Home Decor and Furniture You Need to STOP Buying NOW | AFFORDABLE & Practical Interior Designs Tips!

[@tiffytattoo2450]

My No.1 duvet tipp: don't buy the bulky winter version that doesn't fit into your washing machine. You probably end up hating to get it cleaned each time... Opt for 2 thinner duvet inserts, maybe even 3 for the winter. The thin ones fit into my washer and are easy to dry on a summery day.

[@KivaBrent]

I love this! I’m going to pin it so everyone sees it!

[@tiffytattoo2450]

@@KivaBrent learned it the hard way after trying to wash the duvet in the tub. Don't do that. It's messy xD

[@vaderladyl]

I actually have a thin comforter that I cover with duvets and switch them whenever. I think what works is that my comforter is thin enough to fit in a duvet.

[@madisonmanfio]

What if you have allergies? I always buy comforters that are down alternative bc of this. Do they make duvets that are good for allergies?

[@UnDefinedLegacy]

@@madisonmanfio yes they do! I also am allergy prone they do make inserts from poly fill and other hypoallergenic materials.

[@mwoods4608]

Please donate old comforters to the homeless shelter! Never toss stuff! Tons of places to donate, womens shelter, anywhere but Goodwill

[@KivaBrent]

Yes, definitely!

[@vaderladyl]

Yes even animal shelters will take them.

[@courtanie6474]

M Woods; I’m asking because I’m clueless but why not good will? I live in a really small town (that also happens to not be wealthy) and everyone around me donates/buys at the goodwill.

[@vaderladyl]

@@courtanie6474 Hey it is ok if you have to donate to Goodwill because you have no other choice. It is better than throwing out stuff to the garbage. The issue with Goodwill is that there is a lot of controversy about how they use their funds to help the needy versus how much they pay their management and the way they treat their employees among other things going on with them.

[@MrsThollo]

@@courtanie6474 Honestly, I say keep utilizing your Goodwill. If people in that town are already not that well-off, Goodwill going out of business may do more harm than good due to loss of jobs and an affordable place to shop. Wanting to do good is one thing, but a lot of people not living in those situations don't consider the unintended consequences.

[@evitap.7857]

All good tips except the one for marble. I come from Greece and we use marble a lot in our homes. Marble floors, marble bathrooms, marble tables, even marble kitchen sinks. It is the easiest material to care for, if you don’t leave stains on it for days. Also, don’t aim for a shiny look, but rather for a more weathered matt finish. Do not worry about polishing marble, just let it age and it will be beautiful for hundreds or even thousands of years. Look at the Parthenon if you do not believe me.

[@SchelDiva103]

I trust your advice!

[@andrealagow1715]

I totally agree with you!! Marble is classic and the older it gets and more patina it has makes it more beautiful. And I totally disagree about replacing w concrete bc its "less upkeep." Concrete is just as porous, if not more than marble.

[@rickwilson8795]

I agree! Especially in the kitchen used marble tells a story and shows the love and use of the home!

[@TheNatashabo]

I was about to submit a similar comment until I saw yours! I am also from Greece and we used marble at our kitchens and bathroom floors because it is so durable and easy to maintain! We have marble floors that look amazing after 40 years of abuse. You may need to do is polish them once every 20 years or so to keep the shine. The only place that may be prone to staining is a marble kitchen sink that will start to have a yellowish tint after constant use.

[@ElleDeas]

Ugh! I knew it! I wish I could find a place where is it affordable without the false inflation due to its luxury type upkeep. ://

[@pattysdaughter5639]

I am so glad these types of videos are out here. About 13/14 years ago I just stopped having items on the counters , and doing away with bedroom sets. People thought I was weird... like “how dare you”? In the last 2years , I decided to get rid end tables, sheet sets (I had 12/13 sets). We are so conditioned to having certain things a certain way. Change is good and feels great! Thanks for sharing!

[@citygurl0105]

Yes! i got rid of my coffee table when my kids were babies... Just a hazard. Id rather have a soft ottoman... It's all about what works for you

[@djjones7039]

Why the heck did you have 13/14 sets of sheets?!?

[@pattysdaughter5639]

@@djjones7039 because I wanted too!

