But cooking in 2025 has more options than you can dream of, with something to suit pretty much every lifestyle, space, budget and preference. When it comes to hobs, gas was the preference for quite some time after superseding its electric predecessors.

Then came induction, promising to be faster, more energy efficient, and safer - all coveted benefits that it shares with another recent innovation, the best air fryers, especially at the moment. That's why I wanted to try out the Smeg Portable Induction Hob, to see if the tech is worth the expense of purchasing a hob like this. Here's how I got on.

What is a portable induction hob?

A portable induction hob has plenty of benefits - it provides a safe, efficient, cooking method for someone or somewhere that a full hob might not be an option.

Even if you do have a fully kitted-out kitchen, you might want to add an extra cooking option, or set a portable induction hob somewhere specific if you’re entertaining. All of those options are easy to do with a product like this.

The Smeg portable induction hob can even do a little bit more. As well as induction technology and a sleek look (that’s easy to clean too, which we all love), it has a detachable temperature probe (which are all the rage with the best dual zone air fryers right now too) that allows you to check the temperature of your food while cooking. A game-changer for us amateur cooks. But is it really necessary?

Having used the Smeg portable induction hob to fry up some bacon and eggs, and also to cook a piece of chicken, using the temperature probe to check it was at the right temperature, it’s safe to say it does what it says on the tin.

It’s also easy to clean and looks quite slick. However, while a useful space-saver compared to a built-in hob, it’s still fairly sizeable so you’ll need some surface space for it.

And at £349.95 it’s not exactly a cheap purchase, especially compared to some other similar portable induction hobs - or indeed other kitchen gadgets - that do similar things.

You also need to remember that induction hobs need special pans, like HexClad pans, which we gave 5 stars to in our HexClad 7-Piece Cookware review. This is because induction cooking heats via electrical induction rather than thermal conduction, hence being more efficient. But it also means you’ll need to spend a bit more buying the right pans to use with it.

You’re also limited to hob cooking - and while that does give lots of options from frying to boiling and even melting chocolate and cooking sous vide, some might argue that other gadgets are a bit more versatile for the price tag.

However, if you do have money to spend, and think this might be the answer to your cooking needs, here are three reasons that might make you want to invest in something like this.

3 reasons to invest in a portable induction hob

1. You can take it anywhere and it's easy to set up

This means if you’re limited on space or need an extra cooking zone for big occasions that you can then pack away, it’s quite handy. It’s literally a case of plugging it in and starting to cook.

There are nine power levels so you can do anything from quite gentle cooking to getting a rolling boil on. It’s also quite good for entertaining if you want to cook something in a different room, or maybe at the table in some kind of showstopping moment.

Though you’ll need to remember that while we’re used to most built-in kitchen hobs having an extractor fan above or near them, this one won’t if you start moving it around.

2. Its got a built-in temperature probe

Along with being able to control the temperature fairly precisely, the fact the Smeg portable induction hob comes with a detachable temperature probe is a nice addition, making it easy to check when your food’s cooked.

There’s no denying it’s a pretty efficient way to cook, getting up to temperature quickly, and speeding up the cooking process for some elements. I cooked a piece of chicken in the pan, testing the function that allows you to set the target temperature of what you’re cooking and then leave it to cook - with an alarm beeping to tell you when it’s done.

The only thing you’ve got to be careful with is that the whole item of food is checked. While one part of the chicken breast was up to temperature, another one wasn’t so we had to cook it for longer.

The perils of cooking in a pan maybe, and one argument for possibly considering another space-saving, easy-cooking gadget to cook food in over a portable hob, since you then have to rely on cooking everything in a pan.

3. It’s safe and easy to clean

One of the big advantages of an induction hob is it’s safe, with no naked flames to worry about. This is particularly useful for something portable like this. If you live somewhere where space is at a premium, or are trying to use this in a tight spot, the last thing you want is gas flames causing a hazard.

There’s also a warning light showing when it’s still hot once you’ve finished cooking - again useful to avoid any burns (providing you notice it). On top of this, the glass surface is easy to clean, so there’s no messing around with the iron bits that go on top of classic gas hobs, and struggling to clean spills or spits.

All in all then, after my tests, it's fair to say that this portable hob impressed me. Though the price is undeniably steep, if you need something convenient and electric, I can see the appeal.

Would you consider investing in a portable induction hob?

But all good things must come to an end. Although we firmly believe that herringbone kitchen flooring ideas will always look great, it's time to assess the new kitchen trends for 2025 and see whether we can revamp our spaces. Kitchen flooring is a big investment so it's important that it's timeless, easy to maintain and most importantly, looks good with your chosen design.

While herringbone flooring hits all of those markers, we're ready to try something new, which is why we've asked kitchen flooring experts which trend they predict is going to take over in 2025.

What is replacing herringbone flooring in kitchens?

So far with kitchen trends for 2025, we're seeing a huge drive in earthy kitchen colour schemes and natural textures. It seems like everyone is yearning for a down-to-earth feel in their cooking space, reflecting a need for our lives to slow down in pace.

'In 2025, textured tiles will be a defining trend in kitchens, offering an organic and tactile alternative to herringbone flooring and traditional smooth surfaces. These tiles, available in a variety of materials such as natural stone, ceramic or porcelain will offer innovative texture for 2025 through 3D surfaces, fluted and ribbed designs, tumbled effect edges and hand-finished tiles,' explains Isabel Fernandez from Quorn Stone.

'We are seeing a shift from classic herringbone toward large-format tiles in natural tones,' adds Louisa Swannell, head of creative design at Walls and Floors.

'Homeowners and kitchen designers are favouring these tiles for their ability to create a seamless, expansive look, which aligns with the broader move toward minimalism and biophilic design.'

The benefit of large-scale tiles is that they enhance the sense of space in a way that herringbone flooring doesn't to the same extent. If you have a small kitchen idea that needs light added in, opting for this flooring will open up the space. Similarly, in a large space, it reduces any visual distraction, minimising the amount of lines.

If you're feeling swayed by this new flooring trend, then how should it be styled? Here's some inspiration.

How to style organic stone flooring

1. Contrast with wood tones

Natural textures are huge in kitchens for 2025. Our cooking spaces are used for so much more than simply cooking, so it's important that they feel like relaxing spots to socialise, entertain and dine in. An easy way of curating that atmosphere is through your design choices, and organic wood tones and texture are the way to go.

'Look to nature for inspiration by incorporating organic material such as wood and natural stone into the design, and also bring in texture such as wool, linen and rattan to soften the scheme. Colours are neutral and earthy to create a sense of calm. Perfect for those who love the clean look of modern design but feel it could look too sterile, modern organic may just be the look you are seeking,' explains Chris Spink, founder at Hush Kitchens.

A wooden island is ideal for this as it adds a down-to-earth feel without overwhelming the design with too much wood. Alternatively, add little decorative touches through accessories or wooden stools to bring the outside in.

2. Add a statement splashback

Opting for a simplistic kitchen flooring idea that is light, bright and minimal means you have more scope to go bold on your other surfaces, such as a worktop.

Another big trend for the year ahead is to match a splashback to your kitchen worktop in a statement veined stone (or stone-effect) material. There's so much versatility when it comes to choosing a stone, whether you want to bring in darker hues or lean into a pink-toned material, you can make an impact and contrast the flooring.

3. Try out trendy hardware

Although natural stone flooring is indeed an upcoming trend, it's also inherently classic. It has strong ties to rustic kitchen ideas, so if this isn't the look you're going for then you'll want to bring in trendy touches to balance it out.

If a countryside abode is what you're decorating then combining with other traditional details will make light-coloured stone flooring shine. However, if you want to lean into a more classic-contemporary style, then focus on small details like cabinet hardware.

Although a tiny touch, it will have a big impact. Antique brass fixtures show no signs of slowing down and will tie in nicely to the traditional style while more obviously acknowledging the latest fashions.

When investing in one of the best sofas comfort is certainly key, and low-slung furniture, caricatured by low backs and wide seats, almost feels like sitting in a comfy bed. It’s the most relaxed of this year’s living room trends as we all move towards a more laid-back way of living.

A trend focused on home comfort, the low-slung furniture is encouraging us to prioritise a more leisurely lifestyle.

Why is low-slung furniture trending?

This year, we’ve already seen a rise in the popularity of cosy living rooms, as we opted for curved furniture which gives a warm cocooning feeling. Similarly, low-slung furniture sits closer to the ground than typical furniture which can create more comfortable seating positions.

‘Low-slung furniture is trending because it embodies the perfect balance of style and comfort. It creates a grounded, laid-back vibe that resonates with the modern desire for cosy yet design-forward living spaces. This year, people want their homes to feel inviting and effortlessly cool, and low-slung pieces deliver just that,’ comments Monika Puccio, Head Buyer at Sofa Club.

Having your furniture - such as sofas, chairs and beds - close to the floor can make you feel grounded, increasing the levels of comfort in your home.

‘Choosing low-slung furniture helps create a relaxed, welcoming space to retreat to, which is essential after busy days in our modern fast-paced lifestyles,’ says Sebastian Clarke, Senior Designer at King Living.

‘Low-slung furniture brings a grounded, calming aesthetic that aligns with an increased focus on wellness and mindfulness. The low profile opens up spaces, creating a sense of flow and connection, which is ideal for compact or multi-functional rooms. Often crafted with wider, more generous seats, these pieces invite you to sink in and unwind.’

Alongside the style’s wellness benefits, low-slung furniture is also a good choice if you have an open-plan or small living room. This is because its proximity to the ground can make the ceilings feel higher and the room more spacious.

How to style low-slung furniture

When styling your low-slung furniture, the key is to focus on comfort - think of blankets and cushions, as the essence of this trend is all about creating a comfortable living space.

‘Layering textures can add depth and an extra layer of cosiness. Add cushions in a range of textures, a throw blanket, and place a rug beneath the piece to add warmth and create a finished look. Enhance the aesthetic with low coffee tables and pouffes for a cohesive effect, and use ambient lighting to create the ultimate cosy space,’ suggests Joana Sadovskaja, Interior Trends Expert at Lovesofas.

Low-slung furniture is often understated due to its height - perfect if you enjoy a space that doesn’t look ‘busy’.

'Low-slung sofas offer sleek, minimalist style that works in both modern and traditional spaces,’ says Sebastian.

Similarly, a low-level bed creates a minimalist Japandi look which is both relaxing and comfortable. Low-level coffee tables and chairs are less imposing, making a room look more spacious and less cluttered.

Overall this trend is encouraging us to slow down and embrace home comforts. Low-slung furniture is relaxing and sociable - perfect to escape the hassles of modern life.

Shop low-slung furniture

Weighted blankets aren’t like your typical duvet or throw. The best weighted blankets have lots of benefits, providing comfort, stress relief, and a better night’s sleep. But when it comes to keeping them clean, the process might seem a little intimidating.

'If you own a weighted blanket, it is inevitable that it will need cleaning. Blankets in general absorb body oils and sweat and can become exposed to spills and dirt. There are some special considerations to be aware of when cleaning your weighted blanket,' explains Daniel Noyed, Senior Product Editor at Sleep Foundation.

These blankets are heavier than standard bedding, and their unique construction can make them tricky to care for. Luckily, we asked experts what the best way to clean a weighted blanket in the washing machine and by hand so you can get the most out of this must-have item.

The best way to wash a weighted blanket

Should you wash your weighted blanket in the washing machine or by hand? The best place to start is by looking at your blanket's care instructions.

'There are some considerations to keep in mind when cleaning a weighted blanket. It’s generally possible to wash a weighted blanket both by hand and in the washing machine, but before you decide which method to use, always consult the care label,' suggests Fantastic Services' domestic cleaning and laundry expert Petya Holevich.

'If you know which company has manufactured your blanket, you might be able to even find care instructions on their website. This is because there will be different care guidelines depending on whether your weighted blanket is made with cotton, polyester, rayon, wool, or another material and whether the fill is made of glass beads, plastic pellets or organic materials.'

What you'll need

How to wash a weighted blanket in the washing machine

If you decide to wash your weighted blanket in the washing machine, it's best to make sure you have checked the label on your blanket for care instructions to see if it can actually be washed this way.

Once you've got the all-clear, Sleep Foundation's senior product editor, Daniel Noyed advises, 'When machine washing, choose a bleach-free, gentle detergent, and wash your blanket in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle, avoiding fabric softeners.'

However, it's crucial to take into consideration the weight of your weighted blanket before chucking it in the wash, and also the load limit your washing machine can handle.

'While lots of weighted blankets say they are suitable for machine washing, the weight limit of your washing machine is unlikely to be able to handle it,' explains Molly Beal, family home specialist at MattressNextDay.

'Even if your weighted blanket is under the maximum of your machine's load capacity, consider that it will get a lot heavier as it gets wetter, so you're likely to end up damaging your machine. Instead, opt for hand-washing - as long-winded as it might seem, it's much safer and will save you having to buy a new washing machine.'

'If your weighted blanket states it is hand wash only, you definitely shouldn't risk the washing machine,' adds Molly.

However, if the weighted blanket has a removable cover, you could chuck that in the washing machine safely. Alternatively, if the whole blanket needs a deep clean, it might be worth heading to a laundrette instead as their machines can handle heavier loads.

Instead, to be on the safe side, this is how to wash it without damaging it, or your machine, according to our experts.

How to wash a weighted blanket by hand

1. Shake it out

A good starting place is to shake out the blanket, especially if you've been sat watching the telly with a cuppa and snacks.

'You might need to grab a friend for this to prevent your arms aching, but try to shake off as much debris and crumbs as possible to begin with,' says Molly Beal, family home specialist at MattressNextDay.

2. Try a spot clean

Sometimes all your blanket requires is a quick scrub, especially if you are only using it occasionally. In which case a spot clean will sort it right out.

'If your blanket isn't too dirty, try simply spot-cleaning areas that need refreshing,' explains Molly. 'Use a gentle fabric detergent and sponge to dab areas that have fallen victim to accidental spills.'

'Some blankets can only be spot cleaned and in this case simply take a microfibre cloth, with a small amount of soap on if desired/necessary and wipe the blanket down to remove any residual dirt and grime,' adds Sarah Dempsey, cleaning and laundry expert at MyJobQuote.

3. Wash it in the bath

If your blanket is indeed too heavy for your machine, washing your blanket by hand is the best way to get a deeper clean.

'If your weighted blanket is particularly dirty and in desperate need of a refresh, fill your bath with warm soapy water and detergent, and let your blanket soak for a while,' says Molly.

'Then, scrub areas with persistent staining, before rinsing it out as best you can. This might be a tricky job and require more than one pair of hands, but make sure you don't ring it out too hard as you can risk damaging the dispersion of the weighted beads inside. Gently squeeze as much water out as you can.'

4. Lay out your weighted blanket to dry

'Some weighted blankets may be safe to tumble dry, but again you must read the instructions on both the blanket and machine carefully before proceeding, and only dry on a low temperature to avoid damaging the texture of the material,' explains MyJobQuote's cleaning and laundry expert, Sarah Dempsey.

'If this is not an option, the blanket will need to be air dried, but not by hanging up as this can distort the material. Instead, lay down some towels to absorb the moisture and place your blanket on top of them, rotating every so often.'

Choose a sunny day to lay it out flat outside on a clean surface, shaking it occasionally to even out the filling and get rid of excess water. Inevitably, there will be lots of water pooling, so you definitely don't want to attempt air drying it in your house.

5. Speed up the drying process

We're not going to lie, air drying your weighted blanket will take an age, especially if it's a chilly, damp day. And if that is the case, it's best to bring it indoors for a final dry.

'This is a lengthy process that can take a couple of days, but is the safest way to dry your blanket and can be enhanced by making sure that you squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible after washing and ventilate the drying room by opening a window or turning on a fan,' explains Sarah Dempsey, MyJobQuote's cleaning and laundry expert.

Molly Beal, MattressNextDay's family home specialist advises the following to speed the process up.

'It might take a while for your weighted blanket to dry, so you can bring it inside when it's just damp and gently use a hairdryer to speed the drying process up. Spritz with a fabric spray to finish the job, and hey presto, you've got a fresh, clean weighted blanket.'

Alternatively, you could get a laundry drying pod, like Beldray's Pod System to make sure it's properly dry, or drape it indoors on one of the best heated clothes airers to give it an extra blast.

FAQs

Should I put a cover on my weighted blanket?

The experts we asked all agreed that using a cover can really help limit the amount of times you'll need to deep clean a weighted blanket. And putting on a duvet cover is probably the most sensible approach.

'One of the main things I’d recommend to keep a weighted blanket clean without washing is to invest in a good duvet cover for it,' suggests Fantastic Services' domestic cleaning expert and supervisor Petya Holevich.

'If your blanket has a duvet cover, then you’ll only need to remove and wash just the cover instead of the entire blanket most of the time. Duvet covers can often be washed in the washing machine. In general, a duvet cover will be a great way to prolong the life of your weighted blanket.'

'Even if you just use a double or king size (depending on the size of your blanket) duvet cover. This duvet cover can easily be taken off and popped in the wash, and then you don't have to worry about cleaning your weighted blanket as often at all!' adds Molly Beal, family home specialist at MattressNextDay.

How often should weighted blankets be washed?

'How often you use your weighted blanket will determine how often it should be washed,' explains Sarah Dempsey, cleaning and laundry expert at MyJobQuote.

'If used every night as bedding, it will need washing every few weeks to remove any excess sweat and body oils. However, if it is only used as a lap blanket from time to time then 3 or 4 washes per year should suffice. You can keep your blanket cleaner in between washes by avoiding eating or drinking whilst using it, keeping it in a cool environment whilst not using it to allow moisture to be released, or even placing a separate duvet cover over the top of it for further protection.'

'Keep it free from dust and debris and spot-clean spills and stains as soon as they arise,' adds Molly Beal, family home specialist at MattressNextDay. 'If you use your weighted blanket much more often, or take frequent naps under it - where you naturally sweat during sleep - you'll need to up this routine to once every 2 weeks to ensure you've got the cleanest, most hygienic set-up possible.'

So there you have it, the best way to wash your weighted blanket and keep it clean in between washes.

So, when was the last time you washed yours?

As a sleep expert who's spent the last four years writing about all things sleep – from researching where to buy a bed to testing out the best mattresses on the market – I’m here to explain all.

I'll give you the lowdown on what an ottoman bed is, how one works, and why an ottoman bed is a practical and stylish choice that can transform your bedroom.

And you don’t just have to take my word for it. I've also sourced multiple industry experts to share their insider knowledge on this popular bed choice.

What is an ottoman bed?

An ottoman bed is a bed where the mattress and base of the bed lift up to reveal a large storage space underneath. Generally, the bed uses gas levers to help make it easy to lift the mattress, and these should lock into place for safety.

What is an ottoman bed?

‘An ottoman bed is a style of bed frame where the base lifts to reveal storage space underneath' agrees Rob Cole, the buyer of bed frames & sofa beds at sleep retailer Dreams, 'if you’re looking for a stylish bed with hidden storage, it’s a great choice’

‘Lifting either from the side or foot end, most ottoman beds have gas-lift pistons allowing you to lift the base and mattress with ease' continues Rob, 'It then stays in the air to reveal a full-size storage space underneath.’

How does a mattress stay on an ottoman bed?

‘There’s a variety of mechanisms used to hold the mattress in place on an ottoman bed, and it will depend on the type of ottoman frame you buy,’ says Megan Thompson, buyer at bed retailer Bensons for Beds. ‘These include gas struts (which are similar to the system used in a car boot to lift and close it). They help lift the mattress when you start to pull the bed up, and then hold the weight of the mattress when the bed is open'.

‘There are also gas pistons which use trapped gas pressure to help lift the bed, or a hydraulic system, which can be fitted in different places within the bed frame, depending on how you want the bed to open.’

Are ottoman beds heavy to lift?

Of course, the idea of lifting a mattress into the air singlehanded may have you concerned about whether ottoman beds are heavy to lift.

But don't worry, in my experience lifting the mattress up is designed to be very easy – once you do the initial lift, the gas pistons should take over and do the heavy lifting for you.

However, it’s worth testing an ottoman bed out in-store to make sure you’re capable of that initial pull. If lifting and stretching aren’t within your range of motion, then a divan bed with storage drawers may be a better option for you.

What are the benefits of an ottoman bed?

1. Storage

Storage is the reason most people opt for an ottoman bed. The underneath cavity is voluminous and offers the ideal space to store bulky items. They can be particularly useful as a bedroom storage idea for a small bedroom.

‘Arguably the biggest selling point of an ottoman bed frame is that the whole area under your bed becomes prime storage real estate,’ says Rob from Dreams. ‘This means you can cut the bedroom clutter, while still keeping the things you need close at hand.’

‘An ottoman is a real asset in a spare bedroom as you can keep the spare pillows, duvets and guest towels tucked away until they are needed,’ suggests Adam Black, co-founder of Button & Sprung. ‘Ottomans offer the perfect bedroom storage solution to a cluttered bedroom.’

2. Easy access to items

Rather than tucking things into a loft, or the precarious top shelf of the airing cupboard, ottoman beds offer easy access to stowed-away items.

‘Not only is there loads of storage, but with a piston-assisted

mechanism that makes lifting easy, it’s no hassle to access anything underneath,’ says Rob from Dreams.

3. Great for minimalist spaces

If you’re looking for a minimalist oasis in your bedroom, ottoman beds make this dream a reality. They help keep things organised and pared back.

‘For those of us who like to keep our bedrooms exactly how we like them, having a place to store items that don’t fit the style of the room is a huge bonus,’ says Rob from Dreams.

4. Loads of style options

As ottoman beds are so popular, there are loads of style options on the market. So you’re sure to find an ottoman bed that suits your decor preferences.

‘Ottoman beds come in so many different styles and designs, including a range of statement headboards, so there’s sure to be something

to suit your aesthetic,’ says Rob from Dreams.

What are the disadvantages of an ottoman bed?

1. Bit more expensive

Thanks to the engineering and extra materials needed, ottoman beds can be on the pricier side compared to other bed frames.

‘Ottoman bed frames can sometimes cost a little more than

divans as they are trickier to manufacture, and include a bespoke piston-assisted lift and close mechanism,’ explains Rob from Dreams.

2. Difficult to move

‘Once your ottoman bed frame is fully assembled, it can be

difficult to move if you decide to redesign your bedroom,’ acknowledges Rob from Dreams. ‘Not only that, but if you’ve filled the storage, then you will have to move that out before trying to shift the bed frame itself.’

If you move regularly or like the flexibility of switching around your room arrangement, an ottoman bed might not be a practical option for you.

3. Needs careful handling

Ottoman beds can be dangerous if not operated properly. They have lots of safety features, but they should only be used by adults who understand how they operate.

‘While all modern ottoman bed frames come with a myriad of

safety features, they shouldn’t be played with by children,’ advises Rob from Dreams. ‘If you have pets or babies around, keep them out of the way when you open up your storage underneath.’

4. Can go mouldy if you suffer from damp

‘Ottoman beds can develop mould if proper care isn’t taken, primarily due to poor ventilation in the storage compartment,’ says Rob from Dreams. ‘Since the storage area is often enclosed, moisture could become trapped, especially if items stored inside are damp or if the bed is in a humid environment. To prevent mould, it’s important to keep the storage area dry and ensure good airflow by occasionally lifting the mattress'.

FAQs

What are the differences between an ottoman and a divan bed?

‘Divans are designed with drawers and an ottoman is designed so that the entire mattress section of the bed lifts up – like a huge storage box,’ says Adam from Button & Sprung.

Our guide to ottoman beds vs divan beds has more info on making the right choice for you, but as Adam advises, ‘choose a divan for easy and regular access to items and choose an ottoman if you know you are putting items away for longer, such as your seasonal wardrobe or winter duvets.’

