
Katie Sims
Katie has been writing freelance since early 2022, specialising in all things homes and gardens. She started out writing e-commerce content for several of Future’s interior titles, including Real Homes, Gardeningetc, Livingetc, and Homes and Gardens.
Since then she’s been a regular contributor on Ideal Home’s digital team, covering news topics, how-to guides, and product reviews. She also writes for woman&home.
After graduating with an English Literature and History degree, Katie qualified with a Masters in Media and Journalism from Newcastle University in 2021, and hopes to continue producing engaging digital content in the future.
Latest articles by Katie Sims
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5 plants that bloom twice a year – the varieties garden experts recommend to deliver double the colour and flowers
Choose these plants if you want to enjoy more than one bloom this summer
By Katie Sims
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I didn't think this *very* cheap carpet cleaner would be able to tackle the dirt and stains on my carpet – it quickly proved me wrong
A budget-friendly carpet cleaner that gets the basics just right
By Katie Sims
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Feather & Black discount codes
Save on mattresses, beds, wardrobes and furniture using these 7 active Feather & Black discount codes.
By Katie Sims
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What is the difference between a canopy, a gazebo and a pergola? Garden experts explain the key differences to help you choose
Understanding these popular garden structures will help you pick the perfect shade solution
By Katie Sims
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How often should you deadhead plants? Garden experts break down the timings for healthier plants and more blooms
What you need to know about looking after each type of plant
By Katie Sims
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I've been using the Sage Barista Touch Impress with Cold Extraction for two weeks — making barista-grade drinks at home has never been easier
It’s smart, sleek, and makes cold brew at the touch of a button — but is it worth the hefty price tag?
By Katie Sims
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Is it cheaper to build a pergola or to buy one? Experts say one option is more cost-effective, but not everyone should try it
DIY pergola kits could be the money-saving solution your garden needs
By Katie Sims
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Boiling water is a cheap and easy way to remove garden weeds, but this is what experts want you to know before trying it at home
Gardening experts reveal the facts about this popular weed-killing method
By Katie Sims
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Should you use distilled water in an iron? This is the perfect water combination, experts say everyone should be using in their iron
Experts reveal why a combination of distilled and tap water is best
By Katie Sims
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4 places in a garden you should never use leftover coffee grounds – gardening experts warn that they'll do more harm than good
The spots to swerve using this popular gardening hack
By Katie Sims
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Worried your neighbour is attracting rats? What you can legally do
Discover what steps you can take if your neighbour's habits are causing a rodent issue
By Katie Sims
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Hoover's new vacuum is one of the cheapest models on the market — and after testing, I can also say it's one of the most powerful
At £199, I didn't expect Hoover's upright model to pack such a punch
By Katie Sims
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Bedroom wall decor ideas – 20 ways to express your style and elevate your bedroom’s walls
Don’t neglect your bedroom walls – decorate them in ways that won’t disrupt the relaxing look and feel of the space instead
By Katie Sims
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How to get wrinkles out of clothes without an iron – 5 alternative methods that will get your clothes crease-free
Creased clothes don't always need an iron - try these hacks instead
By Katie Sims
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Should you clean before a cleaner? 5 things you should do before they arrive
If you want to get the most out of a professional clean, preparation is key
By Katie Sims
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Bosch’s brand-new vacuum is the most powerful model I’ve ever tested — but it comes at a cost that won’t suit quick and easy carpet cleaning
The Bosch Unlimited 10 ProPower kicks a powerful punch, but it comes at a price
By Katie Sims
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How to remove weeds from a patio in 6 easy steps – from hand weeding to natural solutions
Rid your patio of unwanted plants with the help of our expert tips
By Katie Sims
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These are the five places you should never plant roses, according to gardening pros
Avoid these areas if you want beautiful blooms from your roses this summer
By Katie Sims
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What is the best way to hang festoon lights in the garden? Experts unanimously agree on this foolproof method
These two essentials will keep your festoon lights secure all summer long
By Katie Sims
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How to get rid of old electric toothbrushes – 4 creative ways to reuse them around the home and recycle them
If your electric toothbrush is due for an upgrade, this is how to repurpose and recycle the old one
By Katie Sims
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3 colours to avoid when painting window frames – experts say they might draw the eye, but not in a good way
These are the colours to avoid if you want to transform your window frames from drab to dazzling
By Katie Sims
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This potato hack for removing rust on garden furniture is getting rave reviews – cleaning experts say 'it’s a great natural alternative'
Can a potato really remove rust from garden furniture? Here's what you need to know
By Katie Sims
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I've been using IKEA's 7-piece stainless steel cookware set for three weeks - it's completely upgraded my cookware game
For under £100, IKEA's 7-Piece Cookware set is a bargain. But is it worth investing in? I tested it to find out
By Katie Sims
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Can neighbours complain about outside lights? Experts urge you to check your garden lighting if you want to keep the peace
If your garden lights are a nuisance, the neighbours can take action
By Katie Sims