Marlen Komar

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.
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
13 Expandable Dining Room Tables Perfect for Small Apartments
These tables are a no-brainer, especially when it comes to holiday entertaining!
Nov 27, 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 Small Living Rooms That Make Space for a Dining Table, Too
It's time to get creative with these tricks that will help you fit a dining area in even the smallest of living spaces.
Aug 4, 2023
17 Comfortable Office Chairs That Are Perfect for Working from Home
These stylish office chairs will help you work smarter — and cozier.
Aug 1, 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
Behold, My Grandma’s Dust-Busting Cleaning Secret
You'll dust way less with this trick I learned from my Polish grandmother.
May 18, 2023
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
The 5 Best Etsy Shops for Antique & Vintage Rugs
Shopping
There's no better way to add character and charm to a room than a one-of-a-kind vintage rug. Here's where to get one.
Mar 20, 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
10 Great Budget Sources for Buying Plants Online
Get your plant shopping done from the comfort of your home.
Dec 20, 2022
How I Finally Got the Musty Smell Out of My Vintage Rug
Goodbye, smelly odor!
Nov 30, 2022
Our Absolute Favorite Christmas Tree Decorating Ideas for 2022
If you want to try something new this year but aren't exactly sure what.
Nov 28, 2022
4 Easy Ways to Get Butter Out of Clothes
Julia Child once said, “With enough butter, anything is good,” but that doesn't necessarily go for your clothing.
Nov 25, 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
I Have Only Two (Tiny) Kitchen Cabinets — Here's How I Make It Work
With stylish storage solutions!
Oct 6, 2022
The Best Plants for Your Bathroom
Let shower steam do your watering!
Oct 5, 2022
How to Organize Serving Platters and Bowls in a Small Space
Try this instead of stacking your seasonal serveware.
Sep 26, 2022
3 Designer-Approved Tricks for Decorating with Knickknacks
Style
There’s an art to arranging trinkets, and these designers have the secret.
Sep 22, 2022
Here's How to Create Division in My Open Plan Apartment, According to Experts
If you’re struggling to separate your open sunroom from the rest of the apartment or living room, here are some tips on how to carve it out.
Sep 21, 2022
How to Never Feel Lonely When You’re Alone at Home
When you find yourself with zero plans and just stretched out on the couch, it can feel super easy to slip into a rut of boredom. To side-step that scenario, we created a list of 11 super fun and pro-active things you can do with your free evening. If you don’t want to spend your time getting lost in a Netflix black hole, some of these suggestions might help you embrace your time alone and love the next couple of hours with your own company.
Sep 19, 2022