While we're getting back to basics this month here at The Kitchn, we wanted to take a look at maintaining wood dining tables. It's probably the most common material amongst dining tables, and it can take a hefty chunk of change to buy a nice wooden table. So it goes without saying that we'd all like our tables to look good and serve their functions for a long time to come. Let's take a look at the basics: More

We know from this post that The Kitchn readers are divided when it comes to guests helping out in the kitchen during a party. But what about the washing up afterwards? Do you gladly accept an offer to help or are you happy to do it on your own, in peace and quiet? More

All over California and Florida, citrus trees laden with oranges, lemons and grapefruits are bursting with color this time of year. Even if you don't live in one of these locales, there's no need to be envious — you can still bring these cheery fruits into your kitchen with these citrus-inspired accessories! More

Do you have stone countertops or know someone who does? They're pretty to look at, but can absorb stains easily. Looking for an inexpensive way to remove that accidental spill? Look no further than your flour jar! More

"Clean as you go" is a piece of cooking advice I took to heart years ago, so when I'm in the kitchen with someone who doesn't follow the same principles, my stress levels rise and I start looking around desperately for a sponge. Are you the same way? More

The kitchen is the heart and center of the home — but it gets dirty fast. (Cleaning up is the downside to cooking at home!) If neglected, aside from basic washing up and wiping down, the kitchen can get out of hand very quickly. But forget weekend cleaning marathons — you can deep-clean the kitchen from top to bottom (and keep it clean!) in only 20 minutes a day.

Here is a 30-day plan that will help you clean your kitchen in manageable chunks of time — and keep it gleaming clean without those hours of toil on the weekend. (We even have a handy PDF you can print out and tack on the fridge to remind you!) More

I love my dish scrubbers, but they can be tricky to find homes for on the sink. Even in the cutest container they still just look like a dish brush. Hide them out of sight while still giving them room to breathe and dry properly. Check out this simple tip for renters and home owners alike. More

Q: I borrowed a Bialetti stovetop espresso maker from my neighbor to try it out before I bought one, and (not my brightest move) put it in the dishwasher. When it came out the shiny finish was gone and it's now a dull gray.

I don't want to return it to my neighbor like this — does anyone know of a way I can get the shine back?

Sent by Sue More

Last week hurricane-force winds swept through Los Angeles, causing a 25-hour power outage in our neighborhood. Fortunately, we didn't suffer much (in fact, it was a rather enjoyable time) but as the hours ticked by, we did worry about the foods in our refrigerator and freezer. We knew that meats and a pan of leftover lasagna would have to go, but what about things like fruit juice and eggs? More

Cookie baking should be fun and festive, not stressful and harried. To ensure this is always the case, prep your pantry and spice cupboard so they're sorted and stocked for the holiday season. More