Can you put any mattress on an ottoman bed?

‘Most mattresses can be used on an ottoman bed, but it’s important to consider a few factors,’ advises Rob from Dreams. ‘The mattress should match the bed frame size, and its weight shouldn’t exceed the gas-lift mechanism’s capacity, as heavy mattresses like thick memory foam or hybrids could strain it'.

Does an ottoman bed have slats?

An ottoman bed can have either a slatted base that's either fixed or sprung, or a solid base.

Do ottoman beds have to have a headboard?

‘When you purchase an ottoman bed, the headboard is an optional addition but it really does finish off the bed’ says Bensons for Beds’ Megan.

Do ottoman beds have a bottom?

‘Yes, most ottoman beds have a bottom panel or fabric base to prevent your items from directly touching the floor,’ says Rob from Dreams.

Does an ottoman bed stay down without a mattress?

No, an ottoman bed won’t stay down without the weight of a mattress. This is because the engineering of the pistons requires the mattress to weigh the base down.

Why are ottoman beds so expensive?

As mentioned above, ottoman beds can be pricey because they require extra engineering and materials to allow the bed to lift up.

What do you put in an ottoman bed?

Ottoman beds are ideal for lots of different items, especially bulky ones. If you’re wondering how to store a duvet, many experts recommend ottoman beds for just this purpose. You can also store pillows and bed linen, as well as winter coats and jumpers – and anything else you're struggling to fit elsewhere!

If you've been researching what to sow in January, you'll know that many winter growing guides mention heated propagators. These nifty pieces of kit are essentially lidded trays atop a heating element that you can pop your seedlings in.

'A heated propagator is a gardening tool that allows you to gently heat seeds while they're growing to improve their chances of success,' says Mairi Devlin, head of gardening at B&Q. 'They are a valuable investment for gardeners.'

So, are heated propagators worth it? We think so, and so do the other gardening experts we've spoken to. We've rounded up all of the best benefits to help you decide whether a heated propagator is for you.

Benefits of heated propagators

1. Head start on the growing season

Heated propagators allow you to sow seeds much earlier than normal, which means you can start growing fruits and vegetables as early as January. Flowers, too, can be sown in a heated propagator during the winter, meaning you'll have well-developed young plants come spring.

‘A heated propagator is a brilliant addition to any gardener’s toolkit, especially for those looking to get a head start on the growing season,’ says gardening expert and writer Sarah Raven.

Most seeds require warmth to germinate successfully, so a little extra heat can bring seedlings to life at any time of the year — even on the coldest winter days. That means you can learn how to grow chillies and other summer crops as early as January.

‘A heated propagator is certainly a worthwhile investment,’ agrees David Glass, head gardener at Bowood House & Gardens. 'It creates the ideal environment for seeds to germinate, providing a head start on the traditional growing season.'

2. Stronger seedlings

You can say goodbye to leggy seedlings if you have a heated propagator.

‘Providing consistent warmth to the roots helps to promote healthy and strong growth,' explains Sarah. 'Seeds grown in a propagator develop sturdy, well-formed roots, resulting in stocky, productive plants rather than tall, weak ones.'

Plants started in a propagator have a better chance of thriving throughout the rest of the year.

'Overall, a heated propagator creates ideal conditions for nurturing seedlings, leading to healthier plants and improved gardening success,' says Mairi from B&Q.

3. Earlier harvests

What do earlier sowings and stronger plants mean? Earlier harvests, of course!

That means you could be enjoying fresh tomatoes, aubergines and other propagator-sown vegetables well before your garden neighbours. You'll be able to cut flowers for vases sooner than usual, too.

'Gardeners growing cut flowers such as cosmos or vegetables like tomatoes will notice earlier harvests and higher productivity when using a heated propagator,' says Sarah.

Are there any drawbacks?

So, are heated propagators worth it? For better germination, sturdier plants and earlier harvest, absolutely — in fact, we think they're a huge help for gardeners. But are there any negatives?

The only disadvantage of heated propagators is that they require electricity to run, which means they're a little costlier in the long-term than a standard unheated propagator, like Sarah Raven's propagator set.

That said, heated propagators aren't especially expensive to power. Thompson & Morgan's Super 7 Electric Propagator, for example, costs just pennies a day to run.

'Some of the newer propagators are energy-efficient and come in various sizes, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners,' says Mairi.

Of course, exact costs will depend on the watt element of each propagator, but most suppliers include energy information in the product description, so you can double-check the running cost before you buy.

Where to buy a heated propagator

FAQs

What seeds to sow in a heated propagator?

The gardening world is your oyster when it comes to sowing seeds in a heated propagator, but a few fruits, flowers and vegetables appreciate the heat more than others.

Tomatoes, cucumbers and aubergines are all popular choices, but growing flowers like snapdragons, dahlias and sweet peas will also benefit from the added warmth.

How long do you keep seedlings in a heated propagator?

This all depends on the type of plant, but generally, gardeners take seedlings out of a heated propagator after they've grown their first pair of 'true leaves' — the set of leaves that appear after the initial pair of seed leaves.

Don't take them out all at once, though. You'll need to let the seedlings acclimatise gradually to conditions outside of the propagator, so start by removing the lid during the daytime for a few days to a week before removing the lid entirely and turning off the heat. After that, the seedlings should be strong enough to survive outside of the propagator.

So, are heated propagators worth it? Absolutely! Especially if you want to make the most of the gardening year with healthier plants and earlier harvests.

Recently, the TV presenter took to the social media platform to share how she’s updated her television display, revealing a way to hide the TV by covering it with artwork in a very unique way using a smooth electronic mechanism – in Stacey’s own words, ‘It’s giving luxe Wallace and Gromit’. The system slides the artwork upwards at a press of a button on a remote control to reveal the TV when she wants to use it.

This is not the first time the topic of Stacey Dooley and TVs have come together – last year, Stacey sparked a debate over whether a TV in the bedroom is a yes or a big no-no. And she’s starting off the new year by already influencing us to rethink our living room TV ideas.

What experts think of Stacey’s hidden TV trick

Stacey Dooley is not just a journalist or the winner of Strictly Come Dancing, she’s also a woman of great taste which is manifested throughout her home – and that’s exactly why we’re more than happy to source inspiration from her interior choices like this one or when Stacey's painted her dining room an unusual green.

And interior experts, much like us, are impressed with this innovative solution. ‘Stacey Dooley’s hidden TV hack, using a moving piece of art to conceal the television, is both ingenious and elegant,’ says Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Design Studio. ‘It’s a fantastic solution for those who want to maintain a clean and curated interior space while keeping their technology discreet. I’d recommend this for homes with a strong focus on design or where the TV is in a more formal space, such as a living room or dining area.’

Colleen Bennett, interior designer and founder of CBB Design Firm, agrees, ‘I am a huge proponent of hiding TVs, in my opinion the more you can make a TV go away the better. I love how Stacey hid it with a piece of art and I love how it completely conceals the TV.’

More affordable alternatives to Stacey’s TV hack

The only issue with Stacey’s TV-concealing solution is the rather high price tag. Courtesy of a new brand called Movingframe, the cost of one of these units is quoted at £1599 which doesn’t include the artwork itself. This system is compatible with any painting, art print or even a mirror that you’d like to cover your wall-mounted flat screen TV with.

But if you’d like to keep the costs down, there are similar alternatives you can opt for instead, even though it won’t have quite the same luxe effect.

‘Compared to other TV-concealing hacks, such as cabinetry or sliding panels, Stacey’s approach adds a real sense of drama and creativity to the space. However, for those looking for a simpler solution, smart TVs that double as art offer a practical alternative. They display digital artwork when not in use and can be paired with separate custom frames to make them blend seamlessly into your decor,’ Claire Garner advises.

Colleen of CBB Design Firm adds, ‘We’ve also hid TVs behind curtains and we’ve framed TVs to make them look like art (such as the Samsung Frame TV).’

You certainly have many different options when it comes to hiding your TV – even though Stacey’s ‘nifty contraption’ beats them all on style, that’s for sure.

Across the UK this week we’ve been blessed with blankets of snow and crisp conditions. It may feel cold, wet and miserable but you really should treat it as a blessing - because how snow and frost sit on your roof is an important indicator of how your loft insulation is fairing this winter and a sign you need to replace the insulation in your home.

While there are areas of your home you should never insulate, your roof is certainly not one of them and heating escaping your roof is a big problem. While a fresh blanket of snow or frost sitting evenly across your roof is a good sign your insulation is working as it should, patchy snow or frost can show it may be time for an upgrade.

How to use the weather to check your loft insulation

If snow and frost look patchy on your roof, it is a clear indication that heat is escaping and your insulation is not working as it should.

‘This is because when a house is poorly insulated, heat rises and escapes through the roof. The escaping heat warms the roof surface, causing snow or frost to melt either completely or in patches,’ says Oren Kander, senior valuer and director at Gaffsy.

‘This unevenness is more noticeable when compared to neighbouring roofs with uniform snow or frost, so make sure you compare your roof to your neighbours' roof. If they have a good even spread of snow/frost, it's likely that they have sufficient loft insulation.’

Heat escaping can cause increased bills, so having a well-insulated roof is an important way to save energy at home.

‘It doesn't necessarily need to be a very frosty or snowy day, but certain conditions are more favourable for spotting frost or snow on your roof. For the best chance of noticing signs of poor insulation, it's important to check early in the morning, before the sun or warming temperatures have had a chance to melt the frost,’ says Robert Quinton, director of Construction Megastore.

‘If the day is too warm or the sun has already risen, you may miss the frost, even if your roof's insulation is underperforming. A roof covered with a consistent layer of snow or frost usually means that the insulation is doing its job by keeping heat inside.’

If you do miss the early morning frost, there are still effective ways to check your loft’s insulation.

‘Look out for signs like moisture, drafts, and cold spots. If you notice condensation on windows or walls or mould growing in living spaces, it could mean your insulation isn't working as it should,’ says Robert.

‘Feeling drafts or cold spots on your walls is another sign that your insulation may have gaps or be too thin, leading to heat loss. It's also important to check the depth of your attic insulation, as it should be at least 270mm for the best performance.’

It may not be the nicest weather to wake up to this January, but utilising it to check on your loft insulation is an easy and inexpensive way to keep your energy bills down.

Decluttering methods have been going viral across social media, giving us plenty of inspiration to part with items that we’ve been holding onto for far too long. From unworn clothing and accessories to expired foods and beauty products, there are plenty of things to declutter in January alone.

While decluttering can often feel like an enormous task, particularly if you have a lot of items that you’re hoping to part with, the key is to break it down into manageable tasks and not to overwhelm yourself by attempting to get it all done in one day or afternoon. We’ve even put together a handy decluttering calendar to take some of the stress out of planning what to tackle and when.

But if you're looking for a new approach to talking your clutter these are the 5 decluttering trends that the experts have seen people gravitate towards as we move into 2025, which also just so happen to be trending on social media.

1. Reverse decluttering

We’re all familiar with choosing what to part with as we declutter, but it can sometimes feel overwhelming particularly if there is a specific area or category that could do with being seriously streamlined. But, this is where reverse decluttering comes into play.

Instead of holding an item and taking the time to decide whether you use it or want to keep it – and the time that this can take – ‘people pack items away and only retrieve what they actively use within a set timeframe and anything that remains packed is cleared away,’ proposes Lucette James Roberts, Director of Sanctuary Bathrooms.

In most cases packing away non-essentials or items that you don’t necessarily use everyday is best for this method. And it’s basically a decluttering method that works in the background, without you having to spend too much time or energy on it. Lucette does recommend a period of three months for this technique, and whatever isn’t touched or reached for can be removed from your home.

2. The 12-12-12 method

We’re already big fans of the 12-12-12 method, but it’s once again gaining momentum online. Essentially it’s as easy as finding 12 items in your home to donate, 12 to throw away and 12 to return to their proper place.

‘This method is great as you can quickly address 36 items and organise your living space efficiently,’ admits Rebecca Baddeley, Head of Home Design at JD Williams. Not only does getting into the habit of returning items to where they belong help you keep your home looking much tidier, but there’s no limit to how many times you use this method. We personally recommend doing it once each season but if you have a lot to get rid of, you could even do it once a month to make a real impact to your space in 2025.

@theorganizedwallet

♬ Chrysanthemum Tea - Prod. By Rose

3. The one in, one out rule

‘The ‘one in, one out’ rule is not necessarily a new term, but it has resurfaced in recent months on social media, and is set to be a big trend for managing the volume of things you own in 2025,’ explains Sam Greig, Head of Design at Swoon.

As the name suggests, whenever you’re thinking about buying a new item – whether that’s a new item of clothing, piece of decor or even something like a new lipstick or moisturiser – you must get rid of an item, most typically in the same category. This can be especially handy if you’re prone to buying multiples of certain items.

According to Sam, ‘it is an effective way to ensure that your space remains curated and prevents overcrowding. Plus, it encourages intentional choices, as each new addition must justify replacing an existing item, fostering a cohesive and clutter-free mindset.’

While Vlatka Lake, Storage Expert at Space Station, agrees that ‘this method aims to keep your habits front-of-mind and help you keep on top of clutter permanently, making it a much more manageable endeavour for those struggling to stick to a plan.'

4. The 1-3-5 method

Great if you’re looking to break down your decluttering into smaller and more manageable chunks, the 1-3-5 decluttering method sees you tackle one large task, three medium ones, and five smaller ones each day. This ‘keeps the process achievable without being exhausting – and before you know it, you’ll have a clutter-free space to enjoy,’ says Victoria Benini, Interior Expert and Buyer at Harbour Lifestyle.

‘By focusing on one step at a time, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more empowered to create the space you truly want,’ she continues. So, if you’ve been put off by how much you have to declutter or don’t want it to eat up a full day of your time, breaking it down like this can give you the added incentive you need to tackle some of the smaller and bigger jobs on your decluttering checklist.

5. The reverse hanger trick

One of the simplest but most effective decluttering techniques, which should also give you a better insight into your own personal style and what you reach for day in, day out, is the reverse hanger trick.

All you have to do is ‘hang all your clothes with the hangers facing the opposite direction,’ Sam Tamlyn, Managing Director and Interiors Expert at Shutterly Fabulous, explains. ‘Then, when you revisit your wardrobe a year later, any clothes still on hangers facing the wrong way will indicate they haven’t been worn. This can help you assess which items to let go of.’

Because of its nature, we like that you don’t need to spend hours decluttering throughout the course of the year but instead can easily assess which items have been worn and which haven’t either at the end of the year or as you switch out your spring/summer pieces for autumn/winter and vice versa.

@emmalouisestyling

♬ Satellite - Harry Styles

What to do with the items you declutter

Once you’ve identified the items that you’re happy to part with, it’s time to consider how to get rid of items after a declutter.

Certain items, which are still in good or brand new condition, could be sold on platforms such as eBay, Vinted or Depop. But you do need to remember that you’ll still have to find somewhere to store these items while you wait for them to sell. Alternatively, you can donate them to a local charity shop.

‘When contemplating whether to donate your items to a charity shop or dispose of them, consider this simple question: Would you be happy to receive an item in its current condition?’ Rachel suggests. ‘For instance, a small hole in an otherwise perfectly good wool jumper can be easily repaired by someone who appreciates it. On the other hand, a t-shirt with stubborn stains may be better suited for recycling rather than donation.’

You could also offer your unwanted items for free through local sharing apps or neighbourhood groups, or reach out to friends or neighbours to see if they are interested in taking them off your hands. And for items that can’t be passed on, it’s imperative to dispose of them in a responsible way. Some might be able to be recycled, whereas others will need to be handled in different ways. ‘Be sure to research your local council’s recycling guidelines to ensure that you’re disposing of items in an environmentally friendly way,’ Rachel concludes.

When this couple had their first child, they decided to swap big city life for something more peaceful. Top of their wish list was a commutable area with good transport links, as well as a peaceful location surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside.

'We lived in a cool warehouse-style basement flat in Crystal Palace for six years,' explains the owner. 'It was our first home together and perfectly suited our lives as young professionals in London. However, when our son arrived, it was time for a new chapter away from the city – and we really wanted a family home with a garden.’

‘We were searching for a period property with character and space,' she continues, 'hoping to renovate and create our dream home. We had viewed a lot of Victorian-style townhouses, but nothing felt quite right until we found this one.'

'We were instantly drawn to the abundance of light pouring in and the huge back garden meant there was the potential to extend. We knew it could become something truly special.’

‘The house has undergone a complete top-to-toe renovation,' explains the owner. 'We rewired and replumbed, repointed all the brickwork, and knocked through the small kitchen into the former dining room, adding a 4 metre rear kitchen extension to create more space for the kitchen and a separate utility room.'

'Every space has been stripped back and replastered, period features added or restored, ceilings underpinned, and new floors laid throughout. The only thing we didn’t need to replace were the windows, which had been recently updated.’

‘Most of the building work took place in lockdown, and we moved between our parents’ houses, which was stressful at times. Despite the challenges, we all squashed in and made it work. I had some help with our son while I project-managed the renovation and my husband worked.'

'Being furloughed, planning the interiors gave me a creative outlet. We faced a few delays due to planning permission issues, but eventually we received the green light, and everything came together.’

‘Although the renovation has been costly and time-consuming, it allowed us to customise every detail to suit our family. We put a lot of thought into every choice to create the right feel in each room and ensure a smooth flow throughout. It truly is our happy place, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the result.’

The open plan kitchen/living area

The narrow entrance hall leads straight into the open-plan kitchen area, home to the kitchen and snug, plus utility room. 'Opening up the kitchen and adding the extension has made a made a huge difference to the way we live,' she says.

'This house is where we'll raise our family,' continues the owner. 'And it was important that we created a home that’s both practical and sophisticated, reflecting who we are while providing a beautiful backdrop to the chaos of everyday life.'

Full-height aluminium doors have been installed between the kitchen and utility room to enhance the flow of natural light from the back of the house and allow them to fully appreciate the open layout.

The couple has combined elegant marble-style worktops and deep green cabinetry with warm brass accents to create a sophisticated, yet cosy space. Concealed handles give the brass-fronted cabinets a sleek, industrial look, which contrasts with the traditional Shaker kitchen cabinetry in the utility and along the opposite wall.

The cabinetry and walls have been colour-drenched in Farrow & Ball's Green Smoke - a rich earthy tone that adds a calmness to the space. ‘It looks beautiful on cosy winter evenings with candles and light from the wall lamps.'

She chose a foxed mirror splashback to open up the space and add richness and texture. Some of the cabinet doors and the extractor fan have been wrapped in brass to add depth and detail, transforming their off-the-shelf kitchen into a bespoke-looking space.

The green colour-drenched look continues into a snug living area, which is zoned off by a peninsula breakfast bar. Bright, clean white provides a contrast to the green walls and cabinetry.

A skilful combination of colour and pattern, from the artworks to the sumptuous fabrics, have been chosen by the owner to add a luxe feel to the scheme.

The couple has curated a collection of artworks they both love and have displayed favourite pieces in key focal areas throughout their home. ‘Art really adds character and makes your home unique to you,' she says.

The living room

'This room started as a blank canvas, with white walls and very little personality, she says. 'We wanted it to be our escape - a grown-up space where we could unwind with a glass of wine after a busy day.'

'It was not a room to hold back on and we went to town adding in period features and sumptuous textiles, patterns and colours that now make it feel like a cosy members club.’

The couple added period details like intricate cornicing and panelling into the space, which adds visual interest and enhances the property's period charm and character.

The main bedroom

‘We wanted to capture the feel of a beautiful luxe hotel bedroom,' recalls the owner. 'We chose a dramatic dark teal colour and added panelling to frame some beautiful botanical wallpaper.’

The wallpaper here is Plantasia in Indigo by House Of Hackney. It's an expensive design but is used sparingly in the panelled sections of the painted wall.

The family bathroom

'Originally two rooms, a large usable family bathroom was key,' explains the owner. 'We designed it with an old-fashioned pull-chain toilet, large walk-in shower, double vanity unit and a huge bathtub.’

The gold fixtures, glazed teal tiles, rich colours and patterns finish off the scheme, while tying in with the rest of the house.

The son's bedroom

‘When our first son was born in Crystal Palace, I found this wallpaper featuring the iconic Crystal Palace dinosaurs, which I knew had to be the main feature of his room. I also upcycled some furniture using off-cuts of the wallpaper, which tie the whole scheme together.'

Get the look

Focus on... adding period details

• Period features add historical charm to your home. They also add value to it as they attract buyers who are looking for houses with character.
• Research the style that suits your home and decide what to add – it could be anything from simple wall mouldings to a marble fireplace. Then plan a design that works with your existing architecture.
• Choose your materials. Lengths of wood mouldings, plaster ceiling roses or tiles for your fireplace are easy updates. Use reclaimed pieces for an authentic feel.
• Use professionals to install more complicated features but try doing simpler projects yourself. You can access DIY tutorials on YouTube to guide you.
• Costs vary depending on what you are fitting. While decorative trim can be as cheap as £3 a metre, a marble fireplace could cost several hundred pounds.

While it may have a reputation for being difficult, don't let not knowing how to care for Fiddle Leaf Figs put you off. One of the most stunning houseplant ideas, their towering stature makes them ideal for rooms that would benefit from a focal point and a little bit of natural beauty.

‘However, if you don’t have the space for a full-sized plant, there is a dwarf variety called ‘Bambino’ – which reaches 1 to 1.5 metres tall – and is a great alternative to full-height versions,’ says Angela Slater, gardening expert at Hayes Garden World.

As with most houseplants, over-loving them is often detrimental, so be cautious of overwatering. Also choosing a spot with the right light levels is essential for their wellbeing. Get these right and a Fiddle Leaf Fig will quickly become a much-loved addition to your home – after all, there's a reason that it's one of the most Instagrammed house plants.

What you'll need

• Fiddle Leaf Fig
• Plastic pot with drainage holes – one size larger than the size of the plant bought
• Decorative pot without holes
• A liquid houseplant fertiliser, for example, Baby Bio Houseplant Fertiliser on Amazon
• A trowel
• Houseplant compost, such as Westland Houseplant Potting mix on Amazon

Where to buy Fiddle Leaf Figs

The best place to put a Fiddle Leaf Fig

Native to the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa, Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive in warm, humid environments with a medium level of light.

‘Think carefully about where you place your plant as once in situ it shouldn’t be moved as this can cause shock and the leaves to drop,’ says garden expert Angela.

‘Fiddle Leaf Fig is an ideal plant for a centrally heated home as it needs at least 15C, even at night and in winter.’

Positioning the Fiddle Leaf Fig in front of an east-facing window will ensure it receives ample indirect light. For a south-facing window, ensure the light is filtered through either a sheer curtain or blind, or perhaps a tree’s leaves. Avoid direct sunlight as this can cause the Fiddle Leaf Fig's leaves to burn.

‘If the room you want for your tree is north facing, then place it as close to the natural light source as possible,’ advises Kelly Dyer from Patch Plants.

While not one of the most low-maintenance houseplants, knowing the signs that your plant is struggling is vital in ensuring its well-being. Signs that the Fiddle Leaf Fig isn’t receiving enough light include leggy and weak growth.

‘A lack of light will also make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases because they won’t be getting the resources required to grow at full capacity,’ explains Kelly.

Watering a Fiddle Leaf Fig

‘Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer consistent but moderate watering,’ says Sonia Kainth from House of Kojo. ‘Ensure the pot you use has proper drainage to prevent water from lingering at the base. As Fiddle Leaf Figs have an intricate root system, overwatering can lead to root rot.’

When watering houseplants, it is common to thoroughly drench them, then let them thoroughly dry out before watering again. However, this is not the best approach for Fiddle Leaf Figs.

