
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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Hitting This Button on Your Dryer Could Shave $$s Off Your Energy Bills This Winter
Effortlessly save between $30 and $50 a year
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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I Asked a Heating Expert for 1 Simple October Fix to Stop Pipes Freezing – He Swears by this $25 Buy to Save you $100s Through Winter
It's quick and easy to install, too
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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The Fall Wardrobe Swap – 5 Pro Tips to Streamline and Tidy Your Closet for the Colder Months
Transition your wardrobe from warm to winter with ease
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Homeowners Urged to Put Vinegar Down the Drain this October to Combat this Weather-Related Issue
Experts say it forms one prong of a vital maintenance routine
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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5 Easy Kitchen Prep Tips Chefs and Pro Organizers Always use to get Ready for the Holidays with Less Stress, Including 'Leftover Zones'
Get ahead of preparations now to save yourself the stress later
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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3 Fall Feng Shui Essentials to Make Your Home Feel Cozier Instantly – Interior Therapists Swear These Will Help You Relax With Ease
Use lighting, mirrors, and blankets for a luxurious, cozy feel
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Spraying this easy DIY essential oil spray around your windows in October will deter spiders – they hate the smell
Peppermint oil is the unsung hero
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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The 'difference between life and death' – home maintenance experts reveal 3 smoke alarm tests you must do in October
Keep your health and home safe
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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These $11 aromatic, non-toxic 'blocks from heaven' are a natural secret weapon against moths this fall – shoppers love the 'great scent'
They're long-lasting, too
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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This 'easy to install' $57 pull-out kitchen addition instantly creates bespoke and accessible cabinets ahead of holiday hosting, without eye-watering costs
Banish awkward cabinets with this pull-out tray
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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'I wish I'd discovered it years ago' – the pre-vacuuming hack every pet owner should do before holiday guests arrive, and how to get your paws on it
Grab this top-rated product at its lowest ever price
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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This two-piece $15 Joseph Joseph scrubbing duo is perfect for cleaning awkward corners in small bathrooms without straining your back – it’s perfect for my tiny ensuite
I never clean my bathroom with anything else
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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'Bigger than Santa's bag' – I've found the perfect waterproof $26 solution for storing your Halloween decor, including that 12-foot skeleton!
Use it all year round, so you can stop worrying about your decor
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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Fire experts love this surprisingly effective and 'environmentally friendly' pantry staple for easily putting out flames in your fireplace this cozy season
It's effective, but extinguisher backup is essential for your safety, warn experts
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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An 'amazing tool I never knew I needed' – this $22 set makes cleaning your coffee grinder quick and easy
Shoppers rave about it
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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I predict a sell-out! With four furry dogs at home, this Miele is the only vacuum cleaner I swear by – and it's now reduced by $209
Nab this limited-time deal ahead of a predicted Amazon Prime Day sellout
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to stop pipes from freezing this winter – 7 smart solutions from expert plumbers to avoid burst pipes and leaks
Keep water flowing and avoid a nightmare leak during cold snap
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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The best home fragrances instantly elevate your space and make it so welcoming for guests – wow visitors this holiday season with our top picks
Whether it's candles, reed, or electronic oil diffusers, we've tested the best for all homes and budgets so you can indulge in a treat, or get ahead on Christmas shopping with ease
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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The ultimate guide on how to prevent and get rid of mold and mildew in your home – expert-approved tips for every room and surface
Mold smells bad, looks unsightly, and can trigger health issues
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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These small but mighty $6 odor 'superheroes' are the answer to musty storage spaces this winter – over 11,000 happy shoppers agree
They're now under $6
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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'Pet owners need this' – this $19 baseboard cleaning tool keeps busy homes 'clean and dust-free,' according to shoppers
The extendable handle makes light work of this fall task
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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How to clean and care for a mattress to enjoy years of blissful, comfortable use – the Homes & Gardens ultimate guide
Clean, store, and protect your mattress to perfection with these expert tips
By Ottilie Blackhall Last updated
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'Whoever designed this is a genius' – this DIY chimney sweep kit is 'highly recommended' by happy shoppers who are saving $100s on pro call-outs
It has everything you need to get the job done safely yourself
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
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HVAC pros reveal the exact temperature your thermostat should be to stop damp, mold, and condensation this winter – and 5 signs it's time to flip the switch
Our heating pros reveal the perfect temperature to set your thermostat at
By Ottilie Blackhall Published
