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 How about old PC parts, dial up modems, VCRs, outdated cell phones, or other miscellaneous tech related items you've been meaning to get rid of?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.

If you need another reason to motivate for the annual cleaning spree, here's one: spring cleaning isn't just a great way to prepare for the coming warmer months, it's also a great way to prepare your body. Many household chores burn calories as well as tone major muscle groups. Check below the jump for a few great examples.  More

I came across an article by Real Simple on surprising cleaning tips that contained quite a few I had never heard of, like cleaning the sink with Turtle Wax or using denture cleaner to clear residue in vases... More

You've taken the plunge and are cleaning out your closet. Now, where to donate? For many, the easiest option is to drop off the bags at one of those big dumpster-like donation bins scattered around grocery store parking lots and parks. Bingo. Easy. Convenient. And you can sleep better knowing the needy will benefit from your lightly used clothing. Or will they?

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Just when we think we're free from yesterday's cumbersome media, it rears its ugly head up again. We recently visited my mom's house to clean out her garage as part of spring cleaning, and in the process discovered a big box of CDs I thought I had already donated or sold years ago. They eventually made their way to Goodwill, but I wish I had waited just a little longer, since Amazon recently announced they're offering a CD Trade-In Program... More