[@pattysdaughter5639]

@@djjones7039 13/14 years ago

[@helenf.7221]

Yea! I hate bedroom sets and end tables. So glad it’s moved away from these

[@sl3772]

I see floating shelves and mirrors over beds and I'm like.. you must not get earthquakes hahah

[@minimini550]

Earthquakes to me sounds like such an extreme thing to consider when decorating a home - but that is obviously because I’m from a place without earthquakes lol! I wonder what things that we consider obvious and normal here seem odd to people from other places :)

[@sl3772]

@@minimini550 haha yes, I just wouldn't take the chance of having something kill me in my sleep because I thought it was pretty 😅

[@akhipavi]

Or have a cat

[@vacuumblink2300]

If you we had an earthquake, that would be the least of my problems

[@BritniAlexander]

you can security mount mirrors and art over the bed to make them earthquake safe. There's really no solution for shelves though.

[@brosiaaa]

I love this series!! These videos are like that voice in your head that tell you to STOP when you’re about to buy something ya don’t need.

[@jessicabailey08]

I love your name!! Random sorry but had to say it!

[@naromiesbeninche6975]

So true

[@kimberley8114]

I’m gradually getting rid of stuff I bought that I didn’t need. Waste of money but a lesson learnt.

[@sabracalonge4847]

I bought a really nice duvet cover and just put my old comforter in it so I wouldn't have to get rid of it.

[@KivaBrent]

So smart!

[@nehamathur3939]

Did the same with all my comforters! :)

[@monicabrown712]

Great life hack!

[@ashleyk397]

I do this as well. It’s just way too hot to use an actual duvet! It was fine with just me but with a spouse and 2 dogs it’s just straight up sweat. Also I’m sorry but I don’t see an issue with a nice linen quilt as your “comforter”?

[@priscillataubconboy1359]

@@ashleyk397 {

[@dicedrice7216]

Duvets are for gentle sleepers. Thrashers like me need a one-piece comforter that they won't rip apart during sleep gymnastics.

[@KivaBrent]

“Sleep Gymnastics.” I love it 😂.

[@MsDeanie1]

🤣🤣🤣

[@HonestHomebody]

Get shoe laces and make a loop in the corners of the duvet and either another loop or two strings on the duvet cover (or the other way round which ever works for you) and then tie them ever time you change your cover!!!

[@SAVINMEEKZ]

bra hooks work well too . my grandmother sewed them on to keep the top sheet on the bed and to seal the duvet cover

[@Librynerd]

😂😂

[@SAVINMEEKZ]

Thx for the image insert showing the diff between duvet and comforter lol. I'm def a visual learner

[@KivaBrent]

Of course!

[@HosCreates]

I thought a comforter was the same as a duvet and you could stuff them into duvet covers 🤷‍♀️

[@angelamillikin3843]

If you already own a comforter and you've had it cleaned... Consider using it as an insert inside your duvet cover. You can change out colors and it's not necessary to clean it as often.

[@MrsLadyJae]

I added a separate coffee bar near my kitchen to take all my coffee clutter from my kitchen. Made such a difference!!!

[@aidahall5952]

Yes, I’m with you there. I did the same thing.

[@faithbell6147]

We have two side tables in our living room and no coffee table ! This works perfect for us!

[@KivaBrent]

That’s a great option too!!!

[@1Skorpia]

Me too

[@patriciaferrito9245]

My coffee table is a blanket chest from before the Civil War. Low and tons of storage. And we can put our feet on it. My end table is also my cabinet for wine glasses and fancy stuff. So at KB says, dual purpose.

[@selinaburford6771]

I have side tables and a storage ottoman I use with a tray as my coffee table.

[@blackholesun3152]

Same! More wrestling room for 🐕!

[@pinkcashmere1908]

The only issue I have re:kitchenaid is exactly what was said..the attachments...you reduce clutter in the one use appliances, but gain a whole bunch of attachments you have to store.

[@KivaBrent]

Fair! I think it depends on how many attachments you require.

[@pinkcashmere1908]

@@KivaBrent exactly 💯

[@ItsJakeIII]

Most of them fit in the bowl too. But its easier to store than boxes since they can go in a tubberware or drawer as well

[@ellovato]

I don’t know why removing the mirror from my dresser never occurred to me but this tip was a revelation to me.

[@cassandrabuck6329]

I just subscribed. I love your videos. You talk fast and efficiently and get to the point instead of dragging out every point and being silly (Like 90% of home decor people). Thanks***

[@KivaBrent]

Welcome Cassandra!! Thank you so so much!

[@MrsArtemisFowl]

Are comforters an American thing? I've never seen that in Europe...

[@lo4568]

just what i was thinking about too!

