Month: September 2025

Apartment Living: 7 Hacks to Make Laundry Day Easier

Posted on by Carrie Beach

Apartment Living: 7 Hacks to Make Laundry Day Easier

7 October 2025 3 Min read
Rinse Cycle

Laundry day in an apartment community doesn’t have to be complicated. With shared machines, limited space, and busy schedules, it helps to have a plan. The good news is that a few simple strategies can make your laundry routine smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re washing for one or managing loads for the whole family, these apartment laundry tips help you get through laundry day faster and easier.

1. Plan Ahead

A smart schedule makes your laundry routine smoother and more convenient.

  • Plan laundry around your building’s quieter hours—typically mornings, mid-afternoons on weekdays, or later in the evening after dinner
  • Use your building’s laundry app (if available) to check machine availability
  • Set reminders to avoid forgetting your load

2. Sort Before You Go

Get a head start by separating loads before you head to the machines.

  • Keep separate hampers for whites, darks, and delicates
  • Use mesh bags for things like socks to prevent losing items
  • Pre-treat stains before heading down to the laundry room

3. Create a Laundry Day Kit

Keep detergent, stain remover, and other essentials handy for a simpler wash.

4. Maximize Dryer Efficiency

Dryers can fill up fast in apartment buildings, so use each cycle efficiently.

  • Shake out clothes before placing them inside to prevent wrinkles
  • Use wool dryer balls or a dry towel to speed up drying time
  • Remove lightweight items halfway through to free up space

5. Fold and Organize Right Away

Folding as soon as the dryer finishes saves time later and prevents wrinkling.

  • Use folding tables in the laundry room if available
  • Bring a clean mat or surface cover if folding space is limited
  • Organize loads by room or family member to simplify putting clothes away

6. Respect Shared Spaces

Good laundry room etiquette makes the process smoother for everyone.

  • Set a timer so you don’t leave loads sitting in machines
  • Wipe up spills from detergent or softener right away
  • Avoid leaving clothes unattended for long periods

7. Turn Laundry into a Simple Habit

Smaller loads are much easier to manage than tackling everything at once.

  • Aim for one or two loads midweek instead of saving everything for Sunday
  • Stick to a routine

We’re Here to Help Create a Better Laundry Experience

Laundry day doesn’t have to be a hassle. With these practical apartment tips, you can save time, stay organized, and make the process easier.

CSC Marketplace is here to help you find solutions that make your home experience easier, more comfortable, and better suited to your lifestyle.

Save $$100 off on your first job!
Thumbtack
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Save $Limited time offer on your first job!
viagogo
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Radisson Hotels
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Scary Season, Smart Savings: How to Avoid Halloween Surprises With CSC Marketplace

Posted on by Carrie Beach

Scary Season, Smart Savings: How to Avoid Halloween Surprises With CSC Marketplace

19 September 2025 3 Min read
Life Hacks

Halloween is here—cobwebs on the porch, creepy decorations in the yard, jack‑o‑lanterns glowing bright. It’s the season of thrills, treats, and frights. But while we all enjoy a little spooky fun, no one wants to be haunted by real‑life scares like surprise repair bills, pet mishaps, or unexpected landlord fees. That’s where CSC Marketplace comes in—helping you protect your home, your pets, and your wallet with deals that are anything but scary.

Post‑Party Repair & Cleanup

Throwing a Halloween bash? Once the last trick‑or‑treater leaves and the party ends, the real fright might be what’s left behind—stains, broken fixtures, or just a whole lot of cleanup.

That’s where Thumbtack can help. Whether you need a handyman, cleaner, or painter, you’ll find the right pro for the job—and CSC customers get $100 off their first Thumbtack project. No more staring at that mysterious red punch stain by flashlight.

When Things Go Bump in the Night: Insurance to the Rescue

Between candles in pumpkins, excited pets, and costume chaos, Halloween can bring unexpected accidents. Don’t let these frights turn into financial nightmares:

  • Lemonade Renters Insurance helps protect your belongings from fire, theft, and other spooky surprises—starting at just $5/month.
  • Lemonade Pet Insurance has you covered if your furry friend gets spooked by the doorbell or costumes, keeping scary vet bills at bay.

Peace of mind is sweeter than any candy bar.

Avoiding Nightmare Landlord Fees & Lockouts

Loose wires, damaged walls, or missing keys—sometimes things happen that lead to scary landlord charges. But with Home Assist by Latchel, renters can get up to $2,700 in reimbursements for surprise landlord fees, lockouts, and more. Even better—your first month is free.

When things go bump in the night, at least your wallet won’t feel the shock.

