
Ottilie Blackhall
Ottilie is new to Homes & Gardens, having recently graduated from a Master's in Magazine Journalism at City, University of London. She produces content for the Solved section on the website, focusing on clever tips and tricks to keep your home beautiful, organized and clean. She also has a Master's degree in English Literature and History of Art from the University of Edinburgh, where she developed a love for inspiring interiors and architecture.
As a lover of maximalism, Ottilie enjoys hunting for vintage gems and antiques, as well as keeping up with the newest design trends.
Latest articles by Ottilie Blackhall
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'Big results before you know it' – experts urge you to use the ‘Take Away 10’ method for simple decluttering with zero decision fatigue
It can cut hundreds of items from your home in just a few weeks
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to clean a microwave with a lemon – the non-toxic way to banish burnt-on food and stale odors
Our expert-approved, easy, and eco-friendly method
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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The 5 worst things you can do to your fridge – these will drive up energy costs and result in pricey and regrettable repairs
It's crucial to swerve these blunders, appliance experts warn
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How the 'ODT' method can help you to tackle your overwhelming decluttering checklist – and streamline the process from start to finish
Avoid 'analysis paralysis' and tick off tasks quickly and easily by making just one decision at a time
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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I'm 5ft2 and this telescopic scrubber safely and easily banished mold and grime in even the hardest-to-reach areas of my bathroom in less than 15 minutes
My bathroom has never looked better thanks to this handy $16 two-in-one tool from Joseph Joseph
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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'It's a fast reset button' – using the 1, 2 ,3 ,4, 5 decluttering method cleared my persistent mess in seconds
It's easy, effective and so quick to do
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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The SwitchBot K10+ Pro Robot Vacuum Combo is good for small spaces – but the mopping function falls short
I tried the world's smallest robot vacuum in my busy home with 4 dogs. This is how it fared
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to remove pet hair from fabric, laundry and clothes – 5 expert-approved tips for shedding season success
Banish hairs from your soft surfaces for a spotless space
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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Steam cleaning shower grout makes for a seriously sanitized space without any harsh chemicals
It's an affordable, low-effort and non-toxic method
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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How to remove rust stains from concrete – 7 tried and tested methods that really work
Harness the power of your pantry staples
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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How we tests reed diffusers at Homes & Gardens to bring you our top picks
Learn everything about the crucial criteria we use to recommend reed diffusers
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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I love my expensive Malin+Goetz room spray for banishing dog odors at home – but I’ve found the perfect alternative for under $15
A spritz of these spring scents last up to two hours
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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5 patio painting mistakes to avoid – swerve patchy, peeling finishes with these expert tips
Surface preparation is key, experts urge
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to store a comforter or duvet properly over the warmer months – pros say 'breathable is the buzzword'
Clean, air out, fold and roll your way to a fresh and fluffy duvet
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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I’ve ditched my usual mop, dusters and scrubbers for this compact Joseph Joseph cleaning system – it's great for bathrooms
Streamline your cleaning system and save space with this all-in-one kit
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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7 overlooked outdoor cleaning spots to tackle this weekend – and why spring is the easiest season to refresh them
Neglecting these areas will make the entire space look shabby
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Top expert tips for pressure washing a patio – avoid damage, protect joints, and spruce up your pavers with ease
Proceed with caution to enjoy your patio looking like new again
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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How to clean a deck without a pressure washer – avoid damaging your wood with this simple, expert-approved method
Using a pressure washer can do more harm than good, experts warn
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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7 unexpected things to clean in April 2025 – from refrigerator coils to recycling bins, these vital areas need extra attention this month, cleaning pros warn
Start the spring season by ticking off these essential tasks
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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What is biophilic decluttering? This 'return to nature mandate' will transform chaos to calm at home
Even small changes will make a big difference
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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This is the most important and impactful thing to quickly declutter from your bathroom this weekend
Professional organizers urge you to get rid of expired items to avoid adverse reactions
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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I tried using a Zodiac candle to cleanse my home of bad energy and kick-start my spring decluttering with surprising results
This home scenting idea is out of this world
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to clean patio pavers without a pressure washer – 3 simple steps for a spring-ready outdoor space
Our expert-approved guide will have your pavers spruced in no time
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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5 pantry items you can skip decluttering this spring, from spices to dry beans and more
Save time and energy this season with this advice from our pros
By Ottilie Blackhall Published