‘The drought-flooding approach to watering can cause the plant stress. You’re aiming for consistently, lightly moist soil,’ explains Kelly Dyer. ‘Don’t leave the soil to dry out so it contracts away from the insides of the pot as this will make it very difficult to draw up water again.’

Water your Fiddle Leaf Figs by submerging the pot in a bucket of water. ‘Leave for a couple of minutes until bubbles have stopped rising, then remove the pot, drain and replace in its pot cover,’ says Angela. This method promotes healthier roots and reduces the risk of root rot – as the plant only takes what it needs.

For larger Ficus, Angela suggests standing the plant in a saucer of tepid water for about 30 minutes, then pour away any remaining water. If you forget – it's essential to take steps to save an overwatered plant to prevent lasting damage.

During the growing season – April to October, supplement the watering with a liquid houseplant fertiliser. Aim to feed every fortnight.

When to repot a Fiddle Leaf Fig

For a plant that can reach 20 meters in the wild, it will come as no surprise that the Fiddle Leaf Fig is a fast-growing houseplant.

‘If it is growing in an optimum position, it will need re-potting every 3 – 4 years. Look for roots appearing on the surface of the compost or the water running straight through the compost,’ says Angela.

Repotting a houseplant too early is one of the common repotting houseplant mistakes and should be avoided.

To repot, lift the plant out of its pot and remove as much of the old soil since it will be devoid of nutrients. If the plant was pot bound – there are more roots visible than soil – gently untangle the roots. This encourages the roots to grow into the new soil, anchoring the plant and helping to absorb water and nutrients.

Opt for a pot just one size larger than the previous one and fill it with a houseplant potting mix. ‘A well-draining potting mix is essential and I would recommend Grow Tropicals Simply Houseplant Mix as it provides the right blend of nutrients and components for the roots,' advises Sonia.

FAQs

Do Fiddle Leaf Fig need drainage holes?

Yes, drainage holes are essential for any houseplants as it prevents them from being overwatered and sitting in water which can lead to root rot. Overwatering is one of the biggest killers of houseplants – especially Fiddle Leaf Figs.

Do Fiddle Leaf Fig like to be moved?

No, fiddle leaf figs do not like to be moved. 'Fiddle leaf figs are sensitive when moved to a new environment, so be sure to minimise over-handling to avoid shock and leaf loss,' says Sonia Kainth.

What does an overwatered Fiddle Leaf Fig look like?

Dropping leaves is the first sign of overwatering. It can also be accompanied by the stems and roots becoming rotten. If your Fiddle Leaf Fig has been overwatered ensure it is not standing in any water, that the pot has good drainage holes and consider repotting with dry compost.

The charity committed to the protection and conservation of British birds said they were suspending the products until they have a better understanding of how the diseases spread. It is believed feeding from flat surfaces could contribute to the spread of diseases such as -trichomonosis - an illness caused by a parasite and thought to be responsible for the decline in greenfinch populations.

In winter, food becomes a scarce resource for birds, which is why it’s so important we know how to protect birds when the temperature drops. Luckily, you can still feed birds this season - and this is the safest way to do it.

Why the RSPB has stopped the sale of flat bird feeders

‘We know so many of you love feeding your garden birds and some bird species really do benefit from us putting out extra food for them, especially in winter. However, there is increasing evidence that for other birds there can also be negative effects such as the spread of disease, especially among finches,’ the RSPB told customers this week.

‘As a precautionary measure, whilst we await the findings of the review, we have suspended all our bird tables and related products, table mix and table mix extra, window feeders and feeder guardians with trays, from sale.’

It’s true we’re a nation of bird lovers and at Ideal Home, we’re always looking for ways to attract birds to our garden. However, using a flat feeding table could be doing more harm than good.

Between 2008 and 2018, greenfinch populations fell by a whopping 69% in the UK due to the parasitic disease, and using bird feeder tables or flat surfaces could contribute to the spread.

‘Providing garden birds with food on bird tables, ground trays and other small and confined flat surfaces, does carry a particular risk to the health of birds because of the increased chance of disease transmission,’ says Lucy Taylor, bird expert for Vine House Farm.

This is because the disease Tricomonosis – which especially affects Greenfinches and Chaffinches – can more easily be transmitted when an infected bird drops food onto the flat surface, which another bird then picks up.

The other main problem is bacteria from decaying food and waste from seed husks which builds up on a flat surface, potentially leading to Salmonella – which again can be fatal to birds and in particular species of finch.

How to feed birds safely

The good news is that we can still care for and feed our feathered friends - just using a different feeder.

As well as knowing how to protect your bird feeder, you should also ensure you’re using a certain type of feeder - such as hanging feeders, which has a reduced risk of spreading diseases.

‘Scattering bird food such as sunflower hearts on larger flat areas like decking, patios, driveways, or short-cut lawns is a good alternative to bird tables and ground trays. However, be sure to rotate the areas used. Ground feeding is especially important for species like blackbirds, which cannot easily use hanging feeders,’ advises Lucy.

You should also regularly clean your feeders and birdbaths to help reduce the spread of disease. Lucy also recommends rotating your feeders regularly as: Birds often feed on food that has dropped to the ground, which can easily become contaminated by waste and droppings.

Safe bird feeders to use

If you still want to feed birds in your garden, you should invest in a hanging feeder, as there is less chance of the spread of disease.

Birds have sadly been in decline in the UK in recent years, and the spread of disease is another blow - but by exercising caution and removing your flat feeders, you will be helping ur garden birds.

Before you begin buying socket covers and talking to electricians, it's worth thinking about where you should put kitchen sockets. Although a tradesperson will be able to recommend where to position plug sockets, only you know the intricacies of your daily routine and where you want each appliance to sit on your kitchen worktop ideas.

To help simplify the process, we've spoken to experts in the field (and kitchen renovation pros) for intel on exactly where your kitchen sockets should go, and how to handle the planning process.

Where should I put kitchen sockets?

There is little worse than trying to find a spot to store your coffee machine and realising that your plugs are in all of the wrong places. An extension lead is unsightly and not the safest option in a kitchen, so making sure you have sockets in all the right places will be crucial. It has a big impact on the aesthetics of your kitchen ideas too, so choosing the right metallic tones of sockets will create a more cohesive design.

'I’d always start by considering how you use your kitchen, and then think about how you can position your plug sockets to work with that. When choosing sockets for your kitchen, I’d suggest firstly making a list of your large, ‘always on’ appliances - things like your cooker, dishwasher, washing machine,' advises Ally Dowsing-Reynolds, co-founder of Dowsing & Reynolds.

'Next, make a list of all the smaller, everyday appliances that you use. This could include your kettle, toaster, microwave, blenders etc. You might even want to factor in a socket for a kitchen lamp. Make sure you have enough sockets to avoid plugging and unplugging things on a daily basis. Double sockets will give you more flexibility - have these interspersed along your wall, just above your worktops for easy access,' she adds.

'Finally, think about any gadgets that might need charging in the kitchen. Does your kitchen double as a home office? Do you use your phone for recipes when cooking? Double sockets with inbuilt USB-C chargers are ideal for these types of scenarios, so plot out where these would be best positioned to work with your everyday routine. You might want a socket to charge your laptop close to the floor by your dining table, or you might want one near the kitchen island - it will all depend on how you personally use your kitchen.'

1. Under an island

Kitchen island ideas have become a must-have design feature in so many kitchens. It provides a place to perch while others are cooking, a spot for homework and even working from home. If you don't have much counter space, it's also a handy spot for using small appliances such as a KitchenAid mixer.

Therefore, you'll need to make sure you have enough plug sockets for these different uses. You might want to hide a plug socket on your kitchen island too, to protect the appearance of your space.

We advise adding a plug socket to either the end of the island, or tuck it underneath where the stools go for more of a subtle approach.

2. In an appliance garage

Appliance garages became popular in 2024 for the balance they provide between organisation and aesthetics. In short, it's a pantry that you use to house your small appliances (such as your toaster, coffee machine and kettle), so that all of your go-to tools are housed in one spot, and you can then close the door on it at the end of the day.

'When considering where you want lights and appliances in your extension/room, get a copy of your room layout/floor plan of where everything will sit,' advises Daniel Matthews of A Modest Semi.

Before you plan in your pantry unit, make sure you think carefully about which appliances will go in it versus on your worktops. This will also help to ensure that the shelves are the right height to fit taller appliances in.

3. Opt for a pop-up plug

Let's face it, plug sockets can be a little unsightly. Even if you choose a socket that matches the hardware in your kitchen (brushed brass is super chic), you still might not want them on show on every patch of wall or cabinet.

Instead, consider adding a few pop-up plug sockets to your worktops. This is especially useful on an island as you can centre it in the middle of the island, meaning there's less faffing about with trying to make cables reach. You can also opt for longer pop-up sockets that give you so many extra ports - ideal for plugging in multiple devices when working from home.

4. Don't forget walls

When you're planning plug sockets into a kitchen design, it can be easy to think primarily about your appliances and forget the extra little bits that might require a plug.

Whether it's somewhere to store and charge your vacuum cleaner, a spot for your radio or even a corner for a standing lamp so you can cosy up next to it with a cup of tea - think about these little extras in the planning process to make your kitchen layout more versatile.

Alternatively, if you aren't looking to add electrics (it's a big job!) then opting for kitchen lights with rechargeable bulbs is a handy option - we love this wall light from John Lewis which comes in a super trendy burgundy shade.

Ultimately, when planning your plug socket locations in a kitchen, you don't want to overcrowd the space with lots of electrics. Think carefully about your daily life and appliances to make the plug sockets count.

Daniel from A Modest Semi also recommends to 'Use coloured pens to make a key. E.g blue for wall lights, orange for sockets etc. Dot each colour on the layout to correspond to your key of where you’d like each light/socket/plug placed.'

Happy planning!

Deadheading is a crucial part of caring for pansies, which is why we've asked the experts when exactly we should be doing it.

A key sign that it's time to deadhead your pansies is when the flowers start to droop, or their colour begins to fade. But there are a couple of other need-to-know points on the deadheading topic, which are essential if you don't want your winter pansies to go to waste.

Pansies are one of the plants you should deadhead to encourage a second bloom. The experts say that you should deadhead pansies as soon as they start to turn – that is when the flowers start to look like they're dying.

'Deadhead pansies once their blooms start to fade and curl up - this encourages fresh flowers to bloom,' says Dougie Cumming, plant buyer at Carbeth Plants.

So, while there isn't a particular time of year to deadhead pansies, it's something that should be done regularly, if you want to extend the plants' lives for as long as possible.

'Winter and summer pansies are the same plant, so simply continue deadheading them as they go over,' Dougie explains. 'Right now, all pansies might look a little droopy due to the cold and low light levels, but they’ll perk up as temperatures and light levels increase.'

So as soon as your pansies start to wilt, fade or droop, deadhead them so fresh flowers can grow in their place. The process is also super easy; simply pinch or snip the flower stem just above the first set of healthy leaves or buds.

What does deadheading pansies do?

Just as you should deadhead hydrangeas, deadheading pansies is something worth taking the time for, if you want to enjoy these plants in full force.

'The main benefit of deadheading pansies is that it extends their blooming season throughout spring and autumn,' says Morris Hankinson, director at Hopes Grove Nurseries. 'Additionally, it helps prevent the plants from becoming overgrown or scraggly.'

'By deadheading them constantly, what you are doing is encouraging new flowers to keep coming,' former Royal Gardener Jack Stooks confirms, speaking on behalf of Spin Genie.

If pansies aren't deadheaded, they might start to self-seed, which is a recipe for them to quickly become overgrown. But once their blooms are snipped, the plant will channel its energy into growing new flowers instead.

'And as a bonus, plants that have a large amount of petals will not scatter them everywhere if the faded flowers are removed,' adds Graham Smith MCIHort, gardening expert at LBS Horticulture. 'Dying petals can attract pests or spread disease.'

What you'll need

FAQs

How do you keep pansies blooming?

Aside from knowing when to deadhead pansies, there are a couple of other top tips that will help you continue to enjoy them in full bloom.

Morris from Hopes Grover Nurseries emphasises the importance of maintaining the right growing conditions for your pansies. 'Pansies thrive in cool weather and prefer partial sun. Regular watering is essential, but avoid waterlogging.'

Use pots with good drainage to avoid waterlogging, then you won't have to learn how to save an overwatered plant. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser in the soil to provide nutrients to support flower growth.

And of course, keep on top of deadheading your pansies regularly.

Can pansies survive in winter?

According to former Royal Gardener Jack Stooks, pansies are quite hardy plants, and capable of withstanding certain levels of cold.

'Obviously though, they won't survive through mass amounts of freezing cold temperatures. It's really important to keep watering them throughout winter and making sure the soil doesn't go dry.'

Certain plants need be brought inside in winter in order to survive, and while this isn't the case with pansies, it will help to bring them inside when possible during particularly cold snaps. If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing overnight, bring potted pansies inside to help increase their longevity.

'If your pansies are planted in a bank, I would suggest getting some fleece lining, and putting this over the whole area,' Jack says. 'Ideally hold this down with pegs, but if not, sturdy rocks will do.'

Of course, the best electric heaters are an effective way to beat the winter chill and keep you comfortable over the colder months. But with rising energy bills and plummeting temperatures hitting homeowners simultaneously, one eclectic heater may not seem like enough - especially when so many people are questioning whether electric heaters are cheaper than central heating.

As Nicholas Auckland at Trade Radiators explains, ‘To fully heat a home, you would likely need an electric heater in every room. In larger rooms, you might need two electric heaters. This is because electric heaters only heat the space they're placed in, instead of distributing heat throughout the home.’ However, the exact number will depend on several factors, so it’s best to consider the following if you want to know how many electric heaters you’ll need to heat your home exactly.

1. The size of your home

The bigger your home, the longer it’ll take to heat - and this is the case no matter whether you have central heating or electric heaters. Because of this, the size of your home will directly impact how many electric heaters you’ll need to heat your house. Choosing the wrong size - and the wrong wattage - is one of the most common electric heater buying mistakes people make.

Nathan McEvoy-Swann from Alert Electrical explains, ‘A general guideline is to calculate the wattage required based on room size. As a rule of thumb, you need around 100 watts per square metre. For example, a 20m² room would need a 2,000-watt heater to maintain a comfortable temperature.’

In some cases (for example, if you’re lucky enough to live in a very large home with larger-than-average rooms), you may find that electric heaters just don’t cut the mustard. It may be that it’ll work in your favour to invest in a more efficient heating system instead.

This is echoed by Nicholas, who says, ‘Central heating/gas heating systems rely on having a central system in order to distribute heat evenly throughout the house. However, as electric heaters don't have a centralised system, each radiator is its own source, which provides more localised heating than central heating systems do.’

2. The type of heater

There are three main types of electric heaters: fan, convector, and halogen. All of them have their perks and pitfalls, and they all suit different areas of the home. Of course, you could also consider the best oil-filled radiators.

Explaining further, Nathan says, ‘In most homes, a combination of heaters works best. For living spaces, consider using larger, more powerful units, while smaller panels or oil-filled heaters are ideal for bedrooms or hallways. It's also a good idea to use heaters with thermostatic controls and timers to manage energy consumption and avoid overheating.’

It’s also worth understanding which type of electric heater is cheapest to run if you feel like you need or want to use more than one electric heater to heat a house. Especially if you’re trying to save energy at home.

3. Your home’s insulation

Knowing how to insulate a home is key to keeping energy bills down without compromising on your level of comfort. But it’s also essential if you want to effectively use electric heaters to heat a house. Otherwise, the warmth emitted from the heater will leak out of your home before you’ve had the chance to enjoy it. As a result, you may need more electric heaters to balance out the draughts.

Nathan adds, ‘Factors like ceiling height, window size, and whether the room is well-insulated will impact how many heaters you need. Well-insulated homes with double glazing and draught-proofing will need fewer heaters, whereas poorly insulated homes may require additional units.’

Of course, you don’t necessarily need to replace your loft insulation to make the most of electric heaters. But draught-proofing your home could be a good first step.

4. The positioning of the heater

You must also consider the worst places to put an electric heater when determining how many you need to heat your home. After all, placing it in the wrong position can not only be counter-intuitive, but it also has the potential to be extremely dangerous.

Isabella Forgione, AO's air treatment expert says, ‘It’s crucial to consider the placement of the heaters to ensure optimal warmth. For example, positioning a heater near windows or doors can help counteract draughts.’

Alternatively, placing certain heaters - like fan heaters - near or against a wall may render them useless, as they won’t be able to work to their full capacity. Because of this, it’s a good idea to understand the needs and requirements of your home and your heater to find the best position for it. In some cases, it may be that you have to buy more to keep yourself comfortable.

In other cases, it might not be worth it. Isabella adds, ‘For whole-house heating, it is more cost-effective and energy-efficient to use central heating or a dedicated heating system rather than relying solely on electric heaters, which can be expensive to run for long periods.’

5. Your personal preferences

While the above factors will help you determine how many electric heaters you need to heat a house on paper (well, on-screen), the reality is that everyone has their personal preferences when it comes to warmth and comfort. So, what works for one person might not work for another.

In my opinion, your best bet is to start with one heater - preferably one that’s highly portable - so you can move it around the home and start by only heating the room that you’re using. If this isn’t enough to take away the winter chill, or you have others in your home that require an extra heat boost, too, you can simply add more.

FAQs

What size room will a 2kw heater heat?

A 2kw heater should be able to heat a room that’s up to 20 square metres in size. However, it’s important to note that this can be impacted by the level of insulation in your home, the heater’s positioning and the type of heater. So, you should always take this with a pinch of salt.

What is the cheapest way to heat a room?

Generally, gas is much cheaper than electricity, which means that it’s often cheaper to heat a room (and your whole house) using your gas central heating if you have that available to you. If you don’t want to waste money on heating your whole house, you can simply turn off the radiators in the rooms you do not need to heat and heat the room you’re using instead.

If you don’t have gas central heating, you can use electric heaters. They can be extremely effective in heating a room and won’t cost you a fortune - but they are more expensive in the long run.

So, to determine how many electric heaters you need to heat a house, make sure you consider all of the above before spending your hard-earned money.

You could have all the decluttering methods in the world but when the mess builds up, quite often we find ourselves butting heads with our partners. 46% of Brits said a cluttered or messy environment negatively impacts their relationships, according to a new survey by cult storage brand Joseph Joseph in partnership with Opinium.

The survey, which asked 2,000 participants about the connection between home organisation and mental well-being found that 50% of females compared to 42% of males agreed that clutter hurt relationships. The figure was higher within younger age groups with 60% of 18 to 34-year-olds agreeing with the statement, compared to 33% of those aged above 55.

With a build-up of emotional clutter turning to emotional turmoil, here’s how couples can come together to beat excess clutter.

Why does clutter cause conflict?

‘Personal space is an emotive issue, which can cause friction in any relationship where people share space. However, in romantic relationships, the impact can be particularly acute,’ explains Susie Masterson, relationship coach and BACP registered trauma-informed therapist.

‘One person's clutter is another's comfort. That’s why it can be a really difficult, though important conversation to have when we are in a relationship. The psychology of decluttering involves understanding the emotional, mental, and behavioural aspects of how clutter affects us and why we accumulate it in the first place. Decluttering is more than just organising or tidying up physical space; it’s a process that reflects our relationship with our environment, possessions, and even ourselves.’

What feels like clutter to you can be sentimental to your partner. Furthermore, we all have different decluttering styles, which can cause one party to feel like they're not being heard or overwhelmed. Not being able to work together is a big decluttering mistake, but how can we come together?

How can couples declutter together?

‘To deal with these problems, couples should declutter their spaces together. Such a collaborative decluttering would not only help clear the space but also develop communication, teamwork, and compromise between the couple,’ says Maria Anderson, cleaning and organizing expert at Henfield Storage.

‘Each couple should have specific goals set for each session, respect one another's sentimental items, and establish personal spaces that each of them can manage according to preference.

‘Implementing common organizational systems that suit both partners can also lead to a decluttered and harmonious home. This idea focuses on leveraging decluttering as a tool to enhance understanding and teamwork in relationships, turning a potentially contentious issue into an opportunity for growth and rekindling the connection.’

Susie also recommends accepting compromises as you both go through the process of decluttering.

‘Set clear goals for what you both want to achieve and be prepared to make compromises along the way. After all, the process can always be revisited again in the future,’ she says.

‘Celebrate any progress you make and acknowledge the positive impact of the change. For example, you might notice how your home office is a much more pleasant space to work in. Or, how comfortable you both feel watching a movie on the sofa, now there is nothing to distract you both.’

Organisation systems to invest in

Once you've decluttered clear organisation is the best way to keep the piece and these solutions can help you achieve that.

Decluttering shouldn't be a power struggle between couples. By talking the challenge as a pair and being mindful of each other's feelings, it's a job you can sucessfully tackle together.

One of the easiest to care for houseplants, jade plants are also some of the luckiest, according to feng shui, with them ‘being cherished not only for their aesthetic appeal, but also for the positive energy they are believed to attract,’ says Fantastic Gardeners’ Gardening and Tree Health Expert, Petar Ivanov.

If you’re wondering where should jade plants be placed in a house, these are the top spots to bear in mind, both in terms of keeping the plant happy and enhancing and improving the flow of energy and good fortune in your home.

1. In a southeast corner or easterly position

When it comes to the most auspicious area for the placement of a jade plant, Feng Shui Consultant and Master Practitioner, Glynis Dinsdale and many of the experts agree that the southeast corner of your home or a room is the number one spot to place a jade plant.

Known as the ‘wealth corner,’ this ‘area of any room or your entire home is thought to attract financial abundance and prosperity, and placing a jade plant in this corner is believed to enhance this energy,’ explains Luke Dejahang, Plant Expert and CEO of Crown Pavilions. While an easterly position, more generally, is said to promote family harmony and health.

‘This is because the eastern area is associated with and guided by the wood element, which supports growth,’ Luke continues. And ‘since the sun symbolically rises in the east, it symbolises growth, rejuvenation, and the promise of a fresh start,’ making it a prime spot to house a jade plant.

2. In a south or west-facing window

Alternatively, if you don’t happen to have an east or southeast-facing window, placing them in a south or west facing position means that they will get plenty of consistent sunlight throughout the day.

While it might not be as lucky as some other positions in your home, it will allow the small houseplant to thrive all year round.

3. By your front door

‘Placing a jade plant either by your front door or the main entrance of your home welcomes positive energy and opportunities,’ Luke suggests. It makes a great addition to your hallway ideas because it is thought to attract wealth, luck and wisdom into your home. And thus, ‘having a plant on each side of the door is thought to create a powerful entryway,’ according to Graham Smith MCIHort, Gardening Expert at LBS Horticulture.

The jade plant is ‘also said to act as a guardian, keeping out negative energy and inviting prosperity,’ Luke continues, making it a great choice for either inside or outside your home, depending on where you have the most space for the potted plant or plants.

4. In your home office

A jade plant is perfectly placed as part of your home office ideas or as part of a workspace set up in your home, ‘a jade plant on your desk or near your workspace is said to enhance your focus, productivity, and concentration,’ Luke says. It’s also thought to bring a calming energy, and on days when our concentration is waning or on a particularly long workday, this is certainly appreciated.

And you can boost the feng shui properties simply by ‘placing a jade plant in the southeast corner of the office or desk, as this is thought to attract business success and opportunities, while enhancing financial luck and abundance,’ Peter adds.

5. In a conservatory or sunroom

If you happen to be lucky enough to have a conservatory or sunroom, they are ‘another excellent option, as these spaces often mimic the jade plant's natural habitat, providing consistent bright light throughout the day,’ affirms Josh Novell, House Plant Expert and Owner of Polhill Garden Centre.