Other Creeptastic Deals Worth a Peek

  • Cort: Need to rent furniture for your Halloween gathering—or give your space a stylish seasonal upgrade? Cort has flexible rental options that are a treat.
  • Appliance Warehouse: Haunted washer? Creepy dryer noises? Upgrade your appliances without the scary price tag.
  • Internet & TV: Planning a move this season? We make the process smoother, helping you set up utilities and change your address with ease.
  • Perpay: Looking to spread out payments for big buys this fall? Perpay lets you shop now and pay over time—no tricks, just treats.
  • Lemonade Auto: From pumpkin patch trips to costume store runs, keep your car protected with Lemonade Auto’s modern coverage.

No Tricks, Just Treats

Halloween is the perfect time for spooky fun—but when it comes to your home, pets, and budget, peace of mind should never be scary. With CSC Marketplace, you can unlock exclusive partner deals and head into the holiday season prepared for whatever surprises come your way.

🎃 Check out CSC Marketplace today and explore all the hauntingly good deals waiting for you!

10 Most Renter-Friendly DIY Home Projects

Posted on by Carrie Beach

10 Most Renter-Friendly DIY Home Projects

3 October 2025 5 Min read
Life Hacks

Renting your home often comes with certain limitations, but that doesn’t mean you cannot make it feel like your own. With a little creativity, you can take on DIY home projects that add style, comfort, and function while keeping your landlord happy. The best part is that these updates are reversible, so you can easily restore your space when it is time to move out.

Whether you are looking to freshen up your living room, give your kitchen a mini makeover, or simply add more personality, these ideas will help you get started.

1. Upgrade Your Lighting

Lighting sets the tone for any room. Swapping out a basic fixture for something stylish can make your space feel brighter, warmer, and more inviting. Even if you’re not allowed to make structural changes, you can still add layers of light through lamps and accent pieces.

  • Replace standard fixtures with pendants or chandeliers that match your style
  • Add floor or table lamps to create a cozy, layered lighting effect
  • Add night lights throughout the halls to create ambiance
  • Store the original fixture so you can easily swap it back before moving

2. Peel-and-Stick Backsplashes

Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are one of the most transformative DIY home projects for renters. They give you the look of high-end tile without grout, cement, or permanent installation.

  • Choose from subway tiles, marble, or patterned designs to match your style
  • Apply in kitchens, bathrooms, or even behind a bar cart for a custom look
  • Easy to trim to size with scissors or a utility knife
  • Removes cleanly without damaging the wall beneath

3. Refresh Cabinet Hardware

Small details can have a big impact, and cabinet hardware is one of the easiest updates you can make. Swapping out knobs can instantly modernize a kitchen or bathroom.

  • Look for unique finishes like brushed brass, matte black, or mixed metals
  • Consider fun shapes or textured handles to add personality
  • Keep original hardware in a labeled bag for quick reinstall before moving
  • Pair your hardware upgrade with matching light switch covers or hooks for a coordinated look

4. Removable Wallpaper and Wall Decals

If you want to add personality to a room without the permanence of paint, removable wallpaper is your best friend.

  • Perfect for creating an accent wall in a bedroom or living room
  • Use in unexpected places like the inside of bookshelves or on closet doors
  • Choose bold prints or subtle textures for a softer look
  • Removes cleanly without damaging paint or drywall

5. Floating Shelves for Storage and Style

Floating shelves are both functional and decorative, helping you stay organized while also showcasing your personality.

  • Use in kitchens to store dishes or display cookbooks
  • In living rooms, style with plants, art, and framed photos
  • Install in bathrooms to hold toiletries and small decor
  • Opt for renter-friendly wall anchors that are easy to patch later

6. Add Greenery with Indoor Plants

Plants are a simple yet powerful way to bring life and color into your rental. They freshen the air and make any space feel more welcoming.

  • Use hanging planters in small spaces to add greenery without taking up floor space
  • Mix tall floor plants with small tabletop arrangements for variety
  • Pair with decorative planters to tie into your room’s color scheme

7. Define Spaces with Area Rugs

Area rugs do more than protect floors; they can help create distinct zones within your home. This is especially helpful for open floor plans or studio apartments.

  • Use a large rug in your living room to anchor furniture
  • Place smaller rugs under dining tables or in entryways to create defined areas
  • Add texture and warmth with shag or woven rugs
  • Choose washable rugs for easy maintenance

8. Temporary Window Treatments

Windows have a big impact on the look and feel of a space. Even if your rental comes with standard blinds, you can personalize them.

  • Install curtain rods with tension mounts to avoid drilling holes
  • Layer sheer curtains with blackout panels for style and function
  • Choose fabrics that complement your furniture and wall colors

9. Update Your Bathroom Accessories

Bathrooms are often overlooked, but a few small changes can make yours feel like a spa.