[@desiree7633]

same question. the best thing about having a duvet as a kid was changing the cover to dora the explorer and the little mermaid every two weeks

[@paulalozano8264]

It is common in the American continent

[@BronzeBellaBria]

Ikea sells comforters lol. They're just the top bed blanket

[@Blessedbyvypercc]

The kitchen appliance thing is SO true. I cook 3 times a day and I feel like I have no counter space despite having a large kitchen. I just hate it. I put a bacon press away in storage yesterday bc I feel you don’t NEED one if you’re just careful about laying out your bacon in the pan....it’ll still shrink but is the press worth it? Just another heavy thing I have to worry about falling out of a cabinet or off a countertop and breaking my foot. Plus I’m a messy cook! I don’t want to have to clean every single kitchen appliance every time I cook.

[@ElleDeas]

Just bake your bacon. Even if you don’t have a little rack, just lay it out on a sheet pan. :)

[@Blessedbyvypercc]

@@ElleDeas thank you!! I’m new to cooking lol so I appreciate your tip!! 😊

[@kathieshaffer9641]

Girlfriend, you were born with good taste! Great tips❤️❤️

[@MrsThollo]

Dusting was my chore as a child. Therefore, I vowed to not have tables, decor, or any furniture that is not functional. I guess I've been a minimalist for 30+ years. 😂

[@jenniferanderson4441]

I love this 👍❤

[@pinkcashmere1908]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 love this! I don't have coffee tables either

[@AC-qo8oq]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 my chore was folding. I limit washing so I don’t have to fold

[@julieburck9613]

Lol my chore was mowing the lawn and weeding (in Texas no less!!). I was upfront with the hubs that when we got married, I could handle minimal Lawn care but not anything beyond basic. 🤮🤮 I’m ruined for life.

[@lisairwin1365]

😂😂😂😂 me too!!

[@annejohnson2061]

I see your point on single use appliances, but I am not willing to give up my coffeemaker. And when it breaks I will replace it with another single use coffeemaker. Gotta have my java!

[@KivaBrent]

That’s fair! I mostly meant that you should limit your single use appliances, with a good example being an iced coffee maker. It only makes iced coffee, whereas a hybrid coffee maker can make iced coffee, espresso, lattes, hot coffee, etc. There are always exceptions 😊!

[@HosCreates]

@@KivaBrent I didn't know those existed 😳

[@ghold6810]

My husband is addicted to buying all kinds of kitchen gadgets! We have a ninja grill, a ninja 3 in 1 air fryer, waffle maker, panini press, coffee machines etc. it creates such a clutter! But I started putting them all away in the cabinets when not in use. I only leave the toaster and coffee maker out since we use that often lol

[@robertak2659]

I can't drink coffee (gives me bad heartburn) but I have my electric water kettle that I leave out since I use it several times a day -- hot tea or cocoa in the morning, herbal tea in the evening. I also leave out the toaster since I frequently have either toast or a bagel in the morning if I don't go to my retirement community's dining room for a full breakfast.

[@aliveandwell2965]

I appreciate that you don’t laugh at every person that has those things. I love your approach. Thank you!

[@nursie94]

I bought an electric milk frothier. It froths my coffee creamer every day. I don’t go to Starbucks. I win.

[@GentleTaipan]

Agree. It's all about how often we use that single use appliance.

[@annaswanson5903]

Same 💜💜💜

[@jodyann09]

Same ! Got one for my bday and i love it. I was wasting so much money at starbucks.

[@crazyaboutcards]

I think the biggest point is not to have all these things you don't use regularly. If you're using it often, then it was a great buy and worth keeping around! Especially when it's saving you so much money!!!

[@CarolynYouman59]

I, definitely agree because I, have a electric milk frothier and it’s great. Some of us are using the small waffle maker because we are keto and also it’s easy. But I have a beautiful waffle maker that is amazing good quality and make my keto food excellent. That I, can freeze for later or Refrigerate for later. When the first picture was show everything that was on that counter was everyday functional. Listen to some will have us not having any appliances at all because of counter space. I live cooking my keto healthy foods and anyone who are part of the keto family knows we do a lot of cooking to count our Micro counts and keeping up with cabs counts . Lot of these appliances dohelp us on a every day basis but you have find out w

[@creatingmissjones1711]

My nesppresso is my life!!! I will never give it up. I love your channel and I will continue to watch.

[@olivias4895]

Did you see what Arvin did for his marble countertops? It was this clear film put on top to make it 100% stain and etch proof like other countertops! I’m obsessed. We’ve had quartz and granite and prefer granite for durability (the heat issue/man made material of quartz made me not a fan) and I’m a firm believer that nothing “marble look” like quartz even comes close to real marble. Real marble has so much depth & character and I think it does take certain personalities and lifestyles to be able to maintain it. I also do agree that it’s better used in some areas than others. I probably wouldn’t get a dining table in marble for example.

