Marla Christiansen Marla is a freelance home expert for RealSimple.com, where she offers eco-friendly solutions for the home. With a background in film and art, she loves sharing new ways to organize, clean, and beautify spaces. She hopes to someday grow her plant collection into a full-on indoor jungle. Prior to Real Simple, she created content for Apartment Therapy, The Huffington Post, and Food Network. About Real Simple Real Simple, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is an award-winning, trusted online resource for smart, authentic solutions to simplify your life. We reach 11 million readers a month. Our content is written by experienced journalists and fact-checked for accuracy. Learn more about us and our editorial guidelines.