Anna K. Cottrell
Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. She covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.
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Solar panels for the home: a complete guide
Generate electricity or heat water with solar panels for the home. Here’s what you need to know
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to clean refrigerator coils and keep your appliance running efficiently
You may never have even thought about cleaning refrigerator coils but this isn't a task to be forgotten. Easily done and essential to keep your fridge freezer in tip-top condition.
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to remove paint from wood
Find out how to remove paint from wood, even if it's old paint
By Anna Cottrell Published
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8 neat ways to clean with shaving cream
Start cleaning with shaving cream to lift stains from a sofa and much more around your home – it's one of the cheapest ways to clean and you can use it safely just about anywhere.
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to clean vinyl flooring – brighten up planks and tiles with vinegar and more
Learn how to clean vinyl flooring – without scratching your beautiful vinyl planks or tiles
By Sarah Warwick Published
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20 trellis ideas – to support plants and add structure to your yard
The best-looking trellis ideas will bring character to your backyard, not to mention support a variety of climbing plants and add more structure to your outdoor space.
By Camille Dubuis-Welch Last updated
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6 dog gate ideas – DIY picks and more for a practical and stylish pet barrier
Dog gates can be functional, without sacrificing your home's style. DIY yours out of wood or install a shop-bought option to keep pets in check.
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to set the clock on your oven – for Daylight Savings Time or after a power cut
Learn how to set an oven clock, no matter the make and model of your appliance
By Anna Cottrell Published
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10 raised garden bed ideas for easy veggie growing even in small spaces
These raised garden bed ideas are suitable for outdoor spaces of all sizes and for gardeners of all levels
By Anna Cottrell Published
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Rock garden ideas – 10 DIY ways to create a rockery
These rock garden ideas are suitable for outdoor spaces big and small. Create your own rockery on a lawn or even on a balcony with just a few materials.
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to paint decking like a pro
Learn how to paint decking for a flawless finish
By Anna Cottrell Published
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How to defrost sausages
Here's how to defrost sausages safely before cooking
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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10 budget front yard landscaping ideas to copy in 2022
These budget front yard landscaping ideas will make the view beyond your porch look like a million dollars (without actually costing you very much at all).
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to keep raccoons away from your backyard or porch
Learn how to keep raccoons away, according to experts
By Anna Cottrell Published
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Radiators cold at the bottom? How to fix them according to experts
Are you radiators cold at the bottom? Experts explain what causes this common heating problem and how to fix it
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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6 design considerations when planning a kitchen island
From the functional to the purely aesthetic, these should be your top considerations when planning a kitchen island
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to lay decking – plan and build a DIY ground level construction yourself
Learn how to lay ground level decking in your yard plus, what to consider when building a raised deck yourself.
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to get blood out of clothes – remove fresh and old stains successfully
Learn how to get out blood of clothes, whether the blood stain is fresh or dried.
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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White mold in the basement? Is it dangerous and how to clean it
Find out how to tackle white mold in basement – or anywhere else in your house
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How much do double pane windows cost? Experts explain why it's worth it
Experts explain why the cost of double pane windows is worth it when it comes to energy bills. Plus, when to get double glazing installed and what other factors impact the price
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How much does it cost to paint a ceiling? Find out with expert advice
Learn how to work out the cost to paint a ceiling with expert help
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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What is the cost of granite counters? Work it out with expert advice
How to work out the cost of granite counters with or without installation
By Anna Cottrell Last updated
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How to clean a pool – easy steps favored by professionals
Learn how to clean a pool after winter in time for those summer months. Follow the simplest of methods from the experts, whether you're cleaning an above-ground pool or an in-ground design.
By Anna Cottrell Published
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9 ways to start preparing a lawn for spring
Take spring lawn care seriously for luscious turf that'll last through until summer and beyond. Experts explain why aerating soil is crucial and why your soil's pH matters.
By Anna Cottrell Published