[@HosCreates]

I have a quartz sample by Cambria , some granite and other stone my kitchen and bath teacher let me try to "destroy" . I left vinager on it, ketchup, berry juice, rumeric and repeated hammering. The quartz didn't stain crack or chip. The granite broke after sitting with vinegar on it after hitting it repeatedly with an 8oz hammer into 5 pieces.

[@olivias4895]

@@HosCreates Yeah it's durable with cracking & stains for sure. It's epoxy basically which is super durable but it also has its cons (the heat resistance & yellowing for example) but every stone does. In general all natural stones like granite & marble are going to be softer than epoxy which is man-made, but it just depends on what is valuable to you in a countertop.

[@auntielu4394]

I covered mirrors in my bedroom (with artwork) since they face my bed and I sleep better at night, maybe because they were reflected light from my windows. It’s actually a fend shui energy thing too.

[@barbarawilliams834]

I use furniture pieces not designed to be side tables. a Bombay chest with drawers in family room is a beautiful statement piece. holds a lamp. drawers store items for the kids. also have a beautiful wood and wrought iron desk for small spaces as my bed night stand. no furniture suites purchased. just pieces I love that fit my design esthetic. makes my home look unique and custom. I love it!!!

[@shayla8623]

I lovvve watching your videos! I literally LOL when you said you don’t like sitting up in the morning and seeing yourself in the mirror above a dresser!!! That resonated deep with me!! Lol

[@trianna2008]

I bought a duvet cover set a few months ago and it’s hands down the best home purchase I’ve made since I became an adult. It’s thin but comfortable, easy to get on and off, and fits in my mini washer so I can wash it every few weeks as opposed to lugging it to a laundromat 2-3x a year and feeling like it’s filthy by month 2. So I can finally have white bedding that stays white!

[@lovepilie]

2:15 sorry but that kitchenaid is not the answer! First because the accessories costs 4 times the price of the items they are supposed to replace, and second those accessories take as much space as having an independant machine!!! There are more practical answers! For exemple, I used to have a blender, and I got a soup machine that does the same, PLUS heats up if needed. Blender is gone, one machine does the job of 2.

[@noellesm434]

Omg you really opened my eyes to NOT having side tables in my space!!! I’ve been obsessed with finding side tables and a coffee table and now I’m convinced I just want the coffee table!! Thank you!!!

[@FrenchTwist]

My mom had all you mentioned plus a popcorn maker and a burger maker and electric knife and electric potato peele and crock pots and she rarely cooked!

[@annaswanson5903]

😂😂😂

[@luvslyfe1]

Lmao 😂. Have to admit I love my instapots! They get a LOT of use in my home.

[@annaswanson5903]

@@luvslyfe1 I have an instapot and a crockpot and I use both

[@koalaeucalyptus]

I find that people who rarely cook are the easiest prey to these weird appliances (which are typically terrible to clean)... my mom doesn't cook, but LOVES buying kitchen gadgets... that, of course, mostly go unused anyway. People who actually use their kitchens often are the ones to actually know what's needed or not; I think a lot and wait until I've had at least 5 instances in a few months before thinking "yep, I'd love to have THAT" before buying anything.

[@annaswanson5903]

@@koalaeucalyptus 100 gadgets mean more clutter which in my opinion makes it harder to cook unless it’s something you use all the time

[@pinkcashmere1908]

I agree with sidetable idea partially..I think they do serve a purpose, but often times they are either too short or too tall to be used as a bedside table

[@KivaBrent]

Great point!

[@HosCreates]

I have one side table to store my remotes in.

[@deniseowens4543]

Wow I am in tears from laughing once again. Kiva knows our craziness I have the comforter buying disease I have 4 in my storage closet right now and gave away 2 because I'm trying to become a minimalist. I cleaned out my kitchen and my office and I love it so of the 4 left 2 more have to go . These videos are so on point she just kept calling out all my issues she's knows her stuff.

[@Joliepinkyswear1]

Love the upcycling of the dresser mirror idea. It perfectly solves a problem I'm having right now. I can't believe how simple it is and I just never thought of it...lol. Thank you.

[@katiez688]

Total honesty, owning a duvet as a single person sucks! Its really hard to switch the blanket in and out of the duvet without a helper. I did the duvet thing for about 10 years as a single person before giving up and switching to a white down comforter without a duvet to avoid the single person struggle of trying to get the duvet on and off alone!

