -0400

]]> Owning a house or apartment can be a sensible and lasting investment, especially with rising real estate prices and high demand. Those looking to further increase the value of their property often consider various renovations before selling. However, not all of these will boost the property’s value. In fact, some involve significant legal effort–and sometimes even unattractively high costs for the buyer. myHOMEBOOK presents five renovations that do not necessarily increase the sales value for owners.

Microhouses: Can you just set up a tiny house in your garden?

Lars Lubienetzki — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 11:14:14 -0400

]]> Tiny House refers to a type of living space ranging from 25 to 60 square meters. Why the term is misleading and what the legal situation in Germany looks like, myHOMEBOOK inquired with the Federal Association of Microhouses.

Good to Know: The Pumpkin Grows Over to the Neighbor’s Yard–Can He Keep It?

Franka Kruse-Gering — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 09:27:00 -0400

]]> Pumpkins can grow to impressive sizes in the garden. With their long vines, they often don’t stop at the property line but grow through the fence onto the neighbor’s property. Sometimes the entire fruit is on the other side. This raises an intriguing question: Who actually owns the pumpkin? The person who planted it, or the neighbor on whose property the fruit lies? myHOMEBOOK consulted a lawyer.

Due to rising temperatures: Will Buildings Soon Be Constructed Without Glass Facades?

Daniela Matsuzaki — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:58:00 -0400

]]> Large window fronts and light-filled rooms have long been the hallmark of modern single-family homes. But with rising temperatures, these building concepts alone are often no longer sufficient. Two experts show what to consider when building a house and which solutions can create a pleasant indoor climate in the long term.

Expert Explains: Can a washing machine really be cleaned with a dishwasher tablet?

Felix Mildner — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 11:24:22 -0400

]]> To ensure your washing machine reliably delivers clean laundry, it should be cleaned regularly. Over time, dirt, limescale, and detergent residues accumulate in the drum and other components. A supposedly simple cleaning trick is circulating online: a dishwasher tablet is said to make the machine clean in no time. But is there any truth to this life hack? myHOMEBOOK asked an expert.

Vacation Time: Washing Laundry on Vacation? Here’s How to Do It Without a Machine

Franka Kruse-Gering — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 09:19:00 -0400

]]> Anyone who travels for an extended period knows the problem: After a few days, fresh T-shirts, socks, or underwear become scarce. While many vacation spots offer laundromats or hotel laundry services, both cost time and often money. With the right preparation, however, clothing can be easily washed and dried by yourself. This way, a small travel bag is often enough for several weeks of vacation.

Increasingly Spotted: If you spot this praying mantis in your garden, you should be pleased.

Mareike Schmidt — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 04:51:37 -0400

]]> The European mantis was once considered a rare exotic in Germany. Now, the striking predatory insect is spreading further and is being spotted outside its traditional habitats. Recent reports indicate that the chance of encountering the insect is increasing. myHOMEBOOK explains how common the mantis is in this country, what to look for when spotting one, and why garden owners should welcome its presence.

Trick From the Internet: Can Yeast Really Clean a Toilet?

Franka Kruse-Gering — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:11:25 -0400

]]> Some internet hacks seem absurd at first glance. Toothpaste for scratches, cola for descaling, or baking soda as an all-purpose cleaner. Some of these tips actually work, while others hardly do. Currently, an unusual toilet trick is gaining attention: Instead of using toilet cleaner or vinegar, simple baking yeast is said to ensure a clean toilet. Online, it’s claimed that yeast, along with a bit of sugar, can dissolve limescale deposits and reduce unpleasant odors. But is there more to this trick than just a viral household hack? myHOMEBOOK explains how the method is supposed to work and whether it actually does.

Upcycling: Many People Throw Away Old T-shirts, but They Can Be Surprisingly Useful in the Garden

Marike Stucke — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 08:52:33 -0400

]]> What is no longer needed in the household can still serve many purposes in the garden. Old T-shirts, bed sheets, or fabric scraps can be used as plant protection, moisture retainers, or natural weed barriers. Instead of being discarded, these materials gain a new function and help reduce waste. myHOMEBOOK presents eight simple ways to repurpose them in the garden.

Otherwise, it smells unpleasant!: How Long Wet Laundry Can Stay in the Washing Machine

Felix Mildner — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 07:00:53 -0400

]]> The laundry is done, but instead of going on the drying rack, it stays in the drum for a while. This happens to many people in everyday life. But how long can wet laundry actually stay in the washing machine before odors or germs become a problem? An expert explains when action is needed.

For a High Yield: What to Consider When Pruning Grapevines

Katharina Petzholdt — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 00:10:00 -0400

]]> Where a grapevine grows, the pruning shears are never far away. Grapevines need to be pruned to achieve good yields and to keep the vigorously growing plant under control. myHOMEBOOK reveals what is important when pruning grapevines and what to watch out for.

