Our TeamMarlen Komar

About Me

Marlen is a writer first, vintage hoarder second, and donut fiend third. If you have a passion for finding the best taco joints in Chicago or want to talk about Doris Day movies, then she thinks an afternoon coffee date is in order.


Latest Stories

This Is the Best Way to Get Butter Out of Clothes
No more grease stains!
Nov 18, 2024
7 Great Sources for Buying Authentic Turkish and Moroccan Rugs on Etsy
Ready to move from mass-produced to something a little more authentic? These shops are for you.
Nov 14, 2024
I’m Blown Away by These 13 Small Living Rooms That Double As Dining Rooms
These homes show you can have the best of both worlds.
Nov 6, 2024
18 Comfortable Office Chairs That Are Perfect for Working from Home
These stylish office chairs will help you work smarter — and cozier.
Oct 28, 2024
15 Expandable Dining Room Tables Perfect for Small Apartments
These tables are a no-brainer, especially when it comes to holiday entertaining!
Sep 11, 2024
Here’s What to Do if You Bought an Uncomfortable Sofa
It happens, and here's how to fix it.
Aug 27, 2024
Behold, My Grandma’s Dust-Busting Cleaning Secret
You'll dust way less with this trick I learned from my Polish grandmother.
Aug 23, 2024
5 DIY Tricks That Can Make Your Indoor Furniture Outdoor-Friendly
Get the most out of your furniture with these expert-approved weatherproofing tricks.
Jul 31, 2024
The 5 Best Etsy Shops for Antique & Vintage Rugs
Shopping
There's no better way to add character to a room than with a one-of-a-kind vintage rug.
Jul 8, 2024
10 Great Budget Sources for Buying Plants Online
Get your plant shopping done from the comfort of your home.
May 8, 2024
The 13 Best Houseplants for Your Bathroom, According to Plant Experts
Here's the dirt on which plants thrive in bathrooms (and which don't).
Feb 21, 2024
13 Smart and Useful Closet Organizers You Can Buy on Amazon
Shopping
If you're done with opening your closet and being met with an avalanche of shoes and not-so-folded sweaters, then you might be ready to upgrade your wardrobe experience.
Jan 18, 2024

Latest Stories

13 Ways to Make Your Windowless Bathroom Less Dreary
Ditch the gloom and doom for these cheery alternatives.
Jan 9, 2024
20 Budget-Friendly Bedroom Ideas for a Chic Space
Try these transformative tips and tricks.
Dec 27, 2023
59 Genius Ideas for Filling the Empty Space Above Your Bed
Stumped on what to do above your headboard? We've got some ideas for you to try.
Dec 1, 2023
7 Tips to Organize Your Chest Freezer
Follow these simple steps and you’ll have an easier time keeping track of what you have in stock.
Nov 6, 2023
35 White Kitchens That Are Anything But Bland & Basic
Let’s face it: the fresh, clean aesthetic of the white kitchen isn’t going anywhere soon. This classic look can vary from all-white everything from floor to ceiling to a kitchen with white countertops to a bold, contrasting cabinet and colorful walls. Perhaps the best thing about a white kitchen is the ability to morph to fit whatever aesthetic you choose. While some people automatically assume a white kitchen must be a minimalist space, that isn’t always the case.
Oct 24, 2023
7 Smart Ideas for Decorating the Space Under the Stairs
We love a good nook.
Sep 5, 2023
60 Fall Decorating Ideas to Help Ring in the Season of Pumpkin Spice
Grab your pumpkin spice latte, and prepare to be inspired.
Aug 31, 2023
How to Fix a Zipper on a Backpack
In just three steps!
Aug 15, 2023
10 Wallpaper Ideas for Small Spaces
Most people's knee jerk reaction is to douse the room with as much white as possible to make it feel bigger and more airy. But that rule doesn't always ring true.
Oct 22, 2018
These Costco Bins Solved My Small Shared Basement Space Problem
Organize & Clean
They have been a simple, functional solution to my tricky storage issue.
Jun 12, 2023
Does Putting Aluminum Foil in Your Dishwasher Really Remove Water Stains?
I asked a chemist, just to be sure.
May 21, 2023
How I Finally Got My 100-Year-Old Bathroom Floor Clean
My go-to cleaner for tile and grout.
May 19, 2023

Latest Stories

This TikToker Found a Brilliant Way to Tackle Her Cord Clutter Problem
Organize & Clean
And I had to try it for myself!
Apr 14, 2023
I Tried My Grandmother’s Technique for Cleaning Stainless Steel & I’m Never Using Anything Else
You’re left with a lovely sheen — and you won’t have to buy any extra cleaning products! It’s a win-win.
Mar 14, 2023
Where to Buy Those IKEA Items That Got Away
Style
It's not too late.
Feb 26, 2023
2 Expert-Approved Ways to Clean a Microfiber Couch
Here are the methods experts swear by.
Jan 3, 2023
Bar Soap vs. Body Wash? Here’s When to Use Each One
No matter your bathroom design style, everyone has their preferences when it comes to the shower. Some people like to lather up with sudsy body wash and a shower cap, while others like a utilitarian bar of soap and a loofah. But is it all just a matter of preference, or is there a difference between using bar soap and body wash? It turns out that each method has its own set of pros and cons, and depending on your skin goals and needs, one might be better to use than the other.
Dec 24, 2022
How to Clean Your Fish Tank (And Keep It That Way)
Even though our aquatic friends make low-maintenance pets, it’s important to regularly clean their fish tanks so they stay comfortable and happy.
Dec 23, 2022
How I Finally Got the Musty Smell Out of My Vintage Rug
Goodbye, smelly odor!
Nov 30, 2022
Our 25 Absolute Favorite Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas for 2023
If you want to try something new this year but aren't exactly sure what.
Nov 28, 2022
The Unexpected Way Selling My Stuff Online Has Helped Curb My Clutter
I've become more critical of my shopping habits.
Nov 20, 2022
Here's How to Clean That Gorgeous Wall Tapestry Without Damaging It
Keep it dust-free without damaging it.
Oct 25, 2022
How to Clean Textured Lamps and Home Decor
This is the best way to remove dirt and dust from uneven, coarse surfaces.
Oct 22, 2022
Before & After: This Grandparents' Kitchen Staple Upgrades a DIY Cabinet
A little fabric can conceal a lot.
Oct 9, 2022