[@TreJ999]

I am so glad you said hide the Q-tips, cotton balls, etc. Also…. AHHHHH!! I was just about to buy marble top nightstands. 😅 You are right. Marble is a bear to keep clean!

[@ozzie5by5]

Thanks, Kiva. After watching this, I immediately removed the mirror from my dresser, and put my tv on it. My tv was in an “awkward” place before. The room looks so much better, and the tv is now so much easier to watch. You were right. These mirrors serve no purpose.

[@hannahshark8080]

They're usually ugly af or too small or thin anyway.

[@softfriedegg]

I love this video! When I envision my future space, I want to emphasize having furniture that is practical, functional, but still aesthetically pleasing

[@1Skorpia]

I work night shift up north where its freezing. The comforters stay 🤪 I take them to the cleaners and wash them. Plus I'm allergic to down.

[@livenubian-homedecordiylif8384]

This is great advice! I just bought my first home in Brooklyn,NY and I started my KZbin channel to document my home decor journey! And this is super helpful

[@tc432]

With the less is more and calming effect this video is timely. Great job!

[@ShayNikki]

I just revamped my coffee table with marble contact paper 🔥

[@jfuentes9188]

Which contact paper did you use? The one I bought isn't staying down 🙁

[@radhiadeedou8286]

My mom has had granite countertops for 20 years, she doesn't use a cutting board and they're still perfect

[@annaswanson5903]

Wow 😯

[@smallfairytales1231]

My mom did the same but her serrated knives had no serrations left

[@luvslyfe1]

I paid a lot for those granite countertops! It’s much cheaper to replace the cutting board! 😂

[@radhiadeedou8286]

@@luvslyfe1 but that's the thing, you pay a lot for them because of their quality, they're basically indestructible

[@mollie6578]

Granite is much tougher than marble, it is one of the best materials you could use for kitchens. Marble however is not as bad as she is making it seem, it won’t “stain” it may accrue darker marks over time. From far away you’d never be able to see these marks. You just need to seal it and take proper care when using your kitchen. If you pay for marble you would assume you’d be willing to take the proper care necessary to not ruin it (it wouldn’t be hard… just be careful)

[@marylut6077]

Been contemplating removing the mirror from the dresser, and you have motivated me to do it!

[@windsongconlon4853]

Added to my likes! I agree about not having both end tables and coffee tables but for me it works to have a storage ottoman coffee table in the family room and side tables in the living room but no coffee table. We keep that area open for play/working out in front of the mirror. The side tables are round and big enough to hold plants and drinking cups. Works great for us :)

[@kathyneary5192]

Never thought about the mirror over the dresser. I have it in 3 bedrooms. Thanks to you, I will be looking at this differently. Girl, you are a great speaker! Do you speak for a living? You speak fast, which I love!! Keeps my interest. Keep doing you.

[@jacquelynedwards2183]

Thank you for speaking on COMFORTERS!! OMG, I never know what to do once I'm tired of them. And I'm even more tired if having to go to the laundromat to clean them. I never understood the concept behind duvet covers/inserts, now that I know it makes complete sense! Thank you!!

[@judylawson2529]

SUCH WEALTH OF VIABLE INFO, THANKS KB!!!

[@KivaBrent]

Thanks so much for watching Judy! 💕

[@fathamaak1776]

I love that your tips are also sustainable and better for the environment. I love that you give ideas for upcycling.

[@BluePatriotWinner]

I agree with you on side tables. In trying to declutter/ minimalize, I decided not to get 2 side tables for sofa. Solved my problem with 2 trays on my coffee table. The smaller non matching one sits on the bigger tray. My tv remotes, phone charger, pens, etc go in top one . And when I need a place to put my snack or drink and don't want to keep reaching for coffee table, I use the big tray next to me on the sofa. Good video!

[@danielleboon1543]

You can take my comforters, single use appliances and floating shelves over my dead body. Granted, we use flat sheets. Our coffee maker, coffee grinder and toaster are daily use appliances, as they are for many people. And we work trades and own our house, so finding studs and putting a few holes in the wall is a non-issue for us. DIY creations has a few really good tutorials for making floating shelves that are much more stable than the ikea ones (only marginally more expensive too).

[@Marimew12]

Yes the comment about the vanity mirror is so important. Personally I never put my makeup on in that mirror it's too far away and it become unless anyways!

[@dabigdikdangler]

My "bookcase" was vintage shelving mounted on brackets, in the middle of the night all of them fell, it sounded like a tsunami in my bedroom, I've since put them back up but now they house my cologne collection and knick knacks, I bought twin "billy" bookcases with height extensions from Ikea for my books and it all looks dope!