Not only do they ‘have lots of light from windows all around and a temperature ideal for jade plants, but placing one on a table as a centrepiece or in a light corner on a high stand will make it stand out and be a feature in the room,’ Morris Hankinson, Founder and Managing Director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, proposes.

FAQs

Why is the jade plant not kept in a bedroom?

When it comes to where should jade plants be placed in a house, according to feng shui practices and ‘Vastu Shastra – the ancient Hindu system of design and architecture which balances and harmonizes energy flow – it is not advisable to have a jade plant in your bedroom,’ reveals MyJobQuote.co.uk Plant Expert, Fiona Jenkins.

‘According to this system, jade will interfere with rest and relaxation. As a result, it is not considered auspicious for the Vastu of your home to have this plant in the bedroom,’ she continues. While Glynnis concurs that ‘the jade plant is a generator of luck and prosperity, which is better in the living areas rather than in the quiet “yin” area of the bedroom.’

‘There are also plants that absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen even at night, however the Jade plant isn’t one of them,’ Morris says. ‘Therefore, it offers no particular benefit with this factor in mind and often bedrooms aren’t as light and bright as other rooms in the house.’

When it comes to the best plants for the bedroom, try something like aloe vera, a snake plant or peace lily instead.

Do jade plants need direct sunlight?

The experts all agree that jade plants do best with 4 to 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. This is because ‘although jade plants do need a lot of light to grow, direct sunlight is too harsh and may lead to the leaves of the plant shrivelling or burning,’ Graham warns. Often midday or afternoon sun can be that bit too strong, whereas morning sun is preferable, if you’re able to position the plant in such a way.

On the other hand, too much shade can also be detrimental to jade plants, as it may cause them to grow or become leggy. And ‘leggy growth can make the plant weak or topple over,’ Graham concludes.

But in most cases, ‘young plants benefit from indirect sunlight most, while established specimens can handle more direct sunlight,’ Fiona declares.

Not all garden plant pests are out and about at this time of the year, but other animals are still active. And while you're learning how to pest-proof your home for winter, you might need to think about the garden, too.

'There are many common garden pests that are active year-round and can cause costly damage to your garden buildings,' says Sam Jenkinson, garden shed expert at garden building retailer Tiger. 'In fact, during the winter they often seek out residential and commercial properties to provide warmth and shelter.'

We've rounded up the most active garden pests to watch out for in winter, with a few tips from garden experts to help us limit any damage. You might think pest is too harsh a term for some of the animals on this list, and we get it — they aren't all villains — but if your garden becomes a hotspot, they can deal plants and buildings a lot of damage.

What you'll need

1. Rats

Most garden owners will have to learn how to get rid of rats at some point, and sadly, they're one of the main garden pests to watch out for in winter, too.

'Rats remain a common problem during the colder months,' says Sam. 'They can chew through wood, plastic, and wiring.'

Left unchecked, rats can cause unsightly and hazardous damage to sheds and other garden buildings. So, how do we keep them at bay?

'Block any potential entry points and ensure food sources are securely stored,' Sam advises. 'Regularly cleaning and decluttering garden buildings, along with removing debris like leaves and sticks, helps to reduce their appeal.'

2. Mice

Mice are also active during the winter months, and they're especially drawn to the shelter of sheds and other undercover spaces. So, as well as thinking about how to keep mice out of the house, you'll need to consider your garden buildings.

Make sure gaps and holes in your garden buildings are blocked and food sources are hidden away. Keeping on top of general plant maintenance can go a long way, too. 'Trimming nearby vegetation can eliminate potential hiding spots,' says Sam.

A few pest-repellent plants can also help to ward mice away. 'Planting peppermint around garden structures is another effective deterrent, as the scent repels rodents and adds a touch of beauty with its purple flowers in summer,' Sam explains.

3. Grubs

Not every winter garden pest has fur. Grubs might be hibernating right now, but if they aren't dealt with before spring, they can damage lawns and plant roots.

'Grubs will be tucked up somewhere warm for the winter, normally hibernating as pupae underground or in pots,' explains Annelise Brilli, horticultural copywriter at Thompson & Morgan. 'Their hiding places are deliberately hard to find, and by the end of winter, they’ll have fattened up and be ready to spring into action, chomping through your precious plants.'

The most natural solution for getting rid of grubs is inviting beneficial wildlife into your garden.

'Encourage their natural enemies, who will be much more adept at finding these pests than you,' says Annelise. 'Attract birds to your garden with bird feeders and they’ll also mop up those energy and protein-rich larvae!'

4. Foxes

Foxes are a striking sight, but if you've noticed nibble marks on your garden buildings, you'll probably need to brainstorm ways to keep foxes out of your garden. You'll just need to make sure you're deterring foxes legally, as per the RSPCA's latest warning.

'Foxes tend to dig under garden structures to create their dens during the winter,' says Sam. 'They also often gnaw on wooden doors and foundations.'

So, what are the most environmentally friendly ways to keep them away?

'Deter foxes by blocking entry points with wire mesh, securing food sources, and using motion-activated lights or mixing water and vinegar and spraying it around your garden,' Sam advises.

5. Squirrels

Squirrels might be fluffy and adorable, but they're also one of the main garden pests to watch out for in winter — especially if you're wondering how to protect your bird feeder from rats and squirrels or how to stop squirrels from digging up bulbs.

'Over the winter, squirrels can cause damage by chewing on wood, plastic and electrical wires,' says Sam. 'Their gnawing can weaken wooden structures and pose fire hazards.'

'Prevent squirrels from entering by sealing entry points with wire mesh and removing food sources like bird feeders.'

If you're committed to caring for wildlife through the winter, keep the bird feeders but position them out of reach, or invest in a squirrel-proof bird feeder instead.

FAQs

What bug comes out in winter?

When it comes to insects, the most common garden pests are usually inactive outdoors during the colder months, but that doesn't mean your indoor plants are safe. In fact, fungus gnats and overwintering pests like aphids stick around and can remain active indoors in the winter.

That's why learning how to get rid of fungus gnats and other garden plant pests is important all year round, especially if you own a greenhouse. Consider getting rid of overwintering pests before spring arrives to limit future plant damage.

There aren't many garden pests to watch out for in winter, but keeping an eye out for any damage will help you protect your garden buildings and plants in time for a fresh start in the spring.

If you already know how to propagate a monstera plant or snake plant it won't come as a surprise that the process is quite straightforward. All you need is a pothos stem to start propagating your new plant and if you invest in a propagation vase or station it can also look beautiful while it's in the process of growing.

To keep your home stocked with nonstop pothos, then, look this way for our guide on how to propagate like a pro...

What you will need

When it comes to propagating pothos plants, you will actually need very little in terms of equipment – although plenty of patience and curiosity will see you in good stead.

• a healthy plant with lots of leaves growing from long stems
• a sharp pair of secateurs (try the Spear & Jackson 56418P Pink Garden Snips from Amazon
• a glass of clean water or propagation station
• a sunny spot, like a windowsill
• a pot filled with soil or Miracle-Gro Premium Houseplant Potting Mix Compost from Amazon.

Step-by-step guide

If you're new to the world of propagation, Christopher O'Donoghue – one of the co-directors at Gardens Revived – has a word of warning for you: it will involve taking a pair of sharp (and very clean) secateurs or pruners to your beloved plant baby.

'Yes, you'll have to cut bits off,' he says. 'No, it won't hurt it!'

1. Choose a healthy vine

The most important step when propagating a pothos plant is absolutely the first: choose a healthy stem, or you'll find yourself fighting a losing battle later.

'You want one with vibrant leaves and several nodes (small bumps where leaves grow or roots can emerge),' says Christopher.

2. Make your cut

Those aforementioned nodes? Well, they're a vital part in our How To Propagate Pothos Plants programme, as you'll need to select one in order to guide your cutting.

'From the tip of the stem count back to a minimum of 3 nodes, giving you about 10cm of plant material,' says Kelly Dyer, in-house plant doctor at Patch Plants.

'Make a clean cut just below the node and trim off the remaining bit of stem to just above the next node on your parent plant (otherwise it will die back and look ugly).'

3. Strip the leaves

Christopher says that you should strip off the leaves closest to the node, leaving just one or two at the top.

'You don't want any of your leaves to be submerged in water later,' he says, noting that this will cause them to rot and the specimen to fail.

4. Use the water method

The most popular way to propagate a pothos plant is by submerging your cutting in fresh, clean water.

'You want to make sure the nodes are submerged but the leaves stay above water,' says Christopher.

Change the water every 5–7 days to keep it fresh, and be sure to position the jar in bright, indirect sunlight (taking care to adhere to the one golden rule for keeping houseplants alive).

Then, sit back and wait: the roots should develop in 2–4 weeks.

5. Plant your cutting

Once your pothos cutting has rooted, you'll want to wait until the roots are 1–2 inches long, according to Christopher.

Then, and only then, should you transfer them to soil.

FAQs

Where do I cut a pothos to propagate it?

If you're not sure where to cut a pothos to propagate it, experts advised that you cut just below a node (essentially the notch-like point on a stem where a leaf or leaves have been growing from).

'Ensure there are 2–3 leaves on the cutting and at least one node exposed,' adds Christopher O'Donoghue of Gardens Revived.

Is it better to propagate pothos in water or soil?

It is genuinely considered better to propagate pothos in water rather than soil. If you do want to try the soil method, though, it's simple enough: just dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and plant it in moist, well-draining potting mix.

Then, all that's left to do is pop it in a sunny spot and wait a few weeks for the roots to establish themselves.

Now that you know how to propagate pothos plants, all that's left to do is grab a clean pair of secateurs and set to work creating a beautiful family of thriving houseplants.

While the idea of popping a hat on your cupboard might sound a little bit ridiculous, it turns a wasted space into a design feature. In a Shaker kitchen idea or even a more traditional kitchen idea, the attention is all in the details, so adding little bits of architectural flair will take your kitchen up a notch.

Although cupboard hats has a lovely ring to it, the 'proper' term for this detail is a pediment, which have been around for centuries. So what has inspired this latest resurgence, and how do you go about adding one to your kitchen design?

We spoke to interior experts to find out whether this is something you actually need, or whether you can put the tops of your kitchen cupboards to better use.

What are 'cupboard hats?'

Despite the affectionate term of 'cupboard hat', a pediment is the actual term associated with this pointy feature. It's more commonly used on the exterior of a building or home, but as we spend more time indoors than ever before, why shouldn't we reflect this feature back into our interiors?

'With so many people gravitating towards traditional, timeless styles in their kitchens, cupboard hats are a great way to introduce an element of classic design. They evoke a sense of craftsmanship and heritage, which resonates with homeowners looking to move away from overly minimalist, flat-fronted cabinetry,' explains Sophia Ayrton-Grime, founder and interior designer of Studio Raff.

Best placed in classic kitchen designs, a cupboard hat will add visual interest to an otherwise practical space. You can of course take kitchen cabinetry all the way up to a ceiling but this usually requires going down the bespoke route, which can add extra costs onto your kitchen project. A cupboard hat, however, while bespoke, is a perfect solution for one particular cabinet. You might not want them on every single wall unit, but placing a hat on a pantry unit or larder will be the cherry on top.

How to create a cupboard hat in your kitchen

The benefit of cupboard hats is that they're quite simple to build into your kitchen design. If you're already going down the bespoke kitchen route and are working with a builder, then it's not too difficult to add on.

'If you're working with standard cabinets, a skilled carpenter can add molding or extend cabinetry with filler panels to achieve the desired effect. Painting the cupboard hats the same colour as your cabinets can create a cohesive look, while a contrasting finish can highlight the detail as a design feature,' explains Sophia.

'To build in cupboard hats, the first step is to consider the overall style of your kitchen. For a traditional look, opt for crown moulding with intricate details to match panelled or shaker-style cabinetry. For a more modern approach, choose a simpler, streamlined profile that complements flat-front cabinets. Most importantly, ensure the proportions are balanced - your cupboard hat shouldn’t overwhelm the cabinetry or ceiling height,' she adds.

If you're more DIY-savvy you can look to build a cupboard hat yourself. With some moulding and plywood (and the right tools), you can create your own decorative hat to add to a unit. Match the trim to your cornices and architraves for a complete look that looks professionally designed.

How to style cupboard hats

When it comes to styling cupboard hats in a kitchen, a look we love is matching the colour to your unit, but choosing a more out-there kitchen colour scheme to make a statement.

'Painting the cupboard hats the same colour as your cabinets can create a cohesive look, while a contrasting finish can highlight the detail as a design feature,' explains Sophia.

'They also enable you to make a useful cupboard look like a beautiful piece of furniture. The hats can be designed around antique pieces you've been inspired by or by a design seen in the room elsewhere. In my own kitchen, I designed a hat to unite two cupboards - one housing a double doorway fridge and the other housing a larder cupboard. It feels totally at home in the high-ceiling kitchen room with cornice detailing,' adds Melissa Hutley, co-founder of Hutley & Humm.

In a kitchen, the best way to make a cupboard hat the focal point of a space is to position it on a large unit that sits separately from the rest of your cupboards and paint it in a gloss colour to reflect light and increase the appearance of your ceiling height. Don't forget to add some chic cabinet hardware (brushed brass will add to the antique appeal) for added premium appeal.

Will cupboard hats be a trend you're trying? Or are full-height cupboards more appealing?

There’s no point investing in one of the best washing machines if you’re not using it correctly. Using too much or too little detergent can cause problems for your laundry routine, so it’s really important to get the balance right.

There are a wide variety of reasons that affect how much detergent to use per load washing from how dirty your clothes are to how hard your water is - and with new research by Fairy Non Bio and Ariel highlighting we're now opting for bigger loads and bigger machines, it's important to ensure we're getting the balance right.

These are the tell-tell signs you're using the incorrect amount of laundry detergent.

How much laundry detergent to use per load

First of all, a good rule of thumb is to always check the label on your detergent packaging to see how much they recommend using. Some will even tell you how much is needed per size of the load - for example, small, medium or large.

‘For standard loads, medium size for front-load and top-load washers, about one to two tablespoons of liquid detergent or one pod (if using pods). Large or heavily soiled loads may require more detergent. For small loads, use less detergent to avoid overloading,’ says Polya Petrova, an appliance and cleaning professional at Fantastic Services.

Signs your using the wrong amount of washing detergent

The best way to tell if you're using too much or too little is to keep an eye on the drum of your washing machine. ‘While it’s okay to see some suds, if you see excessive bubbles, you may be using too much detergent,' explains Polya Petrova. 'If you don’t see any suds, it could indicate too little detergent.

'If your clothes feel slimy or have detergent residue left after washing, you might be using too much detergent. If your clothes still seem dirty or have an odour after washing, it could indicate you're not using enough detergent.’

If your washing comes out clean and odour-free with no residue, it means you are using enough detergent.

What happens when you use the wrong amount

Using the wrong amount of detergent for your washing machine can cause several problems for your laundry routine.

‘Many people guesstimate when adding laundry detergent to their machine, but this can lead to problems down the road. Most modern washing machines are designed to use less detergent than you might expect,’ says Vivien Fodor, Laundry Category Lead at Hotpoint.

‘It's easy to think that adding more detergent will lead to cleaner clothes, but using too much can have the opposite result. Excess detergent can leave residue on your clothes, making them feel greasy. Additionally, detergent can clog your machine's pipes and reduce the efficiency of your wash cycle. Over time, these clogs can cause leaks and blockages, leading to costly repairs or even a total breakdown of your machine.’

Meanwhile, if you don’t use enough detergent, your clothes risk coming out of the machine dirty.

‘Insufficient detergent can lead to clothes not getting fully clean, as there won’t be enough detergent to break down dirt and stains. In some cases, dirt may get redeposited on the clothes, leaving them looking dull or dirty. Additionally, residue might build up inside the washing machine itself. Without enough detergent, bacteria and mould can grow in the washer, leading to musty or sour smells,’ says Polya.

So, next time you do a load of washing first check your detegent packaging to ensure you're using the correct ammount.

I realised at the end of last year that while I had 1000s of photos of holidays and nights out on my phone I barely looked at them. I was missing out on being reminded of so many happy memories. Looking through the photos immediately boosts my mood and I wanted to capture this feeling with my gallery wall ideas to help navigate the January blues.

Don't just take my word that displaying photos around your home can improve your well-being. Research has found that viewing images associated with a positive memory can improve your mood and repair a negative one.

'Existing research has shown how photos of loved ones can improve positive emotions by reminding us of relationships that bring us joy and help us feel loved,' explains Krystine Batcho, professor of psychology at Le Moyne College, Syracuse.

'Photos reflect how others have contributed to who we have become and how we have a role in the lives and development of others. Displaying photos expresses the importance we attribute to the people and experiences they portray and strengthens our appreciation of their and our own value.'

Family photos are often conspicuously absent from some of the most stylish homes on social media and in magazines. I made the mistake of assuming that meant you couldn't display photos in a stylish way as part of your living room picture wall ideas. How wrong I was.

Here are 5 smart ideas for how to style family photos in a way that looks great and will make you feel great too to give your home a mood-boosting makeover.

1. Highlight joyful moments with a sleek frame

In the same way that you would carefully plan a living room colour scheme, you should plan what frame will best complement the photo you want to display.

David and Sarah Ross, Co-Founders of Addison Ross who have been producing stunning frames since the 90s are masters of choosing the right frame for photos. 'For vibrant, joyful, family moments we love to opt for a sleek & contemporary frame to add modern elegance without overwhelming the character of the photo,' they explain. 'We find our lacquered Bobbin Frames match the joyful energy of a photo through their vibrant colour, with a delicate enough design not to overshadow the image itself.'

‘For more formal or vintage family photos we like to use a more classic frame, our Sophie Paterson Collection frames provide a timeless, sophisticated setting that complements classic images beautifully.

2. Group frames together with a theme

Whether you are curating a gallery wall or staging a group of photos together as part of your hallway ideas, make sure all the frames have something that connects them to avoid a cluttered look.

‘Start by choosing a consistent theme or colour palette for your frames—this helps to create a unified look throughout the space, even if the photos themselves are varied,’ recommend David and Sarah Ross. ‘Grouping photos using frames of different sizes but similar finishes adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.’

3. Curate a multi-aperture frame

Multi-aperture frames are another great option for displaying family photos that achieve a similar effect to a gallery wall. These types of frames allow you to display several images in one frame, and usually look best when the photos are grouped around both a theme and colour palette.

‘To style up a multi-aperture frame, choose one favourite image as your starting point,’ says Mark Winstanley Chief Brand & Innovation Officer at The White Company. ‘This will create your theme in terms of subject matter, but also in terms of colour palette and style. Choose all the other images to complement this first one – tonal shades, a good mix of closer-in and pulled-back shots. Lay them out together before you decide on the final set and their positioning.

Mark’s top tip is to plan your layout on a computer first before committing to print out the images for your frame.

4. Mix candid and staged photos

‘When it comes to framing photos, both staged and candid shots have their own unique charm, and we find a mix of the two creates the most engaging and personal display,’ point out David and Sarah Ross.

Photos around your home should tell the story of your family. While staged images like wedding group shots or family portraits make strong focal points for a display, it is the candid shots that will add energy and help tell the story behind the staged images.

Another element to consider is also mixing in memorabilia connected to one of the images like a t-shirt or a postcard. All of these pieces come together to create a display that is deeply personal and provokes positive memories.

5. Create a mini display cabinet

Family photos don’t need to always be styled in frames, you can get more creative by styling them inside a glass-top coffee table or a shadow box as shown above is a good alternative small living room idea.

‘Glass-top coffee tables or console tables with compartments underneath are perfect for showcasing a curated collection of photos, postcards, and pressed flowers,’ says Daniela Venturini, Art Director and Trend Forecaster at Wayfair. ‘You can pair pictures with mementos like ticket stubs or handwritten notes to tell a fuller story. This functional yet elegant option makes your memories part of your daily life in a way that feels intentional and design-forward.’

Whether you opt to display one statement photo or curate your favourites into a gallery, make this the year you honour some of your fondest memories with a spot on the wall.

Of course, the best sofa for a living room is an investment piece that should last you much longer than a year. Perhaps that’s why sofa trends don’t change as often and as dramatically as most other home decor trends.

So if you’re happy with your current sofa that you haven’t had that long, don’t feel pressured to get rid of it just to keep up with the latest vogue. But if your living room seating is in desperate need of an update then these trends make for the perfect guide to what’s new and popular in the world of sofa design. From the latest sofa colour trends to the most popular sofa silhouettes, these are the sofa styles you’ll be seeing more of in 2025 – perhaps even making their way into your living room.

1. Go big with an XL-sized sofa

It seems the days of petite sofas are over – even in small living room ideas. Instead, people are investing in large-scale sofas to sit and lounge comfortably on. Filling the majority of a living room with a cosy corner sofa in a cinema room style is a common sight these days. And in fact, corner sofas are one of the best sofa ideas for small living rooms as they take advantage of often underutilised corners.

‘People are spending more time in their living rooms than ever before, which appears to be impacting the central role our sofas play and in turn the size of furniture we’re plumping for,’ says Gisela Lancaster, head of buying at Sofology. ‘Smaller sofas have increasingly been replaced by larger cosy sofa silhouettes over the past few years, and this trend shows no sign of slowing. These soft and beautifully sculpted ranges often have deep and cosy seats with wide and cosseting arms that naturally take up more space.’

She continues, ‘It’s worth noting that corner sofa sales have topped two and three-seater sofas for the last few years, offering the extra space needed to keep all the family happy. Sofas are pivotal to our daily lives these days, with multiple generations using them to relax, work and socialise. It seems that these extra needs are resulting in a spike in larger sofa sales with a focus on comfort and style.’

Top pick

2. Get cosy with brown

Earthy shades with brown leading the way are set to be among the most on-trend living room colour schemes. And that is reflected in the sofa colour choices, too. Brown sofas are certainly having a moment.

‘Warm neutrals will continue to be popular for sofas in 2025, however, these will be a bolder take than recent years with colours like mocha and truffle coming to the fore,’ says Kellie Wyles, head of upholstery at DFS. ‘These deeper brown tones are very versatile, pairing seamlessly with a broad range of colours and feeling innately liveable.’

Joana Sadovskaja, the interior trends expert at Lovesofas, continues on the topic of sofa colours that are set to be out in 2025, ‘2025 will see warm, earthy, and vibrant tones favoured over cool, neutral hues. While neutral tones such as grey and cream dominated trends in previous years, these minimal hues have become outdated and will be out in 2025.’

Top pick

3. Embrace curves

Curved furniture has been a living room trend for over a year now – but in 2025, beautifully sculptural, curvy sofas are at the top of their game, with angular styles slowly falling out of favour.

‘Sofas with statement sculptural silhouettes will be a big trend for 2025 – curved sofas, fluted sofas and “croissant sofas” will all prove popular due to their ability to add instant interest and character to a living room,’ says Lena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker and Stonehouse.

Joana at Lovesofas adds, ‘In 2025, we’re saying goodbye to harsh lines and are instead opting for curved furniture to soften the room’s features and create a relaxing atmosphere. Opt for a curved sofa to follow a modern contemporary design. The sofa's clean lines and sleek design are perfect for achieving a stylish and contemporary aesthetic and pair well with a monochromatic colour scheme for a modern, visually appealing space.’

Top pick

4. Get comfortable with recliners

Recliner sofas are the unexpected sofa trend of 2025, they have been gaining popularity over the past year, with many sofa brands launching their own stylish takes on the once bulky and unsightly recliners. If you’re looking to create a VIP cinema experience in your lounge, then a reclining sofa is the way to go.

‘We’ll see a trend for recliner sofas which offer the ultimate in comfort and relaxation,’ says Shelley Cochrane, accessories buyer at Furniture Village. ‘Tech sofas that offer wireless charging and connect to surround sound are going to be a big trend for 2025 as more people look to create a cinema experience at home. Tech sofas can be very discreet so are suited to all types of homes, not just those with designated cinema rooms.’

