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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How to force rhubarb — 5 easy steps to a delicious early crop for crumble and more
Now is the perfect time to force rhubarb, and it can be done in 5 simple steps
By Katie Sims
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7 ways to make your life easier and cheaper in 2025 — our top at-home hacks for a less stressful year
Yes, life at home can be easier and cheaper this year – here are our top tips
By Katie Sims
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How much does it cost to run an air fryer? Do they save money?
We've calculated what it will cost to cook with an air fryer following the new July energy price cap
By Katie Sims
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How to get rid of items after a declutter — 3 ways to get your unwanted stuff out of your home
Ready to part ways with some items, but unsure what to do with them? Here's the expert advice you need
By Katie Sims
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How much does it cost to run a boiling water tap?
We calculated the cost of running a boiling water tap to see if the investment pays off
By Katie Sims
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How much does it cost to run a multi-cooker — does the air fryer alternative save money?
Here's how much your multi-cooker will cost to run under the latest energy price cap
By Katie Sims
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How much does it cost to run a washing machine?
We've calculated how much money your washing machine will cost to run according to the latest energy prices
By Katie Sims
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What's the difference between rising damp and penetrative damp? How to tell which one is affecting your home
Rising damp and penetrative damp are not the same thing—here's what you need to know
By Katie Sims
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Can a wet vacuum pick up water? They can, and this is how, according to experts
Wet vacuums can be a lifesaver when it comes to picking up water spills — here's how they do it
By Katie Sims
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How to clean cat pee from carpet — 6 easy steps to banish the stain and odour for good
Act now and stop the smell of cat pee from lingering
By Katie Sims
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How to fix a noisy washing machine yourself — 7 expert ways to get it to work quieter again
If your washing machine is creating more noise than you would like, learn how to fix it with our expert tips
By Katie Sims
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Why are my Christmas cactus buds falling off? 5 potential causes, and what to do about them
Here are all the factors that could be causing your Christmas cactus buds to fall, according to experts
By Katie Sims
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How to stop decluttering procrastination - 4 expert hacks that will get you to start, right now
Stop putting it off and start decluttering your home, with the help of these pro tips
By Katie Sims
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How long should you wait between coats of paint? This is what the experts say
Here's how long the pros say you should wait before applying the second coat
By Katie Sims
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10 things you should never store in a fridge, according to professional chefs
If you've been keeping any of these items in the fridge, the pros say you've been doing it wrong
By Katie Sims
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How to stop condensation on double glazed windows in winter - 3 easy things you can do now
Condensation on windows doesn't have to be an inevitable part of winter - just follow this expert advice
By Katie Sims
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How often should you water your poinsettia? Former Royal gardener reveals the ideal watering schedule
Keep this festive plant looking its best this Christmas
By Katie Sims
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How to get rid of an old vacuum cleaner - 3 easy methods to choose from, depending on the state of your machine
Dispose of your old vacuum responsibly and with little faff
By Katie Sims
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Should you use anti condensation or anti mould paint? The best option depends on the issue you're trying to solve, according to the pros
Experts explain the difference between anti condensation and anti mould paint - plus which you should be using and when
By Katie Sims
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The 5 kitchen appliances to deep-clean before Christmas - experts say to prioritise cleaning these items now
Make the festivities run more smoothly by deep cleaning these 5 kitchen appliances now
By Katie Sims
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Can you wash a duvet in a washing machine? It's a yes, but you'll need to follow this expert guidance
Any machine washable duvet can go in a washing machine if you follow the instructions
By Katie Sims
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How to dispose of paint - 3 easy steps to get rid of leftover paint safely
Clear out your old paint tins with these expert tips
By Katie Sims
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How to organise your fridge quickly - a 15 minute blitz to get your fridge ready for Christmas
These are the 7 quick steps to creating an orderly haven in your fridge this Christmas
By Katie Sims
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Here's when you should be switching to a summer duvet, according to the experts
Wondering if it's too early to make the swap? Experts reveal exactly when you should switch to a lighter duvet for summer
By Katie Sims