[@mavisjones4750]

I switched to duvet covers about 10 years ago. Haven't bought a comforter since.

[@SyreetaKing]

Washing a King comforter once a month is no joke. They are massive. I just learned about the duvet from youtube. Definitely enjoying your channel.

[@shannonbroughton732]

Full disclosure, I inherited a dresser set that has a mirror but I did opt to taking the mirror off so I can have my tv on the dresser. I am in total agreement about the bedroom sets, I also no longer like matching living room sets either. I feel like I'm slowly evolving minus the end tables, I still have end tables for sure! Lol!

[@staceykersting705]

My mom hated those matching sets...and that was back in the '50's! She always had unerring eclectic style. The artless elegance of having things you'll actually like your whole life. My fave pieces are old and made of walnut. Some I've painted. My walnut headboard, I'm thinking of bleaching.

[@valkiriie]

And here I was, about to pull the trigger on some fun West Elm floating shelves. Turns out it’s not what I want to do after all 😂

[@KivaBrent]

They look beautiful, they are just hard to maintain and can sometimes be dangerous!

[@cooperbt]

@@KivaBrent Agree, but do love picture ledges painted the same colour as the wall

[@torhildsagenghansen6074]

Seeing myself in a mirror in a dark bedroom in the middle of the night, feels downright creepy.

[@BouncyBrown]

It's considered bad Feng shui too. Supposedly, your soul leaves your body when you dream and it can get disoriented when it sees the mirror. (I don't really believe but I think it's an interesting idea.)

[@suegreenland5989]

@@BouncyBrown (God make soul die during asleep and when it dies. So he holds what it meant to die and release the other to a limited time to live. These are signs to people who heed) .

[@luvslyfe1]

@@BouncyBrown I’ve read that also, about mirrors being bad Feng Shui in the bedroom, also pictures of water in the bathroom are too much water energy.

[@HosCreates]

Yep! Been there done that. My inlaws guest bedroom had full length closet mirrors and I dreaded getting up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom ..it always scared me thinking it was another person but it was just me I never slept good in that room. other people believe they are portals to other places and bring other people into your intimate space.

[@joy-115]

You are SO RIGHT with the floating shelves!!

[@daniellefarrakhan]

This is very helpful! Great tips that I honestly never even thought about, but you're right....about all of it! LOVE THIS VIDEO!!!!!!

[@DanielleTheDomesticScientist]

I just moved my end tables downstairs!!! I just picked up some bronze tasks lights that look like the one you have behind you. I'm loving the look.

[@minimini550]

Side tables are staying because 💚plants💚 but the rest **chef’s kiss**

[@robertak2659]

My living room is small so I don't even have a coffee table -- I have a small pouf I use as an ottoman to put up my feet but if I get a recliner that can go bye-bye too. For me a coffee table would just be one more thing in my way when I'm moving around.

[@chaefender]

If anyone is looking for a marble alternative, I highly suggest the porcelain faux marble. They make tiles for flooring/backsplashes and countertops. I have some floor tiles that look just like marble but they are durable and stain resistant. If you already own some marble pieces look into getting some stone sealer from Home Depot or Lowe’s. It very easy to use but it isn’t super cheap

[@celidacancel6323]

I'm so glad I found you and I'm so guilty of all the five no no 😂 I will definitely stop all of this and moving forward I'm going to start thinking before buying... Thank you thank you 😁

[@NuNugirl]

I have my Mom’s Hamilton Beach Shake Maker from the 1950s. It has a very simple application and a one serving stainless steel cup. It still works. It’s so easy to rinse off and make another made to order shake 😉

[@marylut6077]

Great examples and justification, would love more in this series please

[@mytokidaze]

Apparently I'm all over the place. I've never had a mirror over my dresser. Never been a fan. I haven't had a coffee table in 10 years, only two side tables ... although I'm definitely about to switch those out for a new coffee table and one side table. Also, I love comforters! I had duvet and hated it to bits!

[@a_ya_la]

I had brought all of those panni press and etc and donated or sold in the garage sale! I stop buy dresser drawers with mirror when my husband broke it years ago when we were moving into our house. Do not miss it!

[@vanessathomas7437]

I'm a Maximist when it comes to decorating. Also, I change my mind quite a lot, but I hate making a bed with a comforter set, having to change the bed skirt, and tucking the sheet, so it doesn't hang below the comforter, I just buy bedspreads...makes it easier to make the bed. You are correct about buying dressers with the attached mirror. I have one now and just tucked the mirror in the corner, due to placing the dresser under a window. I may just use some heavy-duty wire or 100-200 lb fishing test line to hang it somewhere else. Finally, I have a large living room and need additional lighting...so side tables with lamps come in handy, and it holds my decor/collectibles....remember, I'm a Maximist.

