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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How to get cat pee out of carpet in three easy steps
Accidents happen, so learn how to get rid of cat pee before the smell seeps in and hangs around for good
By Punteha van Terheyden Last updated
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14 lawn edging ideas that will add definition and style to your backyard
Want to neaten up your lawn with lawn edging ideas? From fresh flowers to laidback bricks, we've scouted out materials and styles that look brilliant
By Eve Smallman Published
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How to xeriscape — 7 steps for creating a stylish yet low-maintenance yard
Learning how to xeriscape is one of the most eco-friendly, low-maintenance and impressive forms of landscaping. This is how to incorporate it into your yard
By Eve Smallman Last updated
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Why pouring boiling water over weeds is a waste of time, according to gardening pros — and what to do instead
Don't bother pouring boiling water over weeds if your backyard is full of them. We've asked experts why not to do this and what you can do instead
By Eve Smallman Published
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30 beautiful backyard ideas to help you create a stunning outdoor space for entertaining, relaxing and more
Looking for backyard ideas? From fire pits to vegetable gardens and hard landscaping tips, these expert-approved tips will deliver year-round interest
By Eve Smallman Published
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23 fence ideas for privacy in your yard
Create an outdoor oasis with these fence ideas for privacy. See design inspiration for creating boundaries and blocking out views
By Pippa Blenkinsop Last updated
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Planting ornamental grasses — the best types experts love and how to grow them
We've got you covered on planting ornamental grasses, speaking to experts about what ones to grow, how to grow them, and factors to consider
By Eve Smallman Last updated
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How to mow a lawn, according to a landscaping expert
If you want a luscious, healthy plot, you'll need to learn how to mow a lawn the proper way
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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22 backyard privacy ideas to create a secluded yet stylish space with
Looking for backyard privacy ideas? We've found a range of different ways you can block the outside world from your yard, plus picked matching buys
By Anna K. Cottrell Published
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12 grass alternatives for lawns for a no-mow yard
These grass alternatives for lawns deliver on beauty, sustainability, and low-maintenance functionality for modern yards, big and small
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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14 lift-top coffee tables that are actually perfect for smaller spaces
Lift-top coffee tables mean you can work, eat, and chill in the very same spot. It's officially time to replace your current coffee table
By Joseph Bobowicz Last updated
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Concrete flooring — types, costs, and design advice
Find out how to choose concrete flooring in our guide for a modern look and feel. See our expert design advice, installation tips, and more
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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How to clean oven racks — our expert-approved method for sparkling results
Learn how to clean oven racks in the tub, using foil, baking soda, vinegar, and more expert-recommended methods, for impressive results every time.
By Sarah Warwick Last updated
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5 ways to stop drafty doors fast — seal air leaks with help from the experts
Learn how to stop drafty doors if you're feeling a chill. Sealing air leaks is easily done DIY with quick fixes from home experts.
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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"Why does my Christmas tree smell bad?" Here's how to get rid of the odor
If your Christmas tree suddenly smells bad, don't worry: you can almost certainly salvage it. Here's how
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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11 outdoor Christmas lighting ideas to bring a festive glow to your front yard
Get into the festive spirit with our outdoor Christmas lighting ideas. Create a stunning display to make your whole house sparkle throughout the holidays.
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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10 ways to decorate outdoor trees for Christmas with lights
Decorate outdoor trees for Christmas with lights to get into the holiday spirit. Add a covetable festive glow to your front or backyard.
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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How to smooth walls without plastering, according to design experts
Try these ways to smooth walls without plastering — the best ways to prep your walls without needing a skim coat
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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How to clean a sheepskin rug at home without damaging it
Learn how to clean a sheepskin rug and prolong the life of this luxurious decor item. Gently wash yours with steam and remove stains successfully
By Beth Mahoney Last updated
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8 ways to get rid of spiders and keep them from moving in
Itsy bitsy be gone! 🕷️
By Anna K. Cottrell Last updated
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10 budget backyard ideas that will transform your small outdoor space
These budget backyard ideas are perfecting for switching up your small space, and won't cost you a lot of dollar...
By Kaitlyn McInnis Last updated
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Here's how often you really should wash your towels (JSYK it's more than you think)
See how often you should wash your towels to keep them fresh and clean. This often-forgotten task is crucial for a tody bathroom.
By Beth Mahoney Last updated
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How to clean a washing machine, because yes, it totally needs it
Cleaning a washing machine is essential for getting your laundry as fresh as can be. This is how to clean all parts of your washer with as little stress as possible
By Melissa Epifano Last updated
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Listen up: here's how to make a fan blow cold air
Need to know how to make a fan blow cold air? Survive and thrive during the heat with these quick hacks to create a cool breeze...
By Eve Smallman Last updated