Trend in Transition: Why Open Shelves Are Gradually Disappearing

Mareike Schmidt — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 00:43:00 -0400

]]> Few design trends have shaped kitchens and living spaces in recent years as much as open shelving. Open shelves were seen as the epitome of a modern, airy living style. Instead of heavy upper cabinets, simple wooden shelves or delicate metal constructions moved in, providing a place for beautiful dishes, glasses, and decorative favorites. Inspired by Scandinavian living concepts and perfectly staged social media images, open living appears effortless, stylish, and personal. However, a shift is now emerging.

Less Impact Than Expected: These Heat Hacks Don’t Help

greta.muelverstedt@axelspringer.com — Sat, 08 Aug 2026 00:22:00 -0400

]]> Temperatures are rising significantly again, and the longing for cooling off is growing. Especially in the heat, numerous tips and hacks are circulating. However, some of them are far less helpful than expected. myHOMEBOOK shows which supposed cooling aids are of little use.

Tips for Moving In: Setting Up Your First Apartment: 8 Mistakes to Avoid

Mareike Schmidt — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 10:51:43 -0400

]]> Moving into your first apartment is a major milestone. Finally, you can set up everything according to your own preferences. However, this freedom often leads to common decorating mistakes. Due to budget constraints, people improvise, buy furniture spontaneously, and leave decoration for last. The result is often a furnished apartment that feels chaotic, uncomfortable, or unbalanced. myHOMEBOOK reveals the typical mistakes made when furnishing a first apartment and how to do it better.

Garden Knowledge: These 4 Mistakes in Cucumber Harvesting Hurt the Harvest

Franka Kruse-Gering — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 05:37:24 -0400

]]> Cucumbers are among the most popular vegetables in the garden. No wonder: They are refreshing, healthy, and, with proper care, yield a high harvest. However, many hobby gardeners make mistakes during harvesting that not only affect the quality of the fruits but can also weaken the plant. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering explains what is important when harvesting cucumbers and which mistakes you should avoid.

Tips: These Ingredients Make Homemade Ice Cream Really Creamy

Carolin Chytrek — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 01:01:00 -0400

]]> Summer is ice cream season: When the thermometer is blazing and being outside becomes unbearable, homemade ice cream is probably the best solution. However, amateur ice cream makers often hit a wall when their ice cream machine produces a batch full of ice crystals. The cause is usually not the technique. myHOMEBOOK reveals what to watch out for when making ice cream at home.

Gardening Expert Reveals: How to Make an Aloe Vera Bloom

Franka Kruse-Gering — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 07:28:00 -0400

]]> Aloe vera is considered an easy-care houseplant. Many know it for its healing gel, but few have seen its flowers. Under the right conditions, this succulent can develop an impressive flower spike with yellow, orange, or reddish tubular flowers. However, it requires some patience and proper care. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering explains how to get Aloe vera to bloom.

Mites, Sweat, Skin Flakes: How Often Should You Really Wash Your Bedding? The Answer May Surprise You

Laura Graichen — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 04:57:58 -0400

]]> Freshly washed bed linens not only feel pleasant but also contribute to a hygienic sleeping environment. Night after night, the body sheds skin flakes, absorbs sweat, and leaves other residues in the textiles. To keep the bed a clean and comfortable retreat, bed linens should be changed regularly. But how often is this actually necessary? myHOMEBOOK has the answer.

Choice of Materials: Travertine, Marble or Terrazzo? Which Stone Requires Less Maintenance in the Home

Mareike Schmidt — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 00:22:00 -0400

]]> Natural stone and mineral surfaces have been experiencing a real boom for years. While travertine is considered the epitome of Mediterranean elegance, marble stands for timeless luxury, and terrazzo is making a comeback as a versatile design classic. But which stone is actually suitable for everyday use, and what are the pros and cons?

Mobile Construction Assistant: 8 Apps That Make Every Setup and Renovation Easier

Carolin Chytrek — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 07:14:00 -0400

]]> Regular renovations not only maintain a property’s value but often create an entirely new living experience. However, those without a keen sense for color schemes, material combinations, and optimal room effects can quickly reach their limits during remodeling or modernization projects. These clever apps are mobile helpers for furnishing and renovation.

Natural Protection: These Carnivorous Plants Help With Fruit Flies

greta.muelverstedt@axelspringer.com — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:47:00 -0400

]]> In hot weather, fresh fruit can be the ideal snack for in between meals. Unfortunately, fruit flies often enjoy fruit baskets too, quickly becoming a nuisance, especially in the summer months. To get rid of these insects, you don’t always need a long list of home remedies. Carnivorous plants can also help keep fruit flies away. myHOMEBOOK shares which types are suitable for a fruit fly infestation and how to use them.