[@mingram7748]

Imo our dresser and mirror look beautiful together so that won't change. Our tv has it's own space, but I fully agree with using duvet covers! Tfs your opinions!😊

[@mrs.greene7682]

Oh my, I’ve been looking at my dresser mirror! I want to paint it gold Or black and place somewhere else..you were totally in my head with that one

[@BrunoSilvaAlleycat]

Obsessed with this channel! I need to get back to working but there's so many good tips. Have watched over 10 of them in a row. Definitely putting to practice some (most?) of the recommendations here.

[@KivaBrent]

Thanks so much for watching!! 💕

[@annewynter9248]

More great practical tips to save our money. Loved and agreed with them all! Thank you, Kiva. Really appreciate your common sense outlook. 💕

[@dobbiejoyner8110]

Love this! I just bought 3 c - shaped tables from Home Goods 🤦🏾‍♀️! They will hold a lamp and nothing else. Not multi functional at all ! Thank You for this! Love your videos ! You are so authentic, warm, welcoming,knowledgeable... it’s like we are chatting about Home Decor with a great cup of tea 🙌🏾🙌🏾Thank you again! Keep up the amazing work 👍🏾👍🏾

[@kimberlyb8892]

We’re moving into a new home, and I’ve found your videos so helpful! I would love to see a video from you on specific design styles. Like if I want a “modern boho” home what kind of products should I look for at thrift stores, Home Goods, etc.

[@idaliarice4773]

I took my mirror down and placed my TV above my dresser... best decision ever!

[@ScottEmbler]

Maybe it’s because my comforter isn’t super bulky and fits in my washing machine easily, but duvets and duvet covers have literally never made sense to me and just seem like a huge, weird hassle.

[@andreathorpe7035]

I completely agree. I stopped fussing with duvet inserts and covers a while ago because it was a hassle for me. Now I use a cozy neutral comforter and am perfectly happy.

[@luvslyfe1]

If it’s a hassle for you, then you should watch the duvet burrito vids on YT! Easy peasy! Thats the only method I use now for getting inserts into the duvet covers. Its easier than wrestling the damn comforter out of the washing machine!😁👍🏼

[@texaspeach8640]

I think her point was when people want to switch things out. Many people like to switch at least seasonally if not more often- my mom hates to see the same comforter year round so when I helped her reorganize her house we had to find a place to store at least 8 comforters- duvet covers in this instance would have been awesome 😩

[@SunflowerFromDeath]

:D I grew up with duvet and duvet covers and I can't imagine another opinion, but we usually change summer and winter duvet and I have different covers for seasons in winter I use flannel and in summer cotton.

[@LiquidShivaz]

Because of down or silk, I love to switch out my duvets according to the weather and I love it.

[@aliciadear]

Just got rid of my air fryer and toaster oven to buy the ninja foodi SP101 that takes up a small space and does both jobs! I LOVE it!

[@leannesaraceno3486]

I use my George Forman for EVERYTHING!!!

[@robertak2659]

George Foreman grill might not count as single-use, because you can do grilled sandwiches on it as well as grilling beef/chicken/fish/veggies.

[@xolakieshanicole]

As a commercial interior designer, great video, in fact excellence video. You really did your homework! Great job

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so so much!

[@Erin-unsalted]

The mirror tip is fantastic! I removed the mirror on my husband's dresser a long time ago because it was just in the way.

[@patroberts185]

I love you Kiva💝💐😎 keeping my comforter, bedroom suite, mirror on dresser, no tv in my home, no marble - too expensive, love my side tables and one tier coffee table ( part of living room suite that matches my bedroom suite). Yay! No floating shelves - hate to dust🤷🏻‍♀️! Bonus points - I still have curio cabinet, China hutch and armoire without a tv. Maybe I’m old😂🤣🙋🏻

[@bkbff]

Concrete is definitely porous and also has to be sealed and maintained, but it is cheaper than marble and does have the DIY aspect. The maintenance is what has kept me from DIYing concrete countertops. I'd rather wait and save for quartz.

[@annaswanson5903]

I’m in total agreement with this

[@HosCreates]

Save up for the quartz. I got a sample of Cambria quartz I had to do some testing on it for a kitchen and bath design class. That piece and another brand withstood ketchup, berries, vinegar and took repeated hammering with a hammer. No dents no stains!