Top pick

5. Future-proof with modular designs

Opting for one of the best modular sofas is the best way to ensure longevity for your living room seating as these designs can adapt to changing lifestyles and layouts. That’s why more and more homeowners and renters alike have been investing in modular sofas to future-proof their home.

‘In 2025, we’re expecting to see a real emphasis on customisation amongst sofa buyers while investing in the perfect sofa for their family’s needs, rather than a “one size fits all” approach,’ says Patricia Gibbons, head of design at Sofa.com.

‘Customers are growing in confidence when specifying details such as colour and fabric on the sofa they want, creating a piece that will become the heart of their home. When it comes to customisation, modular sofas make this experience seamless and offer flexibility as your lifestyle evolves. The best part about customisation is that it works for every type of home, creating a bespoke modular sofa is the perfect solution both practically and aesthetically.’

Top pick

6. Opt for sumptuous textures

If you’re not sure what the best sofa fabric for your home is, the latest trends favour cosy living room ideas filled with highly textured materials like boucle and chenille.

‘In 2025, sofa materials will be all about texture with everything from chenille, teddy and boucle set to be popular. A super plush teddy material is already in demand for the cosy, inviting and luxurious feel it infuses to living spaces. Boucle will also continue to capture attention, for the instant depth it adds to a space without being overpowering. The subtly textured nature of chenille will also prove popular this year – this material is a particularly great choice for statement-making sofas as it holds colour well and creates instant personality,’ Kellie at DFS says.

Joana at Lovesofas agrees, ‘A chic two-tone chenille is perfect for adding warmth to create a cosy space. This sofa works well with warm wood accents and neutral tones for a soft and elegant aesthetic. Likewise, a jumbo cord adds a sense of cosiness and warmth to any space and is perfect for creating a stylish and relaxed living room.’

Top pick

Which sofa trends will you be adopting this year?

If you're worried about your pets keeping warm in this weather you can give them the best seat in the house this winter by investing in a thermal pet mat. Specially designed to keep our furry friends extra toasty, this home accessory could be a total game-changer when it comes to keeping your home warm in winter in a pet-friendly way.

Using a reflective liner, thermal pet mats utilise your pet’s body heat to help them keep warm as the temperatures drop.

What is a thermal pet mat?

Our pets are parts of our families, so often I find myself getting as excited for new pet collections as I do classic homeware. From dog wardrobes to dog loungers, I’ll admit some trends err on the side of wacky.

But for the most part, we all want to do our best for our furry friends. That’s exactly what a thermal pet mat aims to do- but how exactly does it work?

‘Thermal pet mats help some pets stay warm on colder days, or if they need a bit of extra help to keep warm. The mats work by having a heat-reflective lining that warms up from the pet’s body heat when they lay on it,’ explains Fiona Cooke, Head of Specialist Services at Woodgreen Pets Charity.

‘There are various types of thermal pet mats - some are made so that pets can be left alone with it, whereas others should always be supervised.’

Thermal pet mats work differently from electric dog beds and are typically safer to use.

‘Thermal heating mats reflect your pet's own body via a layer within the bed. These heat mats don't get as warm as an electric bed, but there are no wires to worry about and they can't get hotter than your pet's body temperature, so you don't have to worry about them getting too hot or burning them. They can be useful in cold weather especially if pets are lying on cold flooring as it will be warmer than a conventional bed,’ says Aimee Warner, Veterinary Surgeon at Waggel.

Why you should invest in a thermal pet mat

You should consider a thermal pet mat if you have an older pet as they can feel more achy and stiff during cold weather - especially if they have arthritis.

‘They can have a soothing effect for pets that enjoy the warmth and can alleviate pain, especially joint pain in older animals with arthritis,’ says Aimee.

‘Some breeds of dog that enjoy the cold weather like Burmese Mountain dogs are unlikely to want to lie on them, but many pets will enjoy and benefit from them.’

If you have dogs that live outside, Aimee warns additional heating measures would be needed to keep them warm this winter.

'It’s really important to think about your pet’s access to warm and draught-free places, especially when it’s cold and/or damp outside,’ says Fiona.

‘It’s also important, however, to allow pets to regulate their own temperatures by supervising access and allowing them space to move freely to and away from the mat.

‘Dogs or cats who are very young, elderly, have a medical condition or recovering from surgery often benefit from the additional warmth from a thermal mat. Some pets naturally have thicker or thinner coats – those with thinner coats are likely to struggle more when it’s really cold, so offering them extra warmth will be much appreciated by your pet! These mats can be nice for cats and can be used for outdoor access to help them cosy.’

Shop thermal pet mats

Upgrading your pet's bed to keep them extra cosy is the least our furry firends deserve - you'd be barking mad not to treat them.

Of course, cleaning a washing machine may seem like a one-size-fits-all task to tick off your to-do list, but the reality is that washing machines may need deeper and more tailored cleaning for various reasons. It may be that it’s started to smell, or you’ve noticed a build-up of mould in the washing machine the drum or seal. Alternatively, you may struggle with limescale build-up - especially if you live in a hard water area.

Failing to remove this limescale will ultimately affect the running of your appliance, how much it costs to run a washing machine, and how long it will last. So, it’s in your best interests (both financially and practically) to keep on top of this cleaning task - and knowing how to clean a washing machine with soda crystals can help you do just that.

What you'll need

Step-by-step

1. Weigh out your soda crystals

Soda crystals are fairly easy to come by, and it’s well worth stocking up on a bag or two to tide you over. While it’s fair to say that you could clean a washing machine with vinegar and baking soda, you should avoid using an excessive amount of vinegar - especially if you want to clean the rubber seal on a washing machine.

That’s because prolonged use of an acid on rubber can cause it to break down, resulting in potential leaks and damage. However, Laura Harnett, founder of eco-cleaning brand, Seep, explains that a combination of soda crystals and small amounts of vinegar still works wonders.

She says, ‘Soda crystals are alkali and stronger than bicarbonate of soda, which can also be used in conjunction with white vinegar.’

But it’s also possible to use too many soda crystals when cleaning a washing machine, so it’s best to weigh it out beforehand.

You should aim to use 500g of soda crystals for each clean. If you have a particularly dirty washing machine or know you have limescale-blocked pipes, avoid adding any more than this. Simply repeat this step-by-step process instead.

2. Add the soda crystals and run a hot wash

With your 500g of soda crystals in tow, you can either pop them into the detergent drawer or directly into the drum. Laura suggests the latter, advising, ‘Put the soda crystals into your empty washing machine drum and then run the machine on its hottest and longest cycle.’

The heat is key when cleaning a washing machine with soda crystals, as the heat will aid the cleaning process, kill off any lingering bacteria and reduce the chances of mould and mildew build-up. If you opt for a cold wash, it just won't work as well.

3. Don’t be alarmed

Soda crystals are an extremely effective cleaning agent, and that’s one of the many reasons homeowners also use soda crystals to clean an extractor hood vent. But the results of using this cleaning product in the washing machine can be alarming - especially the first time you use them.

As Laura warns, ‘You may notice black debris or gunk coming out of the machine.’ This is completely normal and a sign that the soda crystals are working their magic. However, it’s worth repeating the process again in a couple of days to get any remaining sludge out of the way.

4. Clean the rest of the machine

The only slight downside of cleaning a washing machine with soda crystals is that it only really cleans the drum. So, you still need to clean the rest of the machine - but this is easily done.

Laura advises, ‘To complement the drum and internal machine being cleaned, also clean the other parts of the washing machine using white vinegar. This is a strong antibacterial product, cheap to buy and also is eco-friendly.’

She adds, ‘Wipe down the door seal with a soft cloth soaked in white vinegar, remove the washing powder drawer and the washing machine filter and soak them in equal parts white vinegar and hot water to remove build-up and residue.’

5. Add soda crystals to your clothes, too

You might already know that adding vinegar to your wash will soften your towels, and adding bicarbonate of soda will keep your whites extra white, but you might be surprised to learn that you can also pop soda crystals in with your clothes. In fact, Laura recommends doing this every time you wash your clothes.

She says, ‘This will also help to prevent limescale build-up as the alkali crystals help to soften the water. Limescale is worse in hard water areas, so if you have hard water, then this is something you should consider for every wash to ensure your washing machine lasts longer and your clothes are always clean first time to help the planet and save you money.’

If you’re lucky to live in a soft water area, you may not have to do this with every wash. In that case, stick with at least once a month just to be sure there’s no limescale lingering in the pipes.

FAQs

Can I use soda crystals and white vinegar together?

Yes, you can! When used together, soda crystals and white vinegar create an effective cleaning agent, and many experts even state that this combination works better than white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.

When using these two products together, you may notice that they start fizzing. It’s this chemical reaction that will ultimately work hard to unclog drains, clean grout, de-scale and de-grease appliances and areas of the home.

Are soda crystals the same as bicarb of soda?

No, soda crystals and bicarbonate of soda are two different products. Although bicarb is an alkaline cleaning powder, soda crystals are larger and harder crystals that are much more alkaline. Because of this, many people use soda crystals when they want a deeper clean.

However, it’s advised to wear gloves when handling soda crystals directly, as their strength can cause irritation for some people.

So, will you be cleaning your washing machine with soda crystals?

With a recognisably classic frame and Mid-Century living room good looks, the Scottish Everlastings chair looks remarkably similar to high-end items that we’ve long been lusting after, but at a considerably lower price point. The lookalike that came straight to the front of our minds was the gorgeous Squishbag Accent Chair from Loaf. Here’s how they match up...

So there are some key differences between the two, namely assembly and breadth of fabrics on offer, however for £150, if you want to add some Mid-Century style to your space, it's worth a look.

If you have the budget to spare, the Loaf design is always going to be an investment worth considering, especially as you can create a near-bespoke piece thanks to all the fabrics on offer.

Loaf also offers the purchase of additional sets of their made-to-order covers for the Squishbag, so you can switch up the look over time, or simply have a spare on hand if you're concerned about spillages.

The best of the rest

Whatever your budget, there's a stylish retro armchair waiting for you. Now it's simply up to you to see which is best for your home.

While fragrance is obviously a very personal choice, when it comes to the best reed diffusers and scented candles, certain scents aren’t quite as well-liked as they once were.

Sometimes it’s as simple as a specific scent or fragrance profile feeling a bit overdone, but ‘people also want uniqueness, and to discover new scent experiences,’ suggests Melissa Harris, Founder of Harris of London who points out that fragrance tends to be cyclical, so will likely come back around possibly in a reimagined or novel way.

But when it comes to how to make a home smell good, these are the home fragrances that are going out of fashion in 2025, as well as how they might be evolving or being updated for the new year.

1. Single note fragrances

This year, gone are the days when you buy the best-scented candle with a single-note fragrance, such as vanilla on its own, the experts reveal. ‘While vanilla itself remains beloved, expect it to appear in more complex, gourmand blends with tonka bean, cardamom, or tobacco for an elevated feel,’ explains Valerie Sadoh, Founder of House of Mahogany.

The same is true of something like lavender. ‘Lavender remains a cornerstone scent, but traditional one-note lavender is being replaced by more nuanced pairings, such as lavender and sage or lavender and citrus,’ Valerie adds.

As the popularity of complex, layered scents increases, this gives shoppers the chance to play around with different notes without overwhelming a space.

2. Synthetic florals

While many of us are fans of floral fragrances, synthetic florals that don’t quite give the same impression as a fresh bouquet of blooms are also falling out of favour, according to the experts.

‘Overly synthetic floral scents often lack the nuanced complexity and authenticity that modern consumers seek,’ says Rodrigo Nikaido, Co-Owner and Global Growth Director at AROMARIA. ‘These artificial interpretations can feel one-dimensional or overwhelming, making them less compatible with the natural, calming environments people now prioritise in their homes.’

Instead, there’s a growing preference for florals that are soft, balanced, and layered, evoking the organic essence of real blossoms. ‘This shift reflects a desire for fragrances that resonate emotionally, enhancing the space without overpowering it,’ Rodrigo continues.

3. Super sweet aromas

Many of us might be fans of sweet smells, however, candy-sweet fragrances like candy floss, sugary pastries and bubblegum-style scents ‘often feel juvenile and are falling out of favour in home fragrance,’ Valerie admits.

Rodrigo suggests that this could be because ‘overly sugary or cloying scents can feel heavy and intrusive in contemporary settings, which favor lighter, more versatile aromas. This evolution mirrors the shift toward fragrances that offer indulgence without overwhelming the senses.’

And consumers are gravitating toward more mature gourmand notes like honey, amber, and caramel, as we move into 2025 and beyond when scenting a living room or hallway. And these notes offer a more sophisticated and layered approach to all things sweet.

4. Powdery scents

While powdery scents remain a firm favourite in the world of perfumes, we’re seeing a switch from powdery to deeper notes when it comes to home fragrance this year, Melissa says.

‘Overly powdery scents remind people of fragrances like Chanel No.5 and while some will still go for this classic, the powerhouses like oud (which has been around for a long time but only really popular in the West in recent times) and woody, smokey scents are much more desirable. You'll see all the big players delivering oud, woody and tobacco notes to keep up with this trend, instead of focusing on the more vintage powdery accords,’ she affirms.

5. Sharp citrus

‘Citrus is always a safe bet, but the sharp, punchy varieties – like lemon zest – are taking a backseat,’ declares Karl Neale, Founder of Rebel Aromas. ‘Softer options like bergamot and mandarin are stepping in instead, as they’ve got a brightness that’s clean and refreshing, but they’re not in your face.

These scents are among some of the best home fragrances for kitchens where you want that light, inviting vibe without feeling overly sterile.

FAQs

What is the future of home fragrances in 2025?

It’s probably not surprising that an increasing number of shoppers are interested in being more sustainable and ethical with what they buy and this is also true of home fragrance. According to Melissa, ‘demand for refillable home fragrances and sustainable, natural materials will continue to rise,’ as we move into 2025.

‘Environmental consciousness is also influencing purchasing decisions,’ Sam affirms, ‘with a growing demand for products that are handmade with the best social and environmental intentions, using authentic, natural oils, woods and resins rather than chemically produced alternatives.’

While Valerie expects that ‘custom scent-blending kits and workshops will rise in popularity,’ this year. From home fragrance blending and candle making, this also gives shoppers the opportunity to give their home a signature scent and truly customise and personalise the fragrances that they use.

What are set to be the most popular home fragrances in 2025?

Wondering what the most popular home fragrances of 2025 are set to be? Well, we got the scoop from the experts.

Firstly, food-related fragrances are set to be some of the most popular this year. For those who like sweet scents, ‘gourmand fragrances with milky notes are set to have a glow up, with us heading to the coffee shop for warm inviting scents of cappuccino, vanilla, and milk – seen in perfumes as early a 2019 – which are now popping up in scented home products,’ explains Chloe Furze, Founder of CocoLuxe.

‘On the other end of the fragrance scale, fruits like cherry are set to continue growing this year alongside other stone fruits like plum, mango, peach, and apricots, which all bring playful, uplifting aromas to home environments,’ she continues.

‘Scents that bring the outdoors in are also gaining significant traction, such as the earthy scent of petrichor, citrusy vetiver and resinous frankincense that evoke the scent of nature,’ reveals Sam Aydee, Temple of Incense's Co-Founder. And Rodrigo concurs. ‘Earthy and grounding notes like moss, cedar, and amber are experiencing a resurgence, offering a sense of stability and connection to nature,’ he agrees.

So, on those days when we don’t feel like venturing outside, whether because of the weather or simply because we’d prefer to stay cosy and relax, introducing these sorts of home fragrances can certainly bring the outside in.

The Duchess of Sussex’s new show will see Meghan share tips on cooking, hosting, gardening, crafting and even flower arranging. We all love a nose around celebrity homes and glimpsing at the trailer, what stuck out to me was the choice of her kitchenware - and its eyewatering prices.

I wasn’t the only one interested as the indy100 reported over $20,000 worth of cookware was used in the trailer. It is important to note, this isn’t Meghan’s real kitchen - the $6.2 million home actually belongs to the Cipolla family.

I don’t know about you but I don’t have a spare 20 grand lying around to spend on kitchenware - but what I did have was the time to hunt down Ideal Home’s best-rated affordable alternatives to get the same luxury look on a budget.

1. Copper pans

A large chunk of the reported $20,000 comes from Meghan’s oven - a Thermador Range cooker which retails at $19,000. Now, I know the majority of us won’t be ripping out our stoves on account of a Netflix show so I won’t be counting this. But what did catch my eye was Meghan’s pans.

Meghan Markle opted for copper pans which are loved by chefs for their even temperature distribution and precise temperature control. A full set of copper pans can set you back a couple hundred pounds.

If you don’t have that sort of budget, Ideal Home’s best saucepan sets include plenty of affordable options. The ProCook Soho Cookware Set (currently £79.20) is our best-rated affordable pan set. It may not be made from copper but ProCook is renowned for its quality - you are guaranteed reliable cookware at an appropriate price.

2. Vitamix blender

Watching the trailer, we caught a snippet of Meghan’s blender - and it is also Ideal Home’s best blender in 2025. The Vitamix Ascent A2500i (£599 at Amazon) is beloved by celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow but our main gripe was its expensive price point.

There’s no denying this blender is one of the best luxury blenders on the market. But we have found some affordable options that also deliver on quality. The Nutribullet 600 Series Blender (£55 at Argos) is easy to use and efficient, producing excellent smoothies and salsas. It’s not as powerful as the Vitamix Ascent A200i, but Nutibullet is a household name in the blender world - and certainly worthy of your kitchen.

3. Le Creuset pots

Oh, Le Creuset, it’s a brand on all our wishlists and I positively fawned over the Duchess of Sussex’s Cast Iron Shallow Casserole in a gorgeous creamy shade. Only Le Creuset is undeniably expensive, and this pan will set you back £265.

Luckily, there is a whole host of affordable Le Creuset alternatives, which can stand their ground in the kitchen.

Habitat’s Cream 5.3 Litre Cast Iron Casserole Dish is currently on sale for £29.99. While Le Creuset can rarely be topped on quality, the Habitat version is sturdy and comes in a gorgeous collection of colours. Habitat’s dish has an enamel coating preventing rust, staining and corrosion as well as making cleaning even easier.

Both ProCook and Tefal also have cast iron casserole dishes for less than £100 that look just as good as a Le Creuset dish and work just as well.

4. Kai Shun knife

Meghan uses a Kai Shun kitchen knife of which a set can set you back £244. Now, investing in one of the best knife sets is important as your kitchen knives will be used day in and day out.

Now, there are some more affordable options that don’t shy on quality including the Ninja Foodi StaySharp Knife Block with Integrated Sharpener (£129), which has a knife fit for every kitchen task and excellent quality blades.

With a built-in sharping block, too, you can keep your blades in tip-top shape for optimum chopping, slicing and dicing. It’s easy to use and it’s recommended to do this every fortnight.

Meghan's show With Love, Meghan will officially air on 15 January this year. If you want to cook along in style, any of these alternatives should give you an affordable kitchenware set up to rival Meghan's.

The cottage is set in a slight valley with incredible countryside views stretching for miles. 'I love the slower pace of life here and the peace and quiet, with no light or noise pollution – the stars seem to shine brighter each visit,' its owner says. 'I love being surrounded by nature and the sound of the ringing village church bells.'

An admirer of period and character-style properties, owner Vicky scoured the internet for months until, in August 2018, she came across a listed thatched cottage for sale in an idyllic north Cotswold village.

‘I fell in love with this quintessential English cottage, which had been well looked after by its previous elderly owner. She had also nurtured a beautiful country garden full of hellebores, roses and anemones.’

Vicky hired a local builder to help her renovate the cottage and reconfigure the layout to make the most of the small space.

‘I love a floorplan and have always had great spatial awareness,’ she says. ‘I’d always dreamt of having an open plan bedroom-bathroom so this was my chance to design the ultimate luxurious country hideaway.’ Then the second bedroom was reconfigured into a spacious luxury ensuite.

Vicky’s preference for upcycled furniture over brand new is evident throughout, with quirky items dotted around the cottage – including a French pine baker’s bread-proving oven.

‘I love pottering around and discovering antique haunts. The cottage is a blank canvas, a gallery I can keep updating. It’s like a never ending treasure hunt and nothing makes me happier.'

'I’m also fond of the vintage Harrods box that I use as a coffee table. I love typography and anything with old letters on it.’

The kitchen

Downstairs, the compact kitchen was another challenge. ‘With the help of kitchen brand DeVOL, I managed to fit all the essential appliances into this small space, which was amazing,’ Vicky adds.

Bespoke units have been teamed with wooden worktops, a traditional butler-style sink, brass tap and limestone floor. Tongue-and-groove painted panelling adds interest and open shelves increase storage and open up the space further.

A pegged wooden rail provides further useful storage for hanging utensils, chopping boards, dried garlic and decorative items.

This room has three windows so it’s always bright and airy, despite its size. 'I love open shelves over wall cabinets and I painted all the original beams, white to keep the space light and open,' Vicky says.

Sitting room

The inglenook stone fireplace, wood burning stove and window seat were inherited character features of the cottage. The beams have all been painted white to enhance and elevate the space.

Dining area

The dining table was from an auction and Vicky sanded and oiled the tabletop and painted the legs

Reading nook

A reading nook under the stairs by the window adds cosy appeal. The French antique pine baker's bread proving oven was a Facebook Marketplace find. It's now used for storing books and board games.

For maximum cosiness, she opted for wall lights throughout the cottage for minimum interruption of traditional features.

'Lighting is a huge thing for me,’ says Vicky. ‘I have a rule in my house not to have any harsh or bright lights. I think a space always looks more inviting with standalone lamps over harsh spotlights.’

Bedroom

Vicky opted for panelling in the bedroom for a softer contemporary look against the period beams, which helps to elevate the room adding further character, although it was a challenge to fit due to the uneven floors and walls.

Wall-hung little shelves are the perfect bedside accompaniment to this small cosy space.

Bathroom

This bathing sanctuary has all the feels of a boutique hotel. Vicky sourced the roll top bath from a company based in Wales who painted it with her choice of colour – Off-Black by Farrow & Ball.

A separate shower room is located at the top of the stairs and combines contemporary luxury fixtures with period features.

‘I’m so lucky to be the custodian of such an old and beautiful property,' Vicky says. ‘The cottage seems to embrace everything that’s quintessentially English.'

While you shouldn't be abandoning the best mops or your microfibre clothes anytime soon, tennis balls are great for removing marks off floors and walls, and they can also help clean carpets and clothes by removing stubborn pet hair. So if you've got some old tennis balls knocking around the house, it's time to put them to good use (and if you haven't, you'll probably want to get yourself a set after reading this).

We've spoken to the experts and asked them to share what you can clean with a tennis ball and their top tips on how to do it.

1. Walls

If your walls are marked or scuffed, you'll be pleased to hear that tennis balls might be the solution. They're great for cleaning walls without removing paint, and are surprisingly effective at buffing away marks and stains.

'The friction created between the felt and the wall can help lift those pesky scuff marks without damaging paint - unlike some cleaning products,' Georgina Shepherd, cleaning expert at Housekeep says. 'Of course, only use a clean tennis ball for this, to avoid transferring any dirt or grit.'

Gently rub the tennis ball back and forth over the mark, applying more pressure if needed. Marks and scuffs should gradually lift away.

2. Hard floors

It's easy for hardwood floors to pick up marks from shoes or furniture, but handily, tennis balls can help reduce the appearance of these. Similar to their effect on walls, the friction of the felt can clean vinyl flooring and other types of hard floors.

'Simply rub the scuffed area with a clean tennis ball, and the felt material will gently lift the marks without scratching the surface,' Paul Brewster, flooring expert at Flooring Hut advises. 'It’s an affordable and chemical-free way to keep your floors looking their best.'

