
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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The 7 carpet cleaning mistakes experts warn to avoid at all costs – curb mold, dodge dirt and stop stubborn stains from setting
Keep your carpets soft and plush with these experts tips
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Feeling the chill? HVAC pros reveal if you should close your window’s trickle vents in winter
Optimize your home's airflow while keeping it cozy
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to wash bed sheets – enjoy luxurious softness and comfort
Laundry experts share their top tips to ensure a serene and sanitized sanctuary
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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5 non-toxic alternatives to borax for cleaning – some of them are already in your pantry
From baking soda to lemon juice, cleaning experts share the natural alternatives they love
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Is decluttering worth it? Organizing experts reveal how 'the magic of decluttering' contributes to a happier home
Our panel of experts all agree on this one
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Experts reveal their top 10 real estate trend forecasts for 2025 – here's what to look out for when buying or selling property this year
These trends could impact your move or help you optimize your sale
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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This unexpected kitchenware item is a 'fun and unique' way to store your beauty products
Experts say using a cake stand to cut clutter chaos will overhaul your vanity
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Is it cheaper to leave your heating on all day? HVAC pros reveal what's most economical
A smart thermostat is the best bet for keeping energy costs down and staying comfortable
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to declutter kitchen cabinets and keep them 'forever organized' in 6 simple steps
Expert advice to turn cabinet chaos into calm
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Why is my dishwasher not cleaning properly? How to fix the 5 most common issues
Our cleaning pros share their advice on avoiding build-up, bacteria and blockages
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to defrost a fridge – curb ice build-up and food spoilage with these pro tips
Our appliance expert shares his tried and tested method
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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When to drip faucets – avoid frozen and burst pipes by taking expert-approved precautions
Do it right and do it well with our pro tips
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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Experts warn using this feature on your oven will cut the life span of your appliance in half – here's why
From costly repairs to full on breakages, the self clean function may cause more harm than good
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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DIY SOS – from pest infestations to mold and electrical failures, there are the 9 times you should always call a pro
As these tell-tale signs demonstrate, sometimes things are best left to the experts
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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7 money-saving tips you need to know before renovating your home
Our experts share their insider knowledge for keeping your renovation costs down
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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7 stainless steel cleaning mistakes that are ruining your cookware – and what to do instead
Avoid scratches, discoloration and damage with tips from our cleaning pros
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to defrost a freezer – pro tips to keep your appliance running smoothly and safely
Lower your energy consumption and keep food stored optimally
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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What is the Pile Decluttering Method? Our organizing pros reveal this 'functional, hands-on approach' will transform your space with ease
Feeling the January blues? Tackle your decluttering to-do list with this speedy and efficient method
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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8 easy cleaning habits that will instantly boost your mood – even when struggling with seasonal affective disorder
Just getting started can be enough to beat winter blues
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to get rid of black mold in your home – 4 expert approved methods
Cleaning and damp professionals explain how to banish black mold and stop it returning in the future
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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7 steps to reset your home after Christmas – restore order with these expert tips
Our cleaning and organizing pros detail how to clear the chaos of Christmas
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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I tried the ‘One Hour’ cleaning method, and now I don’t dread doing chores – I was amazed at how much I got done
I'll be using this method all the time from now on
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to paint your tile backsplash for a professional finish – you can update yours on a budget
These expert-approved tips will make it a breeze
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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4 brilliant Christmas tree light storage solutions pro organizers swear by to 'avoid the tangle-tornado'
Sort out seasonal string lights with ease, with these expert-approved solutions
By Ottilie Blackhall Published