Plus, reader-favorite pants for $25, patio dreams — and the tools to make them happen.

Saturday, February 28, 2026 • 3 min read

Right about now, most of us are ready to fling open the windows to air out a winter's worth of living. It's still a bit early for that, but we can start strategizing for the big spring cleaning to come.

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Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Hampton Bay via Home Depot, Noble House via Home Depot, Chakir Turkish Linens via Amazon

I'm getting ready to move, which is a not-so-subtle reminder that there are a few items I need to replace. The fun part: With the countdown to spring, the dream of kicking back on the patio and soaking up the sunshine to come will soon be a reality.

Inside: Now is our big chance to overhaul the living room. I'm picturing myself sprawled out on this classic sofa (save $520) from Pottery Barn that's good-looking enough for guests. Underfoot, it's time to retire our current floor covering. This pretty, popular area rug (29% off), which shoppers say looks far more expensive than it is, caught my eye, but I could be convinced to get this hand-tufted beauty from Quince.
En suite: Fluffy white towels are non-negotiable in my house — I'm adding this set to my cart and supplementing it with a few bath sheets for extra coverage. I also want to keep my bathroom sparkling, and I am giddy about pairing The Pink Stuff with this $20 handheld power scrubber from Rubbermaid that's basically an electric toothbrush for crevices.
Out back: A patio is in my future, and we're thinking about all the entertaining we can do with this easy-to-assemble firepit from Home Depot. It has a beautiful, all-around flame view and includes a grill top for cookouts. Of course, our guests will need a spot to plop down — this Adirondack chair looks sharp, so we're adding a few to the order for a complete set.

Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: GRACE KARIN via Amazon, ANRABESS via Amazon, Litfun via Amazon, Lee via Amazon

Yahoo readers want instant outfit wins — these are the picks they keep adding to their carts.

Cardi: For the unpredictable late-winter weather we're having, this popular $20 duster cardigan is giving Rachel Green with its flowy and flattering drape that looks great over jeans. Prefer pullovers? This light blue, lightweight V-neck is summoning early spring. It's also $20.
Scuffs: These memory foam slippers have mold-to-your-feet comfort, a faux-fur lining and a sturdy sole. They're a jaw-dropping $11 with the on-page coupon.
Slacks: Sweatpants are great for getting comfy on the couch, but polished is what you want when you leave the house — the Lee Ultra Lux Comfort Trouser Pants are the best of both worlds. They’re over 42% off ($25) for classic black.

Photo Illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Amazon, Kate Spade Outlet

I can't resist a fancy tote or fun gadgets that make things a little bit easier — and reasonable prices seal these deals.

Practical passport holder: This handy $17 travel must-have doubles as a wallet and features a secure AirTag slot so you can find it if you lose it on a cruise or overseas adventure.
Shoe stackers: These space savers can take a jumble of shoes and straighten them out into tidy pairs. They instantly double your space to make room for these cheetah-print sneakers from the Skechers end-of-season sale.
New tote: It doesn't take much imagination to picture this pebbled leather stunner from Kate Spade on my shoulder — it's 70% off. For something smaller, Amazon shoppers love this vegan leather option for $29.

Instead of walking every day (I try to avoid plantar fasciitis flare-ups), I tread water at my community pool while listening to an audiobook or podcast. Fellow treaders ask me about my earbuds — Tozo NC9s (nearly 50% off). They have an IPX8 waterproof rating, which means I can take them to the pool without worry.

The Checkout is written by Rachel Roszmann. Today's issue was copyedited by Kris Scott.