Washer-and-dryer setups are common in many NYC homes, but whether you can add (or use) them in your apartment depends on your landlord’s policies, your building’s infrastructure, and the physical constraints of your unit. If you’re exploring in-unit laundry, start with the practical questions: Are hookups allowed? Is there space? And what installation approvals are required?

1) NYC rules: what’s allowed (and what’s not)

In New York City, whether you can have laundry in your unit is usually governed less by a single “citywide ban” and more by a combination of local building requirements, your lease, and building management rules. Many apartment buildings allow in-unit machines when plumbing and electrical connections already exist—or when installation is approved by the building/landlord.

If your apartment does not already have hookups, adding them typically requires permission and professional work. In co-op a ... Read more »

Knowing how long leftovers last in the fridge can help prevent foodborne illness and reduce waste. While exact timing varies by ingredients and how the food was handled before cooling, the ranges below reflect widely used food-safety guidance for refrigerator storage at about 40°F (4°C) or colder.

Quick rule of thumb

Most cooked leftovers should be eaten within 3–4 days. When in doubt, when it smells “off,” looks slimy, or you’re unsure how long it’s been stored, it’s safest to throw it out.

Food-by-food fridge chart

Use this as a practical reference for common leftover categories:

• Cooked meat (beef, pork, lamb, veal): 3–4 days
• Cooked poultry (chicken, turkey): 3–4 days
• Cooked fish/seafood: 3–4 days
• Cooked egg dishes (scrambled, omelets, frittatas): ... Read more »

When your refrigerator starts acting up, a technician visit can feel stressful—especially if you’re unsure what to prepare. The good news: with a little planning, you can help the technician troubleshoot faster, avoid repeat trips, and minimize food loss.

Clear access and protect the area

Start by making sure the technician can reach the fridge and relevant connections safely. Pull the unit away from walls if possible (enough for access, not so much that you strain the water line or power cord). Remove clutter around the back, sides, and beneath the refrigerator so tools and work space are available.

If your fridge has a water supply line, confirm you can access the shutoff valve. For safety, do not attempt repairs like bypassing wiring or opening sealed components—leave that to the professional.

Move and manage food before troubleshooting

Refrigeration issues often involve temperature changes, so plan for food stability. ... Read more »

If you’ve noticed your refrigerator “sweating,” you’re not alone. Water droplets on the outside glass or the inside walls can be caused by normal humidity—sometimes by airflow or temperature issues, and occasionally by a failing door seal or defrost system. The key is identifying whether the moisture is mainly outside, mainly inside, or both.

Outside condensation most often appears when warm, humid air repeatedly meets a colder cabinet surface. It’s common in kitchens with high humidity, during hot weather, or when the refrigerator runs less efficiently. Inside condensation, on the other hand, typically points to excess moisture being trapped by temperature control, door openings, or ice buildup that melts during defrost cycles.

Condensation on the outside: common causes

When the exterior is colder than the surrounding air, moisture can condense on the outer liner or doors. This is especially likely if the refrigerator is ... Read more »