3. Carpets and fabrics

If you have a pet, a tennis ball could be the next best weapon in your arsenal for combatting shedding, after the best vacuums for pet hair. For stubborn pet hair that's unwilling to budge from clothes, carpets and fabrics, try rubbing a tennis ball over the surface, and you'll be pleasantly surprised.

'Rolling or rubbing the ball across the surface generates static, which helps lift hairs that vacuums often miss,' Paul explains. 'It’s a quick and effective trick to add to your cleaning routine.'

'To make this easier, cut an ‘X’ into a tennis ball (using a box cutter works well for this) and attach it to the end of a broom handle,' cleaning expert Georgina suggests. 'This nifty tool is great for buffing out marks without bending down or using harsh chemicals.'

4. Clothes in the tumble dryer

If your clothes and textiles aren't quite as fresh-smelling as you'd like them to be when you pull them out of the tumble dryer, there's a great tennis ball hack you can try.

'Add a few drops of essential oil to the surface of a tennis ball and wrap it in aluminum foil, then put this in your dryer with your laundry instead of dryer sheets,' cleaning expert Sarah Dempsey at MyJobQuote.co.uk recommends.

'The foil wrapped tennis ball removes static and gives your laundry a nice scent. It also helps to prevent clumping when drying down filled items like duvets or jackets.'

And if pesky pet hair still clings to your clothes after going through the washer and dryer, pop a couple of tennis balls in there next time (sans foil). The ball will act like a lint roller, attracting hair during the cycle.

Add to basket

FAQs

What can I use tennis balls for around the house?

Aside from the four main things you can clean with a tennis ball, there are a couple of other handy home hacks you can try.

'If you are restoring a piece of furniture, wrap a tennis ball in sandpaper to make sanding any curves much easier,' cleaning expert Sarah Dempsey suggests.

'Another thing you can try is to cut crosses in tennis balls and place them on furniture feet to prevent scuffs or scratches on your floor. You can do this if you want to move a heavy piece of furniture without lifting or leave the tennis balls on all the time, for example on dining chairs that get moved frequently.'

Well, if you learn the art of propagation, your real Christmas tree could last a lot longer than you'd think — through its cuttings, anyway. So before you recycle your Christmas tree for garden mulch, consider saving a few stems and potting them up.

Last weekend, garden writer Simon Akeroyd took to TikTok to share his horticultural wisdom, telling followers that they can take cuttings from their Christmas tree and grow a new tree for free.

We've rounded up Simon's key tips and explored just how effective this method is.

@simonakeroydgardener

♬ Don't You (Forget About Me) [2001 Remastered Version] - Simple Minds

Does it work?

Learning how to grow a Christmas tree from a cutting is simple, but does it work?

Like other plants you can take cuttings from, Christmas trees absolutely can be propagated via cuttings.

'Propagating a Christmas tree from a cutting can be very effective when the correct steps are followed, as long as you’re selecting healthy, new-growth stems,' says Josh Novell, garden plants expert and director of Polhill Garden Centre.

But if you're aiming for a full-sized tree, you might be disappointed.

'Growing a Christmas tree from a cutting is possible, but it isn’t the best way to achieve a large, evenly proportioned tree,' explains Morris Hankinson, founder of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

'However, it can be done, even though the growth may take some time — up to ten years for a full-size tree — and the cutting may eventually become a small potted tree.'

So, how do you start? We've put together a guide inspired by Simon's tips, with additional pointers from other trusted garden experts.

What you'll need

• A clean, sturdy pair of secateurs like the Gardena Garden Secateurs from Amazon
• Rooting hormone like the Westland Organic Rooting Gel from Amazon
• Free-draining compost like the Gro-Sure Westland Seed & Cutting Compost from Amazon
• A small pot like this Classic Italian Terracotta Pot from Crocus

How to grow a Christmas tree from a cutting

1. Check the tree

First, you’ll need to check the tree is still alive. Simon told followers to snip a branch off of the tree and see if it’s still green inside. If it is, it’s viable for propagation.

It's worth noting that cuttings from an older tree might be less successful.

'To increase the chances of success, you should use a cutting from a young, freshly cut tree, as once the tree is cut down and left in a tree lot or your garage for a few days, any cuttings taken are unlikely to be viable,' says Graham Smith MCIHort, gardening expert at LBS Horticulture.

2. Take the cutting

Now, choose a stem. Simon told us to cut a 15cm length of stem from new growth on the tree.

Then, remove the lower pine needles from the stem, leaving about half of the stem bare towards the base end. Simon picked the needles off by hand in his TikTok video.

Graham recommends taking more than one cutting while you're at it.

'Cut several stems from the Christmas tree to plant at once, and ensure that you remove all of the needles from the lower half of each stem,' he says.

3. Scratch around the base

Next, you’ll need to scratch the surface of one side of the stem, near the base.

Simon used the blade of his secateurs to do this, but you can use a clean knife, too — just handle the blade with care and make sure you know how to clean garden tools properly beforehand.

The purpose of this step? To encourage new roots to form.

4. Speed up growth

Simon also included an optional step: dipping the base of the stem in hormone rooting powder or gel.

'Especially with evergreens, it can be helpful to dip the tip into rooting hormone powder which stimulates root growth,' explains Morris.

Simon also mentioned that some people prefer to rub the base of the stem in aloe vera gel for similar results.

'Scratching the base and using rooting hormones or aloe vera gel can help speed up root formation and boost success,' agrees Josh.

5. Pot it up

Then, you’ll need to pot the cutting up. On TikTok, Simon demonstrated inserting the stem halfway into a small pot of compost, bare end first.

'Use a potting medium that is lightweight and aerated, with one part perlite or fine bark, for example,' advises Graham.

'The stems and the needles of each cutting should not touch each other, and the needles on the top half of the cutting should be above the potting medium.'

Simon also shared that he covers the surface of the soil in spare pine needles to increase acidity and retain moisture — a makeshift mulch, if you will.

Place the pot somewhere shady and keep the soil moist. Then, Simon says, you’ll need to be patient and wait for your cutting to root.

'If you manage to successfully produce a cutting that roots, this should be allowed to mature for a few months before it is placed outside,' Graham adds. 'After you have planted a cutting, rooting can be a very slow process and you may not actually see any growth until the following spring or summer.'

FAQs

Can you grow a Christmas tree from cuttings?

It's certainly possible to learn how to grow a Christmas tree from a cutting, but the results are slow and often smaller than the size of the parent tree. In fact, growing a Christmas tree from a seed is just as effective — but, again, you'll have to wait several years for the tree to grow.

Still, growing your own Christmas tree from cuttings is incredibly rewarding.

'Growing your own plants of any kind is rewarding and it could even become a family tradition,' says gardening expert Morris. 'Just think, generations to come may well be celebrating around a Christmas tree grown from cuttings of your original tree.'

Will you be learning how to grow a Christmas tree from a cutting this year?

Garden wildlife are a vital part of any garden and can bring your wildlife garden ideas to life. We need insects and birds to pollinate plants and to act as natural predators to control garden pests.

But as winter draws in, and blistering snow hits parts of the country, it’s vital we give our garden wildlife a helping hand so that they can survive cold, snowy winters. Here’s everything you need to do.

Which garden wildlife needs our help?

In winter, birds, hedgehogs, squirrels and frogs all struggle due to scarce food supplies and lack of shelter during the winter months.

Like us, birds, hedgehogs and squirrels are all warm-bodied animals, so when the temperature really drops, it’s important they have enough food and shelter to keep them warm.

‘In the colder months, small birds can lose up to 10% of their body mass on a freezing night, and they must quickly replenish those lost calories at dawn to survive the day and gear up for another frigid night,’ says Sean McMenemy, nature expert and founder of Ark Wildlife.

Hedgehogs can get frostbite or even freeze if their body temperature drops below four degrees, which puts them at greater risk during snowy weather. Hedgehogs tend to hibernate between October and April, and extreme weather conditions such as flooding - as seen across the UK this week - can put hedgehogs at risk as they can’t escape the cold while sleeping.

It sounds quite bleak, but luckily, there are plenty of easy steps we can take to help beloved garden wildlife.

What should we do?

Check food and water supply

Holly Jones, Sales & Marketing Manager Garden Street recommends increasing the food and water supply and providing shelter for critters in your garden.

For feeding birds in winter: ‘offer high-energy foods like sunflower seeds, fat balls, and mealworms,’ they said. Meanwhile, give squirrels: ‘unsalted nuts, fruits, and seeds.’

Finally for hedgehogs: ‘Put out cat or dog food (not fish-based) and fresh water.’

While it can be easy to assume critters need more water during summer heatwaves, it’s just as important during freezing and snowy weather.

‘Keep an eye on the water to make sure it doesn’t freeze solid. A little trick is to pop a ping pong ball in the water, the movement will help stop the surface from icing over. If it does freeze, just gently break the ice or add some fresh water and your feathered friends will flock to their chilly watering hole in no time,’ says Sean.

‘If you have a pond, keeping part of it ice-free during winter is super important for all the amphibians, fish, and other wildlife that call it home. A floating ball or a pond de-icer can create a little opening in the ice, allowing oxygen to flow into the water and preventing harmful gases from building up beneath the surface,' adds Sean.

‘If your pond does freeze, resist the urge to smash the ice – this can send shockwaves through the water, potentially harming the creatures underneath. Instead, gently place a warm pan of water on the ice to melt a small hole naturally.’

Provide shelter

Providing shelter allows somewhere safe and warm for garden wildlife to rest and hunker down from the cold.

‘A well-placed roosting pouch gives small birds like robins, tits and sparrows a safe, snug space to roost when the weather turns rough,’ says Sean. If you have a bird box already make sure that you prepare your bird box for winter with insulation and placing away from predators.

When providing shelter for hedgehogs it's all about the hedgehog box. ‘One of the simplest ways to help is providing hedgehogs with a hedgehog house,' explains Sean. 'You can simply leave a corner of your garden wild with sticks, logs and garden debris to create a comfy hideaway where hedgehogs will feel right at home!’

All these measures are simple and easy to apply to your garden. But by taking these small measures, you could be giving your garden wildlife a much-needed boost this January.

What you need

If you're looking to help garden wildlife this winter, investing in the following features will cement your garden as a sanctuary for wildlife.

We're not talking about the eternally popular BILLY Bookcase or the KLIPPAN sofa here, despite the fact they are both classics that were launched in the 70s. According to IKEA expert at online auction house Auctionet, the best IKEA investment pieces are usually discontinued dating back to the 1950s, 60s and 70s.

'These items are likely not available anymore, or may have only been sold for a short time before being discontinued, rendering them highly sought after because of their rarity,' explains Andreas Siesing, IKEA expert at Auctionet told Ideal Home.

The IKEA pieces to invest in

Many of these items can still be picked up when buying furniture second hand, and if you spot one Andreas' advice is to invest now and avoid using any IKEA hacks on it.

'We are likely just at the beginning of a massive price increase on IKEA investment items,' he explains. 'IKEA is highly skilled when it comes to preserving its history, and today you can even visit IKEA museums! Its rich history means the IKEA brand on the secondhand market will only become stronger.'

So which pieces should you keep your eyes peeled for?

1. The CAVELLI Chair

'Among IKEA's vast collection, there is one specific armchair considered the company's holy grail, and that is Bengt Ruda's CAVELLI. Only a few units were produced back in 1958, and most recently, one sold for over £10,000!' says Andreas.

In fact, a Bengt Ruda CAVELLI sold on Auctionet in November 2024 for that eye-watering price tag.

2. The Vilbert Chair

This particular chair was removed from the IKEA catalogue back in the 90s because it was almost impossible to sit on. It's rumoured to have only sold 3,000 units and was removed from the catalogue within a year.

However, Andreas explains that this rarity has made the VILBERT Chair worth around £700 second-hand.

3. The IMPALA Sofa

This sofa was designed in 1972 a few years before the cult KLIPPAN sofa. Andreas explains that IKEA's founder had predicted it would 'too difficult to manufacture and unsellable'. It proved him wrong for a few years but was retired from the collection.

'It fell into obscurity, costing a couple hundred pounds, when it occasionally appeared at auctions. However, recently, a well-maintained example was sold for over £2,000,' says Andreas.

This style of sofa and armchair is having a bit of a comeback with Habitat introducing the Scoop Chair for it's 60th anniversary collection, inspired by its own archives.

4. The TELEGONO Lamp

This entry into the list isn't strictly furniture, but the TELEGONO lamp was IKEA's first ever lighting offering. Launching in the 1970 IKEA catalogue it was designed by renowned Italian architect and industrial designer Vico Magistretti.

'In recent years, prices for this unique lamp have quadrupled and even quintupled. Well-maintained examples are hard to find,' explains Andreas. One of these lamps sold for £400 on Auctionet in January.

The colour and curved design are not miles away from the Varmblixt lamp that was launched in 2023 and was designed by Rotterdam-based designer Sabine Marcelis.

5. The PS Sofa

The PS collection which launched in the mid-1990s is evidence that it's worth keeping an eye on current IKEA collection for future investments pieces.

'It featured a range of products that were perhaps a bit more exclusive, with great care given to the selection. The concept was successful, and many models have seen a sharp rise in price in recent years. Nike Karlsson's sofa from 2012 has a record auction price of £1,000,' explains Andreas. 'Not bad for an IKEA piece that is so young.'

So next time your second hand shopping or clearing out a loft keep your eyes peeled for one of these hidden IKEA gems.

It doesn't matter if your container garden ideas take the spotlight in your outdoor space, or if you just have the odd pot or two; colder temperatures can wreak havoc with our planters, which means they need some TLC in the bleak midwinter to get your garden ready for winter.

'Winter can be tough for pots, containers and the plants growing in them so winter proofing them will help to ensure they don’t crack or break and the plants regrow when they should,' says Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries.

Just as you should protect plants from frost, then, the same is true of your pots over the winter. And there is, as ever, more than one way to do this, meaning you're sure to find a method that suits you...

1. Move them to a sheltered area

If you're only just learning how to winter proof garden pots, one of the easiest places to start is getting them into a sheltered spot.

'Up against a wall can help or if possible into a greenhouse to help protect them from wind, frosts and heavy snow,' says Morris.

'Grouping pots together can also help to create a microclimate, keeping them a little warmer.'

2. Add plenty of drainage holes

We all know it's important to improve lawn drainage ahead of heavy rainfall, but did you know the same is true of your garden pots?

'Pots and plants growing in them will need good drainage all year but especially over the winter months,' says Morris.

'Plants sitting in a pot with wet, cold compost are likely to get root rot. Ensure there are plenty of good drainage holes in the bottom and lift onto bricks or pot feet if needed.'

3. Wrap them up

If you're a dab hand at overwintering, you'll likely already know how to winter proof garden pots (even if you don't realise it): get wrapping!

'If you have some packaging left over from Xmas, use the bubble wrap to wrap up your pots, giving them an extra layer of protection. Horticultural fleece can do the same job which is helpful for pots that are prone to cracking in cold weather, such as terracotta,' says Morris.

Try something like this Heavyweight Garden Fleece Tube from Sarah Raven or the Abimars 2.5mx10m Garden Fleece from Amazon to do just this. But remember this won't be enough for tender potted plants, as these won’t survive the outside winter conditions.

'Wrap them up and then place them in an undercover, warmer environment,' says Morris, who notes that 'other plants being left outside can also be covered with horticultural fleece in particularly bad weather'.

4. Get mulching

It is a truth universally acknowledged that mulching is the solution to most gardening problems, be it weeding, improving lawn drainage, or helping plants survive the cold.

'Mulching pots is a good idea and will protect the roots of plants,' promises Morris. 'Simply mulch with some straw or wood chips to reduce the risk of frost and snow damage.'

5. Store it

Finally, but by no means least, comes the easiest solution on our list of how to winter proof garden pots: clean them up and pop them into storage!

'Pots that don’t have plants in and will be reused in spring, should be emptied, cleaned and stored undercover,' explains Morris.

'Leaving wet soil in pots can increase the chances of the pot cracking so it’s a worthwhile job before the weather gets too cold.'

FAQs

What kind of pots can be left outside in winter?

According to the RHS 'frost-proof terracotta or containers made of plastic, fibreglass or wood' pots can all be left outside in winter. If you're unsure, we'd recommend exercising caution to avoid any accidental damage.

Now that you know how to winter proof garden pots, it's time to set to work ensuring your favourite planters will make it through the coldest season.

As Ideal Home’s Certified Expert for Vacuums in Training, I make it my mission to understand the ins and outs of the best vacuum cleaners on the market - and snoop on the ones that celebrities are choosing to use in their homes. Stanley Tucci? His vacuum cleaner of choice is the brand’s hero product: the Shark Stratos.

Although Stanley’s vacuum cleaner of choice will typically set you back almost £500, you can often bag a discount if you choose the right time to buy it. And right now is the perfect time to purchase, as I’ve spotted it on sale for almost half the price in the Shark January sale.

In his Instagram video, uploaded on New Year’s Day and captioned, ‘The morning after the night before. Happy New Year to you all,’ Stanley is doing what many of us may have already done at the start of January - ticking tasks off his cleaning calendar and vacuuming his home after the festive period. And while it’s hard to tell exactly what vacuum model he has in his hands, one thing I do know is that it’s definitely a Shark. A Shark Stratos cordless vacuum, to be a little more precise.

For the most part, he uses the handheld attachment to suck up the debris in his home - a handy addition to consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner. And the Shark Stratos is perfect for the job, as it offers this handheld capability without any fuss. Which, from the sounds of his commentary in the video, is exactly what Stanley is after.

The brand offers a couple of Shark Stratos models and they’re all very similar in terms of their design and their power, but from the look of the colourway, it seems as though Stanley has opted for the Shark Stratos IZ420UKT - which is definitely a good choice. Especially as I’ve spotted that it’s currently £200 off on the Shark website.

Not only has the Shark Stratos IZ420UKT been crowned the second-best vacuum cleaner in our buying guide, claiming the title of the ‘best for most people,’ but it’s also landed silver place in our best Shark vacuum guide, too. In fact, our Ideal Home tester gave it a glowing 5-star review - which is high praise considering we take how we test vacuum cleaners very seriously.

Although the Shark Stratos IZ420UKT is one of Shark’s older cordless models, it’s become somewhat of a classic over the years. In fact, our tester Molly Cleary first reviewed it over two years ago - but she still stands by the fact that it’s one of the best vacuums out there.

She praised it for its impressive hair and debris pick-up that rivals some of the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair, the anti-odour capsules that work wonders to not only make your home look clean but smell clean too, and the impressive Clean Sense IQ Technology that works to detect the dirt and debris on your floors.

As it’s one of the brand’s hero products, the Shark Stratos IZ420UKT often sells out on the Shark website. But right now it’s been lowered to the best price we’ve seen, which means that you’ll have to act quickly if you want to snap up this epic deal.

If you don't quite manage to grab it in time, you could opt for one of the other Stratos models, if they're available. At the time of writing, almost all of them are out of stock - which makes Stanley's choice even more enticing.

As easy as growing rhubarb in pots, forcing rhubarb can be done in just a few simple steps. The process involves covering the crowns of the plant to prevent the light from reaching them, which encourages them to grow early. And it's one of the perfect gardening jobs to do in January when the crown of the plant is at its most dormant.

To get the most out of our rhubarb this year, we've spoken to gardening experts and asked them how to force rhubarb, and we're delighted to know that it's an easy process. Here's everything you need to know.

1. Choose a healthy crown

It's important to only force established rhubarb plants, ideally ones that are around two years old. 'Young plants may not have enough energy reserves to produce earlier growth and this can compromise any subsequent growth too,' Graham Smith MCIHort, a gardening expert from LBS Horticulture explains.

Choose rhubarb with slight pink in the crowns, as these will be mature enough to start growing early.

2. Prepare the plant

Clear the base around the crowns of the rhubarb plant and remove any old leaves.

'It's also a good idea to add a mulch of either well rotted manure or compost at this point, to help boost nutrient levels in the soil,' Graham recommends.

3. Cover the crown with a pot

Next, you'll need a large pot – either a standard terracotta plant pot, a bucket, or a bin – to cover the crowns of the rhubarb. This needs to be secure, so if it's a lightweight pot, weigh it down by placing stones on top.

'Cover any holes that are allowing light through, and in colder areas (or to speed up the rate of forcing) you may want to insulate the outside layer of the pot with straw or bubble wrap,' Graham advises.

4. Wait for harvest

If you know when to harvest rhubarb, you'll understand that it's a bit of a waiting game. You can check how your forced rhubarb is doing every week or so, but don't leave it exposed to sunlight for long.

Graham recommends waiting until the stems are at least 20cm to 30cm in length before harvesting, which can take up to 8 weeks.

5. Harvest the rhubarb

Once the stems look ready, it's time to harvest the rhubarb. Gently pull the stems from the base of the crown, and ensure that any of the poisonous leaves are removed prior to eating.

Note that you shouldn't force the same rhubarb plant twice, as the plant will become weaker and weaker. 'Remove the covering and allow the plant to produce crops naturally the following year,' Graham says. 'Having more than one crown of rhubarb will enable you to alternate through the years.'

What you'll need for forcing rhubarb

FAQs

What does forcing rhubarb do?

Learning how to force rhubarb is easy, but it's helpful to know what is actually happening during the process, and why it's worth doing.

Former Royal Gardener Jack Stooks explains that covering the rhubarb crown with a pot can yield a healthier, sweeter plant. 'Putting a pot on top of the crown forces the rhubarb to push into the darkness, and protects it from frost,' he explains on behalf of Slingo.

'The rhubarb is forced to find the light, and is getting damaged by bugs in the soil. The process creates long stems – around 20 to 30cm – which is the best time for harvest.'

When is the best time to force rhubarb?

'While you can force rhubarb anytime, the best time to do it is between December and March – that's when it will taste the best,' Jack says.

From December through to March, the crown of the plant is dormant, making it an ideal time for forcing. January is a particularly good time because, aside from the best plants to sow in January, there's less to do in the garden at this time of year.

Does forced rhubarb taste better?

Forced rhubarb does taste better than rhubarb that was left to grow naturally, and it's generally preferred for use in cocktails and puddings.

Graham from LBS Horticulture explains that forced rhubarb tends to taste sweeter and be less stringy or fibrous, 'because the lack of light that the rhubarb has when it is being forced reduces the amount of oxalic acid that is in the stems, which is usually what gives the rhubarb a sour taste.'

Forced stems are usually pinker in colour as well, as it can't produce as much chlorophyll in low-light conditions.

The Swedish brand is a master of storage and organisation, with its affordable designs often optimised to maximise our small spaces. The new JUTTERSBO trolley is no expectation. The smaller cousin of the iconic RÅSKOG trolley, it’s perfect for those of us living in smaller spaces looking for an IKEA hack to maximise our space.

Arriving in stores on 1 March this year, keep your eyes peeled to snap up this brand new space-saving buy - we think it will achieve cult status in no time.

Retailing for £10, the JUTTERSBO trolley is £15 cheaper than the iconic RÅSKOG trolley. This largely comes down to size. To compare, the RÅSKOG trolley is, 28x38x61 cm, whereas the JUTTERSBO trolley is 83x35x35 cm making it less wide and a more compact option.

The JUTTERSBO trolley makes a great option for your small kitchen ideas. With four wheels, it can easily be moved around your space to where you need it and is a perfect size for holding condiments, and spices, as well as the items that are often left without a home - such as spare chargers.

It has the potential to be an excellent bedside table, it’s tall enough to suit a standard double bed. With three layers of storage, you could comfortably place a lamp and bedside reading on top, saving the second and third trays for your trinkets.

