With Summer months stretching ahead of us, everyone is slathering on the SPF. Protection from the sun's rays is critical, but what about protecting your poor house? Greased up occupants can leave their mark everywhere. Here are a few tips for preventing and cleaning up sunblock messes. More

I'm not sure how the weather is in your neck of the woods, but here in Texas we are already in full-on summer mode — the time of year when we really start to embrace the technology of air conditioning. A recent blowout to my A/C compressor has made me realize that I've been taking this wonderful invention for granted. More

Even though you rarely see the top of your kitchen cabinets, that doesn't mean they aren't busy getting dusty and dirty. Grease, humidity and general kitchen use can make this a tricky and icky spot to clean. Forget the hassle and bust out a pantry staple to do the dirty work for you. More

Keeping a clean house when that house contains a few kids is an ongoing struggle that would make Sisyphus shake his head in disbelief. The cycle of picking up, wiping clean, straightening and vacuuming can be a vicious one with no end in sight. Harnessing the power of the kids to help out can be difficult at best. Here is one method that is organized, thorough, and effective. More

With the rise in open space floorplans, having a neat and tidy kitchen has become increasingly important. If not kept in check, kitchen clutter can soon take over the entire space. And a cluttered kitchen is a sure fire path to frequent take-out ordering. Here are tips for keeping your kitchen clutter-free and ready for meal prep. More

I have marble countertops. Lucky, right? Unfortunately the pattern is so busy that I have a hard time telling when they're dirty. It's too easy to miss bits of rice or drips of sauce, and that's gross! More

Quick! Your friend/mother-in-law/work colleague/client just decided they're going to stop by for a visit. Your over-worked self needs to scramble to make your over-worked home office look magazine-spread-ready in about 15 minutes. It's time for some clutter-busting shortcuts. More

Got an old cathode ray tube television sitting in the garage gathering dust? How about old PC parts, dial up modems, VCRs, outdated cell phones, or other miscellaneous tech related items you've been meaning to get rid of? This flyer just arrived in our mailbox this morning, offering fellow Angelenos an opportunity to discard electronic waste (and used motor oil) in a safe manner... More

I've always had a soft spot for metal outdoor furniture. It stands the test of time and is rather classic in its look and feel. You might be a fan of vintage pieces like the one ot the left, or more modern straight lines that grace the pages of catalogs and magazines.

Even though this durable surface can take a beating, even powder coated pieces can need a little help with upkeep and looking great. Did you know you can give them a hand with a common automotive product? More

Field Guide to Stains
• $12
• Amazon

My father is a reference librarian so I shouldn't have been surprised that he sent my sisters and I a copy of this book a few years ago. Sure, you can look stuff up online, but quickly pulling this little volume off the shelf for guidance (for practically any stain you can imagine) has saved the day in my home many times. A practical, useful addition to your family's home reference section.