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Veronica Sparks

Veronica Sparks

Contributor

Veronica Sparks is a writer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin who loves writing about gardening, home décor, and DIY life. She’s been published by Angi, Homesteading Suburbia, and CinemaBlend, and she loves to curl up with a cup of tea and read the classics.

Send all editorial inquiries HERE.

Shower with a glass door

No more streaks: How to clean glass shower doors effectively

It's tough to get your shower door sparkling without leaving behind the dreaded streaks. Here's how to clean glass shower doors the streak-free way!
Woman using sand paper to sand wood

How to remove stain from wood: Follow these easy steps

Learn how to remove stain from wood with sanding, chemical strippers, and household solutions. Get step-by-step tips for a flawless wood finish.
Couple sitting on couch covered in plastic with bucket catching roof leak. How to find a roof leak

How to find a roof leak before it causes damage

Learn how to find a roof leak early to prevent costly damage. Spot warning signs, inspect your roof, and take action before it's too late.
Bathroom with aqua vanity

How to paint bathroom cabinets like a pro

Learn how to paint bathroom cabinets like a pro with this easy step-by-step guide. Get a smooth, lasting finish and refresh your space today.
Natural laundry detergent cup and towels

Homemade laundry detergent: 3 things to remember for safe washing

Does homemade laundry detergent really work? Read on to find out how effective DIY soap is, how to make it, and the pros and cons of using it.
Clear glass containers of baking soda and vinegar in laundry area

Baking soda and vinegar: How to use them in your laundry routine

Baking soda and vinegar in laundry? Here's everything you need to know about using these household items in your loads for a fresh wardrobe every time.
Beachside balcony door with sliding door window treatments

7 stylish sliding door window treatments to try

Discover stylish sliding door window treatments that enhance privacy, light control, and decor. From drapes to blinds, find the perfect fit for your home.
Bare mattress close up.

How to store a mattress: Tips for keeping it in good shape

Learn how to store a mattress the right way to prevent mold, odors, and damage. Follow these expert tips to keep it fresh and in top shape.
Front porch with wall lantern lighting

Which exterior door type is best for your home?

Explore the best exterior door types for style, security, and energy efficiency. Learn about materials, finishes, and more to find your perfect door.
Three white towels folded in a modern laundry room

Do you know how often to wash towels? Here’s the answer

Wondering how often to wash towels? Learn the best washing schedule for bath, hand, and kitchen towels to keep them fresh, clean, and free of bacteria.
Dinner table setup

Tips for creating a flawless dinner table setup

Creating the perfect formal dinner table setup is all about attention to detail, from selecting the right dinnerware and flatware to choosing elegant linens.
Squirrel sitting on stone pillar in a garden. How to keep squirrels out of potted plants

How to keep squirrels out of potted plants and protect your landscaping

With a little effort, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful, undisturbed garden without worrying about mischievous squirrels digging through your soil.
Stovetop and oven in kitchen

This nontoxic oven-cleaning trick beats baking soda — here’s how

Not into using messing baking soda in your oven? Try these oven-cleaning tips instead and get a pristine kitchen without the hassle.
A woman cleaning windows with spray and a rag

How to clean windows streak free: Tips and tricks

Learn how to clean windows inside and out with these expert tips. Get streak-free glass with easy techniques and the best homemade cleaning solutions.
White and blue kitchen cabinets

PVC kitchen cabinets: Pros, cons, and what to know before buying

Are PVC kitchen cabinets right for your home? Here's your handy guide to the pros and cons of PVC cabinets so you can make the right choice.
Simple and elegant boutique-style bedroom

8 simple bedroom decor ideas for a calm and cozy retreat

Create a cozy retreat with these simple bedroom decor ideas! Transform your space with soft lighting, cozy bedding, and clutter-free storage.
White wall with white strip of electrical outlets

Water in an electrical outlet: A fire risk? What you need to understand

We know that water and electricity don’t mix safely, but can water in an electrical outlet start a fire in your home? Here's what you should know.
Modern farmhouse living room with a blue sofa

Living room vs. family room: What’s the difference?

While the living room offers a polished, guest-friendly space, the family room provides a relaxed and comfortable environment for everyday life.
White ceramic bathtub

How to clean a bathtub: Simple steps for a spotless shine

Learn how to clean a bathtub with these simple steps to remove soap scum, stains, and grime, keeping your tub spotless and fresh with minimal effort.
Person in sneakers standing on parquet floors

How to fix squeaky floors quickly and easily

Learn how to fix squeaky floors fast with simple DIY solutions for hardwood, carpet, and stairs. Say goodbye to annoying creaks for good!
Orange couch in retro midcentury modern living room design

Bringing back the ’70s: How to nail that retro interior design look

Love the retro vibe? Discover how to nail the interior design '70s look with earthy colors, bold patterns, and groovy decor trends.
Man using a sponge on a wall

How to clean walls without damaging the paint or finish

By understanding your wall's paint type and following a step-by-step process, you can safely remove dirt, stains, and smudges without causing damage.
Tank water heater in a home's utility room

How to flush a water heater: Keep yours running smoothly

Learning how to flush a water heater is an essential skill for any homeowner. Regular maintenance improves your water heater’s efficiency and saves you money.
Man cleaning kitchen counter