  • Replace shower curtains with fresh patterns or luxurious fabrics
  • Add a coordinated bath mat and towel set for a polished look
  • Upgrade your mirror to something framed or decorative
  • Use organizers to keep essentials tidy and stylish

10. Statement Art and Mirrors

Large-scale art and mirrors are excellent for making a big impact in a small space.

  • Mirrors can help brighten dark rooms by reflecting natural light
  • Choose art that reflects your personal taste and adds color
  • Use removable hanging hooks to avoid wall damage
  • Mix large statement pieces with smaller gallery-style arrangements

Create a Home You Love Without Worry

DIY home projects give you the power to make a rental feel like home without risking your deposit. Whether you are swapping out light fixtures, hanging removable wallpaper, or adding lush greenery, these small changes can have a big impact on your comfort and style. And if an accidental mishap happens during your upgrades, Latchel can help cover unexpected costs from your landlord, giving you peace of mind while you make your space your own.

CSC Marketplace is here to help you bring your vision to life and enjoy your home to the fullest, no matter where you live.

The Renter’s Guide to Hosting In a Small Space

Posted on by Carrie Beach

The Renter’s Guide to Hosting In a Small Space

3 September 2025 4 Min read
Renting Right

Living in a rented space doesn’t mean you have to skip out on hosting. With the right planning, space-saving strategies, and rental-friendly upgrades, you can create gatherings that feel inviting and stylish without feeling cramped. Whether you are planning a dinner, a game night, or a celebratory brunch, these tips will help you make the most of your space.

Plan With Purpose

When hosting in a small space, every choice makes a difference. Start by defining your vision before sending invitations. Ask yourself:

  • How many guests can you comfortably fit
  • What type of gathering will work best, such as casual cocktails, a sit-down meal, or an open house-style party
  • What activities or entertainment fit your space and guest list

A smaller guest list often means more personal conversations and less stress. Planning this early will help you make the most of your layout and avoid any day-of surprises.


Maximize Your Layout

Furniture placement can make or break the comfort of a small gathering. Consider:

  • Pushing larger pieces like sofas or coffee tables against the wall
  • Temporarily moving unused furniture into another room
  • Creating clear pathways so guests can move easily between spaces

CORT can help here. Renting flexible, space-saving pieces allows you to tailor your setup for each event, then return or swap items when you are done. CORT offers stylish, functional options like extra chairs, collapsible tables, or sleek bar carts to make hosting parties easier and more polished. You can get 25% off your first month’s furniture rental with the promo code CSC25!


Create Multi-Use Spaces

During parties, think about how you can transform everyday spaces:

  • Turn your kitchen island into a buffet or dessert station
  • Use a bookshelf as a drink station with glassware, bottles, and mixers
  • Repurpose a sideboard to display snacks, flowers, or party favors

Pieces with hidden storage help you quickly hide clutter before guests arrive, keeping the space clean and welcoming.


Keep the Menu Simple and Strategic

A limited kitchen space does not have to limit your menu, but it does require smart choices. You could try:

  • Serving dishes that can be prepared ahead of time
  • Offering a mix of room temperature items and self-serve stations
  • Focusing on finger foods like skewers, sliders, and bite-sized desserts

Keeping food simple gives you more time to enjoy your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.


Set the Mood with Lighting and Decor

The right atmosphere can make even the smallest space feel expansive. Try:

  • Layering lighting with lamps, candles, and string lights
  • Using mirrors to reflect light and open the room
  • Choosing one or two statement decor items, then keeping the rest minimal

A few well-placed details can make the whole space feel intentional and welcoming.


Make Clean Up a Breeze

The end of the night is always easier with a plan. Before the party starts:

  • Set up a spot for used dishes and glassware
  • Keep extra trash and recycling bags handy
  • Use compostable plates and cups for larger groups to save time

With Appliance Warehouse, washing table linens, slipcovers, or other party fabrics is stress-free. Their maintenance-inclusive rentals mean you will never worry about unexpected downtime when you need appliances most. You can get your first month for only $19.95 with promo code MARKETPLACE1995.


Turning Small Spaces into Big Memories

Hosting in a small space is about working with what you have and making it feel intentional. With thoughtful planning, adaptable furniture, and dependable home essentials, you can create events that feel comfortable, stylish, and memorable.

Partners like CORT and Appliance Warehouse make it easier to transform your rental into an entertaining space without long-term commitments or extra clutter.

CSC Marketplace connects you with products and services designed to make hosting simple, stylish, and stress-free, no matter the size of your space.