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.
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
15 Comfortable Office Chairs That Are Perfect for Working from Home
These stylish office chairs will help you work smarter — and cozier.
Jan 20, 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
11 Expandable Dining Room Tables Perfect for Small Apartments
These tables are a no-brainer, especially when it comes to holiday entertaining!
Dec 12, 2022
How I Finally Got the Musty Smell Out of My Vintage Rug
Goodbye, smelly odor!
Nov 30, 2022
5 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 27, 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
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
This Useful but Trendy Item Might Be Just What Your Living Room Is Missing
Style
For less than $150, too!
Sep 12, 2022
These are the Best Containers for Decanting Pantry Items
Say goodbye to half-empty bags.
Sep 7, 2022
This Old-School Furniture Trend Is Back Big Time
Move over, mid-century tapered legs!
Aug 29, 2022
An Indecisive Person’s Trick for Creating a Gallery Wall
And no, it doesn’t include Command strips.
Aug 25, 2022
This is the Key to Staying Organized Before You Make the Big Move
It'll help make the move go a lot smoother.
Aug 25, 2022
3 Window Cleaning Tips I Learned From My Polish Grandmother
They keep them streak-free and spotless.
Aug 22, 2022
Do This One Thing to Transform the Way You Clean When You’re Super Busy
It's super helpful when your schedule's packed!
Aug 21, 2022
3 Organizing Tips I Learned from Summer Backpacking Trips
I still carry them with me today.
Aug 20, 2022
This Money-Saving Hack Will Make Your Planters Look More Expensive
Love your new plant but hate the plastic saucer? You may want to hit the thrift store to level things up.
Aug 19, 2022
This Smart, Cordless Fan Is Keeping Me Nice and Cool Through a Chicago Summer
Style
If you’re looking for a stylish and effective swap to your more utilitarian AC units, I suggest throwing the Smartmi standing fan onto the shortlist.
Aug 8, 2022
How to Wash Dishes When There's No Running Water
Perfect for camping, summer houses, van life, and more.
Aug 4, 2022
This Game-Changing Litter Box is Actually Stylish
It blends right into my entryway — and my cats love it too.
Aug 1, 2022
How to Fix a Zipper on a Backpack
In just three steps!
Jul 31, 2022