And of course, it wouldn’t be an IKEA trolley without its potential for swanky bar cart ideas. With Martini glasses on top, and spirits underneath, it's ideal for a tiny tipple station.

What separates the JUTTERSBO from the RÅSKOG is its design. The JUTTERSBO has a circular shape with grooved edges, which arguably looks even more stylish.

Launching in a soft grey-green, the new JUTTERSBO already taps into one of the biggest colour trends for 2025. However, green has staying power as the new neutral that will work in most rooms and colour schemes around the home.

At first glance, the JUTTERSBO trolley has the full potential to become a cult favourite. It’s a practical and contemporary storage solution that looks good to boot. Come 1 March, I'll be heading out to get my hands on one. However, if you can’t wait to get your hands on one, here are some storage trolleys that I think look just as good.

However, as Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, I’ve put multiple mattresses to the test to find the best mattresses on the market, and that means I’ve arranged far more mattress deliveries than most people probably do in one lifetime.

What I’ve learnt over the past four years, is that all mattress deliveries are not created equal. I now know that checking what service you can expect on delivery day, before you place your order, can make or break whether the delivery of your new bed is stress-full or stress-free.

Here’s everything I’ve learned about mattress deliveries the hard way, and what you need to know before you buy.

Mattress delivery: what you need to know

You've learned about the difference between memory foam, pocket spring, and hybrid mattresses and decided which option is the best for you. Now it's time to consider your delivery options so your chosen mattress makes it not just to your front door, but inside and onto your bed.

How are mattresses packaged?

Firstly, you need to know that there are two ways your new mattress could be delivered. This is either folded, rolled, vacuum packed into plastic packaging, and delivered in a strong cardboard box or delivered flat in a protective plastic sheath.

Which packaging method is used for your chosen mattress depends largely on the type of mattress construction. Generally speaking, foam mattresses and some hybrid mattresses that use smaller springs can be delivered as a mattress-in-a-box, whereas pocket spring and open coil mattresses – especially those made from natural materials – need to be delivered flat.

If you have awkward access – such as a narrow hallway or twisting flight of stairs – that will need to be negotiated on delivery day, then a mattress-in-a-box can be the most stress-free choice. The downside is that this will limit you to mattresses made predominantly from foam or memory foam.

How are mattresses delivered?

Secondly, it's worth knowing that there are three different delivery methods your chosen mattress manufacturer might use.

Doorstep delivery

Some mattress brands opt just to offer doorstep delivery. Emma mattresses is amongst these. That means that your mattress will be delivered to your front door, but the delivery driver won't bring it into your house for you.

Room of choice delivery

The most common method of mattress delivery is to your room of choice. This means that the delivery team will carry the mattress into your home and into the room of your choosing, including a room upstairs.

Brands such as Simba offer this service for free, but some retailers may charge extra for it, in which case you'll be able to add it to your order at the checkout or when you order in-store. In my experience, it's well worth paying for as mattresses are heavy, bulky, awkward to manouevre, and need two strong people to lift them safely.

White glove delivery

The third and final method of delivery is often termed 'white glove' or premium delivery.

This means the delivery team will carry the mattress into your room of choice, remove the packaging, lift the mattress onto your bed frame, and take away and dispose of the packaging.

You'll usually have to pay a little extra for this service, although some retailers – such as Brook + Wilde – offer it as part of their standard delivery service.

Again, this additional service can be well worth paying extra for, whether you simply want a stress-free delivery experience, or if you know you may struggle to heft a mattress onto the bed.

It's also worth noting that if you've opted for a mattress-in-a-box they can require a bit of brute strength to remove from the box as they're usually tightly wedged and can be a struggle to remove if you're attempting the task on your own.

Delivery comparison table

Want to compare delivery options between retailers? As of writing, these are the current delivery options for the most popular mattress brands.

What happens to my old mattress on delivery day?

If you're buying a new mattress to replace an old one, you might also be wondering what to do with your old mattress on delivery day.

Again, this is where it's worth checking the service options your chosen retailer offers before you buy.

Most mattress retailers will offer you the option of paying extra to have your old mattress removed on delivery day, but not all do. There are other ways to dispose of a mattress responsibly or recycle a mattress that's still in good condition, but it's usually easiest to get this job taken care of on the same day your new mattress is delivered.

As a rule, the collection and recycling of your old mattress costs around £50, although you might be lucky and find the retailer you buy from is offering free collection when you come to shop.

FAQs

Are mattresses delivered rolled up?

Because of the increase in the amount of foam and memory foam used in modern mattress construction, many mattresses are now delivered rolled up.

However, not all mattresses can be rolled, and even those that are can only stay rolled for a set length of time before the mattress begins to get damaged.

Traditional sprung mattresses and mattresses made from natural materials usually can't be rolled without damaging their construction, so these types of mattresses are still delivered flat.

How quickly can a mattress be delivered?

How quickly a mattress can be delivered depends on the type of mattress you choose and the retailer you buy it from.

Some brands, such as Simba and Emma, tend to warehouse their stock so delivery is fast because the mattress is already made and ready to ship.

Other brands make their mattresses to order, so delivery is slower because construction isn't started until an order is placed. This is by far the most environmentally friendly approach to manufacture, but it tends to mean you need to factor in a longer lead time to your order. This can be anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months. Again, check before you buy if time is of the essence.

So there we are; everything you need to know about mattress delivery to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible!

Kelly shared this simple yet brilliant shelving idea in a recent Instagram reel, where she recommended laying books horizontally on shelves and using them as display platforms for your decorative accessories, be it vases, ceramic bowls or candles.

In the video, Kelly said, ‘When you’re styling shelves it’s all about balance. And one of your biggest, biggest friends when styling shelving is books because you can change the levels of where you place things.’

And I couldn’t agree more. My living room bookshelf is one of the first things people see as they walk through the door – and the styling always earns me compliments, while also drawing my guests to browse the various framed pictures, books and other decorative elements arranged on the shelves. After all, bookshelf wealth isn’t a trend for nothing.

How to use books for styling your shelves

There are several Kelly Hoppen interior styling tips that I pretty much live by, whether that’s the importance of texture in a room that Kelly stresses or this shelf styling trick. And I’m not the only one that fully backs this particular piece of Kelly’s advice. So does Alex Stubbs, Flitch interior stylist.

‘Kelly Hoppen’s tip of using books to create balance on shelves is a classic styling technique that works beautifully. Books naturally provide structure and visual weight, making them ideal for anchoring a display while adding personality to the space. I use this approach frequently in my designs, as it’s a practical way to style shelves while also showcasing the homeowner's interests.’

Whether you’ve just moved in, got a new bookshelf or are simply looking for a fresh look for your shelves, then you need to start by placing the books down.

‘Place the books up so you have different levels,’ Kelly said, demonstrating her advice in the reel. ‘Choose your colours, you can have them back to front. Then you place the vase on and then you can have something at an angle which sort of creates a different eye view point. Then you can start placing the accessories.’

But make sure not to place all of your books horizontally – some still need to be vertical to create that sought-after well-balanced look.

‘To elevate the look, consider mixing horizontal and vertical book arrangements to add variety,’ Alex at Flitch says. ‘Pair them with decorative objects like vases, candles, or small sculptures, and try grouping items in odd numbers for a more dynamic feel. Don’t forget to leave some empty space – it helps the display breathe and keeps it from feeling overcrowded.’

These tips are sure to help you create a showstopping display that everyone will keep complimenting you on. It’s been put to the test, after all.

Freezing food is a well-known kitchen storage hack to make your food last longer. But what you use to put your food inside the freezer is very important. OXO Silicone bags and plastic food containers are both freezer-safe solutions, but as it turns out, some glass containers are also well-suited to below-freezing temperatures.

If you’re in a bid to move away from plastic this year, there are some glass containers you can safely store in the freezer. We asked the experts and this is everything you need.

Can you put glass in the freezer?

‘Glass can be stored in your freezer but it's advisable to take some precautions as it can shatter when exposed to extreme temperature changes or is an unsuitable glass for your freezer,’ explains Sarah Heaps, refrigeration expert at AO.com.

Not all glass is suitable for freezing conditions and risks shattering - spoiling your food and giving you an added cleaning job in the process.

‘You should only place a glass container in the freezer if it is labelled as freezer-safe. Borosilicate glass containers are well suited to putting in the freezer, as they are more resistant to thermal shock compared to other kinds of glass. This is because borosilicate glass does not have air pockets that contract with temperature changes,’ says Liam Spencer, owner of Northallerton Glass.

Pyrex glass is an example of Borosilicate glass and can be stored in your freezer. It is best to avoid any thin or decorative glass as this has the highest risk of cracking.

‘This glass is specially designed to withstand any temperature changes, but you should still try to avoid moving this directly from your freezer to a hot oven and always ensure it is at room temperature before you pop it into your freezer,’ says Sarah.

How to prevent glass shattering in the freezer

'To minimise the risk of glass cracking in your freezer, try to leave space for any container expansion. Liquids expand as they freeze so leave an inch gap to allow for this. Also, try to let your hot foods cool to room temperature before you place them in your freezer. Similarly, avoid overfilling your freezer as pressure or contact can again lead to cracking,’ recommends Sarah.

Food or liquids that haven’t completely cooled risk thermal shock when the glass is placed inside the freezer which causes cracking. It also increases the risk of bacteria growth.

‘Use a container that has a silicone lined lid, as this will provide an airtight seal to keep food fresh and help to prevent freezer burn,’ Liam also recommends.

‘Avoid freezing liquids in jars that have a narrow neck and use wide-necked jars or a jar with sides that taper outwards instead. Wider jars will have more space to allow for any expansion of the liquid as it freezes.’

When purchasing glass storage containers, ensure they are labelled as freezer-safe if you want to use them to store leftovers - this way, you will avoid pulling any broken glass out of your freezer.

To help me achieve my sleep goals, buying the best mattress is absolutely on the horizon, but until that happens I'm looking to refresh my bedding. Enter, The White Company bedding sale, with offers of up to 50% off. Here's what I'm considering picking up, and the pieces I'd recommend if you're looking for a bargain.

My picks from The White Company bedding sale

Quiet luxury connoisseurs, The White Company, have a massive sale of up to 60% off on right now, meaning you can save on everything from the best candles to top quality towels, but the deals that we're most excited about right now has to be the bedding.

If you're looking to invest in your sleep quality more this year, then now's the time to check out these White Company deals.

The brand does have seasonal sales throughout the year, but these don't tend to include core products, so for timeless bedding now's your best bet until their answer to Black Friday, coined The White Weekend, rolls back around in November.

You'll note the use of the word debate. If you've been wondering if it is cheaper to leave your heating on all day, even at a low temperature there are many arguments for and against whether it really is the most efficient way to heat a house. Because houses vary so much, from the heating system to the insulation, there are so many exceptions to the rule. So many in fact that a lot of the energy suppliers we contacted for a comment refused to answer as heating is so subjective.

However, the official line (for a typical home with a boiler) is that it is not cheaper to leave your heating on low all day. 'It’s a common misconception that leaving the heating on all day at a low temperature is cheaper than switching it on only when needed,' explains Dinesh Kumar, a British Gas service and repair engineer. 'In reality, this uses more energy because homes lose heat throughout the day, especially those with poor insulation. '

Why is it not cheaper?

This line is backed by the Energy Saving Trust, the main UK public body for reducing energy use and carbon emissions, which states on its website: 'If you have a boiler....keeping your heating on all the time will use more energy and cost you more money. It’s more energy efficient, and better for your bills, to have your boiler come on when you need it.'

Heating expert Matthew Jenkins from MyJobQuote.co.uk. agrees saying: 'Your home is constantly losing heat through the walls, windows, and other gaps. Even if your heating is on low, it will still be working hard to replace lost heat. This leads to higher energy consumption.'

He also points out that 'your boiler is designed to work in cycles, turning on and off to maintain a set temperature. When you leave it on all day, it is constantly running. This can be much less efficient and puts more strain on the system.'

When is it cheaper to leave heating on all day?

As we mentioned above there are exceptions depending on your heating system. If your home is heated by a heat pump or a modern condensing boiler that can recover wasted heat, both of these are better suited to leaving on all the time at a low temperature and will result in cheaper bills.

It is also worth noting that if your home uses underfloor heating rather than radiators then it is more economical to leave this on all day when it's particularly cold. In contrast, radiators are better suited to being turned on and off.

The other exceptions to consider are what your home is made out of and how well-insulated your home is. If your home is made from brick, whilst the walls will take a while to heat up, once they have they are very good at retaining and releasing heat back into the house, making them the perfect candidate for low and slow heating. Finally, good insulation including cavity walls and loft insulation will help to keep the heat so leaving the heating on low for longer could be more effective.

What is the most economical way to run your central heating

Working out whether your house is best suited to leaving the heating on all day will most likely come down to trial and error. However, if you live in a house with a boiler and regular radiators here are a few tricks the experts recommend to save energy and money.

1. Set your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C

'As temperatures continue to drop, I recommend setting your thermostat somewhere between 18°C and 21°C to stay comfortable and warm,' says Dinesh Kumar from British Gas.

'Even just a small reduction in your thermostat setting can make a significant difference,' agrees heating expert Matthew Jenkins. 'Aim for a comfortable temperature of around 18 – 20°C during the day and then opt for lower temperatures at night.'

2. Install a smart thermostat

Both Matthew and Dinesh agree that a smart heating system can go a long way towards helping you lower your energy bills.

'The most effective way to heat your home while saving on energy bills is by using smart home heating technology, such as the Hive Thermostat. This allows you to control your heating remotely from your smartphone or tablet and makes sure you're only heating your home when you need to,' says Dinesh.

Matthew adds that with this technology in place, you can schedule your heating for specific times when you need it the most and set lower temperatures when you are asleep or out of the house.

3. Draught-proof windows and doors

'Proper insulation can help to significantly reduce heat loss and can improve the efficiency of your heating system,' explains Matthew. 'Consider insulating your walls, loft, and floors to keep your home warmer for longer.'

However, it's also important to draught-proof windows and doors. This will keep the cold out and the heat in. Go around doors and windows to check for any weak points and consider installing insulation tape. A good old-fashioned draught excluder along the bottom of a door can also help out.

We're sorry that we couldn't give you a clear-cut answer for whether it is cheaper to leave your heating on all day. But if you follow these tips and keep an eye on your energy usage each month you'll soon find what works best for your home.

There are plenty of cleaning jobs to do in January but with a long list to complete, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What’s more, no one wants to spend days on end cleaning, which is why I’m always looking for ways to clean your home fast. I'd seen the 5 Senses Cleaning Method doing the rounds online and decided to give it a go for myself.

The 5 Senses Cleaning Method is a strong contender for ticking off your January to-do list, it focuses on your senses - what can you see that needs cleaning? What smells like it needs a clean? Can you hear anything that needs fixing? For me, choosing one sense to focus on at a time allowed me to break down my cleaning into manageable chunks - making it easier to clean my entire home.

Here’s how I got on.

What is the 5 Senses Cleaning Method?

As hinted in the name, the 5 Senses Cleaning Method focuses on sight, sound, touch, taste and smell. The idea is that you choose one sense to complete each day. If you have a spare five days running, this is a great method for getting your home in order.

With Christmas and the New Year period being so hectic, I decided to adapt the method to cleaning when I had time - rather than following it five days consecutively.

It’s important to note that some senses may overlap - for example, taste and smell. If your fridge is particularly stinky, binning old or out-of-date food can help deal with this problem with both taste and smell.

Touch and sight are another two that may overlap -for example, visible stains on a rug may feel stiff or crunchy to the touch.

The 5 Senses Cleaning Method doesn’t have to be rigid - it’s about breaking down big jobs into smaller ones. And if you don’t have the time to complete the method over five days, don’t worry - I found the 5 Senses Cleaning Method to still be useful when completed over a longer period.

Trying out the 5 Senses Cleaning Method

The first thing I decided to focus on was sight. It felt like the most obvious option and after a busy festive period, I’d accumulated a lot of clutter. Testing out numerous decluttering methods, it felt logical to clean alongside.

I started by cleaning my record player station (handly crafted from an old IKEA unit), dusting it down and giving it a much-needed wipe. Record players generate static electricity which makes them absolute dust magnets, and I could see how much had accumulated on my duster.

Having been away for three weeks over Christmas, I had piles of laundry which I separated into darks and whites and got ready to wash, before nipping round with a hoover - like I said, dust magnet!

At the end, I could see a visible difference in my bedroom. I hadn’t realised quite how much dust had built up in my room until I had removed it all.

I then moved on to smell. Emptying my fridge of festive leftovers and giving the inside a wipe-down was an easy job, so I took on another smell task. My washing machine smelt a little funky and I found mould and mildew on the inner seal. Knowing how to clean a washing machine, I used baking powder to soak up the odours and clean the seal.

Overall, using the 5 Senses Cleaning Method sharpened my decision-making. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of not knowing where to start but choosing one thing to focus on helped other jobs become clear. When looking at the smell, I knew I needed to organise the fridge and clean my washing machine. And sight told me I had to get my hooving in order and declutter. Next, I plan to focus on sound as I have a particularly creaky bathroom door.

If you don’t where to start your big clean, give the 5 Senses Cleaning Method a try.

What you need:

‘While it was liveable, the rear of the house was in need of refurbishment. The place was dark and had a bulky concrete staircase from the kitchen down into the garden,’ says Ben.

The kitchen renovation project involved extending and redesigning the rear of the Edwardian terrace and integrating it with the garden and the rest of the house.

Because the terrace is in a conservation area, the only way to extend was to fill in the side return with a narrow, metre-wide extension. The couple chose Yard Architects to take their project on, who helped transform the small, dark kitchen into a functional and flexible space.

As well as the side return, the old, clunky toilet-utility room was replaced with a sleek loo under the staircase and the traditional WC annex in the garden became the new utility room. ‘Having the washing machine and dryer in the annex turned out to be a great idea,’ says Ben. ‘It’s convenient and keeps the noise outside!’

An important factor in the success of this kitchen renovation was the lowering of the floor to the level of the garden, creating a large open space with a much higher ceiling than before, connected to the garden via extra-large and extra-slim sliding patio doors.

And for added continuity and flow, the garden terrace and the kitchen have the same tiled flooring. ‘We love that the entire area downstairs – the two living rooms, the hallway and the new kitchen-dining area – is fully integrated,’ says Ben. ‘We can now see the end of the garden from the front of the house. Plus, the Portman pocket door between the living rooms and the new kitchen-dining area allows us to create two separate spaces, each with its own individuality.’

They love the pocket door, which can either be 'hidden' completely to create a single large space downstairs or revealed to create two entirely separate zones.

The larder between the two doorways adds much needed kitchen storage space, and includes a hidden worktop with a microwave and a coffee machine, which gives the rest of the room an uncluttered feel. The handle-less cabinets also add to the minimal aesthetic.

Ben says that they didn’t want a typical statement kitchen. ‘On the contrary, the idea was to give the kitchen less prominence by using a sleek design that merges the units and the wall.’

The kitchen island provides a useful workspace that offers extra storage and functions as an additional table during dinner parties. The oak cladding contrasts with the polished quartz worktop.

Below, the shelf is predominantly used for kitchen plants to enhance the natural feel.

Although the project dragged on much longer than expected, as is often the case, the family couldn’t be more pleased with the finished result. ‘For a while, we moved out to avoid the most intrusive bits of building work, but when we came back, the house was far from habitable. So the four of us camped out on the first floor for a month,’ explains Ben.

‘But we now have a large open-plan space downstairs with lots of natural light and clear, sleek lines, warmed up with plenty of oak. It’s not only a kitchen with a dining area, but a comfortable place for our whole family to enjoy throughout the day.'

Get the Look

We financed the project through a loan and knew the maximum we could spend, including all furniture, tech and finishing touches, was £30,000. Considering how much an extension costs in the UK (around £2,000 per m2), and our finished room would be 27.5m2 – our calculations meant it should cost closer to £55,000 for the build alone. But using a combination of savvy planning and DIY, we managed to bring it in on budget.

1. We got the basics right

Because the car port was at the front of our house, I knew we’d need to apply for planning permission for the extension. We didn’t need an architect as I had a clear idea of what I wanted the layout to be like. Instead, I paid a local CAD designer to draw up the floorplans and elevations we needed, then managed the planning application with our local authority myself.

We also needed a structural engineer to calculate the size of the steels we’d need. In total, these fees came to £500. Building regulations approval through our local authority, came in at another £600.

To keep costs down, I designed the extension to use three existing walls – two on the house and one on the garage. This meant the building work, including a 3m aluminium window and a 2x2m rooflight, came in at £18,000. I halved the size of an existing large downstairs toilet to give us the easiest access to the new space.

2. We were savvy with our media wall design

For me, the media wall aspect of this new space was key. It needed to look good but also function. Hours on YouTube and Instagram helped me draw up plans for a studwork media wall with LED strip lighting and space for integrated TV. I hate wires and cables being on show, so I designed a shelf space to be hidden behind the TV where we have a wireless booster, TV boxes and games consoles.

We looked at various options for heating the room but decided on an electric fire as we could install it ourselves and it didn’t need any flues adding or planning permission. The room is 5.5m wide so we looked for the biggest fire we could find and settled on this 190cm Onyx Avanti electric fire..

We opted for real logs to sit in the bottom which make it look as real as possible – although my daughters insist on having pink flames, which might not be quite as realistic! Part of the fun is being able to adjust the colours, flame height and heat output using either the remote control or app.

We have a smaller snug where we try not to use the TV but for this room we knew we wanted the biggest and best-quality TV we could find. We built an alcove to fit a 77’’ flatscreen TV on a mount that pulls out to allow easy access behind. The Samsung S90C QD-OLED is incredibly slim so perfect for wall mounting. I like brains with my beauty and this TV performs, offering crystal-clear picture, great gaming (according to the husband) and sound that gives a cinema experience at home. Probably my favourite thing is that it automatically enchances everything you watch to 4K, so even older films and TV shows look lifelike.

3. We really thought about finishing touches

There’s no point having a great TV and roaring fire with nowhere to sit and enjoy them, so we hunted high and low for a big sofa without a giant price tag. The Joules Gilmorton corner sofa is really big (320x320cm), super comfy and brilliant value. It also comes in sections, which we needed due to the narrow access to the room. The buttoned footstool has already doubled as a stage for the girls, as well as doubling up as a handy coffee table when we pop a tray on it.

The room is north facing so I decided to embrace that and paint in a dark blue-green called Tea with Florence, from Little Greene. To add extra warmth, I chose an accent chair and cushions from Dusk in a rust colour.

4. We did what we could ourselves

Given that we’d spent £20,000 of our £30,000 budget on the building work and permissions, we knew DIY was the only way we’d get the look we’d wanted without overspending. We spent every spare moment we could taking on tasks that would save us money – from installing the insulation to plasterboarding and my husband being the electrician’s apprentice!

We used YouTube tutorials to build the media wall from studwork. This is where our forward planning came in to it's own as we built the frame to fit the TV and fire we’d chosen – there’s no way we could have added these in at the last minute.

I’m the decorator in the household, so I sanded, mist coated and painted the walls, ceiling and woodwork myself, which saved us another chunk of money.

Doing so much DIY has meant the room has taken three years from start to completion, but it’s been well worth it as we’ve learnt so many new skills and saved at least £25,000 on what we’d have paid contractors to do the work for us. We’ve now got the perfect family media room – even if it has taken a while to get it!

It's a crucial question if you're wondering how to care for houseplants over winter so they survive the shorter, darker days. According to houseplant experts, you shouldn't be skipping this indoor plant task, but there are a few caveats.

The main reason you don't want to skip misting in winter is because when it's chilly outside, we usually crank up the central heating inside. Central heating can increase our plants' need for humidity, so misting is often crucial to creating the perfect growing conditions.

