Lowe’s Is Selling the $8 Gem That Transformed My Stuffy Apartment (It’s So Airy Now!)

One of my favorite apartment features is my unusually high ceilings and how they make each room feel so spacious and airy. At the same time, it’s a perk that comes with its quirks. For instance, my top cabinets are so tall that they’re totally out of reach until I climb up on a teetering stool. Also, my windows are too tall and too wide for standard screens, so they are screen-less.

That means, when I crack open my window I either risk letting my indoor cat escape to the sidewalks of Brooklyn or inviting random bugs into my apartment. Both terrify me! So for the first year-and-a-half I lived in my apartment, I hardly opened the windows at all. That is, until I very recently found the exact solution I’ve been needing, for less than $10: the Frost King Marvin Adjustable Window Screen. 

Made with a wooden frame and mesh screen, this adjustable window screen comes in a variety of fixed heights (from 10 to 24 inches) and a range of widths (from 15 to 45 inches). It extends horizontally to fit your window, so make sure to measure your window width first before selecting your screen. While they won’t work for casement windows (you need to snug the screen in between the sill and the sash lift), they accommodate single or double hung windows. 

Installation couldn’t be easier. Simply lift up your window, position the screen below, extend it horizontally until it fits perfectly, and lower the window. And there you have it: A 30-second fix that keeps the bugs out, while letting that sweet, sweet fresh air in. 

This is not a new invention, by any means. In fact, the W.B. Marvin Company was established in 1915 and “introduced its first metal rail adjustable screen in 1936,” according to the company site. I had a hunch that something like this was out there, but, like calling to book a dentist’s appointment, it was one of those life chores I kept putting off. Then one day I walked over to my local hardware store (which I adore), described my problem (no window screens, in need of fresh air), and lo and behold: They instantly showed me the Frost King Marvin Adjustable Window Screen. 

I was willing to pay essentially anything, but it cost just $8 at my local shop, and is even cheaper at Lowe’s. I bought one to start, but it worked so magically well that I went back the same day for two more. Now I simply lift my window, expand the screen, and suddenly I have 10 full inches of airflow. My cat instantly took to the windows to hang out by the breeze, and I was worried at first that they wouldn’t be secure enough, but even when she rubs against them — or, worse, sees a squirrel — they don’t budge. 

These days, I’m luxuriating in the rejuvenating power of a cross breeze. My air purifier can finally take a little break, as opening the windows is one of the not-so-secret keys to making your home smell good. My whole space feels fresher, I can cool it off naturally, and I don’t have to worry about anything getting out or in.

Buy: Frost King Marvin Adjustable Window Screen, $6.98