[@kaysmyth7099]

I use duvet covers frequently but I don’t put down or down alternative, they look just as good with a thin layer in winter and just the cover in the summer best is now wheezing or gasping for breath it got in Florida all year round.

[@candiceklein6813]

So glad that you did another video today. I hope you enjoyed your business trip

[@oamadi]

I came across your channel a couple of months ago. I have to say that I am really learning a lot about interior design from you mr videos. Thank you for this great content. Can’t wait to put these tips into practice in my new space.

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so much for watching!!

[@kate2create738]

When I was working at Bed Bath and Beyond a few years ago, I bought a really nice duvet and a cover both on a really good sale (bonus with employee discount.) I remember telling my manager about my planned purchase and he showed me what he got that lasted for a long time, my memories is off but I want to say it was roughly something he had for 15 years at least. He said these duvets, if properly taken care of, can last up to 20 years. Can confirm it's one of my favorite purchases I made working at the store, while I don't use it during the summer (just this week it has reached 108°F, no thank you) it's great the rest of the year as it's a down duvet. Just remembered how quickly my old comforters just lost retaining to build up heat and how cold I used to get during the winter, the duvet has saved me from feeling trapped being piled up in too many layers.

[@pamelabillings4293]

I like having a white thick dense comforter for warmth and putting them in different duvet covers.

[@marietownsend8396]

KB I don't use comforters or duvets as I have old style bed with a metal frame. In my opinion dust ruffles are usually messy looking and hard to keep straight and need to be washed and ironed often. i use bedspreads that are easy to keep neat. I buy thinner fabric that easily washed. Thank you for the mention of the floating shelves. You are great.

[@Squikee]

I have side tables but I don’t have a coffee table. It works for my space and need for openness but now I’m curious to what you would think... 🤔

[@KivaBrent]

I think that’s great! Whatever keeps your space feeling open while giving you surfaces you can actually use is amazing! I love that you didn’t add a coffee table that you didn’t need!

[@annaswanson5903]

I’m the same and it works for me too b/c now I have space for floor exercises which I wouldn’t have if I had a coffee table

[@Just_Janéa]

That mirrored dresser tip was golden!

[@estherstephens1858]

I found your channel about 2-3 DAYS ago. I’m NOT a hoarder but I have stuff I don’t need. I already got rid of a lot but there’s more I need to get rid of, yet, I find it difficult to get rid of other things I know I really don’t need. Oh, by the way, I’ve watched a few of your videos and subscribed after seeing the first one.

[@jenniferanderson4441]

Put those things in a box and store it away. After 3 months you'll realize you can part ways with them because you have no use for them. I did this and it helped. Also, try watching "the home edit" it's actually liberating to have a clutter free place ✌❤

[@annaswanson5903]

Esther I have been a bit of a pack rat in a former life and there are definitely reasons we hold onto things. Something that has helped me out is knowing that I can replace things if I decide I do actually need them and there are people that actually need and really appreciate having the things I’ve decluttered

[@ennamatilda269]

Those duvets, I never knew there was another option! My family has these inserts we bought maybe a decade or two ago and I actually prefer them over these new inserts that just feel too light. It's so much easier to wash your linen too!

[@nancyberg6260]

I am taking a break from packing to spend a week while my place is being totally redone at the low rent for oldies place. It makes me reassure myself to select which go into storage and out or restore and which will just look magnificent useful and what I need. Thank you to My Aunt Advisor tho I am much older. It helps.

[@DestinationBookshelf]

I have duvets but i hate stuffing the insert in them. Its always so bulky and living the single life its a hassle to try and get it even out inside. I love them and hate them when it time for a wash....

[@jamiehensley2728]

Can you PLEASE make a video or share a hack on how to easily change out your duvet cover? Inevitably, I end up crawling inside of my king size comforter and cussing a blue streak! It should not be so hard! Lol!

[@fridayhunt7075]

How are you doing? It’s great to see you! We love your videos.

[@grihstudio]

Now you have convinced me to buy a Kitchen Aid and a Vitamix. But what do I do with the specialty appliances I already own? Can you please create a video on what to do with the things we want to get rid of without just putting them in trash?

[@Moonidream]

You can donate them.

[@BrownEyedGirl1367]

All of my donations go to women’s shelters. Another new home for small appliances is young people just starting out or college students. The novelty and “quick bite” aspect vs actual cooking is popular among them.

[@PinotNoir8469]

Buying a duvet and cover makes so much sense. Thanks for the tip!!

[@HosCreates]

You can always use the cover to refresh your comforters look for less money for a new comforter