How to remove stains from a butcher block countertop

With a few easy cleaning solutions that you can whip up from household items, you can banish stains and keep your butcher block countertop looking brand new.
Backyard with hardscaping features like deck, stone steps, and retaining wall

10 hardscaping ideas to elevate your backyard design

Incorporating hardscaping into your backyard design can completely transform your outdoor space, making it more functional, visually appealing, and enjoyable.
Man using a roller to paint the ceiling

How to paint a ceiling cleanly — no mess, no stress

Learning how to paint a ceiling the right way may seem like a tough task to tackle. But with the right precautions, tools, and techniques, it’s an easy job.
Close-up of rustic wood surface with window and lights in background

How to unwarp wood and bring your furniture back to life

Once the damage is done, can warped wood be straightened? We’ll walk you through why wood warps and some methods for how to unwarp wood.
rinsing out stain on blue fabric

How to remove detergent stains from clothes: This is the no-fail way

Don't ruin your wardrobe. Follow these tips for how to remove detergent stains from your clothes so you can keep them fresh and clean.
Basement with blue walls.

How to heat a basement: From budget friendly to total reno

Is your basement too cold to be livable? Here are all the pros and cons of the most popular basement heating options available.
Textured wall

6 wall texture techniques to transform your home

Explore wall texture techniques to elevate your home decor. From knockdown to Venetian plaster, find the perfect style to add depth and character.
Bone china on white fabric next to a book

Bone china vs. porcelain: Understanding the distinctions

What are the benefits of bone china vs. porcelain? We have the down-low on the differences between these elegant ceramics.
Couple posing with paint rollers in front of painted white wall

When to choose an eggshell paint finish: 7 ideal scenarios

Not sure what paint finish is right for your painting project? These are all the times you should choose that eggshell paint.
A woman organizing and moving boxes

Swedish death cleaning: Why and how it can declutter your life

Discover how Swedish death cleaning can help you declutter, simplify, and create a stress-free home. You'll be able to cherish what truly matters.
Detailed window frame

What are double-glazed windows? A guide to energy-efficient glass

Discover the benefits of double-glazed windows. Boost energy efficiency, reduce noise, and add value to your home with this smart upgrade.
Person smelling something bad in the kitchen

The truth behind the rotten egg smell in your home

The rotten egg smell in your house is not just unpleasant — it’s often a sign of an underlying issue. Understanding the cause is key to resolving the smell.
Beautiful burning candles and fairy lights on windowsill indoors with vase

5 easy and low-cost ways to seal your windows this winter

It's important to seal windows for winter. Keep the warm air in and the cold air out with one of the five methods on our list so you can stay cozy.
Gray house with a large yard and wraparound porch

These are the home remodeling projects that will add value to your house

These home improvement projects are the most popular according to Zillow and Realm. Plus, they add serious resale value to your property.
Rolls of holiday wrapping paper storage on wood surface

Wrapping paper storage made easy: Our top ideas

Whether you prefer an over-the-door organizer, a stylish wicker basket, or a custom-built solution, there’s a wrapping paper storage idea for every lifestyle.
Modern white kitchen with quartz counters

How to clean quartz countertops and keep them spotless

Learn how to clean quartz countertops effectively with easy tips. Keep your surfaces spotless and shining with this step-by-step guide.
Soft warm light bulb

Daylight vs. soft white: The best lighting for your space

Discover the key differences between daylight vs. soft white bulbs and learn how to choose the perfect lighting for every space in your home.
Woman sitting in yellow chair with a cat next to an air purifier

Do air purifiers really help with dust?

Do air purifiers help with dust? Learn how these devices reduce dust, allergens, and pollutants for a cleaner, healthier home environment.
Woman painting interior wall

How to paint a room: Here’s your step-by-step guide

Learn how to paint a room with our simple guide. From prep to cleanup, follow these steps for flawless walls and a fresh new look.
Tank water heater in a home's utility room

Tankless water heater vs. tank: Which is right for you?

Tankless water heater vs. tank: Compare costs, energy savings, and efficiency to find the ideal water heating solution for your home.
Floor lamp and sofa in living room

Sofa vs. couch: The differences, explained

Sofa vs. couch — learn the differences and discover which one best fits your space, style, and comfort needs. Find your perfect seating choice.
Toy penguin next to toy fridge

This is the best way to organize your fridge

Get the best fridge organization tips to keep food fresh and easily accessible. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to a perfectly organized fridge.
Frozen gutters on outside of brick house

Avoid catastrophe: How to unfreeze pipes and save your home from water damage

Unsure what to do if pipes freeze? Frozen pipes can be disastrous and should be dealt with fast, so here's what you should do to prevent water damage.
Closed white wooden-framed glass windows

What every homeowner should know about the different types of windows

Explore the different types of windows to enhance light, style, and value in your home. Find the best window styles for every room and need.
Bedroom with green biophilic plant design

10 stunning bedroom decor ideas to inspire your next refresh

Explore 10 unique bedroom decor ideas to elevate your space with bold walls, cozy nooks, and creative accents. Make your room a true retreat.
Living room with a vaulted ceiling and rustic wood floors

What is a vaulted ceiling (and is it worth it)?

What is a vaulted ceiling? Explore types, benefits, and costs to see if this beautiful home feature is worth the investment.
Woman in a home office

10 home office ideas to inspire productivity and creativity

Discover inspiring home office ideas for a workspace that boosts productivity and creativity. Create a stylish, functional home office you'll love.