'It can be helpful to maintain humidity levels in winter, as indoor heating can really dry the air at home,' explains Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies. 'However, it’s important not to overdo it.'

Of course, this largely depends on the type of plant you own. Some houseplants go dormant in winter, for example, so double-check their seasonal requirements first.

'Check the needs of your specific plants, as some prefer drier conditions in winter, while others benefit from extra moisture,' Jo says.

Why is good humidity so important for some houseplants, though?

'Lower indoor humidity can stress plants, making the leaves wilt and stunting the plant’s growth,' explains Maryam Ghani of Haute Florist. 'For flowering houseplants like orchids and anthuriums, lower humidity can result in flower loss or stop the plants blooming altogether.'

Plenty of other plants benefit from high humidity levels, too.

'Plant species like ferns, calatheas and philodendrons benefit most as they thrive in higher moisture environments,' Maryam says.

How often should you mist plants in winter?

So, should you mist plants in winter? Yes – but if you want to dodge winter houseplant problems like fungal diseases, you mustn't overdo it.

'Light misting can help, but it’s not necessary to do it every day,' explains Jo. 'Aim for two to three times a week.'

If you don't own a mister, you can up the humidity levels in other ways.

'You can also increase humidity by placing plants on a tray filled with pebbles and water or using a humidifier,' says Jo.

Whether you'll be hunting down the best humidifier on the market or opting for a classic spray bottle, maintaining a good level of humidity could be the key to seeing your plants through the winter months.

Houseplant humidity essentials

FAQs

What plants should not be misted?

Not all houseplants should be misted – in fact, misting some plants can do more harm than good.

'Misting isn’t suitable for all plants,' says Maryam from Haute Florist. 'It should be avoided with plants with fuzzy leaves such as succulents, as water on the leaves can lead to rot.'

When should I mist my plants?

If you're wondering what time of day you should be misting your houseplants, it's best to aim for the morning. That way, your plants won't be sitting in moisture overnight which can promote mould and fungal growth, especially during the colder nights.

Misting can see your plants through the dry winter days – so don't skip it!

IBedding isn't the easiest thing to get rid of, and if you trying to work out what to do with an old duvet. Even the best pillows and best duvets have their day but luckily, there are plenty of charities, shelters and community programmes that are in much need of your old bedding this winter - provided it's in good condition, free from rips and stains.

‘Throughout the winter months it can be extremely cold so it's therefore important that instead of throwing away your old bedding you donate it to charity shops, second-hand stores and homeless shelters so it can be reused by those who desperately need it,’ comments Lee Trethewey interior expert at Sustainable Furniture.

Here’s how you can help those in need this winter.

1. Take your old bedding to the charity shop

‘Charity shops and second-hand stores are a great place to donate old bedding so that it can be resold and reused. This extends the lifespan of the bedding as well as contributing money to charitable organisations. Prior to donation it's a good idea to check with the charity store to make sure that they accept bedding, as some items are not accepted in certain charity shops. Additionally, it's crucial to ensure that the bedding is in good condition without holes and rips before donating it,’ says Lee.

Charities that accept bedding as donations include The Salvation Army, Oxfam, The British Red Cross, Crisis and Shelter. You could even reach out to see if charities were looking for a specific type of bedding - such as brushed cotton, thick blankets or warmer togs.

2. Donate to your local homeless shelter

Over winter, homeless shelters will also be looking for extra bedding and blankets to help support those out on the streets during the cold weather.

‘This ensures that individuals without a stable home will have warm bedding,’ says Lee.

You could reach out to your local homeless shelter directly to see if they are in need of extra bedding, or alternatively reach out to charities focused on ending homelessness such as St Mungo’s. Online tools such as Homeless Link can be used to find shelters local to you looking for donations.

3. Use Dunelm’s Textile Takeback Scheme

‘At The Fine Bedding Company we suggest you use Dunelms in-store recycling take back scheme - they accept all brands,’ recommends Laura Keay, Sustainability Director at The Fine Bedding Company.

Dunelm has partnered with The Salvation Army to create the Textile Takeback Scheme, whereby you can donate your old textiles (including bedding) either in-store or via post. Items that are up to scratch will be donated to good causes and reused, or if the bedding isn’t reusable, it will be recycled. The scheme is free of charge and ensures your bedding is going to a good cause.

4. Take old bedding to animal shelters

It’s not just people who benefit from a nice set of bedding, our furry friends could do with some extra warmth, too.

‘Many local animal shelters use pillows as bedding for their furry friends - they're the ideal size as a cosy bed for small cats and dogs, so this would be a great option if you’d prefer to donate the pillows,’ says Mark Tremlett, Founder of Naturalmat.

You can also get in touch to see if they’re also expecting extra blankets, too. Charities such as the RSPCA, Battersea Cat’s and Dog’s Home and the National Animal Welfare Trust all accept bedding donations. Alternatively, you could contact your local vets, who will be able to guide you or may even be accepting donations themselves.

5. Try your local community

They say charity starts at home so why not reach out to your local church, community centre or youth service to ask about donations? Many of these organisations will run collection drives where they push for certain donations.

Your local community hub will have plenty of information online and in person about the local charities in your area.

Furthermore, Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree are also good sites for giving away old bedding. You could even try your local area Facebook group to see if a neighbour is in need of bedding.

Your old bedding will have a huge impact to those who need it the most. Instead of taking it to a landfil, giving your bedding a second lease of life and benefit the community at the same time.

‘Rather than dealing with big messes, they prevent them,’ Catherine Green from smol, reveals. This means taking a few minutes each day to prevent things from building up.

Taking time out each day might sound time-consuming on the surface, but it will add up to the same amount of time as your one big clean. Think of it this way, instead of taking 30 minutes to clean your bathroom and having a grubby space for half the week, you could be cleaning for 5 minutes, on just five days and always have a clean bathroom.

But what are those habits you should be getting into to make those 5 minutes as useful as possible? Here are ten things people with clean bathrooms always do, and ways to start implementing them into your own cleaning routine going forward.

1. Wipe down surfaces everyday

‘People who maintain clean bathrooms make it a daily habit to wipe down all surfaces, including counters, sinks, mirrors, and shelves,’ reveals Cory Powell, Co-Director of DBS Bathrooms. ‘A quick wipe helps remove any watermarks, soap scum, or dust that may accumulate throughout the day.’

Doing this regularly will save you from having to dedicate hours to a deep clean, with a quick wipe down only taking a few minutes, instead. It will also help you to keep on top of any buildup, before it happens, to keep your bathroom looking polished and fresh with very minimal effort.

2. Squeegee shower screens

In a similar vein, ‘people with clean bathrooms often use a squeegee or cloth after every shower to keep the glass clear, reducing the need for heavy-duty scrubbing later,’ Cory suggests.

This stops soap, excess water and grime from gathering on the shower screen, wall panels and glass in your shower or wet room, as well as streaks and smears so you don't have to work out how to get rid of hard water stains.

3. Empty the bathroom bin regularly

Another quick and easy way to make your bathroom look and feel cleaner is by emptying your bathroom bin on a regular basis. As items in the bin start to accumulate they can lead to unpleasant odours and the bathroom looking untidy.

Try to get into the habit of emptying your waste bin every few days, or at least once a week, depending on how quickly it fills up. The easiest way to keep on top of this is to line your bathroom bin with small bin liners that you can easily toss into a black bin liner.

4. Clean grout weekly

‘Grout is essential for tiling; however it is porous and absorbs moisture which can lead to the growth of mildew,’ says Sarah McGregor, Bathroom Expert at Victorian Plumbing. ‘Make sure you clean your tiling properly after a shower with a soft bristle brush in between tiles. This will remove soap scum and prevent the build-up of mineral deposits.’

5. Control the humidity and air flow

‘Excessive moisture and humidity in bathrooms can lead to mould and mildew growth, which is why clean bathroom owners control humidity levels by using exhaust fans, opening windows, or utilising dehumidifiers,’ Cory states.

Not only does this help to keep the air feeling fresh, while preventing mould from developing but it can also help to protect and prolong your bathroom surfaces. While ‘wall panels are a moisture-resistant option, preventing mould and mildew growth in moisture-prone areas like showers or behind sinks, in contrast, tile grout can absorb moisture and may contribute to mould growth if not properly maintained,’ Cory warns.

6. Wash and change bath mats

As you might expect, bath mats – both the non-slip kind that you use inside the bath and the ones that you put on your bathroom floor – can accumulate moisture, which creates a perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew. People with clean bathrooms make it a point to wash their bathroom mats frequently and swap out any that are past their best, to prevent this.

Keeping the mats dry and fresh not only helps maintain cleanliness, but it also prevents any unpleasant or musty odours from developing.

For fluffy bath mats or ones made of fabric, ‘You should wash your bath mat at least once a week to remove any bacteria that has built up,’ says Bio-D's Sustainability, NPD and Regulatory Manager, Heather Nixon. ‘Incorporate it into your towel washing schedule, and once dry give them a good shake to help fluff up the fibres and make it more absorbent. Though you’ll want to avoid fabric conditioner when washing, which can leave a residue and make it less effective.’

7. Keep toiletries and products organised

Unnecessary clutter can make a bathroom look a lot messier than it actually is. So, if you don’t necessarily need three different bottles of shampoo or shower gels out on display, look into bathroom storage ideas to hide these out of sight for a more streamlined look.

According to Cory: 'a key characteristic of people with clean bathrooms is their dedication to keeping toiletries and bathroom supplies organised. They use drawers, cabinets, or baskets to neatly store items like shampoo, soap, and skincare products. This prevents clutter on countertops, which makes surfaces easier to clean. A clean and organised bathroom also creates a more spacious and calm environment.’

8. Use a drain cover

If you don’t already have a drain or plug cover to catch hair, adding one to your bath or shower will save you from having long hairs start to clog up the system. A cover will go a long way in avoiding having to unclog a shower plug.

Alternatively, ‘every couple of months give them a preventative cleaning to clear anything that might be hiding down there,’ Sarah proposes.

And ‘bicarbonate of soda can work wonders. Just pour a small amount down the sink followed by clear vinegar, which should remove anything clogging the pipes.’

9. Keep the floor clean

Not only is it important to pick up any damp – or unused – towels from the floor, but ideally you’ll want to ‘hoover or mop flooring every week,’ Lee says. You’ll also probably notice quite a bit of hair on your bathroom floor, if you take a good look, and this can be especially true if you brush or comb through your hair before or after you hop in the shower.

Both in terms of safety and aesthetics, you’ll want to get into the habit of drying your bathroom floor if there are any wet footprints or splashes, too, to keep it looking clean and tidy.

10. Always have clean towels

Finally, one thing people with clean bathrooms always do is have clean towels ready for guests and family members to use. ‘Clean, fluffy towels help a bathroom look clean and tidy,’ Lee says, with them also adding a spa-like quality to any bathroom.

On the other hand, dirty or damp towels can make a bathroom look unkempt and contribute to unwanted smells. So, hang up any that have been used and swap them out for fresh towels every day or so, depending on how often you use them.

Now you've found out all the secrets that people with always clean bathrooms do, will you be adopting any of their habits?

Focusing on breaking down large tasks into more manageable chunks, the 1-3-5 method is one of the more logical and methodical decluttering methods. Quite often, when starting a big task - such as reorganising your whole wardrobe - it can feel a little overwhelming. Where do you even start?

But knowing how to declutter when you're overwhelmed helps break through that mental barrier - and I think the 1-3-5 method is a great way to beat the mental decluttering block.

What is the 1-3-5 method?

The 1-3-5 method encourages you to be organised and logical in your decluttering. You must choose one large task to tackle, before breaking it down into three medium tasks and then finally five little tasks which are easily achievable. The idea is that by breaking your goal down into more manageable tasks, you’ll find it easier to complete.

‘The 1-3-5 method is a great decluttering technique, particularly at the start of a new year when you want to get on top of things quickly for a fresh start - and it’s really simple. It works by offering a structured approach to tackling clutter in your home or workspace by breaking tasks into manageable chunks,’ says Cat Wiltshire from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk.

‘The 1-3-5 rule can be a game changer as it allows you to break tasks into large, medium, and small actions, helping you focus without getting too overwhelmed. This method not only creates a clear plan but also gives you quick wins to keep you motivated, so it’s perfect for busy families who want to see real progress in a small amount of time.’

Trying the 1-3-5 method

The main decluttering task I wanted to achieve this month - and the one I have been putting off for a long time (technically last year) - was my wardrobe. I have quite a small bedroom in my home, so the home office is also a part-time walk-in wardrobe. Although recently, it has resembled more of a floordrobe!

Knowing my big task was going to be getting my wardrobe in order, I set my three medium tasks:

1. Sort through clothes and donate anything I no longer wear
2. Fold and hang my clothes in the correct place
3. Move my winter clothes to the front of my wardrobe

These three tasks made looking at my exploding cabinet far more manageable. The first thing I did was remove my garments and sort through them. I found countless tops from my uni days that I probably wouldn’t be brave enough to show off now, and even old uniforms from my days in hospitality.

Letting go of these items left lots more space to hang and fold the remaining clothes. I decided I wanted my winter clothes to be more easily accessible and having them at the front of my wardrobe, meant I wouldn’t have to dig through (and make a mess) to find them.

I then focused on my five little tasks. I treated them like the finishing touches to my project. I decided to bin any cracked or broken hangers. I removed the plethora of handbags from the base of the wardrobe, adding my two mostly used ones to my coat rail and the rest into storage boxes. I also took the opportunity to dust and wipe down the wardrobe, as well as using some room spray to give the wardrobe a much-needed refresh.

I enjoyed having a structural plan to follow and the 1-3-5 method felt a lot like a to-do list. For me, I enjoy routine and having a set plan so this definitely stopped me from feeling overwhelmed.

While I do think there are faster decluttering methods, such as Micro-decluttering - which completes tasks in intervals, I definitely would recommend this method for bigger jobs - especially if you like an efficient, well-thought-out plan.

I’ve now renovated four kitchens with lots of hard, and often expensive, lessons learnt along the way. Kitchens and bathrooms are my specialist subject as an interiors journalist, having begun my career working for the kitchen and bathroom trade press and fallen (in quite a nerdy way) for the technical side of planning these complex spaces. Oh, and my husband designs and makes kitchens for a living, too, so I really don’t have an excuse for being so lax with this vital planning stage over the years.

While it’s tempting to skip to the fun part of choosing colours and shopping for cute light fittings when designing a kitchen, asking the right questions early on can save so much time, money and a whole world of stress. Now I will begin any new kitchen project (of which I am sure there will be more, just don’t tell my husband) by asking myself these seven questions and fleshing out the answers.

1. What’s my actual budget?

How much you’ve got to spend on your new kitchen versus how much it will actually cost can be wildly different figures. Unless you have rich (and extremely benevolent) relatives or a Nigerian Prince on standby to bail you out, the very first question should be, how much do I have to spend? Or rather, how much am I prepared to spend? Do make sure the figure tallies with your partner’s thinking too, if applicable, to avoid the added expense and inconvenience of divorce…

How to get it right: Start by defining your available budget (by looking at your savings account), then subtract a buffer of 10-20% for unexpected expenses (there WILL be unforeseen costs), which will give you the total amount you have clear to spend. For example, if you have £15,000 in the pot, your actual kitchen budget is £12,000-£13,500.

The known costs of renovating a kitchen – cabinets, appliances, worktops, rewiring, plumbing etc – are fairly easy to find out, it’s those sneaky hidden costs that can unbalance the most meticulous of spreadsheets. Here are just a few that have badgered our budget over the years:

• Extra insurance (while the work is ongoing).
• Building regulation fees and inspection costs (even if the work comes under Permitted Development).
• Structural issues (like the ceiling unexpectedly caving in).
• Material price hikes (get any quotes agreed for at least 30 days).
• Delivery charges (they can really add up).
• Eating out for three weeks (when the ceiling caved in).
• A new boiler (if your current one isn’t up to the job or doesn’t comply with modern standards).

Tip: Track spending to help prevent things getting out of hand. I use Plum, which links savings and credit cards so you can easily see exactly where everything is going and where you stand each month.

2. How do I really use my kitchen?

Again, this is one where only brutal honesty works. You might be imagining wafting around your beautiful new kitchen baking cupcakes and spritzing surfaces with vegan-friendly cleaners made from Fir, Bergamot and the tears from newborn unicorns. If, in reality, you mostly make pesto pasta in six-minutes flat and clean every seventh Tuesday, such dreamy aspirations are wholly unhelpful.

How to get it right: Focus on how you’ll be using your kitchen the majority of the time, not just when you have guests. If you do entertain regularly, go ahead and get three ovens, but if you only have guests on Christmas day, consider using a gas barbecue with a lid to cook the turkey (honestly, it works a dream).

Functionality should be at the forefront of your mind; do you cook together and therefore need lots of prep space and maybe an extra prep sink? What do you eat for breakfast? What else do you want to do in there – dine, watch TV, drink prosecco, homework, work? I do a lot of baking but didn’t want my KitchenAid on the worktop permanently, so we have a pull-out shelf that lets me leave it plugged in but tucked out of the way.

Tip: Think about your lifestyle when planning storage. For example, a dedicated drinks station or bar can be handy for caffeine addicts/wine buffs and a charging cupboard or drawer will help keep worktops clear of trailing cables if you’re a multi-device family.

3. What annoys me most about my current kitchen?

Does the tap get in the way when opening the window, or do the bar stools face a blank wall? Also think back to grievances in past kitchens – like the kitchen without recessed kickboards that I stubbed my toes on every day – quiz friends and family for their top bug-bears, too. Thinking about this question very carefully has been one of the main ways I’ve slowly improved my kitchen set-up (to near perfection) over the years.

How to get it right: As well as thinking about issues with the existing kitchen (assuming I’ve lived with it for a while, which I usually do due to lack of immediate funds/near bankruptcy after moving home), I also try to think hypothetically as I plan a new kitchen. For example, if I put the dishwasher there, will it be hard to get past when the drop-down door is open? Will putting the bin under the sink drive me bonkers when someone wants to toss a tissue and I am washing pans (yes, yes it will)? And so on.

We’ve dedicated about a quarter of the storage space in our massive island unit to waste and recycling but now we only have to empty the bins once a week – totally worth it!

Common kitchen annoyances, in no particular order, are:

• Not enough storage where it’s needed
• Not enough storage at all
• Narrow walkways (aim for 90cm minimum)
• Insufficient worktop space
• Traffic through the main working area
• Ineffective and/or noisy extraction
• Not enough rubbish and recycling bins
• Badly positioned or insufficient lighting
• Poorly positioned sockets and switches
• Shelves you can't reach
• Fridge doors that open the wrong way!

4. How much cleaning am I prepared to do?

TDecluttering influencers aside, not many people actively enjoy cleaning, but do you properly loathe it? And are you prepared to make sacrifices with your materials and finishes in order to reduce the amount of time spent in Marigolds? Or will you happily give up some scrolling time to buff Brasso into those gorgeous polished brass fittings?

How to get it right: I love my kitchen clean and clutter-free but am also very skilled at procrastinating when it comes to cleaning and maintaining it. The only serious mistake I made with my current kitchen is choosing natural marble for the island worktop, which I thought I’d get sanded and resealed annually (as recommended) but we’re four years in and it still hasn’t been done once. The dust, and expense, puts me off. I would love to change it to something much lower maintenance, ideally a manmade surface like Dekton or Caesarstone’s Porcelain.

Don’t be me, instead find out how much manual labour and maintenance is involved for all the main materials you have in your sights – cabinet finish, worktops, taps, handles, flooring and splashbacks, and think very long and hard about whether you will do it. Or just sigh with disappointment every single day.

Tip: On stainless steel surfaces, like appliances and sinks, look for anti-fingerprint coatings and/or brushed finishes. Stubborn smudges can be removed with window cleaner and a microfibre polishing cloth.

5. Where do I really need lighting?

Poor kitchen lighting – especially around the hob, sink and main prep area – can be intensely irritating. You probably won’t cut a finger off, but you will get frustrated if you’re constantly working in your own shadow. I’ve never, ever had a kitchen with too many lights, especially now I fit dimmer controls so every fitting can be dialled up or down or off, but I’ve had plenty with not enough light where it’s needed. And it sucked.

How to get it right: Always start by covering off the main task areas and make sure your electrician understands exactly where those lights need to be placed – use a Sharpie to X-mark the spot if necessary, and do not let him/her arrange ceiling downlights in a neat grid for the sake of symmetry (which seems to be the default). Then add some more decorative lighting like island pendants and wall lights on a separate switch. I’m obsessed with our Cheltenham wall lights by Jim Lawrence.

You can also wang some hidden LEDs under shelving, wall cabinets and the kickboards if you want to be ultra fancy and create a relaxed, low-level atmosphere in the evenings. But don’t stress too much, as you can always introduce a couple of rechargeable lamps at a later date if you feel like a corner or two needs brightening – it’s those task lights you really need to prioritise.

Tip: Go for warm white bulbs at all times. Bright white bulbs tend to give surfaces a bluish tinge – chilly – and can also make your complexion appear slightly sickly!

6. Do I really love that look/colour/pattern?

Any idiot knows that the design choices you make in a kitchen need to stand the test of time. But I also now know how easy it is to fall in love with a trend and convince myself I love it, when really I just love the idea of it or how it looks on my Socials. Admittedly there’s also a strong chance I’m trying to impress my mates/Instagram followers.

How to get it right: This one is quite tricky, because many trends really are desirable and maybe you are THAT edgy, cool, brave. In which case, ignore this question. But if, like me, you can be quite fickle you need to be strong and resist anything too mad. Assuming you don’t want to run the risk of having to re-paint/re-upholster/re-tile in 12 months’ time. After making several dodgy design choices over the years, for our most recent kitchen I went down a more timeless route with slim-frame Shaker cabinets, painted in my all-time favourite colour, green.

Tip: You may have heard this one before but one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever followed regarding trends is to look for inspo inside your wardrobe. Mine is filled with every shade of green…plus a bit of mustard yellow, white and black (and enough stripy tops to get me to my grave). I’m pretty confident my green and white kitchen will make me happy for many years to come.

7. Who is going to help me?

Even in my most recent kitchen renovation I failed to appreciate the importance of getting the right team onboard, hiring trades on the basis that they were available, rather than doing my homework and getting (and cross-checking) references. In my defence, it was during the dark days of Covid and getting any trades to darken my door at all was a miracle.

My builder turned out to be a total rock star, and the electrician I already knew and loved, but I found a plumber via a local Facebook group and he turned out to be shockingly bad at his job. And quite possibly on drugs most days. He ran off before the job was finished (after he’d taken most of his money of course) and did something to the water supply that meant I could spit with more pressure than we got from the kitchen taps.

How to get it right: Work out what sort of skilled services you need and then do your research and find the best person in your area for each job. Use sites like TrustATrader and Checkatrade to find local specialists but ask to speak to past customers about their experiences before you commit. Better yet, get personal recommendations from people you know and trust who have used them for a similar project.

For a straightforward kitchen renovation, you’ll need: a plumber, electrician, builder and/or kitchen installer, and possibly a tiler and plasterer. You may also need worktop fabricators and a kitchen designer. Our kitchen projects have always included an extension, which means we’ve also needed glazing specialists, an architect and a structural surveyor.

Tip: When you meet, ask as many questions as possible and tap into their knowledge and experience for ideas and solutions to any challenges you’re facing. Also make sure you like them. They’ll be in your home at all hours of the day and life will be easier if you get on.

Linda’s kitchen renovation questionnaire

• What is the budget?
• How will I use the space?
• What problems need solving?
• How much cleaning will I do?
• What are my lighting needs?
• What overall look am I going for?
• Who will do the work?

By answering these seven questions, you’ll be ready to move forward with your kitchen renovation with confidence. What are you waiting for?